SWB Recumbent Bicycles
a.k.a Short WheelBase or Short Rider
Discover the Thrills of SWB Recumbent Bicycles
Get ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of Short Wheelbase – SWB recumbent bicycles, where nimbleness, and agility come together to redefine your cycling experience.
If you’re seeking a recumbent bike with exceptional handling and versatility, you’ve landed in the right place!
Let’s explore the remarkable features and advantages that make SWB recumbents a standout choice among recumbent enthusiasts.
On this page we will discuss:
SWB Recumbent Dimensions
Wheelbase
The SWB frame is short and has the wheels close together.
The wheelbase is commonly 38-45 inches or 965.2 – 1,143 mm.
Pedals
The pedals are usually positioned IN FRONT of the front wheel.
Tires
SWB recumbents often use a front wheel of 16 – 17 inches or 406.4 – 431.8 mm to improve the chain clearance.
Efficient Steering Mechanisms
When it comes to steering, SWB recumbents offer both Under Seat Steering (USS) and Over Seat Steering (OSS) options.
USS places the handlebars below the rider’s seat, promoting a natural arm position and improved aerodynamics.
On the other hand, OSS features handlebars positioned in front of the rider, providing a more upright riding posture and enhanced visibility.
Riders can choose the steering style that aligns with their comfort and preference, further enhancing the joy of riding.
Optimal Weight Distribution
The recumbent seating position places the rider’s weight comfortably between the front and rear wheels, resulting in excellent weight distribution.
This balanced setup enhances stability during turns and ensures a smoother, more controlled ride even on uneven terrain.
Say goodbye to wobbles and hello to confident cycling on your SWB recumbent.
Highly Versatile Wheel Sizes
SWB recumbent bikes come equipped with various wheel sizes, typically ranging from 16 to 26 inches.
The choice of wheel size allows riders to optimize their recumbents for specific terrains and preferences.
Smaller wheels offer increased maneuverability and quicker acceleration, perfect for urban commuting and tight trails.
On the other hand, larger wheels provide enhanced stability and smoother rides over rough surfaces, making them well-suited for longer journeys and off-road adventures.
Responsive Handling and Control
Thanks to their low center of gravity and compact frame, SWB recumbent bikes offer unparalleled handling and control.
Maneuver through bustling city streets or twisty mountain trails with confidence, as your SWB recumbent responds promptly to every steering input, allowing you to take on any challenge with finesse.
Sleek and Agile Design
SWB recumbents are distinguished by their sleek and compact design, characterized by a short distance between the front and rear wheels.
This design contributes to their remarkable agility and responsiveness, making them ideal for quick maneuvers and navigating tight corners with ease.
Whether you’re cruising through busy urban streets or tackling challenging trails, SWB recumbents provide a thrilling and dynamic riding experience.
Enhanced Speed and Efficiency
With a shorter wheelbase and streamlined frame, SWB recumbents offer reduced wind resistance, which translates to improved speed and efficiency on the road.
Customization for Personalized Comfort
Just like any other recumbent bike, SWB recumbents offer a range of customization options to tailor your ride to perfection.
From various seat designs and handlebar configurations to drivetrain choices and additional accessories, you can create a personalized SWB recumbent that suits your unique riding style and preferences.
Ideal for Commuting and Fitness
SWB recumbent bikes are not just built for leisurely rides; they also excel in practicality and fitness.
Use your SWB recumbent for daily commutes, enjoying the ergonomic comfort and efficient pedal stroke to breeze through traffic.
Embrace the joy of exercise with long-distance touring or spirited workouts, all while indulging in the relaxed and supportive recumbent seating.
Advantages
SWB Recumbent Bicycles Are Generally …
- Lighter and more agile.
- Much more maneuverable than the LWB, with a shorter turning radius.
- Less prone to skidding due to a more equitable distribution of weight on the tires.
- Less cumbersome to store and transport.
- Faster uphills and just generally faster.
- Designed with small wheels that make the stretch for the pedals more controllable, and keeps the boom shorter for reduced frame flex.
Disadvantages
SWB Recumbent Bicycles Are Generally …
- Often not as stable and steady as the LWB recumbents.
- Not as smooth on the bumps.
- Prone to problems with the drive chain and the subsequent complex solutions.
- Prone to ‘Heel Interference’ – caused when the cyclist’s heel comes into contact with the front wheel during a tight, low-speed turn.
- Have more unsteady steering.
- Have a more reclined seat with takes some getting used to.
- Less visible to traffic.
- Slower to start due to the high position of the pedals.
- More difficult to steady by placing the feet on the road, because of the height and recline of the seat.
- More dangerous at a blind intersection, while in motion, due to the seating recline restricting vision.
- Less smooth to ride (unless suspension has been added), because of the front tire being very near to the seat.
Manufacturers and Innovators
Numerous reputable manufacturers excel in crafting top-notch SWB recumbent bikes, pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance.
Brands like Bacchetta, Rans, HP Velotechnik, Cruzbike, and ICE Trikes have dedicated themselves to perfecting SWB recumbents, offering a wide array of models and configurations to suit diverse rider needs.
These manufacturers continually invest in research and development, ensuring that every SWB recumbent brings a blend of quality, durability, and cutting-edge technology.
Some SWB Bike Models:
RANS: Rocket, V-Rex & Force 5 Expedition,
Lightning: Phantom and UP-38,
Bacchetta: Carbon Aero, Giro, Strada, Corsa and TI Aero,
Longbikes: Eliminator,
Volae: Century, Club, Expedition, Sport and Tour,
HP Velotechnik: Street Machine GT
Challenge: Seiran OS, Hurricane Tour and USS
TW-Bents: Mustang,
M5: Shock Proof 451 CrMo