"sfb" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
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> #1 Are there names for the 1 wheel forward 2 back and 2 forward 1 back
> configurations?
>
> #1 What are the advantages and disadvantages of the two configurations?
>
> Thanks
>
I haven't ridden a Delta but I can make comment on a Tadpole (Catrike Road)
that I have been riding since May this year. One thing that came to a head
early on in my learning curve was the "brake steer" effect. The catrike has
front disk brakes on both wheels...LOTS of stopping power! But on steep
descents, at speeds of >40k one has to be aware of the brake steer in order
not to get into trouble. This is emphasized on curvy and narrow paths where
one doesn't have the room to make mistakes while steering under braking. As
I've ridden the bike more (1800km) the brake steer is less and less
pronounced. The Catrike does not have suspension of any type so riding over
broken surfaces or uneven expansion joints etc can be jarring. I put
Schawlbe "Big Apple" tires on my trike. At 2" they provide reasonable
suspension. Visibility, being so low, is much less than an upright bike. If
your around traffic, use a flag, bright clothing, lights, anything to make
sure that drivers can see you in lots of time. For me, one of the biggest
disadvantages of the trike is lack of portability. They won't fit on a
standard bike rack and are not easy to "walk". Narrow doorways can also
present problems. I am definitely slower on my trike (compred to upright)
but then a gain, I live in an area with nothing but hills. In general, I
love riding the Catrike, I haven't ridden my upright (a 1991 Bridgestone
MB-1, roadified) since. The biggest thing one could say about a trike or
recumbents in general....comfortable.
Cheers....Grolsch