Press Release: Recumbent Manufacturer Wins Trophies in International Solar Races

On July 22 & 23, Stephen Delaire, owner of Rotator Bikes, competed against over 100 others in two solar events held in Ogata Mura, a small village near Akita, Japan. This 40 year-old owner/builder competed racing his own Super 7, a fully-faired recumbent bicycle, winning a 2nd place in the 1 km drag, and a 3rd place in the 100 km endurance ride. Delaire led the pack during the first 90 kilometers, until a flat-tire slowed him down. Delaire pedaled the disabled vehicle the final 10 km and still managed to place 3rd overall.

This second annual World Solar Car Rally in Akita, Japan, attracts international competitors. In addition to the many Japanese teams, there were three US teams, entries from Switzerland, Germany, Russia, and Zimbabwe. The purpose of this event is to encourage alternative, clean solar energy in transportation. Vehicles compete in one of three categories, depending upon their design. All are equipped with a small motor and solar panel. Sponsors of the Rotator Team included: The Village of Ogata Mura, Zap Power Systems, the US Department of Energy, Aerospoke, NuSun, and Zipp Fairings.