What's a Velomobile?

A velomobile is a pedal car that usually has room for one person, but can have room for as many as the builder would like. It is usually enclosed to provide streamlining and weather protection. Pedaling is the primary means of power, but some commuters add a small motor that allows them to get to work without building up a sweat. They can save the workout for the ride home.

Why would anyone want such a contraption? Here is a list of pros and cons when compared to a bicycle:

PRO
1) Better weather protection makes them suitable for commuting in all four seasons.
2) Better stability
3) More comfortable
4) Some VMs are quit streamlined, making them faster than a bicycle on level ground.
5) Much safer. The Internet has a number of pictures of velomobiles that were damaged when hit by a cars moving at moderate speeds. In most cases, the riders were unhurt. If the they had been on bikes, they probably would have ended up under the cars.

CON
1) More expensive (worth every penny if it protects you in a crash or lets your family own one less car.)
2) Heavier. Slower on hills unless you add a small motor.
3) Harder to transport. (Will fit on a roof rack or small sport trailer.)
4) Most manufactures have a waiting list.
5) Attracts a lot of attention. (Extroverts will consider this a good thing.)

Compared to a car
PRO
1) Less expensive
2) Doesn't need gasoline
3) Get exercise every day
4) More fun

CON
1) Limited speed and size. Most people won't be able to use this as their only vehicle, but it might let some families have one fewer car.
2) No heater or air conditioner. People in cold climates usually do OK because they are exercising in an enclosed space that is sheltered from the wind. Extreme heat could be a problem for people who need to get to work without being sweaty. A small motor would help in these situations.