Hi, Python enthusiasts.
Thanks to so many of you, (and 25Hz & DB in particular just now), for
the enlightening explanations of so many of the effects, such as PSI.
In my trials to find the optimal recumbent for my particular problems
and needs, I have experienced some interesting results.
Just in case it might help, may I relate some of the most recent
experience ?
On my 60th birthday, three children from my family - group and three
adults tried my two current recumbent cycles. All are competent on
diamond - frame cycles.
To my mild surprise, all found the Tom - Trayler - like design
("Swivelnose") with moving BB easier to learn to ride than the 105' -
rake, non - moving BB, Eric - Hartemink inspired design ("RFWD"). I
suspect this is partly because I used a crude tiller - effect on RFWD,
and partly because the 105' rake on RFWD seems to me to require a
temporary relaxation of steering - correction responses learned on a
diamond - frame, (unlike some of the responses needed on Swivelnose).
BUT
Once the basic ability to steer and propel each type had been
discovered, all found strongly that RFWD was easier to ride, and to
improve with, than Swivelnose.
(None of us are yet happy on my
"Schmython".................sorry...............we will keep
trying................)
In 8 days recently, Jeanie & I have cycled c. 170 miles in Devon &
Cornwall on both roads and on dedicatd cycleways
(She on her diamond - frame ATB, me on RFWD).
Despite heel - rests, I have been far more aware of the weight of my
legs when horizontal, than on a diamond - frame.
I have noticed the small amount of extra time needed to move the feet
from the pedals to the ground.
(I even fell off [gently] one time on an uphill start, wheels & pedals
rotating, tyre skidding, cycle NOT moving........)
Slalom gateways require a sharp rise in skill, (not yet completely
mastered, but improving with practice)
Long slow hills are gradually less tiring, as muscles adapt
Motorists are either positive, (majority, Smiling, waving) - or -
negative, (minority, appearing irritated, gesticulating............)
Friendly, open - minded strangers often ask to try riding it
(All, [so far] - start by coasting, wobble a lot, then smooth out, then
start pedalling, and finally laugh happily a lot)
For my individual needs, (hip, balance, prostate and heart
considerations) there are some clear optima emerging as I reach the
stage of planning mkV
Lowest BB (or foot - position........) still allowing me to pedal round
corners
Rear wheel drive (sorry, but losing traction too often)
Least machine weight
(A little less rider weight ?)
Widest gear - range
Probable max. 100cm wheelbase
rear "Boot", (preferably painfully bright YELLOW..............)
Full suspension
Powerful brakes
Ease of getting on and off
Easy to push when walking alongside
Easier to do a "U - turn" in one sweep
I realise many of these ideas conflict, but some of the fun in
experimenting lies in finding the best mix of compromises
Any comments would be gratefully received
All the best, from Ed. :-) ============================================================
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