Leuci Leonardo invents futuristic velomobile

The builder is Leonardo Leuci, who lives in a small town in Italy called Saluggia---it's near Turin. Leonardo worked for Benotto in the 1980s, welding bike frames and even went to Mexico to teach welding in Benotto's facility there. Now he runs a bike shop in Saluggia.

This project was begun in the 80s with an eye toward human-powered speed records, but was only lately completed. It has 3 700C wheels, the 2 front ones steer. 3 chains, and 5 gears, with a 46 front sprocket and rear 13-32. Currently, it has one brake on the rear, but it could have 3 disc brakes.

The frame is made from Columbus steel tubes and the body of fiberglass. Gianpaolo pointed out that carbon fiber would also be appropriate for the body, but expensive! One can open the front spoiler for ventilation, and there are Venturi openings on the sides for more.

There are more interesting projects in the works.
Maybe Leonardo will share them.

RIVAL SNC VALLERINI AND LEUCI SALES AND REPAIR CYCLES
14, Via Roma - 13040 Saluggia (VC)
tel: 0161 480657
Bicycles - Retail & Repair