bkil vs. programming

It would make a difference if they have published the exact synchronization of traffic lights and/or broadcast timely phase signals (via UDP over GPRS or such). Using this data combined with the readings of the bicycle odometer, software on your PDA or mobile phone could continuously suggest a velocity that should minimize idling at each traffic light. Manual settings for maximal speed, acceleration and cardiovascular pulse could be given. Note that this strategy only works well for uncongested networks, like dedicated bicycle lanes or paths. Trained cyclist already apply a similar technique manually, however, not all lights are synchronized to each other.

I've been considering if it would make sense to construct a bike "from scratch" using general materials for a frame. It could also be equipped with standard bicycle components to make repairs much easier. The concept of building the frame (and thus the bike) akin to playing with a metal toy construction set sounds interesting. It would allow great innovation in portability.

I have replaced my portable bicycle with a small kick scooter a few months ago. Testing is still underway. Average commuting speed is in excess of 10km/h for longer intra-city trips. Riding comfort is fair on sidewalks not made of bricks. Bicycle lanes with bricks are a bit rough, but still doable. I agree that the device does give you a better workout than a bicycle. At around the same time, I'm beginning to use one of my mountain bikes in the city.

I'm pondering if it would be feasible to start a subscription based, regular scheduled shopping delivery system with bikes. Viability summary follows. Reduced vehicle purchase and operating costs help make pricing competitive. The slower top speed is not an issue because of both the scheduled manner of delivery, and because driving is mostly composed of short sections, given a reasonable number of subscribers in each region. An online shopping application could serve the customers. Registration would be possible only in person and at the shipping address. The application would need to provide a calendar for setting shipping time, and a product catalog that contains photos and basic data of each product - like size and weight. Handling of orders, generating the shopping lists and optimizing the allocation of drivers would also happen automatically. To be continued...

I'm pondering if it would be feasible to start an on-demand light cargo delivery system with bikes. You probably already have heard of on-demand small package delivery services offered in many cities that also use bikes. The proposed difference is offering transport for goods that are overweight or oversized for the prior solutions. The key aspect would be using heavy-duty bike trailers. Speed and driver comfort could be greatly improved by equipping the vehicles with regenerative braking. and perhaps with an aerodynamically-enhanced fairing for both the bikes and the trailers. The limits imposed on the load would be about a weight of 80kg and the dimensions of small furniture. Viability summary follows. Reduced vehicle purchase and operating costs help make pricing competitive. The slower top speed is not a big issue to the customers because of both the low average speeds attainable in heavily populated areas, and because of the competitive pricing. It is not an issue to the opera...

Advantages * no waiting time at stops or changes - direct and dedicated connection (see note#1) * no idling at intermediate stops - rapid transit * stops are at your doorsteps - no walking that slows you down * traffic congestion is usually not a problem * never crowded, you always have a seat * the air conditioning is always on and works as you will * fares are fair and mostly constant - doing some inexpensive maintenance once in a few months or twice a year * about the same journey time overall as on bus or tram - some routes are even faster * exercise is good for you * lower top speed - safer Drawbacks * you can't read a newspaper and such (except at traffic lights) * in very bad wet weather you may have a hard time without full fairing * bikes must face inferior road conditions on the side of the road and on unmaintained bike paths * more traffic light waiting time on many routes * lower top speed Note #1: You may combine bicycle commuting with public transport if you have a po...

You could go on very long journeys, if given a recumbent bike that has a good seat, and the following. http://www.tonystrailers.com/mobileshelter/ http://www.tonystrailers.com/nomad/