[jyl]

At the human powered vehicle races at Portland International Raceway, the full streamliner recumbents average 30-35 mph for the full lap. The races are at least ten laps so call it 20 miles or more.

I've ridden with guys on long wheel base, faired and bodysocked recumbents. On the flats, pedaling casually and chatting, they cruise around 20 mph. These are older guys, who are fit but not athletes.

The rub is hills, of course.

A streamlined recumbent bike or trike (velomobile), with an electric assist for hills, would be a nice way to get around town, on roads with 25-30 mph speed limits, or on faster roads with bike lanes. No gasoline, you stay in shape just by going about your daily business, and you are dry and warm in the winter.