Random, Random 2.0

[ti-amie]

Who knew this is all it takes? Notice the dog was not fazed in the least.

[JazzNU]

Just came into my mind that it will feel very strange to speak in front of an audience (not Zoom) again someday. It's been almost two years since the last time for me...

I would guess it will largely depend on the person, but think it'll come back to you like riding a bike if it's something you were previously comfortable with.

[Suliso]

Just came into my mind that it will feel very strange to speak in front of an audience (not Zoom) again someday. It's been almost two years since the last time for me...

I would guess it will largely depend on the person, but think it'll come back to you like riding a bike if it's something you were previously comfortable with.

Yes, it will only be a bit strange not scary. I used to do it few times per year and was fine with it.

[Suliso]

There are 13 rail tunnels in the world longer than 25 km (11 more under construction). All but two (Seikan and Channel) were completed this century. Must be a serious advance in tunneling technology.

[skatingfan]

There are 13 rail tunnels in the world longer than 25 km (11 more under construction). All but two (Seikan and Channel) were completed this century. Must be a serious advance in tunneling technology.

Didn't the building of the Channel tunnel lead to a lot of innovation in the technology?

[Suliso]

There are 13 rail tunnels in the world longer than 25 km (11 more under construction). All but two (Seikan and Channel) were completed this century. Must be a serious advance in tunneling technology.

Didn't the building of the Channel tunnel lead to a lot of innovation in the technology?

That could be albeit Seikan tunnel is another 6 years older.

[ponchi101]

It could be that after the first couple of tunnels, the moles used to dig them were simply sitting there, waiting to be used. it would be interesting to see if the new tunnels have a different bore than the Channel or Seikan, meaning a different machine, or they are similar.

[Suliso]

Boring machines, most often mady by Herenknecht, are to some extent custom designed for a specific tunnel. I'm thinking more of improvements in automation, guidance etc. 25-35 km tunnels while still very expensive seem technically routine these days (longest is 57).

[ponchi101]

I would include metallurgy. Boring through rocks is really hard, but new compounds make it easier than before.
Also, finances. I remember that "The Chunnel" became gargantuan in expenses, and was completed as a sign of national pride by both nations. Perhaps now the math is clearer and the benefits of the tunnels make them more "affordable".

[ti-amie]

[ponchi101]

That's incredible!

[Suliso]

Elon Musk was asked whether Tesla would make electric motorcycles. He answered no because of safety reasons. Turns out there is also a personal aspect to this - was nearly killed by a truck while motorcycling at age 17.

[ponchi101]

Less of a market there than for cars. HD has been trying to market an electric bike, which looks great and handles nicely (I have read) with a 150 Miles range, and it has been tough. People that ride bikes like the noise

[Deuce]

It's surprising that Harley-Davidson is carrying the torch when it comes to electric motorcycles.
Of all people loyal to a motorcycle brand, I would think that Harley customers would be the least likely to convert to electric.
Harley's historic reputation is about being loud, tough, raw, rebellious, and rather anti-mainstream. Not exactly conducive to the electric movement.

[ti-amie]

Elon Musk was asked whether Tesla would make electric motorcycles. He answered no because of safety reasons. Turns out there is also a personal aspect to this - was nearly killed by a truck while motorcycling at age 17.

If he was honest he'd say that there aren't any government subsidies to help him launch an electric motorcycle like there were when he pitched electronic cars. Without the US taxpayer he'd be nothing.