Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Useful Information Regarding Recumbent Trikes

By Michelle Hughes


The name tricycle is usually used to refer to any three-wheeled, human- or gravity-powered vehicle. The abbreviation trike is used commonly in many cases. There are several different kinds of tricycles, including freight and cycle rickshaws. These vehicles are used for different purposes, including transportation, shopping, recreational, and exercise among many others. The use of tricycles for transportation is very common in Asia and Africa where most countries are still developing. Here are facts regarding 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.

For many years, people from different countries have designed different kinds of tricycles. The most known inventions were designed in Britain and France. It was a British inventor named Denis Johnson who first patented a design for tricycles. The common factor about all the inventions that have ever been invented is that they were powered by legs or hands.

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.

In countries such as the UK where there are very many enthusiasts of tricycles, there are associations for people to register with. Associations organize events such as tours, time trials, and day rides among other activities. The associations are responsible for regulating the industry. They also set standards and ensure consumer safety. They also maintain statistics about tricycles among many other activities and responsibilities.

Several types of tricycles exist and they all have different wheel configurations. Tadpole and delta are among the most common wheel configurations. As for delta wheel configuration, the vehicle usually has one wheel at the front with two wheels at the back. On the contrary, tadpole configuration entails two wheels at the front and one wheel placed at the back. Other wheel configurations existed over the years but have since been phased out.

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.

Recumbent is the other type of trike in use today. This model offers more stability because of low center of gravity. There is also less aerodynamic drag. However, they cost more, are heavier, and they are wider. Given that the seat is usually very low, they may be less visible to other traffic.




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