How to Get Started on a Recumbent Trike
A recumbent trike, also known as a bent, is a human-powered vehicle that is similar to a tricycle. The recumbent trike allows you to lie back in the comfortable seating, making you lower to the ground. Recumbent trikes feature above-seat steering and under-seat steering, which is similar to controlling a normal bicycle or tricycle. When getting started with a recumbent trike, you must learn how to keep your balance and to control the speed that you move in.
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Instructions
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Lay back in the seat without riding to get used to the setup of the recumbent trike. Adjust the seat so that you feel comfortable and can easily reach the pedal.
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Hold down the break levers on both handles to keep the trike in position before you begin to pedal. Keep a proper balance with your back in a straight position in the seat.
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Start peddling as you would a normal bike, but do not shift your weight. Move the handles left or right to maintain your balance as you start off.
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Continue pedaling at a slow pace. Practice braking by gently pressing down on the brake levers, and then start peddling again to get a feel for keeping your balance.
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Move both handles at the same time to turn and try not to make too sharp of turns when starting out. Practice counter-steering by moving the trike handles to the left in order to make a right turn. Counter-steering works because when you turn the wheel, the bike leans the other direction, which results in turning the opposite direction.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear a helmet when riding a recumbent trike, especially since the vehicle can reach higher speeds than most bikes. A typical bicycle helmet will work, and because you cannot turn around to see what is behind you. it is also highly recommended to use a helmet with eyeglass-mounted mirrors.
