Recumbent Bike Benefits

A recumbent bicycle holds every human-powered speed record in the world, making recumbent bikes the fastest non-motorized vehicles on Earth. Recumbent enthusiasts call their bikes "bents" for short.

  1. Comfort

    • Recumbent bikes ease crotch, neck, shoulder and wrist discomfort--all problem areas for upright cyclists.

    Ability to See

    • Because of the rider's supine position, a recumbent bike makes it easier and more comfortable to look forward and to the side without craning your neck.

    Visibility

    • Many recumbent riders attach flags to their bikes to increase visibility in traffic. Because of a recumbent bike's unusual shape, motorists tend to drive around them more carefully and give them more space than an upright bike.

    Aerodynamics

    • The luge-like profile of a recumbent bike reduces wind resistance by about thirty percent compared to a road bike, saving energy.

    Speed

    • Due to superior aerodynamics, recumbent bikes can maintain higher speeds than road bikes on flat roads and downhills. Recumbent Cycling Ontario reports speeds three to eight miles per hour faster on a recumbent bike than a traditional bike.

    Leverage

    • On a recumbent bike, the rider can push against the back of the seat to apply more force to the pedals when accelerating and sprinting.