Useful And Essential Facts About 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.

According to history, tricycles came to existence either in 1655 or 1680. It is also noted in history that a disabled German known as Stephan Farffler invented these kinds of vehicles. The aim of the invention was to enable him to remain mobile even with his disability. Hand cranks were used to power the tricycle that Farffler invented. Farffler got the idea of hand cranks from his career of making watches.

Over the years, different people from different countries have developed different versions of tricycles. Some of the notable inventions were made in France and Britain. A British inventor named Denis Johnson patented a design for making trikes. One thing that all the inventions had in common is that they powered by hands or legs.

Trikes are usually commonly used by kids and the aged in the West. They are preferred by these groups of individuals since they offer more stability as compared to bicycles. However, despite tricycles being more stable when they move in a straight line, their dynamic lateral stability is poor. This implies that the person riding should be very careful when negotiation corners to avoid toppling over.

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.

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.

For the recumbent tricycles, the low center of gravity gives them more stability. The aerodynamic drag is also low. However, they are quite expensive, heavier and wider as well. It might be difficult for other traffic to see them as they are set very low to the ground.




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