Bike to Trike conversion

With the recent thread on Velomobile Kits I thought this design might be worth a closer look. I put one together several years ago. It is simple and reliable uses established parts which are locally available to most of us.

This design is based on a LWB bike and a trike rear axle assembly. This has been popular with home builders and is now offered by several recumbent manufacturers.

My first effort used a LWB bike with small wheels and a Norco adult trike axle assembly. Most adult trike assemblies have a 26 inch track. This is to meet the requirement of those who need to get through a pedestrian door. I replaced the axle with a longer shaft to widen the track to 30 inches. I made a couple more using various trike axle assemblies and eventually started making the frames in one piece. This design evolved into the Stormy Weather Velomobile. This latest version in the picture uses a simple mid drive and a Sachs super 7 geared hub. The rear derailler has been retained to accommodate a triple front crank. This design can be easily changed back to a bike as the season changes and can be disassembled for transporting. 

The fiberglass was taken from the Stormy Weather molds but there are other choices available which will work just as well. I like this design for moderate climates because it is so versatile. The Lycra body sock can be easily removed and carried in the tail box. The Lycra allows air to pass through for cross ventilation and you can still feel the wind for control purposes. You may not be aware of this 'till you experience a closed fairing.

The seat height and width of the track can be varied to accommodate whatever riding style you are compelled to explore.

The parts for this project are available in a wide range of qualities so a successful result can be achieved on just about any budget.

Reg Rodaro