How to Repair a Recumbent Bike

Recumbent bicycles are unique bikes that sit the rider in a seat, rather than on a saddle, with their feet out in front of them. A bicycle of such configuration unfortunately tends to lead to adjustment and repair issues since most recumbents are built with standard bicycle components. Luckily, this means that they can be repaired just as easily as regular bikes, even if your recumbent does require service more frequently.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 mm hex wrench
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your recumbent for a ride if possible to determine the source of the problem you are having. Does the bike not shift correctly? Is the front derailleur making noise? Are the brakes working properly? When you return, examine every part of the bicycle thoroughly to be sure everything is still in tact. If any of the parts are broken or damaged, they will need to be replaced before you can continue with this procedure.

    • 2

      Adjust the cable tension of the brakes if they fail to stop the bike effectively. Loosen the cable stop bolt on the problem brake using a 5 mm hex wrench to release the cable and open the brake caliper. Squeeze the caliper until both brake pads sit 3-5 mm away from the brake surface of the rim. Pull the cable taught underneath the cable stop bolt and tighten the bolt to hold it in place.

    • 3

      Adjust the tension of the derailleur cable if one or more of the shifters is not working properly. Locate the cable stop bolt of the problem derailleur by following the cable from the shifter to where it is clamped to he derailleur. Shift into the smallest cog of the problem derailleur, then loosen the cable stop bolt. If the derailleur has trouble shifting to larger gears, tighten the cable underneath the stop bolt. If it has trouble shifting to smaller cogs, loosen the cable. Tighten the cable stop bolt to hold the cable in place.

    • 4

      Adjust the limit screws of the front derailleur if the chain makes noise while you are riding. Shift into the smallest cog and rotate the cranks backward. If the chain rubs on the derailleur, loosen the low-limit screw (marked with an "L") using a Phillips screwdriver. Shift into the largest cog and spin the cranks again. If the chain rubs in this gear, loosen the high-limit screw (marked with and "H") until it stops.

    • 5

      Double check all the bolts you adjusted,making sure each one is tight and safe to ride on. Lubricate the chain using a bicycle chain lubricant, then take the bike out for another ride. If you are still having issues, take your bike to the local bicycle mechanic to have it looked at. There may be bigger and more dangerous, problems at hand.