Biking as a sporting activity and transport mode has undergone a lot of changes in recent years. These changes reflect the improvements in mechanical engineering and economics. Perhaps the most innovative and revolutionary change is the development of the recumbent bike.
These bikes oppose the status quo of the upright traditional bike and give you the luxury of riding your bicycle in a reclined position. Recumbent bikes don’t just help you enjoy riding in a comfortable position, they also help you burn calories without the back pain and discomfort that often comes with riding upright bikes. They also help you build endurance, making them a valuable exercise tool.
Therefore, whether you’re someone with mobility issues, a seasoned biker looking for new challenges, or a cycling beginner, the recumbent bike has something to offer you. The question though is, what makes these bikes so good and how can they change the future of cycling?
Brief Overview of Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bike or recumbent e bike as some individuals like to call them are a specific set of bicycles that put the rider in a reclined position. Unlike traditional upright bicycles used commonly for high-impact cycling exercises, recumbent bikes are designed to give the rider comfort while they exercise.
When cycling with a traditional upright bike, you’ll have to lean forward to grip your handlebars and sit on a narrow saddleback. However, with recumbent bikes, you can sit comfortably in a reckoned position with your legs extended in front of you. This position is furthermore supported by the chair-like seat design of the recumbent bike which positions your feet below or at hip level.
Furthermore, the main features of a recumbent bike are its extra ergonomics and back supportive area which allows for more reclined cycling. These features help to enhance comfort, put less pressure on the wrist and back, improve aerodynamics, and increase general stability. There is a large variety of recumbent bikes, ranging from simple and light ones to complex and heavy ones, all with various adjustment possibilities.
Historical Evolution of Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes are known to have changed the world of cycling. But how did they get to that point? Recumbent bikes were initially created in the early nineteenth century, with other successful prototypes and models made over the years. However, the first practical use of a recumbent bike was invented in 1923 by a Frenchman, Charles Mochet.
Although he was an engineer and designer, Mochet also loved cycling.
Moreover, he wanted to develop a bicycle other than the conventional bicycle which was more comfortable and aerodynamic. Mochet’s first recumbent bicycle known as the “Velocar,” was designed with a low built frame, a reclined seat and pedals which were in front of the rider. Unfortunately, his Velocar design didn’t get popular until 1933 when it was used by the French cyclist Francis Faure to beat the world speed record for a human powered vehicle.
Fast forward to the 1970s, the demand for recumbent bicycles began to grow. It was due to the increasing awareness of people to its potential advantages in its newly adopted design. Presently, recumbent bikes have been enhanced and developed in so many aspects and designs and with different kinds of materials. Cyclists of every age and experience use recumbent bikes nowadays for different purposes such as racing, commuting and even touring.
Benefits of Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes have a diverse range of benefits. Due to their design, they have positioned themselves as a versatile exercise tool that a broad spectrum of cyclists can use. These bikes not only make your riding experience smoother and more enjoyable, but they also offer fitness and health benefits. Below are some of the benefits of using a recumbent bike.
Reduces Strain
Recumbent bikes take the conventional cycling experience to the next level by offering a more comfortable and larger seating position. The ergonomic design of the bikes makes it easier for you to reduce the standard wrist, neck and back strains associated with traditional upright bike riding.
Furthermore, the bikes reduce the uncomfortable saddle soreness you might experience while cycling long distances on conventional bikes, making long-distance cycling a better experience.
Enhances Low Body Workout
For people looking to engage in a comfortable exercise that works their lower body, recumbent bikes are the tool. These bikes engage your quads, glutes, muscles and hamstrings more effectively than the upright bikes.
Additionally, the pedals of the recumbent bikes are positioned in such a way that provides resistance differently. This allows you to engage your muscles effectively, improving muscle strength and tone over time.
Improves Mobility Recovery
There have been several instances where recumbent bikes have been used in physical rehabilitation and therapy. It allows you to perform low-impact exercises without straining your joints. This is especially true for individuals with mobility issues or those who are on the way to recovery after a joint accident. Studies have shown that cycling with a recumbent bike can help to improve joint mobility.
Moreover, the forward pedal placement and reclined position of the bike provide a natural range of motion while cycling. This can help boost muscle strength and joint flexibility, which is essential to improved mobility and recovery.
Additionally, the larger backrest and seat provide adequate comfort and support, making it easier for you to exercise if you have limited mobility. Cycling with a recumbent bike also helps to boost cardiovascular health, enhance blood circulation and improve overall well-being.
Promotes Safer Cycling
Cycling is made much safer and more comfortable with recumbent bikes than their traditional upright counterparts. With a semi-reclined and prominent back support, you can maintain a proper posture during longer rides easily.
Moreover, the bike’s design prevents you from standing up on the pedals. This is a common injury cause for individuals cycling with upright bikes. Recumbent bikes also feature ample space for you to sit while pedaling, allowing you to reduce fatigue faster while cycling.
Conclusion
Unlike standard bicycles, recumbent bikes provide a unique combination of adaptability, efficiency and comfort. For those in search of a new approach to outdoor activity or wanting to step up their workout, recumbent bikes are the way to go.
These are designed like any other bike but in a recline position therefore their usage does not aggravate low back issues. In addition, as outlined in this article, you do not have to worry about the physical strain and fatigue as these bikes can help you keep fit safely