Age group, from
The minimum age from which it is recommended to use a velomobile. Of course, this indicator is rather conditional: children can grow and develop faster than the norm, and it is possible that the car may be quite suitable a few months before the calendar birthday. Nevertheless, it is still not recommended to violate these recommendations: each age category requires the presence of certain skills, as well as compliance with height and physique; therefore, using the velomobile too early can be difficult, inconvenient, and even dangerous.
The age group is to some extent associated with the appointment (see below). So, children's models mainly have a minimum age of
2 to
3 years, the maximum for them is
4 years. The same age is the smallest found among teenage velomobiles, and universal ones belong to groups of
5 years and
older.
Maximum weight
The greatest weight that a velomobile is able to carry for a long time without breakage, in other words, the maximum load on the structure that is permissible for normal operation. This load takes into account the weight of the driver, luggage, and in multi-seat models, passengers as well (that is, it is indicated for the car as a whole, and not for a separate seat). This parameter is connected primarily with the purpose and age category (see above): the “older” the velomobile is, the more weight it should normally carry.
Of course, when choosing a machine, one should proceed from the fact that the maximum load indicated in the characteristics should not be lower than that planned in real conditions; but at the same time it is desirable to have also a certain reserve. This is related to two things. Firstly, this parameter is usually given for flat roads; and when driving through pits, potholes and other irregularities, the velomobile may be subjected to off-design loads even with a formally permissible weight. Secondly, most often velomobiles are bought for children; and as children grow up, a margin of weight is simply a must — otherwise the machine will very quickly become unusable.
Also, do not be deceived if, when the maximum load (accidental or intentional) was exceeded, the velomobile did not break down immediately — overload anyway negatively affects reliability and can lead to early breakdown.
Fenders on rear wheels
The presence of protective
fenders on the rear wheels of the pedal car.
Such fenders provide some protection from dirt flying from the wheels of the car while driving; First of all, they protect the driver and passengers, but for others, the presence of fenders may be useful. This piece of equipment is especially important when riding in wet weather or on wet ground.
Dimensions
General dimensions of the pedal car. This parameter allows you to evaluate, first of all, the convenience of the car in storage and transportation. Note that for models with a trailer (see above), dimensions can be indicated both with and without a trailer.
Weight
The total weight of the velomobile in curb condition. It is indicated, usually, taking into account all the additional equipment supplied in the kit — in particular, the roll bar and the trailer (if any, of course; see above for more details). The value of this parameter is twofold: on the one hand, a large weight makes it difficult both to transport the car and to ride it, on the other hand, it contributes to stability and reduces the risk of a rollover. Note that for each purpose (see above) there are certain weight ranges: for example, for children's velomobiles, 40 kg is too much, and for universal models, on the contrary, too little.
