Recumbent glossary
It seems like every specialized bike category has its own lingo, and recumbents are no exception. As you read through recumbent articles, talk to your recumbent riding pals, or chat with bike shop personnel, you’re likely to encounter some phrases that come up over and over again. Here’s what they mean:
Recumbent (or 'bent): A two or three wheeled pedal powered vehicle in which the rider sits in a reclining or semi-reclining position with cranks and pedals positioned in front of the rider.
Recumbent bike: Strictly, a two wheeled recumbent. Confusingly, "recumbent bike" can be used interchangeably with the word "recumbent" and this designation can also sometimes include three-wheeled recumbents.
Recumbent trike: This one is unambiguous: a three wheeled recumbent.
Boom tube: The tube inserted into the front of the main frame of a recumbent, to which the crank assembly is attached. On many recumbents, the boom tube slides in and out to accommodate riders of different heights.
Chain tensioner: A chain management device on recumbents. Because most recumbents require a much longer chain than conventional bikes, sometimes additional roller and pulley assembly are used to prevent excess chain slack, especially when adjusting the length of the boom tube to different riders.
Tadpole trike: A recumbent trike with two wheels in front, which are used for steering, and one wheel in the back, which drives the trike.
Delta trike: A recumbent trike with two wheels in the back, one or both of which drive the trike, and one wheel in front which is used for steering.
Semi recumbent: A type of recumbent with a very high and upright seat position (similar to a chair), and a relatively low crank position.
High racer: A two wheeled recumbent with dual 26" or dual 700x wheels.
Short wheelbase: A two wheeled recumbent with the front wheel positioned behind the cranks under the rider’s calves or knees, or a recumbent trike with a wheelbase of 45" or less.
Long wheelbase: A two wheeled recumbent with the front wheel positioned in front of the cranks, or a recumbent trike with a wheelbase of more than 45" (60”+ is typical).
Direct steering: A steering system in which the handlebars are connected directly to the steering wheels.
Linkage (indirect) steering: A system of rods and bearings that transfers the movement of the handlebars to the steering wheels, allowing for steering with a lighter touch.
Under seat steering: On a two-wheeled recumbent, a steering mechanism which is positioned at or below the rider's hips. (Most trikes have steering handles located at the rider’s hips or sides).
Above seat steering: A steering mechanism which is positioned in front of the rider, at or near their chest. This is found on the majority of two wheeled recumbents and some Delta trikes.
Now that you know the lingo, why not come it and try out some of these features for yourself?