Monday, June 3, 2019

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.

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.

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.

Various tricycles vary in the way their wheels are configured. Tadpole and delta are some of the most common configuration for wheels in tricycles. There is one wheel at the front and two rear wheels for the case of delta configuration. On the contrary, two wheels are at the front while one wheel is at the rear for the case of tadpole wheel configuration. Other kinds of wheel configurations have been in use over the years but do not exist anymore.

Trikes that are used currently are also of different kinds with recumbent and upright tricycles being the most common. Upright tricycles have an open or a diamond-shaped frame just like a bicycle. They can either have tadpole or delta wheel configuration and are steered using a handlebar. One should be very careful when riding non-tilting upright tricycles since they are less stable.

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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