Eight of theses massive machines are chomping through central London at the rate of several hundred metres a week. As the cost of tunnelling reduces much smaller versions will be available for cycle tunnels. With silky smooth concrete surfaces these new transport systems will provide traffic, wind and rain free utopian cycling on gentle gradients through city and urban areas. Effortless average speeds in excess of 40 mph will be possible with typical suburban to town centre travelling times under 10 minutes.
Tunnels will be unidirectional and wind turbines used to provide forced airflow in the direction of travel. Separate overtaking lanes will be available on uphill sections with access determined by the cyclist’s computer monitored ability to perform at the current average climbing speed. At the sides there will be the option to further reduce rolling resistance by use of a grooved steel trackway inserted into the floor for bikes with appropriately profiled steel tyres. This guideway will be especially useful for recumbent riders in their streamlined shells who wish to concentrate on other activities during their journey. The gentle undulating nature of the tunnels, avoiding underground obstacles such as sewerage pipes and surfacing towards access points, will be ideal for regenerative braking; with energy stored in capacitors for use on subsequent climbs. Maintenance costs will be negligible as the risks of pot holes from ice and heavy traffic will have been eliminated.
The use of helmets will be optional.