Recumbent Bicycle

RECUMBENT BICYCLE

This is a bicycle design that can be ridden in a supine reclining position. This ergonomic feature is the primary reason for preference. The rider’s weight is distributed over a wider area—onto the hips and back—instead of the hips, hands, and feet as in a classic bicycle.

Recumbents have many different designs, such as frame length, wheel sizes, handlebar systems, and front or rear-wheel drive.

Superior Aspects

• They have an effective braking feature. Compared to a classic bicycle, they have a center of gravity closer to the ground and a longer frame. Therefore, they can both stop in a shorter distance and there is no risk of the rear wheel lifting off the ground.
• The aerodynamic structure greatly reduces wind resistance. Thus, they are very fast on descents, slightly inclined, and flat roads.

Weak Points

• They cannot offer the opportunity to pedal while standing up on climbs.
• While impacts on rough ground can be reduced by bending the knee joint on classic bicycles, recumbents feel every bump in the back.
• It is almost impossible to pop the front wheel over obstacles or climb curbs.
• It is impossible to turn back and look. For this, mirrors are utilized.
• Because they are closer to the ground, their visibility is low; this increases threats experienced especially in traffic. For this, lighting systems, reflectors, and especially flags are used.
• Their prices are generally twice that of a classic bicycle with equivalent equipment.
• The fact that their frames are heavier and larger increases the power loss that will arise due to weight. This also makes it very difficult to carry in a car, bus, or airplane.