Recumbent Bicycles

high-racer-recumbent-bicycle

What are Recumbent Bicycles?

recumbent-bike-folding-front-wheel-performercyclesHello and welcome to the intriguing world of recumbent bicycles, or as they are fondly called… ‘Bent Bicycles’!

In this unconventional cycling realm, riders break free from the norm, as they swap the traditional upright position for a more relaxed and comfortable one.

Picture this: reclining in a seat with your legs gracefully extended forward while cruising along on two wheels – that’s the beauty of recumbent biking!

And, get ready to ride like the wind!

The aerodynamic advantage of recumbent bicycles is an absolute game-changer!

By embracing a lower center of gravity and a sleek streamlined design, recumbent cyclists effortlessly slice through the air, minimizing wind resistance, and propelling themselves with increased speed and efficiency.

Whether you’re embarking on epic long-distance journeys, exploring the scenic beauty during touring adventures, or craving the thrill of competitive racing, recumbent bikes are the ultimate choice to take your cycling experience to the next level!

Now, let’s address a common misconception.

Recumbent bicycles are not just reserved for those with mobility challenges. In fact, they offer a fantastic and comfortable way of cycling for everyone, from novices to seasoned cyclists.

Unlike the familiar diamond-shaped bikes, affectionately known as ‘wedgies’ by recumbent enthusiasts, recumbent bikes come in an array of innovative shapes and sizes.

Embracing diverse designs, they offer a world of possibilities to cater to different preferences and riding styles.

So, let’s hop on and explore the wonders of these unconventional, but utterly delightful, ‘Bent Bicycles’!

Recumbent Bicycle Wheelbase Options

LWB – Long Wheelbase Recumbent Bicycles

lwb-recumbent-bicycle-bacchettaLong Wheelbase (LWB) recumbent bicycles are known for their extended frame, providing a smooth and stable ride.

With the rider’s legs positioned in front and the pedals located between the front and rear wheels, LWB recumbents offer excellent weight distribution and enhanced comfort for long-distance rides.

Their elongated design allows for ample storage and customization options, making them a popular choice for touring enthusiasts seeking optimal performance and a relaxed riding experience.

CLWB – Compact Long Wheelbase

clwb-recumbent-bikeCompact Long Wheelbase (CLWB) recumbents combine the comfort of LWB models with a more compact frame.

These bikes offer easy handling and maneuverability, making them suitable for both leisurely rides and urban commuting.

Their shorter wheelbase allows for quicker acceleration and nimble turns, making CLWB recumbents an ideal choice for riders who value versatility without compromising on comfort.

MWB – Medium Wheelbase

Medium Wheelbase (MWB) recumbent bicycles strike a balance between LWB and CLWB designs, offering a comfortable ride while maintaining a manageable frame length.

With a focus on stability and agility, MWB recumbents appeal to riders seeking a versatile option for both leisure and fitness cycling.

Their adaptable design makes them suitable for a variety of terrains, providing a delightful experience for cyclists of all skill levels.

SWB – Short Wheelbase Recumbent Bicycles

giro-baccetta-swb-recumbent Short Wheelbase (SWB) recumbent bicycles boast a compact and sporty design, with the rider’s legs extending forward in a relaxed position.

SWB recumbents are known for their responsive handling and nimble feel, making them a favorite choice among speed enthusiasts and riders who enjoy zipping through tight spaces.

With their sleek and aerodynamic profiles, SWB recumbents excel in both performance and aesthetics.

Recumbent Bicycle Height Options

High Racer Recumbent Bicyclesshort-wheel-base-small-front-wheel-high-racer-recumbent

High Racer recumbent bicycles prioritize speed and aerodynamics, placing the rider in a higher position above the front wheel.

This design minimizes wind resistance, allowing HiRacers to achieve remarkable speeds on open roads.

With a focus on performance, these recumbents appeal to competitive cyclists and thrill-seekers who crave the adrenaline rush of rapid acceleration and dynamic cornering.

MidRacer Recumbent Bicyclerapto-midracer-recumbent

MidRacer recumbents combine the best of SWB and HiRacer designs, offering a balanced and efficient riding experience.

With the rider positioned closer to the ground but still above the front wheel, MidRacers provide a blend of comfort and speed.

These versatile recumbents cater to both recreational and performance-oriented riders, making them an excellent choice for various cycling pursuits.

Low Racer – LoRacerlow-racer-recumbent-performer-cycles

Low Racer recumbent bicycles prioritize aerodynamics, with the rider positioned mere inches above the road.

This ultra-low profile design maximizes speed and efficiency, allowing LoRacers to slice through the air with ease.

Ideal for racing and spirited rides, these recumbents offer an exhilarating experience for cyclists seeking unmatched speed and performance.

Recumbent Bicycle Steering Options

OSS – Over Seat Steering

a.k.a Over Seat Steering or Above-Seat Steering or ASS or Highbarsperformer-cycle-recumbent-bike-rear-suspension

Over Seat Steering (OSS) recumbents feature handlebars positioned above the rider’s seat.

This configuration offers direct and precise control, allowing riders to maintain a natural riding posture while enjoying excellent maneuverability.

OSS recumbents are known for their intuitive handling, making them a popular choice for riders seeking responsive and dynamic control.

USS – Under Seat Steering

recumbent-bicycle-oss-performer-cyclesUnder Seat Steering (USS) recumbents position the handlebars below the rider’s seat.

This design provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip, reducing strain on the arms and shoulders.

USS recumbents are favored for their relaxed riding position and smooth handling, making them an excellent option for leisurely rides and long-distance touring.

Recumbent Bicycle Drive Options

RWD- Rear Wheel Drive

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Recumbent bicycles feature a classic and time-tested drive system, making them one of the most common and popular choices in the recumbent bike world.

In this design, the bottom bracket and cranks are attached to a fixed boom located at the front of the bike, similar to the configuration of traditional upright bicycles.

However, what sets RWD recumbents apart is the elongated distance between the bottom bracket and the rear wheel, requiring a longer chain for power transmission.

This elongated chain often necessitates special parts and tensioning systems to ensure smooth operation and prevent slippage.

Despite this unique chain setup, RWD recumbents offer a familiar and efficient pedaling motion, making them an excellent choice for both leisurely rides and long-distance touring adventures.

Whether you’re a recumbent biking enthusiast or a newcomer, the reliability and simplicity of RWD recumbents make them a versatile and enjoyable option to explore the open road in comfort and style.

Direct Drive

Direct Drive Recumbent bicycles are known for their innovative and unconventional design, offering a chain-free riding experience.

In this intriguing setup, the cranks are directly attached to the front wheel’s axle, eliminating the need for a traditional chain drive system.

Instead, direct drive recumbents employ a complex planetary gearbox integrated into the front wheel hub, allowing for seamless gear changes without the use of derailleurs.

This unique design not only reduces maintenance but also creates a more efficient power transfer, translating into a smooth and responsive riding experience.

However, riders should be mindful of their foot positioning, as the absence of a chain can lead to increased exposure to ground objects.

With their cutting-edge technology and minimalistic approach, direct drive recumbent bicycles cater to cyclists seeking a truly modern and efficient ride, making a bold statement on the road with every turn of the wheel.

FWD – Dynamic-Boom-Front-Wheel-Drive

FWD or Dynamic Boom Front Wheel Drive recumbent bicycles are a fascinating innovation in the world of recumbent biking.

This design features the bottom bracket and cranks rigidly attached to the front fork and chainstay, which move with the front wheel when turning.

The dynamic boom allows for a short chain length, promoting highly efficient power transfer from the pedals to the front wheel.

This translates to swift and smooth climbing capabilities, ideal for tackling challenging terrains and conquering steep inclines with ease.

One of the standout advantages of FWD recumbents is their exceptional cornering ability.

With the bottom bracket and cranks integrated into the front wheel movement, riders can navigate tight corners and sharp bends with confidence and precision.

This level of maneuverability not only enhances the overall riding experience but also adds a sense of thrill and control to every twist and turn on the road.

Dynamic-Boom-Front-Wheel-Drive recumbents are popular among cyclists seeking a well-balanced and responsive ride. T

he combination of a short chain, efficient power transfer, and fast climbing capabilities makes these recumbents an attractive choice for both touring enthusiasts and adventurous riders.

Whether you’re exploring scenic routes or taking on challenging off-road trails, FWD recumbents offer a dynamic and exhilarating cycling experience.

FWD – Twisting-chain Front Wheel Drive

FWD, which stands for Twisting-chain Front Wheel Drive, is an innovative and unique recumbent bicycle design that offers an engaging and efficient riding experience.

In this setup, the bottom bracket and cranks are fixed to a boom, and the chain drives the front wheel.

However, what makes FWD stand out is the twisting motion of the chain as the drive wheel pivots during turns.

The twisting-chain mechanism in FWD recumbents necessitates the use of extra pulleys along the chain’s path to accommodate the unique design.

While this may add some complexity to the drivetrain, it allows for the dynamic movement required for effective steering and maneuvering.

Cyclists who opt for FWD recumbents appreciate the responsive and agile handling that enhances their overall control on the road.

FWD recumbents are particularly popular among riders who enjoy the engaging nature of the twisting-chain system. It offers a unique riding experience, especially when navigating winding paths or challenging terrains.

This design also contributes to the overall efficiency of power transfer, ensuring that every pedal stroke is maximized for a smooth and rewarding ride.

If you’re someone who values an innovative and dynamic approach to recumbent biking, FWD recumbents might be the perfect choice for you.

Other Types of Recumbent Bicycles

Electric Recumbent

catrike-bosch-powered-electric-recumbent-bikeElectric recumbent bicycles combine the comfort and ergonomic design of recumbents with the added benefit of electric assistance.

With an integrated electric motor, these bikes offer pedal-assist or full electric power to make cycling easier and more enjoyable.

Electric recumbents are perfect for riders seeking a smooth and effortless ride, whether for leisurely trips around town or tackling longer distances with ease.

The electric motor provides a boost on hills and against headwinds, extending the range and removing the strain from pedaling, making them a popular choice among commuters and recreational cyclists alike.

Recumbant Trikes

mobo-triton-pro-recumbent trikeRecumbent trikes feature a three-wheel design, offering enhanced stability and balance compared to traditional bicycles.

With the rider comfortably seated in a recumbent position, trikes provide a secure and confidence-inspiring ride.

Trikes are an excellent option for individuals who may have balance issues or find it challenging to ride a two-wheeled bicycle.

They are available in various configurations, from leisurely cruising trikes to high-performance models designed for speed and touring, making them a versatile choice for riders of all ages and abilities.

Here are some common types of recumbent trikes:
Delta Trikes

Delta trikes have two wheels at the rear and one wheel at the front. The rider sits in a recumbent position between the two rear wheels. These trikes offer stability and are popular among recreational riders.

Tadpole Trikes

Tadpole trikes have two wheels at the front and one wheel at the rear. The rider sits in a recumbent position between the two front wheels. Tadpole trikes are known for their excellent handling and maneuverability.

Upright Delta Trikes

These trikes resemble traditional upright bicycles with two wheels at the rear and one at the front, but the rider sits in a recumbent position. They offer a more relaxed riding experience compared to upright bicycles.

Hand Trikes or Handcycles

Hand trikes are designed for individuals with limited or no use of their legs. They typically have a recumbent seating position and are propelled using hand cranks.

Electric-Assist Trikes

These trikes come with an electric motor to provide assistance while pedaling. They are popular among riders who may need extra help with pedaling or for long-distance touring.

Folding Trikes

Folding recumbent trikes can be folded into a more compact size, making them easier to transport and store. They are ideal for riders with limited storage space or those who want to take their trikes on trips.

Tandem Recumbent Trikes

Tandem recumbent trikes accommodate two riders, with one sitting behind the other. They are perfect for cycling with a partner or for riders who need assistance or guidance.

Recumbent Quads

motrike-city-commuting-recumbent-quadRecumbent quads, as the name suggests, are recumbent bicycles with four wheels, offering even greater stability and control than trikes.

The four-wheel configuration provides an exceptionally stable platform, making quads ideal for riders who seek the utmost security during their cycling adventures.

These innovative bikes are well-suited for leisurely rides, touring, and even off-road explorations, and they provide a unique and exciting way to experience the joy of recumbent cycling.

Tandem Recumbent

tandem-recumbent-bikeRecumbent tandems are designed to accommodate two riders, allowing them to share the experience of cycling together.

These bikes offer comfortable seating for both riders, encouraging effortless communication and camaraderie on the road.

Recumbent tandems are available in various styles, including long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase models, making them versatile for leisurely rides or more spirited cycling.

Tandem recumbents are an excellent choice for couples, friends, or family members who wish to embark on memorable cycling journeys side by side.

Mountain or Off-Road Recumbents

4wd-sport-utility-quad-recumbentRecumbent mountain or off-road bicycles are specially designed to conquer rugged terrains and challenging trails.

These bikes combine the comfort of recumbent seating with robust and durable construction to handle off-road conditions with ease.

With rugged tires, robust suspension systems, and sturdy frames, mountain/off-road recumbents offer stability and control on unpaved paths, making them an exciting choice for adventurers seeking a thrilling cycling experience amidst nature’s beauty.

Touring Recumbent

motrike-touring-recumbentRecumbent touring bicycles prioritize comfort and functionality for extended journeys.

These bikes feature ergonomic seating, ample storage capacity, and reliable components to make long-distance riding enjoyable and practical.

Touring recumbents are designed to carry gear and provisions, enabling riders to embark on epic cycling adventures with confidence.

With their relaxed riding position and superior comfort, touring recumbents are an excellent choice for exploring new horizons and discovering the world at a leisurely pace.

Folding Recumbent Bicycles

recumbent-bike-folding-front-wheel-performercyclesFolding recumbent bicycles are designed with portability and convenience in mind.

These bikes offer a compact and foldable frame, making them easy to transport and store.

Whether for commuting, travel, or space-saving storage at home, folding recumbents provide a practical solution for riders on the go.

Despite their folding capability, these bikes maintain the comfort and performance of traditional recumbents, offering an enjoyable and efficient riding experience whenever and wherever you need it.

Hand Cycle Recumbents

berke-bike-pro-hase-handbikeRecumbent hand cycles are specifically designed for individuals with mobility challenges or those who prefer hand-operated propulsion.

These unique bikes feature a recumbent seating position and hand pedals, allowing riders to cycle using their upper body strength.

Recumbent hand cycles provide an empowering way for individuals with physical disabilities to experience the joy of cycling and enjoy the freedom of independent mobility.

Velomobiles

velomobile-recumbentVelomobiles are fully enclosed recumbent trikes or bikes, offering protection from the elements and aerodynamic advantages for efficient commuting and touring.

With their sleek and futuristic design, velomobiles provide a weatherproof and comfortable riding experience.

These enclosed recumbents are equipped with weather-resistant shells, making them ideal for daily commuting and all-season cycling.

Velomobiles combine the benefits of recumbent comfort with the practicality of enclosed protection, creating a unique and efficient transportation solution for urban and long-distance rides.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Recumbent Bicycle

OK, so here is an overview of what the most seasoned recumbent riders consider to be the Pros and Cons of Recumbent Bicycles.

front-wheel-drive-mbb-recumbent-bike-swb-cruzbikeQ45-touring-bikeAdvantages of A Recumbent Bike

The recumbent is VERY comfortable and supportive of the rider’s back.

Its ergonomic design means it is a great deal less stressful on your body – especially the muscles in your neck, back, wrists, hands, arms and of course your bottom!

This means you will find yourself cycling greater distances, over longer periods and getting much less fatigued.

On a recumbent bicycle, your head is held in a more natural, erect position which means you have greater visibility and can enjoy your surroundings immeasurably more. It also means you are much more visually aware of any potential problems.

The lower centre of gravity on a recumbent makes for greater stability and gives some recumbents superior cornering, handling and stopping powers. It also means on certain recumbent designs it is easier to put your feet down on the pavement when you need to.

In a potential crash situation, the recumbent is easier to re-maneuver and faster at slowing down or stopping.

If you DO actually crash, then you won’t be thrown over the handlebars and receive head injuries … Instead, you will hit the object or person feet first … which is preferable (although probably not for the person!).

Also, being so much closer to the ground, if you do take a tumble then there is much less distance to fall… always a plus in my book.

Recumbents are excellent for recreational highway and long distance tour riding.

With 15-30% less wind resistance – due to your reduced frontal exposure – the recumbent goes faster, is smoother and requires much less exertion, on your part.

In Summary…
  • Comfort: One of the most significant advantages of recumbent bicycles is their ergonomic design.
  • Reduced Strain: Recumbent bicycles distribute the rider’s weight more evenly over a larger area, reducing pressure on the seat and eliminating the discomfort associated with a narrow bicycle seat.
  • Aerodynamics: The low-profile design of recumbent bicycles offers superior aerodynamics compared to upright bicycles.
  • Stability: Recumbent bicycles are inherently stable due to their low center of gravity and three-point support (two rear wheels and one front wheel for tadpole trikes). This stability is particularly beneficial for riders who may have balance issues or are new to cycling.
  • Safety: In the event of a fall, recumbent riders are typically closer to the ground, which can reduce the risk of injury compared to falling from an upright bicycle.
  • Visibility for Cyclist: The reclined position of the rider can actually enhance visibility on the road. The higher angle of vision allows for a better view of the surroundings, including traffic and road conditions.
  • Speed: Due to their aerodynamic advantages and efficient pedaling position, recumbent bicycles can achieve higher speeds with less effort. They are well-suited for fast-paced rides and long-distance touring.
  • Fun and Unique Experience: Riding a recumbent bicycle is a novel and enjoyable experience for many cyclists.

Disadvantages Of A Recumbent Bike

Linear-Limo-LWB-recumbent-bicycleThe recumbent is generally more expensive than a regular bike.

The weight of a recumbent is – again generally – heavier than that of a diamond shape bicycle.

It has a heavier seat, more tubing and triple the amount of chain!

Without the ability to stand up on the pedals many people find the recumbent much slower and cycling more difficult on hill climbs – (however, still achievable, especially with an electric recumbent.) To get low enough gears to circumvent this problem, most recumbents are fitted out with triple chain-rings.

The regular recumbent bicycle isn’t designed to do stunt or trick work. It can handle moderate off-road riding but extreme riding is inadvisable and unsafe … You will need to buy a mountain / 4WD recumbent for off-roading.

For urban cycling, the LowRacer is not the best choice, because of the dire combination of chaotic traffic and reduced visibility.

Parts can be more expensive because, unlike regular bikes, recumbent bicycles aren’t currently mass produced and need to be custom built. This may change if the ‘big’ bike companies decide to start mass producing recumbents under their brand names … Cannondale and a few others have already tried to test the waters without commercial success. Maybe if any are finally successful, the prices may start to drop … fingers crossed.

It will take a regular bike rider quite a while – even up to 12 months – to re-achieve the speeds that they are used to reaching on their diamond frame bike. The reason for this is that riding a recumbent bicycle involves using different muscle groups and these (previously under-utilized) muscles need to be built up and strengthened with training.

Sitting lower on some can mean that the rider faces more issues with blind corners.

Recumbents are less suited for city riding and the starts and stops of heavy traffic except for perhaps the CLWB.

In Summary…
  • Limited Visibility in Traffic: The recumbent riding position can reduce the visibility of the rider to other road users, particularly in heavy traffic. This may make it more challenging for motorists and pedestrians to see the rider, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Maneuverability: Recumbent bicycles, especially long-wheelbase models, may have slightly reduced maneuverability compared to traditional upright bicycles. This can make tight turns and navigating through crowded spaces more challenging.
  • Climbing Hills: Climbing steep hills can be more demanding on a recumbent bicycle compared to an upright bicycle. The reclined position may limit the rider’s ability to generate as much power during uphill climbs, requiring more effort to conquer inclines.
  • Cost: Recumbent bicycles, particularly high-quality models, can be more expensive than comparable upright bicycles. The specialized design and components often contribute to a higher price point.
  • Storage and Transportation: The unique design of recumbent bicycles can make them bulkier and less straightforward to store or transport, especially if they do not have a folding feature.
  • Learning Curve: Transitioning from an upright bicycle to a recumbent can require an adjustment period. Balancing and handling may feel different initially, and some riders may need time to feel fully comfortable on a recumbent.
  • Limited Availability: Recumbent bicycles are not as common as upright bicycles, which means there may be fewer options available at local bike shops. Finding a specific model or brand might require more extensive searching or purchasing online.

Issues To Consider BEFORE You Buy A Recumbent Bike

Checklist

  • Make sure you do your own research.
  • Think about the purpose of your cycling.
  • Are you riding for recreation, touring, racing, commuting or all of the above?
  • Do you want a two-wheeler, three-wheeler, quad or a tandem recumbent?
  • Factor in your specific needs and wants, style and desired features.
  • Most importantly of all, if you just aren’t sure, go into a bike shop and have a test ride BEFORE you buy.
  • Keep in mind that it will take a bit of practice to get used to this unfamiliar and different form of cycling!
  • Remember that recumbents are very NON-standard and it really is a matter of ‘horses for courses’ when choosing the right bike for YOU.

Having Said That The General Consensus Seems To Be That …

Once you go ‘Bent‘ you will NEVER go back!

Getting Your Measurements

recumbent-bicycle-oss-performer-cyclesTo measure yourself correctly for a recumbent bicycle we use the – X-seam – method. This involves sitting on the ground with your back pressed firmly up against the wall. You then need a friend to measure the distance from the wall to the soles of your feet.

Reputable Manufacturers of Recumbent Bicycles

HP Velotechnik: Known for their high-quality and innovative designs, HP Velotechnik produces a wide range of recumbent bikes, including trikes and touring models.

Catrike: Specializing in recumbent trikes, Catrike is renowned for its lightweight and performance-oriented designs.

TerraTrike: Focused on recumbent trikes, TerraTrike offers a variety of models suitable for leisure riders and touring enthusiasts.

Bacchetta Bikes: Bacchetta is a prominent manufacturer of recumbent bikes, with an emphasis on speed and performance.

ICE (Inspired Cycle Engineering): ICE specializes in recumbent trikes and is recognized for their engineering excellence and comfort features.

Greenspeed: This Australian-based manufacturer produces a wide range of recumbent trikes with a focus on stability and comfort.

Azub: Based in the Czech Republic, Azub offers a diverse lineup of recumbent bikes and trikes suitable for various riding styles.

Optima Cycles: Known for their foldable recumbent bikes, Optima Cycles offers a convenient and practical option for riders on the go.

Sun Bicycles: Sun Bicycles manufactures a range of recumbent bikes, including budget-friendly options for entry-level riders.

Trident Trikes: Specializing in recumbent trikes, Trident offers a selection of models suitable for recreational riding and touring.

Longbikes: Longbikes specializes in long-wheelbase recumbent bikes, designed for comfort and stability during long-distance rides.

Rans Bikes: Rans Bikes offers a variety of recumbent bikes, including models for touring, commuting, and fitness.

BikeE Recumbents: BikeE was a prominent manufacturer of recumbent bikes, though they might not be actively producing new models as of my last update.

MetaBikes: MetaBikes is known for its unique and innovative designs, producing both recumbent bikes and trikes.

Performers Recumbents: Performers Recumbents offers a range of recumbent bikes and trikes suitable for touring and performance riding.

Hase Bikes: Hase Bikes specializes in recumbent bikes and trikes, with a focus on mobility solutions for individuals with special needs.

Barcroft Cycles: Barcroft Cycles is known for its custom-built recumbent bicycles, tailored to each rider’s specific requirements.

Velotechnik Scorpion: Velotechnik Scorpion produces a line of recumbent trikes with a strong emphasis on comfort and performance.

Volae Recumbents: Volae Recumbents offers a selection of high-quality recumbent bikes, including options for touring and sport riding.

Greenspeed: Greenspeed, an Australian manufacturer, produces recumbent trikes with a focus on stability and comfort.

Motrikes: Motrikes is a renowned recumbent manufacturer known for crafting innovative and high-quality trikes that offer a unique and comfortable cycling experience.