Sub-plenary Sessions

Better Bicycles

Frank van der Laan, AGV Traffic and Transport Consultancy Group, The Netherlands Position Paper: More Cycling By Technical Innovation Recumbent or reclining cycles are in many ways superior on comparison to normal bikes which are based on the Rover ‘safety-bike’ of the 20’s. The main advantages are a higher speed (due to less air resistance) and a greater comfort. These clear highlights makes the recumbent cycle promising for medium and longer distances on flat ground. Although there are also some disadvantages in comparison with ordinary bikes, these disadvantages are in my opinion very poor explanations for the relatively little use of recumbent bicycles. Further more: there is a lot of potential remaining to enhance the performance and comfort of (recumbent) bicycles. This has been proven by the building of a new prototype bicycle for commuter transport ‘the Sherpa’.

András Tóth, Hungarian Cyclists' Federation Position Paper, From Foldable To Portable Bicycles Further improvement of existing foldable bicycles may well lead to a new vehicle category, where the driver carrying its vehicle is an equal option.

Peter van der Veer, Van der Veer Designers, The Netherlands On Better Bicycles

Hans van Vliet, Shimano Europe, The Netherlands Better Bicycles And Bicycle Determinants