Washington, Jan 14 : Taiwan researchers are developing a bicycle that would tell the riders when to change the gear.

They are designing a computer for pedal cyclists that tells them when to change gear to optimise the power they develop while maintaining comfort.

While riding a bicycle, few people know how to adjust the gears to get the most power out of their pedalling without becoming uncomfortable either through having to pedal too fast in a low gear on level roads or straining when going up hill or to maintain a high speed.

Researchers from National Defense University, Tashi, Taiwan, ROC have developed a computerised system that would tell exactly when to change gear.

San Jose, Costa Rica - The Costa Rican government is seeking international aid in the wake of last week's devastating earthquake, news reports said Tuesday.

According to Costa Rican authorities, the death toll in the 6.2-magnitude quake has risen to 20 and damage has been estimated at around 100 million dollars.

Eight bridges, 7 power lines, 61 villages and 26 roads were badly damaged in the earthquake, officials said.

London, January 14: Devastated couple John Travolta and wife Kelly Preston have expressed their gratitude to Florida neighbours for their support after the tragic death of their son Jett.

The pair bid their 16-year-old Jett a final goodbye on January 5 after the teenager died from a seizure during a family holiday in the Bahamas, reports the Telegraph.

Washington, Jan 14 : Based on a new

London, January 14 : Indian polo player Kolin Dhillon has revealed that friend Prince Charles is a man of `zero prejudice' and had "affectionately" nicknamed him Sooty.

Dhillon's statement comes after the Royal family came under the scanner in a new race row, with Prince Harry facing probe by Army officials for calling a fellow Asian comrade "Paki" in a 2006 home video.

Melbourne - Roger Federer stepped up his preparation for the Australian Open as he claimed his eighth career victory over Carlos Moya 6-3, 6-4 on Wednesday's opening day at the AAMI Classic.

Joining Federer as a winner at the promotion-relegation event was Olympic doubles partner Stan Wawrinka, with the number 16 hammering off-form Marcos Baghdatis 6-2, 6-2.