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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