Velomobile: no gas, burns calories, safe like a car, it's fun

Most Americans have never seen one before. When Stephen Mosca takes his out on the street, he says he's treated like a mini Mini Cooper.
A velomobile guarantees you protection from rain, sun, and even cold, but you still need to pedal. Because underneath the aerodynamic shell that gives it the sleek look of a minicar lies a recumbent bicycle.
The fairing (shell) not only helps protect drivers against the elements (and even collisions to some extent) but creates an aerodynamic advantage that makes it one of the fastest bicycles on the road.
Mosca bought his first velomobile about ten years ago when he was looking for something that would protect him on his daily commute. Today, he pedals the 15 miles to work in a full business suit with his briefcase and morning coffee tucked in alongside.
Original story here: faircompanies.c...

[@plaid13]

If the price was $3000 for the one with the electric pedal assist then it would be practical as hell. But $9000 for something like this is just insane.

[@Shindinru]

It's almost purely about production volume. The most successful velo manufactures are only producing ~100 a year (or less). Those who buy a velo have no problem waiting for 6-9 months for their velo. With an audience like that you can afford production volumes that low.

[@miskatonic6210]

plaid13 You are lucky when you get a normal bike with pedal assist for 3000 *lol* These are handmade, many with full carbon chassis and you can pay 9000 for a good racing bike, too. And you would be slower. But well, americans are used to get cheap cars with bad build quality in a protected economy.

[@Shindinru]

Ah, no. The average e-bike cost now is sub $2,000 to $1,500 for "normal" diamond frame e-bike.~$3,000 if you get one that uses something proprietary like a Bosch or Shimano STEPS mid drive. and up to $5,000 if you go for a "boutique" e-bike.

[@Santibag]

Zero electric motorcycles cost about 10k Euro. They are long range and not low speed like some cheap electric motorcycles. Velomobile is very expensive for what it gives. As a bicycle, maybe considerable but as a commuting vehicle, very expensive.

[@tonycavez]

if you think it's too expensive you can't afford it

[@darrishawks6033]

"really popular in Germany and the Netherlands" I lived on the Dutch side of the Germany/Netherlands border (Maastricht) and I have never seen one of these. They're cool though.

[@miskatonic6210]

Darris Hawks They are very rare in germany, too and not well known at all. But in contrast to 99% of other countrys there are SOME, we got some very good manufacturers and you may have seen one or two in your life. I own a very fast one.

[@mardiffv.8775]

Right, because only 1700 velomobiles are present in the Netherlands, out of 22.000.000 normal bicycles.

[@westsenkovec]

That "people in the cars respect you and they see you as one of them" was also BS.

[@mardiffv.8775]

Well, I used to ride a velomobile, and I can say for sure, that most car drivers are so flabbergasted by the sight of a velomobile, that they stop or slow down for velomobile. Just to take good look.

[@Henry_Jr_Watsson]

I live in The Netherlands and have seen many! Especially in The Netherlands this is popular! We have bicycle roads everywhere, so it's perfect for Velomobiles ;)

[@chrisfelkin3049]

The turn signal sound is irritatating, like a cheap car alarm.

[@mardiffv.8775]

Of course, so you won't forget to turn it off.

[@patrickm5217]

alarm clock lol

[@chemiechemie2879]

And the signal lights are really small for day time to see

[@UnkindPenguin71]

What did you want a train horn?

[@carlbrimo3488]

During the 1970s it was manditory for all new motorcycles to have beepers that sounded whenever the turn signals were turned on. Very similar to this, I think it's a good idea.

[@harveybirdman74]

I don't buy the safety 'angle'

[@clangerbasher]

I think it is low enough for F150 to drive over it. :)

[@ckoishi2000]

Yeah, he should wear a helmet.

[@mattb99ify]

It's not unsafe

[@mdhaynie]

There are too many distracted drivers on the road for this thing. It seems like everyone in the US drives a truck or large SUV, so WHEN you’re hit you’ll be trapped in this fiberglass coffin very low to the ground... at least on a bike I have a chance of being thrown on the hood or away from the vehicle... or maybe I’m just being claustrophobic

[@zazarays]

Nah this thing is awsome. There is storage behind the seat for lunch. There is blinkers that beep when turning. And if a truck runs you over you can just scream with ur stupid little blinkers buzzing

[@RoRcrashslave]

It'll seem like a bad idea when you get hit by a over medicated housewife in a SUV.

[@z0uLess]

I'd say that the person in the car is the bad idea.

[@kfiliotis]

SLarson Yeah that definitely seems like a reason to tax cars, and invest less in roads for cars, instead of blaming the victim who was hit by a car.

[@alexandrosdesbrgus7499]

+SLarson Indeed, in the Netherlands (the country where those bikes are built) it is said they are hardly visible due to their height.

[@MrParacristo]

+SLarson Hit by a truck and walked away with only scrates and bruising... i59.tinypic.com/250j7es.jpg

[@Shindinru]

To date there have been no recoded deaths of a Velo driver in an accident involving a Velomobile and another vehicle. They are very impact resistant. Here is a few more examples with pictures: www.velomobiles.co.uk/2012/09/velomobile-crash-safety/ on this one scroll down to the March 9th entry tadpolerider2.wordpress.com/tag/velomobiles/ This one was side swiped by a pick-up at highway speed (75mph) in Texas. www.bentrideronline.com/messageboard/showthread.php?t=113466

[@MrNick-]

Imagine being the cool kid but your dad drives this?

[@lauriemashek5419]

If by “cool” you mean not some overweight couch potato then, yes I can imagine.

[@hunterdean11]

No cool kids dad does this

[@blaisep.6050]

The "Cooler Kid".

[@homersimpson6795]

And so what Nick

[@knodelcrafter6888]

viewer54322 then you will have to get even cooler and manage the way home without an adult

[@GoldenSim27]

9000$ ? no wonder have not seen any of these yet , i could buy 20 bikes for that price or a lightly used car , i seriously would love to own one , but the price is just Wayyy over the top

[@forestscott6281]

Golden Sim haha the 20 bikes wouldn’t be that great that’s around the price of a good racing bike

[@BurnedJello]

Orrrrr... idk, a brand new motorcycle?? You know, the thing that's just like a bicycle but with fairings, you don't have to pedal, and, oh ya, it has a fucking engine in it.. but ya, this price point totally makes sense

[@forestscott6281]

joonyer2009 lol a motorcycle won’t keep you healthy and is twice as dangerous

[@ericortega7342]

@@BurnedJello ,yeah when gas hits 5 a gallon be happy with that motorcycle.

[@johntingle455]

Build your own.....only $499.

[@LovingAtlanta]

🤔@<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="144">2:24</a> “they respect me in a very weird way”. Bless his heart.

[@fireboltaz]

This guys out of his mind.

[@LovingAtlanta]

😂

[@bishplis7226]

"never fight crazy" i guess it includes dont start shit with people riding a banana to work!

[@moarsaur]

What he's saying is, "They give me more space than if I were on a regular bike," which is legitimate. It's probably 80% "WTF am I seeing?" but the point stands.

[@adminwrh]

In 'Jersey, "Get the f#*k outta the f#*kin' way you f#*kin' mook!" IS respect.

[@spindizzy1973]

For the money, it should really have an electric assist. The fairing and low cross section make it about 3 times easier than on a regular bike to maintain a cruising speed over 35kph, you can do that on the flat with no assist. Starts and hills are harder because you can't stand on the pedals, that's where an assist would be handy. Bear in mind this is designed for solo use, it's replacing single occupancy car journeys where you haul around a load of extra mass to seat people who aren't there and haul luggage you didn't bring. You don't use a backhoe when you need a spoon.

[@haxorman4302]

Jacob Humphreys reclined positions are easier for pedaling, in low gear it'll go up hills just fine (slowly but surely)

[@savnetsinn_original]

@@haxorman4302 His point is that electric motor would make this vehicle a far more attractive proposition for the market it aims to reach. I'm a lot like the guy in the video: I live in a very similar suburb, have a 15-mile-commute to my office, and find that having a several thousand pound vehicle that I mainly use for hauling myself back and forth along that route is inefficient and wasteful. The one difference is that my home is on top of a very steep hill which means I need to work myself up a 20% slope at the end of the day. Maybe I could do it with enough time but I'm sure I'd end up getting a motorized 'assist' from the queue of infuriated drivers stuck behind me long before that.

[@MHTutorials3D]

Yes, they are somewhat popular here in the Netherlands ( and by somewhat I mean I saw 3 of them in the last 10 years ) but here they can only be used on bike lanes and due to the low profile it can be very dangerous. That is why they typically have a "miner" flag on them...

[@bishplis7226]

wrong you can use them anywhere you like except highways

[@agnidas5816]

@@bishplis7226 Wrong. Look up can vs may. Ability vs rights vs privilege.

[@joebobin7605]

i love how he says the cars respect him and give him the whole lane as evey car behind him is speeding by

[@trapporkpiggy1916]

Come to los Angeles with that thing and see how much respect you get !!!

[@jeffchristianson-ziebell7727]

Luis Gonzalez lol right?! It’d be hilarious if it weren’t so clearly tragic ultimately

[@jhonbards2218]

Uvuvwevwevwe Onyetenyevwe Ugwemuhwem Osas Count me in.

[@manuelsousa8479]

Your comment is just retarded

[@XerxezsX]

No one is going to steal an egg that ain't cool😂

[@umartra7452]

Or any large metropolitan cities like San Antonio! 🙃

[@ConsecDesign]

dude is a little corny, but i love his ride and his enthusiasm

[@chewie2055]

ConsecDesign His kids must be so embarrassed...I would never do that to my kids

[@WalkingStreets]

For $8500, I rather buy a used car or an electric moped/bike than go through the hassle of riding one of these toys looking like a weirdo.

[@alexcarter8807]

Get a small motorcycle, 500cc or under, not a race-rocket, wear a white helmet and a Fonzie jacket, and put a small fairing on the front of the bike, and to everyone you look like a cop. Boy do people ever see you.

[@josephholder5472]

lol

[@MRGF78]

You good get a sportster cheaper than that...

[@alexcantlow2920]

And with that mindset you will never get anywhere weirdos get shit done, mess with social norms generally have a fucking good life coz we don't give a flying fuck and fuck e bikes man bunch of pussys that can't ride a bike lol

[@kerryhales8736]

You can also just not buy one. Instead you’re a fucking troll.

[@aDIYCarGuy]

I'd want to motorize it, use solar to keep it charged, I wouldn't mind having to insure and register it.

[@mardiffv.8775]

The Orca VM is motorized.

[@centauri9458]

That's what I was thinking and that little flip top could have a larger totally enclosed version like a fighter plane canopy. Pedal assist would make this very fun. I have bad knees and would have a hard time pedaling and probably getting in and out. Also I'm 6' 2" and 280lbs (not fat) so it would be a tight fit. Maybe they will make a XXL 😊 but I did kayak alot over the last 25 years, until one winter night I returned from a long paddle and my legs had frozen and I couldnt get out for a while. I wondered why my knees had stopped hurting haha it was because they were numb. We are living in an awesome time, like in the early 1900s when cars were just coming out. Batteries are about to become much more efficient when the solid state takes off. That will probably make combustion engines retire as main form of transport. Those new electric cars that push to get 200 mile range from a lithium battery will get 600 mile range on the same size batteries. And no more fear of a burning exploding lithium battery, also no hazardous waste when the battery reaches its end. Very exciting, I look forward to it, hope they make a conversion kit that I can afford for my 33 year old Jeep. That is my feeling of freedom.

[@charliebozzo9948]

NO NO NO! We most definitely DONT want to invite licensing, registration, insurance! It's what makes BIKE technology TRUE FREEDOM! If you want to go over 25- get a car.

[@RB-kb3tc]

What you're describing is basically the Aptera (which is a car, not a bike)

[@dbpooper7512]

A guy in my area has been riding/driving one of these for years now. Rain or shine, pretty sure I've seen him out in dead winter snow. Seems to work for him.

[@kirstendirksen]

It is possible to make a DIY velomobile for much cheaper. I've seen some built from trikes as a base, plus a shell-- and one for as little as $1500.

[@joewoodchuck3824]

Kirsten Dirksen. Of course! Get or make whatever 2 or 3 wheel conveyance you want and make a body by covering to the extent of streamlining and weather protection you from easy to work with thin .050" or so polycarbonate plastic such as Lexan brand (NOT plexiglass! ). You can cut it with any normal saw except reciprocating and if thin enough, with tin snips. Most of it can be assembled with cable ties. Glue later if you want once the design is settled.

[@Desi365]

The man has to be laughing quite a lot these days. And being asked "i want one, where did you buy yours ?"

[@geshscale6068]

Im making one that will be 400 dolars, but no pedals and a gas motor.

[@TrueHelpTV]

You're delusional if you think that is safe like a car haha but it's neat.

[@geshscale6068]

@@TrueHelpTV well, it will be safer than a motorcycle, and that's really what it is.

[@ButthurtImmigrant]

This guy need to be their ambassador. ‘Cause he sold me this bike to me! I love his narrative

[@stueygewy]

Everything looks nice and exciting except for the $8,500 price-tag....

[@miskatonic6210]

stueygewy Many people don't have any problem to pay 10.000 $ of unnessesary extras for their car or to buy a home cinema or pay that much for some years in a fitness studio or for some piece of furniture.

[@unclephil4112]

Sirion People spending money frivolously is not an excuse to spend money frivolously. Parts and labor for this thing probably cost $500 maximum.

[@chengsgroup2518]

a top end bicycle can go to $30.000..average bicycle cost $1500....medium bike cost $3000-$4000 so the price is resonable

[@bishplis7226]

better than a car

[@bishplis7226]

a proper bike starts at around 1200$ add carbon fairingg, special wheels, special steering, spexiglas screen, extra leds, braking symtem = a few grand but thanks for you opinion phil! @@unclephil4112

[@gordonmculloch4904]

For safety: The manufacturer should install a large pole with a neon flag and light on top to enable drivers to have a better chance of seeing it. Nice concept though, and the electric assist sounds like a great idea for commuters.

[@slowazzes1972]

Yes and then they would give you a huge cock shaped helmet to put on

[@bishplis7226]

why cant you see a 3 meter big bright colored banana??????

[@bishplis7226]

it even has lights!!!

[@gordonmculloch4904]

bishplis it sits very low.

[@thenight-frog2543]

​@@gordonmculloch4904 It doesn't sit lower than the average child of about 6 and is much easier to see.

[@nicolasboullosa]

I've done some research on velomobiles over the last months and some models are really interesting. This video explains most of its potential advantages. Speed could be easily added to them. Some commuters who use velomobiles report an average speed on flat terrain that approaches the speed of motored vehicles on an urban environment (50 km/h, or 31 mph.) Also, to those who notice the price, nothing detains them from creating their own velomobile. There are some open source models online.

[@benfuct5880]

"Most visible thing on the road" shows turn signal the size of a pen light

[@bishplis7226]

its a 10 foot banana with lights, are you fucking blind

[@jacobfranklin820]

bishplis he sits too low. Needs some reflective stuff and bigger lights

[@staceydavis2061]

simply the best mod of cycling, 30 mph and will het you there dry and comfortable.

[@Arcanus31]

imagine San Francisco... the burn

[@hoekie3652]

Put a racecap on and you're sitting in the shadow -> No sun burn.

[@savnetsinn_original]

@@hoekie3652 I can't imagine a worse misunderstanding of this post than yours.

[@davegott8412]

@@savnetsinn_originalit is a good point)…how do u deal with hills

[@user-cw2py6wh8l]

I brought a good working used car for $950.

[@CAN-UK]

How much are repairs and fuel costs?

[@user-cw2py6wh8l]

With the $8,050 saved, I can operate the car for 11 years.

[@soup5220]

I care. Can I have a cookie?

[@user-ls1hw4qo1i]

Coni Glione Imagine being this guy

[@sebastianwhitton1235]

I don't that you have grasped the point of this means of transportation (zero emissions, yet still a fast mode of transport, it's not about saving money, rather; not contributing to climate change).

[@giorgigvinianidze2824]

did he really tried to tell us that we cant pick up a back of a dodge caravan ?

[@user-od9pj3vq8y]

I was surprised as well. Always thought i could lift it with ease.

[@DarkMoonDroid]

Salespeople. 🙄😖 So repugnant.

[@dumyjobby]

for those who think 9k for such a vehicle is expensive, these are made out of carbon fibre and the components in them are very high quality, a well mentained one has unlimited lifetime, also don't forghet that a car is far far far more expensive, if you can go to work with something like this you are going to save a ton of money since they don't need insurace, depriciacion is really low, fuel is 0 and taxes are 0. a velomobile has to be the most efficient and cheap way to move around

[@kirstendirksen]

@gulibuf About 7-10K. Though if demand rises that price will go down since some of that is due to lack of economies of scale because of such a small market.

[@ihoppoet]

I can lock my tadpole trike at a rack, you didn't address how you keep it safe when it's in the parking lot, and you're in the office? the fact that it can be picked up and put in the back of a pickup is an issue for a 9000 bike

[@viewer54322]

Arrives at work, presses handicap door opener assist button, velomobile drives through door and cruises into my cubicle. Promptly gets fired.

[@ihoppoet]

@@viewer54322 you joke, but with my trike I do that, I ride it in Walmart, Home Depot and everywhere else, and if anyone gives me a hard time I say wheelchair.

[@viewer54322]

@@ihoppoet No size difference than the electric scooters that some stores like walmart provide. Imagining a big floppy orange triangle flag slapping the store manager as you pedal away after saying wheelchair. Approve.

[@MBeal-dd2dt]

I can hear it now, "Ah, what was that bump we just ran over?"

[@porkfreegaming5278]

M. Beal Oh nooo lol 🤣👌

[@derrickcall]

This video made my day. Word for word it could have been an Onion News Network report.

[@hempev]

My latest car cost 1/3 of his velomobile: a 20 years old, bright red Miata, a blast to drive down the freeway with the top down, still getting 30+ mpg. For local one-person drives in nice weather, I have a Chinese-made scooter that looks like a Vespa, goes 30mph, and gets anywhere in town on a single charge. I guess I am not only cheap, but too lazy to depend on pedaling to get anywhere, but I appreciate people who do! More power to the early adopters!

[@gphillimo]

$9,000? Man he must be high.

[@billpeirce77]

Of course he's high, everything is amazing.

[@kirstendirksen]

It does have a brake light... as well as blinkers for turning.

[@phxrsx]

Buys an eco friendly, no emission vehicle. Has 6 kids.

[@bishplis7226]

better than 6 kids and 6 suv's

[@thisguy5289]

bishplis or 6 kids, and 1 suv like a normal person

[@moarsaur]

First legit criticism I have seen on this vid.

[@claytonbaker49]

Probably makes them walk

[@RugbyNick6]

The anti-children people are the worst environmentalists.

[@douggrosjean]

Nice video. I'm already a user, as I commute in a 2-wheel velomobile, a Lightning F40. Performance pretty much the same as your velo, but lighter and narrower. Fun ride. My commute is about 14-15 miles each way, though in the past week the weather's been great and I've had 4 days where I travelled nearly 60 miles per day. In the 6 months I've been using mine for commuting, I've gone from 155 lbs. to 145 lbs., which is about right for me.

[@joelmulder]

“Really popular” is a relative term. I see one of these about once a week in the Netherlands, and even after 19 years I still have a good laugh at how ridiculous they look. People won’t take you all too seriously after they see you drive up in one of these

[@joelmulder]

To be fair, it does look very practical (outside the price tag), but it’s just too silly looking

[@nihonbunka]

I guess if they became a lot more popular they could halve in price. $9000, compared to my $1700 carbon bike and a raincoat, would be a very hard sell. I have some ski goggles for really cold days. Okay, I admit it. I want one.

[@zazarays]

Just add some brackets and a plexiglass shell to a cheap ass bike?

[@dumbr2098]

I'm a mountainbiker so i don't really care, about bad weather and mud of course, and unlike people on the road, mud for us is being covered all the way.

[@bishplis7226]

but you cant keep up with him on you whateverthefuck bike

[@hawk2million]

"People respect me, they give me the whole lane" at the exact moment people are squeezing past. I'm calling bullshit on this one. Plus, it may well keep you a bit warmer in the winter but it'll be hot as hell in the summer.

[@angelicacushing6032]

*Note he is in the business of selling these things, so a salesman might lie a little bit to get a sale. Here are the lies: -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="28">0:28</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="41">0:41</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="45">0:45</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="102">1:42</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="111">1:51</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="128">2:08</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="166">2:46</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="328">5:28</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="348">5:48</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="368">6:08</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="389">6:29</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="441">7:21</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="444">7:24</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="457">7:37</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="467">7:47</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="477">7:57</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="496">8:16</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="541">9:01</a> -<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="545">9:05</a>

[@velocity324]

Don't knock it till you try it. I have a car, a Jeep, and a motorcycle and all 3 have been mostly sitting around ever since I started cycling. It just makes you feel good. You are happy and energized when you get to and from work instead of being pissed off and worn out. As far as safety: I bike in the city and even here you have to do some real dangerous crap to have close calls. It's a lot safer than you think.

[@hawkeyelikesbikes]

Burns fat, not oil. What's not to like?

[@-ahvilable-6654]

But I really need my calories to live

[@jacobhenderson1732]

Dangerous

[@brianpdaniels]

Becoming a bloody spot on the road?

[@lauriemashek5419]

-Ah vilable- majority of Americans have excess.

[@smittywerbenjaegermanjense7376]

@@lauriemashek5419 Most Americans do NOT have 8500$ to drop on a glorified bicycle, no.

[@mikehawk8276]

Was he humming yellow submarine? Haha

[@tomjeffrey2891]

Mike Hawk yes! I thought I noticed that too

[@johnh1540]

"They respect me" lol idk who these people are who "respect" that little mobile

[@w.m.t.4897]

John Hughes I can't express in words how GAY that dildo on wheels really is...and that horn is super manly and respectable lmbo

[@martisbvk]

He is confusing butthole clenching fear with respect. If you kill someone with a car you are going to prison. Anyone sitting in a car cannot see something that low to the ground when they are close to it. So they maintain a bloody long distance, and this guy has confused that with respect. Also they let him have a whole lane because he is driving in the middle of the road and they cannot overtake because of how wide this thing is. His tricycle also reminds me of Steve Urkels car. ie: The most unsafe, impractical, eyesore means of engineering a solution.

[@bishplis7226]

YO YOU NEED TO GET A LICENSE BEFORE YOU KILL PEOPLE @@martisbvk

[@johnspooner1403]

Good point. It's either an expensive bike or a cheap car depending on your point of view. And BTW, fairings aren't hokey. A velomobile is a fairing taken to an extreme. The comments here highlight my issue with the USA. Essentially it's a fear-based culture. Here, it's fear of change and new things. Fear of "the other" is a different dicussion. Fear is why the US is the only major nation not Metric, and why they still have one dollar banknotes.

[@hendrikplumer6814]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="30">0:30</a> No, they are not! I live in Germany and I have never seen one. Maybe on the northern flats or in the Rhine valley but in the hilly region of northern Bavaria? Nope. The Netherlands might be another matter, though. I would consider this if it came at a reasonable price. But I am not paying nine grand to see the cyclists pass me on any serious uphill. I do believe you, though, when you say that you are highly visible. People will stare at you like you are from another planet :) BTW: I commute to work on a bicycle in ANY weather, and I do flinch when I hear the price...

[@Joiedevivredesilives]

Me too I have never seen one in Holland either so where he got his data from I don't know

[@Joiedevivredesilives]

***** I have never seen one ever in the UK am sure they are here

[@Leo1239150]

Maybe he meant in comparison to the US. I'm from those northern flatlands of Germany and I've never seen one either.

[@Shindinru]

There are only like 3,000-5,000 in Europe and America combined, depending on who you listen to. So it's not surprising that you haven't seen one. Though comparatively, they are wildly popular in Europe compared to America. Velomobiel.nl who makes the popular Quest, Mango, Strada and now Quatrovelo models have only sold a little under 1,400 in the last 17 years. Their best year was 2013 when they sold 165. I want to acknowledge and thank them for being so transparent about their sales, it's a rare thing to see in a business these days. Here is the link to their data for those who want to see. en.velomobiel.nl/orderboek/index.php#productie

[@miskatonic6210]

I own one and I see some of them from time to time in northern germany. There's certain regions that are perfect for these things. On certain distances you can save time and money if you use them. Maintaining a car paying for fuel and insurance is A LOT more expensive. And you are a lot faster than by bike. People just always underestimate how expensive their car REALLY is...

[@chewie2055]

I had one of these as a kid.....it had a bell with a string that went cling clang....and had ladders on the side...I pretended I was a fireman.

[@lithostheory]

Popular in the Netherlands? I have never seen one, everyone just uses regular bicycles.

[@hoekie3652]

They are not used for the same thing as city bicycles. or even dutch city/school bikes. Check inter city routes and you will see them. Still not many. But than again on inter city routes (between cities, not to cities) you also hardly see bicycles. Even in the Netherlands. (I ride 5 days a week to work). Most people in the Netherlands drive cars and cars and cars.

[@jazldazl9193]

Beyond all the jesters below ,I do believe this market (All weather ,short range commuter) can be substantial. Though hazardous probably no more than a cycle and the risks offset by a rise in cardiac fitness. Parking can be facilitated by councils long term with dedicated spaces containing 4 velos where one car sat. A secure locking point is mandatory

[@gangatalishis]

should be 1k at best.

[@TheAdadadada]

This guy is a fool to think "Everybody" treats him as a "MINI CAR"!!! He is sooooo vulnerable and to keep thinking like he does is purely foolish! Cute little death-trap!

[@nitramluap]

Awesome video & story. I have the same Mango Sport RE velomobile in Australia and I love it! It's so nice to see it from the outside - something I never see :) Also, I love your description of your garage as a 'transportation toolbox' - well put. Currently in the USA (and here in Australia) the only tool we have is a big hammer - not so good for delicate work! :)

[@JCG0001]

yeah for 9k I would expect an electric assist for quick starts and hills, curved solar cells fitted into the shell, the works

[@rxonmymind8362]

The Adam's family "It" car. 😁

[@TINGVELL]

this is a great invention dont care what anyones says,the only problem that i can say about it is the cost of one,its too much for the average person

[@Eveline1117]

I live in chicago and everyone is chubby and lazy everyone drives everywhere even to pick up there kids from school 2 blocks away this is a great idea

[@mardiffv.8775]

For picking up small kids, I would suggest a cargo bike, aka "Bakfiets", in Dutch.

[@sllabnkcoc]

Wtf are you talking about? I too live in Chicago, edgewater neighborhood, and I bike to work 5 days a week. There are many bikers, skaters, walkers commuting to and from work, school, etc. every day. Maybe you should get out more! You probably don't even live in Chicago... you're more than likely sitting on your fat ass somewhere out in the burbs.

[@andreazaragoza4609]

I can’t believe you that dumb. Please go out more and explore Chicago.

[@andreazaragoza4609]

sllabnkcoc preach

[@lauriemashek5419]

Shawn Caney thats what the motor vehicle is for, hello!

[@ryannesloney3798]

I alternate between an electric unicycle and electric skateboard for primary transportation to run short distance errands. It’s awesome.

[@Joiedevivredesilives]

I work in Netherlands and Germany never ever seen one ever so where are they popular exactly as I have only seen them in USA youtubes

[@metin9704]

Oh. Nice I'm going to Google it. Aha ha. Ha .

[@bishplis7226]

youre in australia, fuck off IN EUROPE THERE ARE PLENTY

[@lusteraliaszero]

his humming combined with that ringing and that turning sound is absolutely horrific

[@WildOutdoorLiving]

Let me start off by saying that I love bikes, most of the videos I upload on my own channel are dedicated to bikes and I ride my bike all year round even when it is -20F (Although it's not as fun then lol). I just don't understand how he thinks this thing is more visible than a regular bike. A regular bike is twice as tall and just as wide and most commuters add bright colors and lights as well. I've never ridden a velomobile but I have ridden a three wheeled recumbent and I would be very leary of having one on the road especially with out a 10 foot flag. They are technically faster aerodynamically speaking on a flat road but with a little extra fitness you can get any decent bike to travel close to those speeds even while wearing street clothes plus most people have to climb hills on their commute so the average time it takes to get to your destination will likely not be any shorter in one of these. Plus regular bikes are a lot cheaper.

[@halfawake454]

I agree. Also, if my only concern with biking is commuting cheaply. I'd opt for an electric bike. I actually do have an electric bike. I just bought one of those electric bike kits online that converts any cheap bike into an electric one. It'll go 30mph w/o me pedaling. It even has the potential to go faster if I used a beefier battery. It was also way way cheaper than this thing.

[@mardiffv.8775]

A VM is bought by fans who want to achieve high speed without electric help.

[@mardiffv.8775]

I know a commuter who switched to the VM to avoid bumper to bumper car traffic on the high way. He rides 88 km everyday (55 miles) and he gets a great work out. He can shower at work.

[@bikeguyirl4443]

I have respect for another harsh winter rider. Do you use a fat bike for the snow?

[@Felevr]

I loved that fair companies now show not just tiny house but things like this too. So inspiring.

[@robbchastain3036]

The longer you watch this, the funnier it gets. So I have to give it a thumbs-up just for the laughs. And good for Mr. Mosca to be able to tool about town in complete safety. But I wouldn't give myself similar odds. But pedal cars are great--my favorite was one I called the Sherry Car, a steel-bodied '50s Chevy given to me in '65 when I was five by a big girl named Sherry in a trailer park in Coalinga, California. And Sherry was probably only a couple of years older than me, but she had outgrown it and it was very kind of her to give it to me.

[@jimj2683]

My favourite is the BioHybrid. It looked great and it was taller so you got seen in traffic. Plus you could carry a passenger.

[@jamesbizs]

Most visible bike on the planet? It’s 2 feet tall!! I’m pretty sure the guy sitting up straight on his mountain bike and helmet, is MUCH more visible

[@Chugosh]

I so love the idea of a velomobile!

[@JimDavies42]

That is really cool. :)

[@Meating_My_Goals]

I purchased a used VELO called the ELF made in Durham NC. My cost was 1/3 the price of a new ELF and I LOVE IT! I have a minivan for my family outings and my ELF is my personal transportation in the city. I can haul 8 bags of groceries and I have electric peddle assist with enough battery to go 20 miles. The ELF is a bit ore visible then your velo, but your velo is WAY more efficient.... but I do have a solar panel to charge through out the day. We both use "Flintstone" reverse. :) Have a grand time and keep peddling.

[@scherzo7224]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="483">8:03</a> *Talking to chickens* : Thanks ladies, thank you very much.

[@peterjv8748]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="173">2:53</a> As he's bragging about how fast he goes you can clearly see a person right behind him, gaining ground on him quickly, casually pedaling on a comfort bike. xDDD

[@szkielet137]

Gonna buy one! I live in Poland (albo known as Coaland), so it has to fully enclosed to proteck me from smog. (I'll install some fan and HEPA filter on air intake, of course.) Can someone recommend any?

[@Drumvain]

A beauty, the bonnet is a nice touch.

[@DIMZEROCENT]

I never saw one of them in the Netherlands where i lived for a while.

[@luke9925]

people be hating because its kinda unsafe but he is producing no emissions and hes keeping fit, respect.

[@unclephil4112]

I'm hating because you could do the same thing with a bike for a few hundred dollars.

[@robertb2650]

These things block traffic, we have one here in our town....most annoying thing to be stuck behind, he had no care for anyone else

[@lauriemashek5419]

Robert b your city needs bike lanes which would make it much less of an issue. Where do cyclists ride?

[@bishplis7226]

is your steering wheel broken robert?

[@robertb2650]

I understand your being sarcastic, thats ok..the problem is that he rides on narrow two lane roads. He will have several cars stuck behind him that cant pass..Im sorry but thats rude

[@connorwelcher]

Robert b Ive passed bikers and skaters on a narrow 2 lane road

[@robertb2650]

well I guess you dont live in a small beach town with narrow roads. There are bike paths out in the country that have absolutely no auto traffic...why dont people go there instead?

[@scott6504]

Things like that make the day a little cooler. This is sweet.

[@stryf3901]

There’s a fine line between being eco conscious and being safe, and this car is a potential casket

[@jimj2683]

Probably safer than a regular bike since you will not tip over as easily.

[@liebert234]

Over a million people die in car crashes every year. If you're trying to maximise safety, moving as many people from cars to these things as is practical is what you should be aiming for

[@MemeLord-nu8mi]

$9000 is enough to buy an extremely high quality E Bike, high quality gear, and still have around $1000 left. If you want to get healthy, just get a regular bike.

[@tonytigeer]

Memeatron 9000 exactly just ride bike unless he likes the attention

[@darkdynasty5097]

I'll just stick with normal bikes instead. I don't feel like paying 10,000 for a awkward bicycle in a shell. It's an interesting vehicle though

[@TheWizadofOz]

You're missing the point if you think having a scooter or motorbike is the same. You get to ride a bicycle (which it's one of the most amazing things you can do for yourself) AND stay dry and warm. Sing me up. Those that complain about the price will not be able to see this for what it truly is. A life changing device. Also you're not frugal, just cheap.

[@JaleelJohanson62]

The man in the video (Stephen Mosca) may or may not remember me... He sold me a Go-One3 back in ~2006 and delivered it to me personally in New Hartford, CT. Stephen is a great guy! He brought along his Go-One3 with a Bionx power assist. I added a Currie USPD power-assist to mine shortly after Stephen delivered it. I live in mountain and big pick-up territory and the roads are also less than ideal. The Go-One3 didn't work out for me. I contacted Stephen and he bought it back from me as he had another customer interested in a used Go-One3. As it turned out, when Stephen was in a position with the new customer to close the deal, I was away on business in Arizona. With my blessing, Stephen came up to my place from New Jersey and removed the power system I installed and took the Go-One3 back with him to sell to his new customer. I got most of my money back. Stephen is a first rate guy to do business with! I have nothing but respect for him and what he's accomplished in the velomobile world! Stephen: Just so you know, I'm still active in the velomobile game! I went with the Tripod that was formerly made in Portland, Oregon. It has a higher seated position and the kind of ground clearance needed for our very poor, hilly roads. I've modified it heavily and added a lot of accessories. It uses a 8Fun Bafang BBS02 drive train that runs through a 7 speed rear cassette/derailleur conventional bicycle power train. It can't touch the Go-One3 in speed and handling, but with a 20mph cruising speed, worked out best for me in my territory. The gearing enables me to climb the steepest of hills with ease. I wish you nothing but continued success! - Charlie B.

[@Dafastso]

worlds most wholesome transportation

[@WASDsweden]

20MPH on this is very average. 20MPH on a regular bicycle and you're very well trained and/or have an expensive race bike.

[@badguy1481]

I talked to a man that had one. He says he's able to pass most bicycles on bike paths. Probably that sleek "fuselage" cuts down on the wind resistance, and that's enough to make the difference. BUT...I wouldn't want one without a significant battery assist (like an E-bike) and enough of a battery assist to get to between 80 and 100 miles.

[@joshdoeseverything4575]

Everything that uses energy burns calories. Cars burn calories, Teslas burn calories, power plants burn calories

[@um-vl6on]

His humming sounds like a what a psychopath would humming when police is searching his house

[@mrreviewsitall7496]

Embarrassing, dangerous and expensive. This guy obviously hasn't ridden a scooter

[@supermasterfighter]

Takowasa not to mention that a scooter TOTALLY isn’t embarrassing

[@bishplis7226]

why the fuck would he want a scooter, this is way faster

[@sebastianwhitton1235]

@Takowasa I don't think you understand, the hole point of products like these is the fact that they produce zero emissions.

[@sebastianwhitton1235]

@Takowasa yes but proving the carbon is within a closed system (plants turn carbon into food->food is eaten -> carbon is released by humans/animals/etc... -> plants reabsorb carbon, and the cycle continues) it's still carbon neutral. I am aware of the fact that in this day and age vast amounts of CO2 is released through the transport of food. Yet still, cycling/ using this "alternative" is still far more ethical and produces less emissions than driving a car.

[@omegamanprivate7132]

It's a coffin with wheels. Add a flag on a long antenna for visibility. Add the largest horn you can. Some housewife in a minivan loses you and you are mashed flat.

[@tenderheart62]

Yeah, the guy is delusional in so many things

[@Xinkgs]

Small town with not a lot of traffic is a great idea but in a very hectic place forget about it

[@love4lust7301]

"I have turn signals". Yeah right, who the hell is going to see those tiny ass lights. The front of it looks like a dog with his tongue hanging out. This is garbage. The drivers are staying back because they can't see you if they get any closer 😂. Omg just put some R.I.P tags on the back of this thing.

[@bishplis7226]

open your eyes or get glasses

[@jonasschnackkrog]

It’s funny as a danish guy to see how you Americans react to such a nice thing as the velomobile. He’s not saying you should buy it he just shows you why he loves it and what it can do. All you do is hating, grow up!

[@1millionsubscribersandnovi160]

I see a Truck ..and then I see volomobile in space .😂

[@channa1955]

Why do I keep expecting 4 clowns to jump out of this at a light.

[@dreamwavedave]

Where do you park at work? how are some ways to prevent theft?

[@MrParacristo]

+DreamWave Dave I am building mine so that it fits into the elevator. Also regular bike locks work amazingly

[@dreamwavedave]

+Jeff Bishop awesome. Good stuff. 👍🏽🚲😎

[@mardiffv.8775]

Park on the side walk and there is a ring at the back where a chain lock will fit through. The chance that a VM gets stolen is low. Most thieves don't know what to do with it.

[@lucarnetrange]

When I read all the negative comments from conformist people, it motivates me to buy a velomobile one day. Just like I installed Linux on my computer and learnt Esperanto.

[@888jucu]

hahaha, so how many Esporantos/Esporantans? have you met? 🤣👍

[@MrSevenzerotwo702]

That's dope

[@proallnighter]

This thing is quite funny-looking, but I totally want one.

[@jimj2683]

The Podbike Frikar is much better. I have actually tried it.

[@AdamProGamingTR]

welp i cant buy this because $9000 means 49.980.0000 TL in our country so icant

[@buddyclem7328]

AdamProGamingTR What is TL? Are you using the Indian number system? Their money is in Rupees, or that high would be Crore Rupees, or something like that.

[@bishplis7226]

turkish lire, is your google broken? @@buddyclem7328

[@flybeep1661]

I owned one of these. I live in Europe, in Belgium to be precise which is about one of the best regions to be for velomobiles. There are French, German, Dutch and Belgian manufacturers. I got a 4th gen WAW velomobile, nice blue one with electric assist. It cost me 7500 EUR (used). First the good things: - it's fast way, faster than any bike - it keeps you warm even in freezin - keeps you dry in rain negatives: - it's big, way bigger than you think just by watching vids or photos thus you need storage. -Because it's big, if you need to transport it, it will be a hassle - while it does keep you dry in rain (mostly), you can forget about closing yourself off like in a cockpit, because you're pedalling you'll be releasing heat and dampening your screens. So if you wanna see, you'll most likely will get your face wet during rain. - It's fast but only on good roads, it's unpleasant as hell when the roads are shit. It also doesn't accelerate that well because of its weight (pedal assist helps) - you'll feel less safe among cars because you lie low to the ground and have less oversight. Visibibilty towards the back is shit. - It's very expensive and you can't just go to your local bike shop for everything, some part are specialised. if you're handy yourself that's a benefit. - doing hills is grueling and very slow and takes lots of effort (pedal assist helps) - very large turn radius. - if you need to back up, you'll have to get out of it and move it. - It's noisy riding it, very different than a bike where you just hear the wind blowing past your ears. The shell of the mobile acts like an echo chamber for all noises and vibrations. - While in winter it's nice to keep warm in summer it's a sweat machine (and doesn't even need to be that warm). - Dangerous to ride with strong side winds. The flanks of it act like a sail. When circumstance are good meaning you have long flat roads that are as smooth as a pool table than this thing is a blast but in most other circumstances it's not the most ideal. I've sold mine. These things are rare on the road but they are no unicorns. You do come across them her in Belgium.

[@frigginjoe]

Great idea, but unfortunately also expensive like a car.

[@mardiffv.8775]

The purchase price is as expensive as a car, but the operating costs are very low: no gas, insurance costs. Only every 8800 miles the chain needs to be replace, for example. The tires last 3000 miles. And you save mony on going to the gym.

[@bishplis7226]

an 3rd hand broken girls car from the 80 yeah, not a new 40k suv

[@connorwelcher]

Mardiff V. Or or, and hear me out here, a bike and a coat.

[@davidbergaragonzalez5653]

You could make one yourself for less than 9,000. It might not be as light, but you could add a little pedal assist motor and batteries.

[@gagejessicaclark8088]

Can you drive on the side walk??

[@triumphmanful]

NOT LEGALLY in most states. Cops can hastle you too !

[@Randomguy-wd5lw]

it not legal where i am, but most cyclist do it still

[@totoroben]

I think this guy's velomobile is cool, and I'm jealous that he's protected from the weather