Next year, we will aim to break both the men's and women's human-powered vehicle hour records.
Our targets are:
Mathias Konig — Men's record: 92.44 km/h
Ellen van Vugt — Women's record: 84.02 km/h
This year, we carried out several test runs at ATC Aldenhoven. The track features one large corner and one smaller, tighter corner.
Mathias managed to complete several laps at speeds of around 92 km/h, showing that we have the speed needed to challenge the record. However, the smaller corner required additional concentration and caused some loss of speed.
We also tested different tyres to find the best possible setup. Unfortunately, one of these tests resulted in a high-speed crash. The bike sustained minor damage, but most importantly, Mathias was unharmed.
These tests provided valuable insights into the performance of the bike and highlighted areas where we can improve ahead of next year's attempts.
Over the winter, we will focus on improving the bike's aerodynamics, handling, reliability and performance. Several major upgrades are planned:
New monocoque fairing: We will build a new monocoque fairing to improve aerodynamics and overall performance.
Larger wheels: We plan to move from 20-inch to 26-inch wheels as part of our ongoing development of the bike.
Improved camera system: A new camera system will provide greater reliability, faster response times and 4K image quality.
Upgraded drivetrain: We will develop an improved drivetrain to optimise power transfer and performance.
Improved cooling system: The cooling system will be upgraded and made adjustable directly from the handlebars, allowing the rider to control it more easily during an attempt.
Onboard communication and monitoring: We will introduce a communication system that allows the team to monitor the bike and receive information about potential problems, helping us respond quickly if something goes wrong.
Alongside the technical improvements, we are looking for a larger track with wider, smoother curves.
A suitable track will be essential for our record attempts. Wider curves should allow the riders to maintain higher speeds through the corners, reduce the concentration demands of navigating tight turns and make it easier to ride consistently at record-breaking speeds.
This year's tests have shown that we are getting close to the speeds required to challenge both records. At the same time, they have helped us identify the improvements needed to take the next step.
Over the coming winter, we will work on the bike, improve our systems and search for the ideal track. Our goal is to return next year with a faster, more reliable and more controllable machine, ready to challenge the men's and women's hour records.
The work continues. The ambition remains the same: to break both records.