Evolution of Recumbent Bicycles and the Design of the Avatar Bluebell

The dominant influence of racing regulations on the history of bicycles, and particularly of recumbent bicycles, is described. A new class of racing for human-powered vehicles, set up in 1974, brought about the present enthusiasm for recumbent bicycles. The development of the AVATAR 2000, originally designed to lessen injury risks in commuting, is described, together with modifications that, as the AVATAR BLUEBELL, led to its holding the world 200-m flying-start speed championship 1982-3. Paper closes with predictions of likely future developments.