lundi 3 juin 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.

According to historical records, the history of tricycles goes way back to either 1655 or 1680. Also, history mentions that tricycles were invented by a disabled German man. The man was called Stephan Farffler and his intention was to enable himself keep his mobility. Farffler designed a tricycle which was powered by hand cranks. He borrowed the concept 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.

In the West, trikes are used commonly by senior citizens and kids. These groups of people prefer tricycles because they offer more stability compared to bicycles. However, even though tricycles may offer more stability when they are moving in a straight line, they have poor dynamic lateral stability. That means that the rider has to be extra careful when they are negotiating a corner to avoid tipping over.

There are various associations in countries where people love tricycles like the UK where one can register. Activities such as day rides, tours and time trials are usually organized by these associations. Regulations in the tricycle industry and safety standards for consumers are usually set by the associations. Other responsibilities of the associations are to maintain statistics about tricycles and so on.

There are several different types of tricycles with different wheel configurations. Some of the commonest wheel configurations include delta and tadpole. In delta wheel configuration, the vehicle has one wheel at the front and two wheel at the back. On the other hand, in a tadpole configuration, there are two front wheels and a single wheel at the back. There are other wheel configurations that have existed over the years, but are no longer in existence.

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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