been awhile

Yes it's been awhile. During the winter months I still frequently used the Versatile for running errands. (as long as the snow wasn't too deep) I mounted a studded snow tire on the rear to improve traction. Meanwhile the AW was in the basement having the PA kit installed, the hood replaced, a trailer hitch mounted, and a better means of restaining the handlebar installed.

Leah and I did the Ride for Roswell in the velomobiles this year, on 6/23. As of 7/15/07 I am no longer the owner of the Versatile. I traded it for a waw. Ray Mikeviscious, the proprietor of Blue velo (check out bluevelo.ca) brought it down from Toronto, and picked up the Versatile with his trailer.

The waw is 30lbs lighter than the Versatile, and way way faster. While there are some surface flaws, I think the overall design looks better than the Versatile as well.

The waw can be used fully enclosed as shown. The thin plastic visor lifts up to provide ventilation .( when you are moving) It can be ridden with the visor portion removed, but it looks so cool, and is so aerodynamic that I've been using it even in the heat. It keeps the sun off the back of your neck and out of your eyes as well.

The top of the nose is attached with velcro, and easily removed to access the front chain rings and derailler, as well as provide cargo space. The body is made of carbon fiber and kevlar. Very light, strong, and stiff. The nose and tail sections can be removed in the matter of a few minutes for easier transport. The performance is better than the AW, and way better than the Versatile, which was of particular interest to Mike, who finds it's simplicity of operation (the versatile) and ease of adjustment lends itself well to the test rides he provides to acquaint people with velomobiles. I somehow screwed up the computer on the waw, but was able to reprogram it by downloading a manual from cateye's website. I really love the waw and look forward to riding it on the bikepaths on Grand Island when I attend a family picnic in August. I've ridden the AW with power assist to work and back a couple times. I want to try it in the waw soon.

Here's a shot of all three velomobiles in the driveway the day Mike and I made the trade. Mike is tightening the bolts that hold the tail on, while I am installing one of the wheel covers. I expect the waw and faw will be on display at the Eden Corn festival parade this year. Leah had a blast throwing candy to the spectators last year. I guess that's it for now. The blogger has been working much better for me this time around, so I will try to keep things a little more current.

Cheers!