Adjusting the seat position

Choose the right size

The selection of the right seat size and the proper seat angle is crucial for a comfortable feeling while riding a recumbent.

By the time you read this manual, you will already have chosen the correct seat size together with your specialist dealer. In the following section you will find the most important items very briefly, in case you don't feel comfortable with your current seat size.

The upper curve of the seat in the area of the shoulder blades determines the correct seat size:Through this shape the shoulder and neck area is lifted from the recumbent position so that the head rests in a natural and relaxed position. For this reason you shouldn't need a head rest if you have the right seat position. In practice, a head rest is not very advisable because it makes it difficult to turn your head to see the traffic behind you and it transfers unpleasant vibrations, even on a well suspended bicycle.

In order to adjust the seat to your back length the seat comes in four different sizes: Approximate values are: Under a height of

1,73 m (5' 8") we recommend seat size S, up to 1,83 m (6' 4") height seat size M, up to 1,93 m (6' 7") height seat size L, and above we recommend seat size XL. Since however the length and the shape of the back differ from person to person we recommend you to carry out an extensive test ride before ordering. If you are in doubt we advise you to choose the larger size, since it will be more comfortable in most cases.

The seat is too small when you have the impression that your back is pressed too much into a "hunchback". It is too large when you have the impression that the seat angle is too far back when you are in the most upright po- sition, or when you hit the upper seat edge

with the back of your head when you look up- wards. Please note that our seat sizes only refer to the length of the seat; the seat width remains the same on all sizes.

Altering the seat shape

You can alter the seat shape individually to match the shape of your back by adding foam material under the seat cushion.The seat has a special channel down the center for your spine with an extra layer of foam for the spine in the seat form.Thus, the spinal processi of the vertebrae are comfortably padded. Some people have single vertebrae that stick out particular- ly. If your spine is like this you can cut out some padding material at the respective spot in the spine channel.

HP VELOTECHNIK’s seats feature a special channel for the spine. You can individually adjust the padding.

The foam cushion in the spine channel is fastened with Velcro and is thus adjustable. Some users find it comfortable when the seat rises a little bit at the front edge.This raise gives a little more hold to the front and can reduce a possible feeling of slipping out, especially when the seat position is upright.You can try it out by fastening the foam cushion so that the lower end under the seat cushion forms a little bump.You can purchase a special add-on for your seat to permanently form such a bump.

Adjusting your new bike

HPVelotechnik 11