Modular Bikes: Recumbent

The Front Wheel Drive Solo Recumbent

The Solo Recumbent

Recumbent bikes have the advantage of a comfortable sitting position that gives good aerodynamics. On standard, upright bikes, the ride position is usually either upright & slow due to high wind resistance or aerodynamic & uncomfortable, leaning close over the handlebars & straining arms & wrists.

What is it used for?

Any and all bicycle commuting and touring. This recumbent is high compared to many lowracer bikes and recumbent trikes and can be seen easily in traffic.

What's needed to make it?

1 frame unit, 1 recumbent kit.

What can be added?

A corflute / plastic flute board box that is narrow at the back adds speed and provides good, dry, voluminous storage space. For me , this is more of a necessity than an option as most of the fun to be derived from recumbents is in passing riders of racing bikes despite the fact that I'm fat & old. Well a bit fat & a bit old anyway.

A trailer can go on the back.

Although my preference is for under-seat steering as shown in the photo, above seat steering can be used and requires little alteration between the "upright bike" and recumbent types. Above seat steering can be more aerodynamic & simpler for the novice to ride.

What else can I buy that's like it?

There are lots of different types of recumbent bikes out there, so I'll only mention a few which resemble mine in some way, shape or form. Front wheel drive bikes of this "twisting chain" type are made by several German firms including Zox and Toxy and conversion kits for making a recumbent out of an upright Brompton or mountain bike are available. Roger Gilmore lists my bikes amongst a host of bikes which convert from recumbent to upright & vise versa on his site.