New pedal-free bicycle relies on running momentum

By Eric Pfeiffer

Could the Fliz be a viable alternative to conventional bicycles?

The latest in modern bicycle innovation takes some cues from the fictional mode of transportation used in the "Flintstones" cartoon.

A new bicycle designed by German engineers does away with pedals and instead requires the rider to run or walk to generate speed.

Dubbed the "Fliz Bike," it is actually based on the world's first bicycle, the "Laufrad," which also operated without pedals and was created by German inventor Karl Drais in 1817.

"The prior aim of developing FLIZ was to bring a completely new driving experience to everyone," designers Tom Hambrock and Juri Spetter write on their website. "Its laminated, innovative frame with 5 point belt system provides a comfortable, ergonomic ride between running and biking."

Riders of the Fliz must strap themselves into a harness (the "5 point belt system"). After building up enough speed, they lift their legs onto footrests located near the bike's rear wheel.

"The frame integrates the rider and due to its construction it works both like a suspension and like a top carrier whereas the belt replaces the saddle and adjusts your position," the designers write.

The Tour de France

I like watching it on TV. I really don't understand all of it, I love those crowds, those nuts who run alongside the bikers, the scenery, beautiful, all those campers parked alongside the road. I understand it is the largest sporting event in the world.

Definition of PELOTON. : the main body of riders in a bicycle race.

I am used to some people lining up on a track, the gun goes off, they run, and the first one across the finish line wins.

I don't know how they do it in a bike race. There are White Jerseys, Red Jerseys, Gold and a few other colors, and each has some specific meaning. There are teams, station wagons, motorcycles, many different colors, a lot going on. They know what they are doing, no need for me to know. 

Some of the people living along the race site, design elaborate artwork in their fields and on their homes, all for a few seconds of fame when the helicopter fly's overhead. The whole things probably passes you by in a minute or so and it's all over till next year. Makes we want to tour some of those lovely countries though, not on a bike, in one of those little campers

They had had some hellasious pileups this year, easy to figure. All those bikers, one has trouble, and a whole line of of them behind you pile into you, and, not much padding for protection. 

This one, the EVENT is the big thing, you don't have to understand what is going on, just enjoy it. But, riding a bicycle up a steep mountain, and the speeds coming down, a special breed.

Why isn't there a female Tour De France? The miracle is: there is one, there has been one, and you just don't hear about it. Pictured here is Liz Hatch. But, there are no women in this Tour De France, wonder why? Sexism?

The Tour de France ...... I think that's it

I never had a TV channel before, that I know of, where I could watch the TDF live, but it is an interesting sporting event to watch.

A long day of riding, and it comes down to an exciting finish.

The scenery is outstanding as they go through those little towns and the mountains. The route is lined with people, cars, campers. With so many people on those narrow roads and streets it amazes me that some bikers and spectators don't collide.

I don't really understand the race, different ones finish first, but the aren't necessarily winning the race, but, nevertheless, it is fun to watch.

I now would like to hit the lottery and take that same route, in a nice camper, and see all those sites.

The bikers and the cars and motorcycles seem to be in such close proximity to each other, maybe the camera causes that. One biker will be next to a car, loaded with bikes, riding at high speeds, taking water bottles, and loading them in a back vest. Seems like one little slip, and disaster.

I will be back watching in on Tuesday AM, early, I guess they give them a day off today.

I would need a lot more than that if I was in it ..........