Useful And Essential Facts About Recumbent Trikes

By Michelle Hughes


A three-wheeled, gravity- or human-powered vehicle is normally referred to as a tricycle. In many cases, the abbreviation trike is used. There are numerous types of tricycles which include cycle rickshaws and freight. Tricycles are used for many purposes such as exercise, transportation, recreational and shopping just to mention a few. In developing countries in Africa and Asia, the use of tricycles as a means of transportation is common. This is worth knowing about recumbent trikes.

Tricycles have a long history that dates back to either 1655 or 1680 according to history. History also indicates that the invention was made by a German man who was disabled. The name of the man was Stephan Farffler and his main intention was to be able to maintain his mobility. The tricycle that Farffler created was powered by hand cranks, a concept that Farffler borrowed from his watch-making career.

As years passed, different kinds of tricycles were made by different people from different parts of the world. Most popular tricycles came from Britain and France. The original design of making tricycles was patented by a British inventor known as Dennis Johnson. A common feature across the inventions is that they were either powered using hands or legs.

The elderly and kids are the people who mostly use tricycles in western countries. Trikes are most preferred by these people because they are more stable as compared to bicycles. Tricycles have poor dynamic lateral stability although they might be more stable when they are rode in a straight line. Therefore, for one not to fall off, they have to be very careful when negotiating corners.

There are many tricycle enthusiasts in countries like the UK and there are associations that one can register with. These associations usually organize events such as day rides, time trials and tours among many others. Also, these organizations are responsible for the regulation of the industry. The organizations also set standards which are aimed at ensuring the safety of consumers. It is their responsibility to maintain statistics about tricycles among other responsibilities.

There are several different types of tricycles with different wheel configurations. Some of the commonest wheel configurations include delta and tadpole. In delta wheel configuration, the vehicle has one wheel at the front and two wheel at the back. On the other hand, in a tadpole configuration, there are two front wheels and a single wheel at the back. There are other wheel configurations that have existed over the years, but are no longer in existence.

There are also different types of tricycles in use today. The two most common types are upright and recumbent tricycles. Upright tricycles are similar to bicycles, with a diamond or open frame. Upright tricycles may be have delta or tadpole wheel configurations. Steering is done through a handlebar. Non-tilting upright tricycles usually have a lot of stability issues and one must be careful to avoid accidents.

The other kind of trike used nowadays is recumbent. Due to its low center of gravity, this model have more stability. Also, it has less aerodynamic drag. Nevertheless recumbent are heavier, wider and cost a lot more. Since they are normally set very low, they may not be visible to other traffic.




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