RECUMBENT BICYCLES
Our latest passion is the construction of a recumbent bicycle. A uniquely different style of bike, a recumbent is generally considered to be more ergonomically suitable to the human body than a traditional "diamond frame" bike. Now having worked at constructing the bike for nearly a month, the frame is nearing completion, with final reassembly of the components to begin within another couple of weeks. Below, are the two "diamond" frames we started with, and the required cutting, chopping, filing, and welding produced the resultant frame beneath. All of the joints were made with silver soldering and acetylene
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torch, so no welding is required (this is just as strong as welding, but can be taken apart more readily if the joint is not correctly positioned). Note how much longer the frame is (with the front forks in place, 183cm), and how much lower to the ground the seat will be (less than 1 m). For more information on recumbents, watch this page develop as the bike progresses, or visit some of the sites I have included. |
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External Sites and Information |
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The Recumbent Information Center is a site that details the different styles of recumbents, advantages, disadvantages, and where to find other sites. This is a good place to start for information purposes. |
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RANS is a well-known company that builds and sells ultra-light aircraft and gliders, and recumbent bicycles (if there is a connection, it is obscure). This site includes details on all of the bikes they sell, and even gives limited descriptions on the dimensions and hardware that can be fitted on the different models. Although no prices are shown, expect to bring out the big bills when you open your wallet (generally more than 1000$, US funds) |
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The International Human Powered Vehicle Association is another site which advocates the use of recumbents (or any other mode of transportation which does not require petroleum). Interesting site, with lots of pages to view. |
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Diamond Style Frames |
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