Recubent Vs. Upright Bike

Recumbent bicycles tend to be more comfortable and ergonomic than upright bicycles.

Recumbent bicycles are easily recognizable on the road or trail, due to the reclined sitting position of their riders and their low profile. But how do these types of bicycles compare to more conventional upright models? Some of the primary advantages and disadvantages of recumbent bicycles, as opposed to upright bicycles, are easy to identify.

Medical Benefits

A recumbent bike rider is in a semi-reclined posture, which distributes body weight along a larger area, making saddle sores less of a problem and putting less strain on sensitive nerves and body parts. In the recumbent position, rider weight is distributed evenly along the buttocks and back. In the upright position, the rider bears his or her weight on the lower back, pubic bone and hands, which can result in nerve compression in the hands or pelvic area. This can lead to numbness in the extremities or even to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Posture Benefits

The recumbent posture naturally points the rider's face forward and up, resulting in a better view of the surrounding area. Some riders find that this makes recumbent biking a more social experience than upright biking, in which the rider's head tends to point down towards the handlebars.

Recumbent Disadvantages

Recumbent bikes sit lower to the ground and riders may suffer from reduced visibility when surrounded by cars or other riders. Recumbent bikes are not meant for hard training or high speeds, and tend to travel slower than upright bikes. Recumbent bikes also tend to be larger and more mechanically complex than upright bikes, making them moderately more difficult to store, transport and service.

References

• Paul K. Nolan, M.D.: "Medical Benefits of Recumbent Bicycles"
• Tri-County Recumbent Riders: "Upright vs Recumbent Coparison Table"