Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed is a high performance recumbent bicycle that allows the rider to add substantial hand power by pulling the fork mounted crankset, about the steering axis, into foot pedal thrusts. The effect is superior to standing to pedal an upright bike, because the rider can provide power immediately, while remaining comfortably, safely and aerodynamically seated. Effective pedal force reaction is provided. Torque and work based hand power input methods are used. No supplemental mechanism is necessary. An embodiment has front wheel drive, a vertical steering axis, crankset offset ahead of the steering axis by a crankarm length, fork assembly rigid in torsion to rider hand and foot forces applied in opposition, and indirect steering mechanism which enables rider, grip, and pedal location and orientation for effective supplemental hand power input, and control of pedal forces on the steering. The enhanced steering control allows use of an aerodynamic disk front wheel.

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First Claim