there are many bikes with this conversion, such as v-rex and vision. Post on BROL about it, you'll
get some good advice. It will change the handling some, but it won't be that drastic. Biggest thing
is the seat height will be quite a bit higher.
George MacKenzie wrote:
> If you want to learn some interesting lessons then go right ahead and put a 26" wheel and fork on
> the front end of your Hepcat, but know that others have been there before you.
>
> In stock form, The Hepcat in my opinion is one of the sweetest handling SWB recumbents available
> commercially. Without going into detail, putting a 26" front wheel on it will only screw it up.
> You will have geometry problems, and perhaps design, and even ergonomic problems too.
>
> Going to a large front wheel will simultaneously make the head angle shallower, and increase the
> trail value thereby changing the feel of the controls by a lot more than you might like. If you
> can obtain a fork with an unusually large amount of offset you can lessen some of the effect, but
> I predict that in any event you'll surely be disappointed with the resultant handling. You may
> also have problems with the cranks overlapping the front wheel. I don't know about you, but for me
> that is a recipe for a sure accident. Also, what do you think about pedaling around with your feet
> up in your field of vision? It may also be an issue for you whether or not your blood will
> struggle to reach your toes?
>
> In addition to understanding some of the mathematics and physics involved I've got multiple
> bikes including one convertible SWB/LWB recumbent with whose geometry I've experimented
> extensively. I've done this type of thing before - including the sure accident. So I'm not just
> talking out my butt.
>
> Besides - a 26" wheel won't make you go any faster! It will make the ride a bit smoother though if
> you use an equivalent tire and pressure.
>
> Have fun!