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General Questions About Recumbent Bicycles
General Questions About Recumbent Trikes
Questions About the Rebel Cycles Ghost
Questions About the Rebel Cycles Trike
Questions About the Rebel Cycles Amigo
Questions About Warranty Repairs
General Questions About Recumbent Bicycles
Q: Are recumbent bicycles hard to ride?
A: Recumbent bikes definitely have a bit of "learning curve." Don't worry though, most new riders can safely ride a recumbent bicycle within half an hour, and are completely comfortable on one within a week. The trickiest part is learning to start, learning to stay relaxed, and learning to shift down when coming to a stop. Visit the "New Riders" section for more information.
Q: Are recumbent bicycles comfortable?
A: Yes, they can be very comfortable. Certainly, leaps above a regular bicycle! The large, reclined seat that is typical of a recumbent bike does not put pressure on any parts of your body like a regular bike. The rider's entire weight is spread across their back, instead of concentrated on the hands and tainbone. This means that some people who normally avoid riding a bike due to pain, may be able to ride a recumbent bicycle without any trouble at all.
Q: Are recumbent bicycles safe in traffic?
A: In general, they usually are. Most recumbent bicycles, like the Ghost and Amigo, put the rider's height at the same level as a car driver's head. This means that you stay visible to drivers on the road. The unique design and shape of a recumbent bike also tends to make drivers more cautious around you, for whatever reason. However, it is important that any recumbent bicycle rider act responsibly on the road. Keep aware of the traffic around you, watch for debris on the road, don't make unexpected movements, and make sure that you stay visible (with the help of lights, reflective materials, and flags). Visit the section on Vehicular Cycling for more information on safe riding.
Q: Do recumbent bicycles use special, hard-to-get parts?
A: Nope. Nearly all of the parts on a recumbent are standard bicycle parts, serviceable at any bike shop. The only parts that are unique are the seat, handlebars, and sometimes the front crank (for recumbent bikes with 20" rear wheels).
Q: Are recumbent bicycles hard to pedal uphill?
A: At first, they can be. Recumbent bicycles utilize a slightly different set of leg muscles, which must develop before you can match the speeds you are used to on a regular bike. This process may take a few weeks, depending on how much you ride. Eventually, you will probably be able to climb any hill just as fast as you were able to on a regular bike.
Q: How fast are recumbent bikes? Can I keep up with my road bike riding buddies?
A: Like learning to climb a hill, you will need to train for a while until you are able to keep up. Don't expect to just hop on and go as fast as you used to, or you'll be disappointed. Rest assured, eventually you'll be able to keep up. And, you'll be a lot more comfortable than they are!
It also depends on the type of recumbent you ride. Some models are more comfort-oriented, while others are designed for speed. Faster recumbents will forego nicities such as suspension, super-plush seats and a cruiser-style position, in favour of an extreme seat angle, a more aerodynamic position, and stiff, lightweight materials. Regular bicycles make similar compromises, and it's important to choose a bike depending on what you intend to use it for.
Road bikers best be wary of you when you're going downhill! Chances are, you'll outpace them every single time...
Q: Can I fit a recumbent bike on my car carrier?
A: Usually, you can. However, be aware that recumbent bicycles are often a bit longer than a regular bike, so the rear wheel and crank may stick out the sides a bit further than usual. For extended rides, you may want to slide in the boom and remove the rear wheel to reduce the length of the bike.
Q: Will a recumbent bike fit on a bus bike carrier?
A: Most buses use a front rail where the wheels fit into, with a bar that secures over one of the wheels. Fortunately, the wheelbase on a short wheelbase recumbent (like the Ghost and Amigo) is almost the same as a regular bike, so it should fit fine. Just be sure to secure the bar around the 26" rear wheel, if possible.
General Questions About Recumbent Trikes
Q: Are recumbent trikes hard to ride?
A: Not at all! In fact, if you have never ridden a bike in your entire life (perish the thought!), you could probably ride a recumbent trike. Just sit back, and go. With plenty of gears, you are free to go as fast or slow as you like. Steering is easy, and braking is even safer than a regular bike. Plus, since there is little chance of flipping over, you don't have to worry about hitting debris or stalling on a hill. Trikes are great for everyone!
Q: Are recumbent trikes comfortable?
A: Definitely. As on a recumbent bike, the rider's entire weight is spread across their back, rather than a few pressure points like on a regular bike. A recumbent trike has the added advantage of not needing to balance, so you can relax even more while you're out for a leisurely ride on the community trail.
Q: Are recumbent trikes safe in traffic?
A: There's no question, trikes are definitely lower than any other bike on the road. For this reason, you may worry that a trike is unsafe on the road. This is not necessarily true. The most important thing to remember when you're on the road, is to stay visible. Most riders will have a tall safety flag on their trike. Don't hug the curb so that cars can pass you more easily, this is not safe for you. Stay a foot or two away from the curb, cars will be more likely to see you (this is part of vehicular cycling). Make sure you signal turns. Use lights and reflectors when it's dark. You may find (as I have) that cars actually give you more room when they pass, often signalling all the way into the other lane. Most of the time, they will just be curious about what that crazy thing on the road is. Be prepared to smile and wave!
Q: Do recumbent trikes use special parts?
A: There are a few parts on a trike that are unique. Fortunately, these are parts that rarely need to be replaced. All of the drivetrain and brake components are off-the-shelf bike parts, serviceable at any bike shop. The unique parts are the seat, the steering components, and sometimes the front crank.
Q: Are recumbent trikes hard to pedal uphill?
A: It will take a few weeks of riding before you are able to climb that monster hill like you used to on your old bike. As your recumbent muscles develop, you will find that climbing hills gets easier. Eventually, you'll be able to climb nearly as fast as you did on a regular bike. Fortunately, there is an added advantage on a trike. Since you can't fall over, you can climb a hill as slowly as you like. Just keep crankin' and you'll make it up. Then, you can enjoy the ride down the other side!
Q: How fast are recumbent trikes? Can I keep up with my road bike buddies?
A: This may take some work, but unless your friend is named Lance Armstrong, you'll eventually be able to keep up. It will take a few weeks or months of training to get your muscles in shape, but you can do it. They may pull ahead on uphill climbs, but you will fly past them on the downhill. You'll most likely be able to keep pace with them on flat or rolling land.
Also remember that some trikes are better suited for speed than others. Faster trikes usually have harder seats, with a more aggressive aerodynamic position, and are made of stiffer materials. However, most of it is still in the engine (ie. YOU!)
Also remember that for the entire ride, you will be far more comfortable. You may even be able to skip that rest stop, where everyone else has to stop and stretch their aching bodies. Bonus!
Q: How can I transport a trike in or on my car?
A: There are a few ways, actually. If you have a pickup truck or large van/SUV, you can probably fit a trike in the back. If you have a smaller car, there are hitch and rooftop-carrier solutions. Cycle Simplex and Hitch Rider both make hitch-mounted trike carriers, for up to two trikes at a time.
Q: Will a recumbent trike fit on a bus bike carrier?
A: Probably not.
Questions About the Rebel Cycles Ghost
Q: How much does the Ghost weigh?
A: The Ghost weighs 36 pounds when it is fully built-up with a rack, fenders and seat bag.
Q: Will the Ghost fit me?
A: The Ghost has a maximum rider weight of 275 pounds. It is adjustable for an X-seam length between about 40" and 48". If you are outside this range, please contact me for other options.
Q: Is the Ghost available in any other colours?
A: It is only available in white. But, it looks really good in person.
Q: Is the Shock on the Ghost adjustable?
A: Yes it is, but you will need a special shock pump. These are specialized high-pressure pumps that let you fine-tune the air pressure in the shock's air bladder. Reduce the pressure for a softer ride. Increase the ride for a more responsive ride.
Q: How fast is the Ghost? Does it climb well?
A: Well, that depends mostly on the engine. Relatively speaking, it is in the top 50%. It isn't the fastest ride on two wheels, but it's definitely not a slouch! If you're graduating from an upright hybrid bike with smooth tires, it is about equivalent to that. Climbing ability is slightly above average, too.
Q: How far should I expect to go on the Ghost?
A: In its stock configuration, the Ghost is suitable for light touring and day-long trips. This is because the rear suspension limits the carrying capacity of the rack. However, with a trailer you will be able to go much further, since you can more than double your carrying capacity.
Q: How does the Ghost handle?
A: Brand-new riders would desribe the handling as "twitchy." Experienced riders would describe it as "responsive." The Ghost requires very little steering input from the rider, so it is important to stay relaxed. Only a light touch is needed for most turns. This is mostly due to the geometry of the steering, which features wide handlebars and a short tiller (and thus, lots of turning torque).
Questions about the Rebel Cycles Trike
Q: How much does the Trike weigh?
A: The Trike weighs 36 pounds with a rear rack mounted.
Q: Will the Trike fit me?
A: The Trike has a maximum rider weight of 275 pounds. It is adjustable for an x-seam length between about 40 and 48 inches. If you are outside this range, please contact me for other options.
Q: Is the Trike available in any other colours?
A: The trike is only available in black. It looks real slick!
Q: How fast is the Trike? Does it climb well?
A: The Trike is my commuter vehicle. I usually go 35km/h on flat gound, and have reached a maximum speed of 65km/h. However, speed is heavily dependant on the engine, and your results may vary. The Rebel Cycles Trike is probably in the top 25% among other trikes available, and is probably the fastest trike in its price range. It climbs pretty well, on par with most recumbents and perhaps 5km/h slower than a hybrid road bike.
Q: How far could I go on the Trike?
A: All day, and more. The Trike can carry a pretty decent amount of cargo, even more if you use a trailer. It is suitable for long-distance touring. So the short answer is: as far as your legs will carry you!
Q: How does the Trike handle?
A: Like a go-cart. It's probably some of the best fun you can have on a set of bike tires. Steering is sharp, but forgiving. The seat allows you to lean into turns, and make sharp 90 corners. There is virtually no pedal steer or brake steer. It feels incredibly stable at speeds above 60km/h, yet is just as easy to pilot at 5km/h. Just describing it makes me want to go for a ride.
Questions About the Rebel Cycles Amigo
Q: How much does the Amigo weigh?
A: The Amigo weighs about 33 pounds.
Q: Will the Amigo fit me?
A: The Amigo has a maximum rider weight of 275 pounds. It is adjustable for an x-seam length between about 40 and 48 inches. If you are outside this range, please contact me for other options.
Q: Is the Amigo available in any other colours?
A: The Amigo is only available in red. A real looker!
Q: What can I expect of the Amigo?
A: The Amigo is new; so new that I haven't even tried one yet! This area will be filled with information in October. Expect the Amigo to be a very comfortable ride, due to the dual suspension system. It will be a great cruiser for bike trails, commuting, running errands and bike tours.
Q: How can I test-ride a bike from Rebel Cycles before I buy?
A: If you live close to Kitchener, Ontario, then it's easy. All you have to do is email and schedule an appointment. If you live further away, there may be a dealer close by, where you can schedule a test ride. Otherwise, your best bet is to ask every question that comes into your head, and we'll be glad to answer every single one.
Q: What should I bring on a test ride?
A: Just a helmet, comfortable shoes (or cycling shoes), a good attitude, and maybe your wallet... you may just be leaving with a new set of wheels!
Q: Where will we go on the test ride?
A: Wherever you want. A spin around the block would be fine (there are some quiet residential streets nearby), or we can go for a longer 20+ km ride if you wish. Just let me know if you plan you go for a long ride, so I can have my gear ready.
Questions about Warranty Repairs
Q: What happens if something breaks?
A: If the broken component is covered under warranty (see the warranty page to see what's covered), then we'll try to get a new part out ASAP. For standard bike components, a new part should ship out within a week. Specialized parts that are unique to your model may take a bit longer, as they need to be shiiped from the manufacturer. A picture of the broken component would be very helpful.
Q: What if it's something more severe, like the frame?
A: A broken frame is a very rare thing to happen. A picture of the broken frame and a description of how the failure happened will be needed, so that it can be forwarded to the manufacturer. If we have the same model in stock, we'll send you a new frame and have a courier pick up the broken one.
Q: Should I attempt repairs myself?
A: Please don't! Even if it's an emergency! You may void your warranty, and then we can't help you. Describe the problem, and if your bike needs repairs then we may offer to pay a bike shop to do the repair for you. You may perform regular maintenance duties if you feel comfortable with it.
Q: How fast is the shipping?
A: We usually ship by ground, which takes 5-7 business days. If you wish, we can ship by express or air at an additional cost. Then it will take only 2-4 days.
Q: How much is shipping?
A: That depends on where you live. We only charge the actual shipping cost, which will be included in the invoice before you are required to pay. Ground is the least expensive shipping method, which is what we usually use. Express or Air shipping will be more, often twice as much. Please email us for a shipping quotation.
Q: What shipping company do you use?
A: FedEx Ground is the least expensive, but we prefer Purolator. It's up to you which company to use.
Q: How big is the box?
A: Very large. The bikes ship partially assembled, and so the box is usually very long. It won't fit in most cars, you'll need a van or truck to transport it. For example, the Ghost box is 76" long, and the Trike box is about a foot shorter.
Q: I live close by, can I pick up my order?
A: Of course! That saves us both some time and money. You can even have the bike assembled free of charge if you like.
Questions About Modifications, Upgrades and Accessories
Q: What modifications can I perform on my bike?
A: It's best to ask first. If it involves the use of a saw or drill, it will probably void your warranty. But, slap on as many accessories and doodads as you like.
Q: What upgrades are available for my bike?
A: Upgrade to your heart's content! Remember that most of the parts on your recumbent are standard bicycle components. So, if you've got your eye on an ultra-lightweight set of cranks or some new slick tires, feel free to put them on. Just remember that the new parts are covered under that particular manufacturer's warranty, and are not covered by Rebel Cycles. Some valuable upgrades include:
Q: What accessories can I add to my bike?
A: Almost any "regular" bike accessory should work on your recumbent. Add them as you need them. Some great accessories include:
Q: When was Rebel Cycles founded?
A: Rebel Cycles was founded in November 2005.
Q: How many people actually work at Rebel Cycles?
A: Well, one. Sometimes my wife helps. So when I say "we," I really mean "I," because there's one of me. "We" just sounds more impressive.
Q: How can I contact you?
A: You can contact us - I mean me - via the Contact page. Which basically contains this email address.
