NEWS

New Strida models

Three new Strida models were launched at Interbike at the end of September. The new models are the MAS (Mark A Sanders) Special (as pictured above), a stripped down, high performance model with racing saddle and alloy crankset; the Sport Duo, and the XT for taller riders. The MAS and Sport Duo have Schlumpf drives to provide two speeds as opposed to the normal singlespeed, and the XT features a larger frame and 18" wheels instead of the regular 16". All three models should be available in Spring 2009. Strida: www.strida.com

Zeppy’s channel attempt In late September French pilot Stephane Rousson made an attempt to cross the English Channel in his pedal powered airship, Zeppy. Having waited in vain for two weeks for a calm enough day, Stephane was eventually thwarted by a headwind two thirds of the way across. The airship descended to one of the accompanying boats and was deflated. You can read more about the project, with press cuttings in French and English, on the project website. We wish him better luck next time! Zeppy blog: http://zeppy.skynetblogs.be

Electric bike facts and figures

A press release from our friends at A to B Magazine gives a glimpse into some UK sales figures – a rare thing in cycling, where market statistics are extremely hard to come by. According to A to B, UK sales are on target to hit an all-time record of over 15,000 electric bikes this year, and further growth expected for next year too. The total value of the UK electric bike market was about £13 million in 2008, they say, with sales of £25 million predicted for 2009. E-bikes are even more popular on mainland Europe – in the Netherlands, over 120,000 will be sold this year, and it’s thought annual sales

could hit 300,000 in a few years. In Germany, e-bike sales are expected to double between 2007 and 2009. David Henshaw of A to B notes “These figures are for manufacturers whose average price exceeds £600, and excludes kits.” A to B: Tel 01305 259998 or see www.atob.org.uk

Berkelbike

The Berkelbike from Germany (pictured left) is an impressive device powered by both arms and legs, intended to offer mobility to people with multiple sclerosis, polio, stroke or spinal cord injuries. Electrical muscle stimulation systems can be added if required. The Berkelbike can be supplied to attach to an existing wheelchair, as a complete trike, or for home training with the user in their own chair. Expert advice and consultation is available from the manufacturers or their UK distributor Cyclone Mobility and Fitness. Berkelbike: see www.berkelbike.com Cyclone Mobility: Tel 0151 346 2310 or see www.cyclonemobility.com

Velorbis distributed Congratulations to Copenhagen-based Velorbis, whose traditional-style bikes are now distributed in the UK by Moore Large, which should make them more widely available via the dealer network. Tel 01332 274200 or see www.moorelarge.co.uk for details. Velorbis: Tel +45 31 11 00 30 or see www.velorbis.com

ISSUE 32 DECEMBER 2008 VELOVISION

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