FAQs

Why did Trisled design Rotovelo?

Motivated by a desire to build affordable and practical velomobiles, Tri-Sled designed Rotovelo to provide a broader range of users with the opportunity to experience the benefits of velomobiling. Our aim was to attract new velomobile riders (as well as inspire existing ones!). Rotovelo achieves this aim by taking the velomobile concept down to its foundations: a weather protected, comfortable, safe and aerodynamic vehicle that anyone can jump in and ride.

Why did Trisled go down the path of roto-molding?

Roto-molding is an efficient and more affordable manufacturing process that significantly reduces wait times for fairing production. Roto-molded plastic is also a highly durable material which improves the practical possibilities for velomobile riders. Having a tough and sturdy fairing means that Rotovelo is a vehicle you can take and park anywhere.

Who designed Rotovelo?

Rotovelo was designed by Trisled's Director, Ben Goodall. Ben has been working in the HPV field for over fifteen years, designing and prototyping all of Trisled's past and present models. Ben is passionate about building human powered vehicles that deliver practical real-world outcomes.

Who will make my Rotovelo?

Trisled has engaged an Australian quality endorsed roto-molding company to manufacture the Rotovelo mold and farings. Our frames are built in-house at the Trisled factory and the machines are assembled by our bicycle mechanics. Components are sourced from our local and international suppliers. Where possible we try to use standard, easily replaceable bicycle components.

What does the ride feel like?

Nothing can describe the thrill of going fast using the power of your own two legs (with a little aerodynamic assistance of course!) We recommend a test ride at our factory on the Mornington Peninsula to experience the benefits.

Is Rotovelo suitable for touring?

With a massive 80 litres of luggage space, Rotovelo ticks all the boxes for touring! It has weather protection, accessible spare parts, comfort, visibility, and it improves your performance and speed.

How fast does it go?

The results from our forward-order customers and prototype testers indicate that Rotovelo adds about 20-30 per cent to a rider's performance (compared to a standard upright bicycle).

How much testing have you done with Rotovelo?

Rotovelo builds on 15 years of racing, real-world, and record-breaking experience. Trisled began developing Rotovelo about five years ago, but our first in-house 'proof of concept' prototype wasn't built until 2009. The first roto-molded shells were built in March 2010 and since then we've been refining the roto-molding process and getting our racing team to 'test' (aka 'thrash') prototypes. In September 2010 we sent out 8 Rotovelos to forward-order customers who have been providing us with extensive real-world feedback. The results have been exciting! We launched Rotovelo as part of the Trisled range in October 2010 at the GoBike exhibition.

What lighting systems are available for Rotovelo?

Rotovelo comes standard with LED front and rear lights. A battery and switch box is mounted inside the vehicle for easy access.

How do you indicate in Rotovelo?

Like a bicycle, Rotovelo riders can use their arms to indicate their turning intentions on the road.

How do you lock Rotovelo?

A cable lock fits through the side wheel and fairing to lock the vehicle.

Where is the 80 litre storage located?

Rotovelo has a completely contained roto-molded luggage compartment either side and overtop of the rear wheel.

Does it get hot in Rotovelo?

Rotovelo has lots of ventilation through the foot wells and open-head hatch.

How do you fix a flat tyre on Rotovelo?

Rotovelo's front wheels are removable using an 8mm hex key. The back wheel fits through a space in the rear of the fairing and uses a quick-release system.

Does Rotovelo have foot wells for reversing?

Yes. Foot wells come standard.

Does Rotovelo come with a warranty?

Rotovelo comes with a one-year warranty for the frame and fairing.

Can Rotovelo be adjusted to suit different riders?

Yes. There is an adjustable crank boom inside the vehicle.

What is the maximum height and weight range for Rotovelo?

Rotovelo has one of the largest weight and height ranges of any velomobile on the market.
Height: approximately 193cm (6 foot 4 inches)
Weight: 130kg

When can I have a Rotovelo?

We estimate Rotovelo turnaround to be between 3-6 weeks within Australia, and 8-10 weeks internationally (when purchased direct) from the date of your order.

Where can I see a Rotovelo?

If you live in Australia, you can visit our factory for a test ride or meet up with us on one of our group rides.

Do you have dealers in other countries?

Trisled is currently liaising with a range of potential dealers. If you are interested in becoming a dealer of Rotovelo, please contact us.

Can I pick up my Rotovelo when it�s ready?

Yes, we encourage pick-up if you live in Australia.

Can I install an electric assist system in my Rotovelo?

Trisled does not install electric assist systems to any of our models, nor do we recommend that you install them yourself. This is because all Trisled velomobiles are designed to maximise the speed you can achieve using your own power. Adding electric assist systems will contribute weight, and possibly make the vehicle more difficult or cumbersome to ride. If attached to any part of the fairing, it will also compromise the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. You should be aware that there may be laws in your country that restrict the use of electric assist systems on velomobiles. Trisled has never fitted an electric assist system to Rotovelo, and we cannot guarantee that it won't affect the safety or performance of this vehicle. For this reason, the Rotovelo warranty is void if electric assist is added to your vehicle.

Where can I test ride Rotovelo?

We offer test rides at our factory in the Mornington Peninsula by appointment. We also offer test rides at some bike shows, events and festivals.

Is there a user group I can join?

Yes, the Rotovelo user group organises bi-monthly rides in Melbourne. If you live locally, we will put you in touch with this group when you order a Rotovelo. Trisled is also keen to support user groups in other locations and countries.

How do I find out more information?

Send us your question via our contact page.

Gallery

Video

Dealers Trisled is establishing Rotovelo dealers around the world. Contact us if you're interested in becoming an international dealer. In the meantime, we're happy to provide a quotation for international shipping direct to your location.

Exclusive USA dealer

Spincyclz in Petaluma, California is currently Trisled's exclusive USA Rotovelo dealer. Contact them for current availability and stock.

Reviews

Velovision review

Velovision Issue 41 featured an extensive review of Rotovelo by the magazine's editor, Peter Eland, who highlighted Rotovelo's simplicity and robustness:

'The Rotovelo is a wonderful machine: it delivers a cycling experience which in speed, efficiency and weatherproofing really is exclusive to velomobiles. And it does so in a package that you can use with real confidence in its robustness. In this it’s leagues ahead of any other velomobile out there.'

Bent Rider Online review

Check out Bent Rider Online editor, Bryan Ball's, review of Rotovelo. Bryan highlights everything we love about Rotovelo! It's practical, 'bombproof simple' and 'tough as nail'!

User groups

Rotovelo velomobiles Facebook group

If you are a Rotovelo user or enthusiast, join the Rotovelo user group on Facebook.

Rotovelo Victorian riders group

Victorian riders get together ever now and again for group rides like Around the Bay in a Day or social rides in and around Melbourne. If you're interested in joining our next ride, just contact us.