Shorter cyclists are often put off recumbents, and particularly short-wheelbase recumbents, because they can't find one that fits. The usual problems are seats which are too high for feet to reach the ground when stopping, and frames which are simply too long. No more!Alligt's Kleine Fiets ('Small Bike') is designed specifically for riders of all ages between 145cm and 165cm tall (4'9" to 5'5"). The frame is of square section, TIG-welded anodised aluminium, and the chainset slides along for length adjustment. Seven-speed transmission is standard, with V-brakes providing ample stopping power for the 16" (349) front and 20" (406) rear wheels. Either 21 speed derailleur gearing or the Sachs 3 x 7 transmission is available to extend the gearing range. Complete with kickstand and sturdy integral carrier, the bike weighs around 14kg.
The Kleine Fiets is one of a range of recumbents from Alligt, and their 'Modern' SWB recumbent was featured in Encycleopedia 4 (then called the 'Classic'). Joining the range this year is a low-rider recumbent. Unlike many low riders, the emphasis is on practicality rather than racing prowess, and the Lage Fiets (Dutch for 'Low bike') is equipped with an AXA dynamo lighting system, lock and kickstand, and weighs around 18kg, depending on equipment. It uses 20" (406) front and 28" (622) rear wheels. The frame, as on all Alligt machines, carries a full five year guarantee.
As well as recumbents, Alligt make a very practical cycle trailer, which can, as you'd expect, be fitted behind any of their bikes. With 20" alloy wheels and internal dimensions of 75 x 45 x 33cm, it can carry loads of up to 50kg.
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