The summer in Miami is HOT! (and I don't just mean in the sexy way).  For a bicycle commuter, like myself, getting around in the sizzling summer sun can be brutal sometimes, so I decided to research some alternative ways to still BEAT GAS without beating myself up too much....

What I found is the newest addition to my Birthday/Christmas wish list:

THE VELOMOBILE 

photo credit: VMUSA 

The Velomobile looks like a buggy form the future.  It is a pedal powered convertible that goes much faster than a regular bicycle.  They are used in The Netherlands for commuting, touring, and racing. I contacted the company to find out more about how it works and if it would really be practical in the Miami summer sun.   David, from Velomobile USA gave me the facts. 

The Velomobile has a cockpit cover which can shield you from direct sun, rain, and cold weather.  You can unzip the cover to any degree to control the amount of air flowing through. He tells me that in West Texas, where the USA headquarters are located, you get enough circulation around your body to keep from getting too hot.  The airflow comes through a hole by your heels and flows upward.  When the hole is closed, your body heat and the cover provide enough warmth to ride comfortably in below-freezing conditions!

Other cool benefits that he mentioned: 

-Great baggage capacity

-Easily seen by cars

-Offers crash protection

-Good Mileage, 20 miles per banana! 

-Comfortable recumbent seat. 

-Bike for 365 days a year 

AND it goes FAST:

If you haven't entered the BEAT GASOLINE contest, you still have time!!! Hurry and submit something by August 15 and inspire other people to do the same.