Recumbent Bicycle Reviews
Terminology To Better Understand Recumbent Bicycle Reviews
With the increasing popularity of recumbent bicycles it is only natural that not only should new models come out every year or so, but also
new recumbent bicycle reviews. This is apropos as such reviews will aid potential buyers to give them an idea as to what they will be
buying. An important aspect to recumbent bicycle reviews, however, is an understanding of the basic terminology that will be encountered in
the critiques. This article was written for just this purpose.
The first point to be understood is that of steering. There are two basic types of steering, USS and OSS. USS stands for Under
Seat Steering. While a bit more difficult to learn to steer, the USS styles are generally considered more comfortable on the upper
body. One of the disadvantages, however, is that this type of recumbent is much wider than the OSS models, and is also difficult to steer
when walking the bike.
The OSS, or Over Seat Steering bikes (aka ASS, or Above Seat Steering) are easier to learn and usually are much faster to drive. The OSS
models are also much easier to steer when walking, though the shifting is rather slow performing and often requires more upkeep.
No recumbent bicycle reviews would be without mention of low and high racers. The low racer is a model type of recumbent which is built
low to the ground. This is ideal for those seeking speed in their biking. This is the style that professional racers utilize.
However, on city streets the low racers are less visible, thus a greater possibility for being hit by motorists exists (as well as a perpetual
fear of this happening). Many bike enthusiasts find the low racers awkward to adjust to riding.
High racers are also quite fast, as many recumbent bicycle reviews will attest to. These too can become difficult to adjust to,
particularly due to the incline of the seat. However, a characteristic that makes up for this, in many circles, at least, is the increased
height, compared to the low models. The high racers are equivalent in height to normal street bikes, allowing for increased sight both for
the rider and of the rider for motorists and other bicyclists.
If a recumbent is in your future, consider these terms, in addition to other glossary terms, all available online.
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