Ackermann Steering & Camber | Recumbent Trikes - Explained

Technical recumbent trike terms broken down by James -- it really is that simple! From Ackermann steering to cambered wheels to toe-in, the easy answer is... just don't worry about it! Let the engineers do what they do and figure out which trike feels best to you.
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Chapters:
00:00 Ackermann
01:28 Camber
02:15 Toe-in

[@shepatown]

That's the best explanation of ackerman steering and camber I've ever heard.
"Center point correction" ackerman steering is what I have on my 2001 GS GTO.

[@JimHill-hp5of]

Well done presentation, it looks to me like I should take my older Teratrike Rambler in for a professional alignment and tuneup.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Just discovered your channel and I'm loving it. Question: any chance you make a video about hooking up a bike trailer to a recumbent ebike? Does it matter what type of motor you have, where the motor is, etc? Can it go up hills? Do most hitching systems work or only specific types?

[@LaidBackCycles]

We don't have a specific video on that topic, but I generally recommend the Burley Bee Bike Trailer as it tends to work well with most trikes.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

@@LaidBackCycles I already have a Croozer double bike trailer. I used to bike about 80 miles a week, hauling the kids places. Then I lost my leg. Biking on a standard bike is possible with a prosthesis, but requires a special prosthetic socket because regular sockets don't have enough range of motion. I've found that the farther forward the pedals are from the seat, the easier it is to pedal with my prosthetic leg. Hence I want to switch to a recumbent bike. I just don't know if they're able to pull a trailer. Plus there are a lot of hills in my area. Do you have any suggestions?

[@Lhaffinatu]

How frequently should I think about having my alignment adjusted? Is there a schedule for it? I just got my GreenSpeed Magnum XL in November 2022 but I've been putting the miles on it!

[@LaidBackCycles]

Whenever you bring your trike in for a tune-up, the technician should check the alignment. I recommend a tune-up at least once a year. It could me more if your trike is a daily rider.