Bicycles that are lower to the ground and have back support are called recumbent bikes. The style was created in France before World War I by Charles Mochet. However, by 1934 recumbent bikes were banned from traditional bicycle racing competition because they produced an unfair advantage. In short, they reduce the profile of the rider and machine and therefore are faster than upright bikes. The competitive ban, however, did not prevent recumbent bikes from becoming popular with casual riders.
Short Wheelbase Recumbents
Some recumbent bikes are designed with a short wheelbase. On these designs, the rider's legs extend past the front wheel to the pedals and cracks, which are in front of the wheel. This configuration gives the bicycle more maneuverability and makes cornering easier. Cornering requires practice on all recumbent bicycles, because the seat configuration makes it difficult to lean into a corner as on an upright bicycle. Counter-steering--first turning in one direction before turning in the opposite direction--takes the recumbent off its straight line and allows for a lean into the direction you want to turn. Some riders find the shorter wheelbase to provide a rougher ride than a long wheelbase model.
Long Wheelbase Recumbents
Long wheelbase recumbents are popular as touring bicycles. The ride can be smoother and the addition of fairings behind the seat offers storage. These models typically have the rider sitting closer to the ground than short wheelbase models, which can hinder the rider's visibility. Some riders might become unnerved when vehicles tower over them in traffic. Rider visibility to the rear can be tricky on short or long wheelbase models, as you are effectively sitting in a chair. Consequently, you often see rear-view mirrors attached to a recumbent, or to the rider's helmet or glasses.
Handle Bar Placement
There are two options for handle bar mounting. The first is "Above Seat Steering," which places the handle bars in front of the rider. This is a more traditional arrangement and probably is the easiest to use for those familiar with an upright bike. The other option is to have handle bars mounted under the seat. Using this arrangement takes some practice but makes mounting and dismounting the bike easier, since the handle bars are not in the way.
Pedal Concerns
Riders of recumbent bikes should invest in clipless pedals and shoes. These pedals attach to cleats mounted directly onto cycling shoes. They allow the rider's feet to remain connected to the pedal unless a deliberate movement is made to release the feet from the pedals. While this may sound ungainly, it can be mastered with a little practice, and the benefits are significant.
