A recumbent trike has three wheels and sits close to the ground. Most recumbent trikes have a large wheel in back, and two smaller wheels in front, on either side of the rider's legs. The rider's seat resembles a lounge chair. The pedal assembly is on a post that juts out in front, and the handles and brakes are at the sides by the rider's hips. Recumbent trikes offer not only exercise, but also a way to get around and see things from a different vantage point. Follow some basic guidelines, and you'll be on your trike and riding in no time.
Step 1
Stand facing away from your trike, just in front of the crossbar, with one leg on either side of the pedal post.
Step 2
Reach back and squeeze the brakes so the trike will not roll away. Sit back slowly into the seat.
Step 3
Release the brake and pedal the trike like a regular bicycle to get moving. Practice squeezing the brakes while you are riding to ensure you won't apply them too hard and cause the back wheel to raise into the air.
Step 4
Slow the trike when you want to make a turn. Steer the trike toward the outside of the turn using your hand controls, then move inside after the turn is made. Lean into the turn and avoid turning too sharply or the inside wheel may lift off the ground and cause you to tip.
Step 5
Apply pressure on the brakes to avoid rolling when you want to get off. Place your feet on the ground in front of the trike, then lean your upper body forward so your head is over your knees. Push yourself up and out of the trike to a standing position.
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