World's first human powered monorail racetrack
08 Aug 2007
New Zealand’s newest adventure attraction, the Shweeb Velodrome, will open in Rotorua in late August 2007.
Situated just 10km out of Rotorua, the Velodrome consists of two interweaving monorail racetracks from which hang fast, human-powered vehicles.
Between one and five vehicles can be loaded onto each track so that riders can race one-on-one, or in teams of up to five. On the curves, the vehicles swing centrifugally to more than 60 degrees away from vertical. Single riders can reach speeds of 60kph, and multi-rider teams can exceed 70kph. The vehicles are fully enclosed with riders sitting back in a recumbent position for comfort and aerodynamic advantage.
Visitors of any fitness level can easily reach top speeds. Riders can pump themselves up with a 1000m sprint, or prove their endurance over 10km.
The track is open for race action even in wet and windy conditions. Precision timing equipment lets spectators join in the excitement of each race.
Geoffrey Barnett, inventor of the Shweeb, is delighted to have the chance to debut his technology in Rotorua.
'It’s taken me six years to get the Shweeb from concept to working prototype. If it weren’t for New Zealand, I might still be on the drawing board,' says Barnett.
Further information:
Justine Southwick
Media Advisor
Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing
Phone +64 7 349 7286
justine@rotoruanz.com
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