MWB Recumbent Bicycles

a.k.a Medium WheelBase

mwb vision 40 recumbent bicycles

Dimensions of the MWB Recumbent Bicycles

Wheelbase

On a Medium Wheelbase recumbent the wheelbase is commonly 40 – 50 inches or 1,016 mm -1,270 mm long.

Pedals

The pedals are positioned behind the front wheel of the MWB, or alternatively directly over it.

Having the front tire under the pedals can necessitate having to raise the pedal spindle to keep the pedals clear of the wheel in sharp turns

Advantages of MWB Recumbent Bicycles

Medium Wheelbase Recumbent Bicycles Are Generally …
  • More stable and a smoother ride than the Short Wheel Base (SWB).
  • Known for their good weight distribution and maneuverability.
  • Better for starts and stops with its lower seat and thus give the cyclist easier ‘feet on the pavement’ access.
  • Great for learning how to ride a recumbent.

Disadvantages

MWB Recumbent Bicycles Are Generally …
  • Not really fast.
  • Prone to ‘Heel Interference’ – caused when the cyclist’s heel comes into contact with the front wheel during a tight, low-speed turn.
  • More difficult to transport with its heavier frame.