A recumbent trike is an exciting machine to tour on, but can be difficult to take on a bus or a train. The size that makes the trike stable and comfortable can make it awkward to transport. Ian Sims has now added S&S; Bicycle Torque Couplings to his proven and respected touring trike, to create a machine that fits in a couple of suitcases. The seat is detached by removing a bolt at the front, and undoing the two small S&S; couplings at the rear. The frame then splits just behind the handlebar pivot. The brake and steering mechanisms remain connected when the trike is packed, greatly reducing the adjustment needed when the trike is assembled. In a matter of minutes, the trike can be packed into two standard suitcases, one suitcase for the frame and wheels, and one for the the seat, leaving enough room for your clothes and more. Or you could use one suit case and a backpack.
S&S; couplings are actually stronger and stiffer than the tubes they join, so handling and stability remain excellent. Gearing starts with a Sachs 3x7 at the back, with either a triple front ring or a Schlumpf Mountain Drive. This gives either 63 or 42 gears, with a very wide range, making the trike suitable for both heavy and fast touring. Independent hub brakes on the front wheels and centre-point steering allow braking with either hand without veering off-line. A rear mudguard, flag and mirror are standard equipment, and rear rack and front mudguards can be fitted. The frame is aircraft-grade 4130 chro-moly steel and the wheels are 20" (406) all round. When packed, the trike and cases weigh around 20kg. The only non-standard tool needed for the packing and unpacking is a small spanner for the S&S; couplings.
|