Rocket Trike Ends 2,500 Mile Journey

Renewable energy advocate Tom Weis completed his 10-week "Ride for Renewables" on December 7, at the Jefferson Memorial after going through 11 states in his futuristic-looking "rocket trike." He is promoting 100% renewable electricity for the U.S. in ten years, a goal first proposed by former Vice President Al Gore.

"Almost everyone I met during this ride wants to see a modern day, green energy moon shot for America," said Tom Weis, President of Climate Crisis Solutions. Citing massive unemployment, energy dependence, economic turbulence and climate instability as top concerns driving this public desire, he said, "The solution is an American-led green industrial revolution."

The trike is a recumbent tricycle wrapped in an aerodynamic body, known as the Go-One3, and is produced by German manufacturer Beyss.

Enclosed in a lightweight carbon-fiber shell, it weighs about 60 pounds (27 kg) without the motor, which was upgraded to a 350 Watt Bionx electric motor. Weis also upgraded it with solar-powered LED turn signals, solar powered headlamps and rear lamp, and a mounted, solar-charged iPhone and camera.

Features of the Go-One3 include: a built-in windshield, luggage rack, carbon-fiber rear wheel fork, joy-stick steering, drum brakes, ventilation inlets, splash-free wheel housings, a removable roll-up canvas top for warmth in cold weather or convertible riding in the warm, and importantly, a seat that is comfortable enough to sit on for long ride days.

"It's time for America's renewable energy trade associations to step up and lead by embracing this bold vision of 100% renewables by 2020," commented David Blittersdorf, CEO of ride sponsor AllEarth Renewables.