"Bicycle Design for the Millennium"
Ric Hjertberg Abstract:
One billion are used each day. They're found at every latitude and
altitude and at all economic levels. They operate in complete silence
and have remained practically unchanged for over 100 years. In spite of
the near total absence of motors or electronics, their prospects are
rapidly growing. What's in store for the trusty bicycle?
Not for a century has this venerable machine received such concentrated
design attention Driven by high tech materials, advanced research, and
new processes plus ever higher consumer expectations, bicycles are being
re-invented for the next millennium. Parallel quests for speed,
efficiency and comfort have generated some of the cleverest machines of
our time.
Ric Hjertberg will lead an informal tour of recent innovations in
cycling equipment and practice with examples and demonstrations.
Biography:
Wheelsmith
Ric Hjertberg founded Wheelsmith 24 years ago and the company has since
become known for many fundamental improvements in bicycle design and
retail practice. Ric has authored over 40 articles on these subjects in
the bicycle press and regularly consults to dealers and manufacturers.
Wheelsmith has built the wheels for the US National Team and Olympic
Teams since the early '80's and has been involved with many professional
teams and competitors. Ric has just returned from the Chicago Bike Show
where he presented several seminars on technical and retail cycling
subjects.