This trike is a little different than most.
Traditional tadpole* styled recumbent trikes steer with the front two tires, while power is delivered to the rear tire. The sidewinder, on the other hand, steers with the rear tire, and power is delivered through the front two tires. Video on the Sidewinder website will quickly demonstrate this unique trike’s abilities, which, among other things, include being able to turn in its own length. Most other recumbent tadpole trikes have much larger turning circles.
Another advantage is the shorter chain. There is less distance in the drivetrain, and less weight of metal chain. The amount of chain used appears to be similar to traditional bicycles (sorry about using the “B” word on this blog). One drawback of the Sidewinder may be the lack of places to which panniers can be attached.
This company also has a blog, which can be accessed HERE. It is called Bent For Health. On the blog, if you scroll down, you will see a new fairing/shade the company is developing.
Here are some words from the company website:
“Sidewinder Cycles three models feature patented rear wheel steering with front wheel drive power source. All models have the highest from ground to seat height amongst all recumbents in addition to the ultimate in comfort mesh seating.
“Ride in style, commute in comfort, exercise while having fun and enjoy a pain free experience. Safe riding has never been easier on a recumbent till you have experienced the incomparable recumbent ride of a Sidewinder Cycle.
“In 1996 the ProCuiser was officially introduced to the public with a skeptical but comfortable reaction. The skeptics questioned the front wheel drive system, but thoroughly enjoyed the seating comfort and many other options. To test what kind of “abuse” the Sidewinder ProCruiser could handle in the “real world”, the first 30 recumbents were sold into the rental market in the Santa Barbara and Ventura County area. After months of heavy “use and abuse” in the rental market, which resulted in record rental sales, the Sidewinders proved their durability and high customer satisfaction rating.
The rental market test results came back with high marks and little improvements needed. With the development of the Sidewinder ProCruiser, the Sidewinder Cycle Company was established. With positive test results and enthusiastic comments from riders, the Sidewinder ProCruiser ventured out and has established itself among the top rated recumbents in the United States.”
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In the above photograph, you can see Sidewinder’s optional cargo bag, strapped behind the seat and in front of the rear wheel. For further information, please visit the Sidewinder Cycle website by clicking HERE.
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* Tadpole Trike: Two wheels in the front – one wheel in the rear, as compared to a delta trike, which has one wheel in the front and two wheels in the rear.
