Recumbent bicycles are different from their traditional counterparts. Instead of sitting on a saddle on top of the bike and leaning on the handlebars to steer, recumbent bike riders recline on much larger seat, which offers a higher level of comfort. With the rider in this position and a lower profile, recumbent bicycles handle differently than typical road bikes. Anyone new to riding recumbents should take the time to become familiar with these differences.
Adjustment Period
Give yourself some time to get used to riding a recumbent bike, recommends the Bicycling Life website. The lower center of gravity on a recumbent requires a different approach to balancing on the bike. Practice riding in a low traffic area, such as a large parking lot, to get comfortable with the feel of a recumbent bike before taking it out into on the road.
Starting and Stopping
It takes a little more time and effort to start off and stop on a recumbent bike. Traditional road bikes are easier to balance because you sit farther from the wheel axles and can stand a bit on the pedals to get moving. On recumbents, however, you need to roll with some force a bit longer to establish your balance, due to the lower center of gravity and recumbent seat. Stopping also requires a bit more planning for the same reason.
Balancing
Rather than steering with handlebars and leaning to balance, as on a road bike, balance a recumbent strictly by steering alone. As you learn to ride a recumbent, learn to make small adjustments in balance by controlling the handlebars, rather than leaning the bike with your body.
Turning
Most recumbent bikes turn using counter-steering. For example, to turn left, move the handlebars to the right. This will cause the recumbent bike to lean to the left to execute the turn. Many recumbents also have a longer wheelbase and have a wider turn radius than traditional road bikes. Account for this difference, when turning.
Climbing
Climbing hills with a recumbent is different than on a standard bike. Most cyclists on traditional bicycles will stand up on the pedals to provide more power to the drive chain and wheel. This allows them to maintain a higher speed at a lower gear ratio. However, the recumbent rider cannot stand on the pedals, due to the recumbent posture of the bike. Instead, shift to a lower gear than on a traditional bike. The climb will take more time, but will prove easier to accomplish.
Safety
Riders are closer to the ground on recumbent bikes compared to more traditional bicycles. This can significantly reduce the visibility of the recumbent rider and can pose a safety risk. Many recumbent bicycle riders use a fiberglass rod and flag to make themselves more visible. Brightly colored helmets, lights, mirrors, reflectors and other safety items are important additions, particularly when riding a recumbent bicycle in heavily trafficked areas.
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