FAQThe Ergo Cycle FAQ section has been divided into a few categories to help you find the answer you're looking for. Click any one of the links to go to a specific section, or just start from the top. If you have any questions that aren't here, please feel free to ask them, and I may post the answer here in case anyone else has the same question.
General Questions About Recumbent Bicycles General Questions About Recumbent Trikes Questions About Warranty Repairs Questions About Modifications, Upgrades and Accessories
General Questions About Recumbent Bicycles Q: Are recumbent bicycles hard to ride? A: Recumbent bikes definitely have a bit of a "learning curve." Don't worry though, most new riders can safely ride a recumbent bicycle within half an hour, and are completely comfortable on one within a week. The trickiest part is learning to start, learning to stay relaxed, and learning to shift down when coming to a stop.
Q: Are recumbent bicycles comfortable? A: Yes, they can be very comfortable. Certainly, leaps above a regular bicycle! The large, reclined seat that is typical of a recumbent bike does not put pressure on any parts of your body like a regular bike. The rider's entire weight is spread across their back, instead of concentrated on the hands and tailbone. This means that some people who normally avoid riding a bike due to pain, may be able to ride a recumbent bicycle without any trouble at all.
Q: Are recumbent bicycles safe in traffic? A: In general, they are. Most recumbent bicycles put the rider's height at the same level as a car driver's head. This means that you stay visible to drivers on the road. The unique design and shape of a recumbent bike also tends to make drivers more cautious around you (see Visibility in the Cycling Ergonomics section). However, it is important that any recumbent bicycle rider act responsibly on the road. Keep aware of the traffic around you, watch for debris on the road, don't make unexpected movements, and make sure that you stay visible (with the help of lights, reflective materials, and flags). Google Vehicular Cycling for more information on safe riding.
Q: Do recumbent bicycles use special, hard-to-get parts? A: Nearly all of the parts on a recumbent are standard bicycle parts, serviceable at any bike shop. The only parts that are unique are the seat and handlebars.
Q: Are recumbent bicycles hard to pedal uphill? A: At first, they can be. Recumbent bicycles utilize a slightly different set of leg muscles, which must develop before you can match the speeds you are used to on a regular bike. This process may take a few weeks, depending on how much you ride. Eventually, you will probably be able to climb any hill just as fast as you were able to on a regular bike.
Q: How fast are recumbent bikes? Can I keep up with my road bike riding buddies? A: Like learning to climb a hill, you will need to train for a while until you are able to keep up. Don't expect to just hop on and go as fast as you used to, or you'll be disappointed. Rest assured, eventually you'll be able to keep up. And, you'll be a lot more comfortable than they are! It also depends on the type of recumbent you ride. Some models are more comfort-oriented, while others are designed for speed. Faster recumbents will forego nicities such as suspension, super-plush seats and a cruiser-style position, in favour of an extreme seat angle, a more aerodynamic position, and stiff, lightweight materials. All bicycle designs make compromises, and it's important to choose a bike depending on what you intend to use it for. Road bikers best be wary of you when you're going downhill! Chances are, you'll outpace them every single time...
Q: Can I fit a recumbent bike on my car carrier? A: Usually, you can. However, be aware that recumbent bicycles are often a bit longer than a regular bike, so the rear wheel and crank may stick out the sides a bit further than usual. For extended car rides, you may want to slide in the boom and remove the rear wheel to reduce the length of the bike.
Q: Will a recumbent bike fit on a bus bike carrier? A: Most buses use a front rail where the wheels are placed, with a bar that secures over one of the wheels. Fortunately, the wheelbase on a short wheelbase recumbent (like the MetaBikes MetaPhysic) is almost the same as a regular bike, so it should fit fine. Just be sure to secure the bar around the 26" rear wheel, if possible.
General Questions About Recumbent Trikes Q: Are recumbent trikes hard to ride? A: Not at all! In fact, if you have never ridden a bike in your entire life (perish the thought!), you could probably ride a recumbent trike. Just sit back, and go. With plenty of gears, you are free to go as fast or slow as you like. Steering is easy, and braking is even safer than a regular bike. Plus, since there is little chance of flipping over, you don't have to worry about hitting debris or stalling on a hill. Trikes are great for everyone!
Q: Are recumbent trikes comfortable? A: Definitely. As on a recumbent bike, the rider's entire weight is spread across their back, rather than a few pressure points like on a regular bike. A recumbent trike has the added advantage of not needing to balance, so you can relax even more while you're out for a leisurely ride on the community trail.
Q: Are recumbent trikes safe in traffic? A: There's no question, trikes are definitely lower than any other bike on the road. For this reason, you may worry that a trike is unsafe on the road. This is not necessarily true. The most important thing to remember when you're on the road, is to stay visible. Most riders will have a tall safety flag on their trike. Don't hug the curb so that cars can pass you more easily, this is not safe for you. Stay a foot or two away from the curb, cars will be more likely to see you (this is part of vehicular cycling). Make sure you signal turns. Use lights and reflectors when it's dark. You may find (as I have) that cars actually give you more room when they pass, often signalling all the way into the other lane. Most of the time, they will just be curious about what that crazy thing on the road is. Be prepared to smile and wave!
Q: Do recumbent trikes use special parts? A: There are a few parts on a trike that are unique. Fortunately, these are parts that rarely need to be replaced. All of the drivetrain and brake components are off-the-shelf bike parts, serviceable at any bike shop. The unique parts are the seat, the steering components, and sometimes the front crank.
Q: Are recumbent trikes hard to pedal uphill? A: It will take a few weeks of riding before you are able to climb that monster hill like you used to on your old bike. As your recumbent muscles develop, you will find that climbing hills gets easier. Eventually, you'll be able to climb nearly as fast as you did on a regular bike. Fortunately, there is an added advantage on a trike. Since you can't fall over, you can climb a hill as slowly as you like. Just keep crankin' and you'll make it up. Then, you can enjoy the ride down the other side!
Q: How fast are recumbent trikes? Can I keep up with my road bike buddies? A: This may take some work, but unless your friend is named Lance Armstrong, you'll eventually be able to keep up. It will take a few weeks or months of training to get your muscles in shape, but you can do it. They may pull ahead on uphill climbs, but you will fly past them on the downhill. You'll most likely be able to keep pace with them on flat or rolling land. Also remember that some trikes are better suited for speed than others. Faster trikes usually have harder seats, with a more aggressive aerodynamic position, and are made of stiffer materials. However, most of it is still in the engine (ie. YOU!) Also remember that for the entire ride, you will be far more comfortable. You may even be able to skip that rest stop, where everyone else has to stop and stretch their aching bodies. Bonus!
Q: How can I transport a trike in or on my car? A: There are a few ways, actually. If you have a pickup truck or large van/SUV, you can probably fit a trike in the back. If you have a smaller car, there are hitch and rooftop-carrier solutions. Cycle Simplex and Hitch Rider both make hitch-mounted trike carriers, for up to two trikes at a time.
Q: Will a recumbent trike fit on a bus bike carrier? A: Probably not.
Q: What is my X-seam, and how do I measure it? A: The X-seam is probably the most important measurement to know for recumbent fit, as it measures the legs of the cyclist by looking at the distance from the seat to the pedals. Some suggest measuring the X-seam by sitting with your back flat against a wall and your legs straight, with your X-seam being the distance from the wall to the end of your heel. However, X-seam varies with changing seat angles, so we recommend leaning a board against the wall at roughly the angle you are planning to have the seat reclined at to compensate for this. Make sure you sit on the floor with your back flat against the board, and measure the distance from the board to the end of your heel. Q: How can I test-ride a bike from Ergo Cycle before I buy? A: If you live close to Ottawa, Ontario, then it's easy. All you have to do is email and schedule an appointment. Otherwise, your best bet is to ask every question that comes into your head, and we'll be glad to answer every single one.
Q: What should I bring on a test ride? A: Just a helmet, comfortable shoes (or cycling shoes), a good attitude, and maybe your wallet... you may just be leaving with a new set of wheels!
Q: Where will we go on the test ride? A: Wherever you want. A spin around the block would be fine (there are some quiet residential streets nearby), or we can go for a longer ride if you wish. Just let me know if you plan to go for a long ride, so I can have my gear ready.
Questions about Warranty Repairs Q: What happens if something breaks? A: If the broken component is covered under warranty (see the warranty page for coverage), then we'll try to get a new part out ASAP. For standard bike components, a new part should ship out within a week. Specialized parts that are unique to your model may take a bit longer, as they need to be shipped from the manufacturer. A picture of the broken component would be very helpful.
Q: What if it's something more severe, like the frame? A: A broken frame is a very rare thing to happen. A picture of the broken frame and a description of how the failure happened will be needed, so that it can be forwarded to the manufacturer. If we have the same model in stock, we'll send you a new frame and have a courier pick up the broken one.
Q: Should I attempt repairs myself? A: It depends on the repairs. While basic cycle repair and routine maintenance are not a problem, if there is a possibility of voiding a warranty, it is probably best to contact Ergo Cycle first. Please see the warranty page, or contact us for more details.
Questions About Modifications, Upgrades and Accessories Q: What modifications can I perform on my bike? A: It's best to ask first. If it involves the use of a saw or drill, it will probably void your warranty. But, slap on as many accessories and doodads as you like.
Q: What upgrades are available for my bike? A: Upgrade to your heart's content! Remember that most of the parts on your recumbent are standard bicycle components. So, if you've got your eye on an ultra-lightweight set of cranks or some new slick tires, feel free to put them on. Just remember that the new parts are covered under that particular manufacturer's warranty, and are not covered by Ergo Cycle. Some valuable upgrades include: • Clipless pedals • New tires • A front fairing (improves your aerodynamic profile) • Rotor Q-rings (elliptical chainrings that improve your spin)
Q: What accessories can I add to my bike? A: Almost any "regular" bike accessory should work on your recumbent. Add them as you need them. Some great accessories include: • Front and rear lights (legally required if you ride at night) • Fenders (aka mudguards) • A bell or horn • Reflectors or reflective tape • Bottle cages or water bladders • Panniers (Look out for great ones from Arkel and Radical Designs) • A rack bag • Tools, including a portable pump, a multitool, a patch kit, tire levers, etc. • Other maintenance equipment, like a service stand, a full-size pump, bike lube, and other less-used tools • Cycling clothes
*Note: The Ergo Cycle FAQ is adapted from Rebel Cycles’ FAQ
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