pauljk

Hi Nick. The long chains come with two problems: 1. Routing---Compare my first and third pictures. In the third, I routed the chain above the front wheel. In the first (and most recently), I routed the chain adjacent to the front wheel. Routing the chain above the front wheel obviously prevents the chain from interferring with steering. But two extra chain idler pulleys are required, thereby increasing chain resistance and weight. I recently decided to route the chain adjacent to the front wheel so as to reduce that resistance and weight. Also, I have found that steering interference is minimal when riding. It is surprising how small one's steering movements are when riding. 2. Weight---The long chains are heavy. Yes, they contribute to overall bike weight. My "stick" recumbent (second pic) is about 12kg. That said, provided that the terrain is not too hilly, my bikes' offer an aerodynamic benefit which outweighs the weight detriment. Thx, Paul Kotschy.

Hi Tim (and others). Attached here are some pics of my two recumbents. Rgrds Paul.

Hi Tim (and others). I wished I'd seen this thread earlier. I'm very keen on recumbents. I have two 'bents, and I ride them almost exclusively. Honestly, I find them much more fun than upright bikes. And why 'bent cycling is not more popular than it currently is remains a mystery to me. They are safer, much more comfortable, and faster (provided the terrain is not too hilly and provided the bike is configured for speed). I live in Joburg, and would be keen to hook up with others who ride 'bents or who may be interested. Thx, Paul Kotschy

Hi Frits. I've just seen your post regarding bent riding. I ride a bent and would love to see more folk riding them. If you are still riding your bent, I should be grateful to meet up with you. All the best, Paul Kotschy 071-672-9827 Sunninghill.