Recumbent - Fixed SWB USS recumbent

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seitenryu
03-12-08, 01:29 AM
This idea has been running through be head for a while now. I have a devised solutions to the common problems, but I'm searching for the best builder. Basically, to be track legal, the bike would employ 20" or 24" wheels front AND rear and would use a crossover system. The rider would lay flatter and more reclined than on most bike to clear the second bottom bracket. Another one is needed(BB) so that with the smaller wheels adequate gear inches are used w/o a giant chainring and chain interfering with the front wheel. Chain tension would be achieved with track ends in the rear and an eccentric in either/both bottom brackets. Has anyone done this? Have I covered all the bases? Sam
BlazingPedals
03-12-08, 06:42 AM
What rules are you trying to work within?
seitenryu
03-12-08, 03:59 PM
For track competition both wheels must be the same size. I would like to have approximately the same range of gear inches. A straight chainline, no bends, is required, but solution is already found. There are also specifications for ground clearance when riding on the track. Stability is also a small consideration.
BlazingPedals
03-12-08, 07:50 PM
I think you're describing a jackshaft arrangement. I'm not sure that'd be considered a 'straight' chainline. But if it were, you could put an eccentric BB in front and the jackshaft under the seat. You'd want a slightly stretched wheelbase so that weight distribution is OK. I'd want dual-451 wheels to get as low as possible with the best tires available I think you can even get 451 tubulars. Without an idler where the chain clears the fork, you'd either want a lot of head tube below the boom or else a long BB spindle so the return side of the chain clears. You'd want a carbon fiber hardshell seat for efficiency.
Now, OSS or USS?
edit: oops, you already said USS!