Mileage Update

Current mileage: 6560km

I recently replaced the rear tires with Schwalbe Big Apples, 2.35" wide. The old ones were 2", which were also very nice. They wore out a bit quicker than normal since they were rubbing on the wheelwell a bit in the beginning. I decided to go with a bit wider ones to give some extra cushion to the ride. After taking the old ones off I realized there was likely still some life left in them, I think this next set I will run a bit longer.

Mileage Update

Current Total Mileage: 4560km

I have put the roof back on, since the rain has returned. I have made a cover to seal the bottom ventilation holes to keep water out, and now it is very nice and dry no matter how much it rains!

Range Tests

A few day ago, I finally got around to doing a battery range test on the velo. In addition to my standard battery pack (48V, 18Ah Nimh) I took two spare batteries, partly to add weight simulating a touring setup, and partly so I could bike most of the day without having to stop for a full charge. I added one 48V, 8Ah Nicd pack and one 48V, 8Ah Nimh pack.

I rode from White Rock, to Fort Langley, took the ferry across, to Aggasiz, through Chilliwack, Abbotsford and back to White Rock.

Total distance for the day: 210km
Total riding time: 6 hours
Average Speed: 36km/h

Range on Standard battery pack (48V, 18Ah): 80km at 37.6km/h average speed

I charged over lunch for an hour, and over a coffee stop for 40 mins.
I am guessing that if I was doing a tour with only the main battery, I would need to charge for about 4 hours and slow down a bit to do a similar distance (200km/day).

Total distance since new: 3540km

Mileage Update

Total distance ridden to date: ~3300km

No breakdowns or additional maintenance required yet! *knock on wood*

Corrections and more data

My speedometer was not set correctly, so the previously posted top speed of 94km/h is wrong.

Top speed is electronically limited to 32km/h to comply with electric bicycle regulations. Actual top speed when not regulated on the flat with light pedaling is about 50km/h. Up a hill like King George south of Highway 10 this drops to about 32km/h. Down this same hill the top speed is about 68km/h. At this speed the motor is actually re-charging the batteries somewhat, so if I was to turn off the controller I would cruise down the hill slightly faster, probably about 75km/h.

Average moving speed from South Surrey to 84th and 128th (about 17.5km) can be about 37km/h when not regulated.

Total distance ridden is now about 2300km.

Questions

To answer some of the questions posted in the comments:
1) How are you able to measure the speed and distance?
It's measured using a bike computer.

2)Is it not possible to buy a recumbent bike and then get a "fiberglass raincoat" separately?
Yes, I believe this type of thing is available, but an all in one velomobile would most likely be a bit lighter.

3) Doesn't it get hot pedaling inside with no fresh air to hit your body?
Yes, if it's hot outside it's a bit warm. With the roof and windshield off it's not bad, especially when moving.

4) I saw the news youtube clip. Do you not lock your bike when you leave it to enter the mall?
Yes, I do usually lock it. I didn't in the newsclip for efficiency.

5a) On a rainy day, do you use an umbrella to get to your parked velo?
No, I don't get too wet while walking there :)
b) Does it matter if the insides get wet? How will the motor react?
The motor is waterproof. It doesn't matter if the insides get a bit wet, but there is a cover for use while parked to keep water out, or you can put the roof on.

c) Are there holes to let the water out?
Not enough water gets in to worry about that.

Ride Data

Total distance ridden so far: 1700km
Top speed (down hill): up to about 80km/h (see more details above)

The velomobile is very stable at high speeds. I had to replace my first set of brake pads on the disc brakes at 1300km. This is most likely due to the higher speeds with the motor assist and extra weight of the batteries.