The recumbent bicycle is the correct posture to be riding a bicycle. I thought building one would be the way to find out. I viewed the bicycle with the idea of an alternative source of power to assist the rider.
The ”Black Dart” was what came out of this try for comfort and ease of travel on two wheels.
The main frame was a 24-inch with modifications to accommodate the recumbent look and ride. The handlebars are customized to allow the rider to reach the brake handles and controls for the electric motor.
The seat was cut from a plastic boat seat you can purchase at local stores. I added some rubber padding to help make the ride more comfortable.
The frame was modified for the placement of the seat and the relocation of the pedals. The chain routing has numerous chain guides from wheel to sprocket.
The rear wheel is 24-inch and the front wheel with in hub electric motor is 20-inch. The angle of the riding position allows for a smaller front wheel but allows for a level ride. The rear upper support bars had to be lowered and the sprocket and pedals move to the front support frame. The chain has two full chain lengths minus six links.
The seat support with the back supports allows relocation of the center of gravity with the lowering of the seat post.
The battery carrier is welded to the rear support posts of the seat. The basket is attached to the back carrier on the bicycle.
The bicycle is comfortable to pedal and the electric motor will move you along at speeds of 11-15 miles per hour. The pedaling and running the electric motor you can speed along at 15 to 22 miles per hour. I have logged over 200 hours on the bicycle and it has performed well. The battery is charged about every two to three trips.
Your can local the electric motor and batteries online by doing a search for “electrify the bicycle”.
I installed running lights and a speed-o-meter in case I get caught out after dark.
