Recumbent bikes, in which the rider sits with back support, come in both road and stationary versions. While they share many features with upright bicycles, recumbent bicycles differ in terms of body position and outdoor pedaling technique. Before choosing a recumbent bike, become aware of its peculiarities and specific features.
Features
A recumbent bike features a crank and pedal shaft like any other bicycle. However, it differs in the placement and design of the seat. A recumbent bicycle seat has a bucket seat and back support, making it feel like a chair. The handlebars are at shoulder height and your legs extend forward, rather than downward, to reach the pedals. Both road and stationary recumbent bicycles usually carry a higher pricetag than their upright counterparts.
Outdoor Riding
Riding a recumbent bike outside calls for unique steering, stopping and starting techniques. While on an upright bicycle you use your body weight to help generate power, on a recumbent bike you use lower gears and faster leg speeds. John Anderson, on the website "Bicycling Life," notes that climbing hills also requires more hamstring and gluteal muscle strength when riding a recumbent bike.
Benefits
Stationary recumbent bicycles are especially useful in therapy settings. People with balance issues, back pain or wrist and shoulder injuries might find that recumbent bikes do not aggravate their problems as much as upright bikes do. The elderly often prefer the more comfortable body position of the recumbent cycle. If you desire speed, Anderson points out that outdoor recumbent bikes are one of the fastest human-powered vehicles. Riding an outdoor recumbent bicycle provides you a more scenic ride because of the positioning of the seat.
Workout Effectiveness
Although the comfort of the recumbent bike gives the illusion that it is a less intense workout, it still provides an effective way to build cardiovascular conditioning. The true intensity of your workout depends on how hard you work while cycling, the terrain---if riding outdoors---and your efficiency at the pedaling movement. If you enjoy the feel of a recumbent cycle, then you are more likely to exercise regularly.
Expert Insight
The "European Journal of Applied Physiology" published a study in a 2010 edition showing that recumbent cycling induces fatigue sooner than upright pedaling during comparably intense cycling sessions. For competitive upright cyclists, recumbent cycling might not be a good option for training because it results in reduced recruitment of the leg muscles during long workout sessions.
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