What is the proper recumbent pedel position?
 

I purchased a recumbent last year but during my test ride (before I bought it), I injured my knee and had to have surgery (maniscus tear). Anyway, I have recovered and want to my the bike I finally did purchased anyway but I am afraid. I am not getting good advice on how far my pedels should be positioned forward.

If I am on my bike and as I pedel, should my leg be fully extended when the pedel is at its furthest point away from my body or should I have a bend in my leg at the furthest point. I really love my bike but when I get on it now, I feel a pull around my knee and am afraid that I need some adjustments.

Thanks.

Should not fully extend the leg during pedaling, a slight bend on the far side is in order. Also make sure you use your gears to keep from having to push too hard. Faster cadance is better than pushing hard.

Pedal distance
 

There are two things to consider. First is how to set the pedal distance. While you are sitting still push yourself well back into the seat and place your heel on the pedal at full extention. Your leg should be comfortably straight with your heel firmly on the pedal. When you place your foot properly on the pedal your knee will then bend. This is where you start--as you ride you may find you need the pedal a touch (1/4"?) closer to you or a touch further away or it may be just right. The second consideration is that, when you ride, be cautious about leaving your leg fully out straight (it's comfortable and there is a tendency to do it) when coasting. If you hit a large bump in this position, your knee can hyper-extend and that is clearly not good--especially for you.

With this method, which is a standard proceedure, you should find the perfect setting. Then you can really let loose and enjoy yourself.

Chip

If you haven't already, get some clipless pedals and shoes. They really make a difference on a bent.

+1 on the high cadence. spinning beats mashing.

Thanks!
 

Thanks for the info -- learning so much from this forum. As a new bent rider (picking it up next week) I too was wondering about the proper pedal length. On my test ride I think I had my legs a little too straight, and will take your advice when I fine tune it before taking it home. I also had a bit of problem with my thighs touching the brake levers, but I think bringing the handle bars in a bit more will take care of that -- they already seemed close enough, but it was my first time on a bent and the position just made everything feel different.

KW