HP Velotechnik Spirit - Manual (Page 28)

HP
Velotechnik
26
Slowly increase the strain
We recommend you to perform only short ri-
des without much power during the first
weeks.
Always use a low gear and ride with a high pe-
daling frequency. Only after having acquired so-
me training increase the strain slowly.
When you ride on a recumbent you use other
muscles than on a conventional bicycle, and
they have to be trained first.
In case of an overload, the blood circulation in
your legs may be affected, which shows in loss
of power, a prickling in the toes, falling asleep
of the legs or cramps.When you have a sporty
way of riding, it can take up to 6 months until
you have become accustomed to your recum-
bent.
Should you have pain in your knees while ri-
ding this is usually the result of too much po-
wer put into pedaling.The good support of the
back sometimes misleads to putting the full
power of the legs in the pedal, similar to the
leg training machines in the fitness center.
When you repeat it regularly it is harmful for
the knees. Pain in the knees often results from
an overuse of the muscles in the knee that can
also be strengthened through exercise.
Also, a wrong adjustment to the leg length (in
most cases too short) can lead to pain in the
knees.You will find many tips on proper trai-
ning for cyclists in miscellaneous books and
magazines for cyclists.
Your pedaling cadence should stay between
80-100 revolutions per minute and not fall be-
low 60 revolutions when going uphill. If neces-
sary have your specialist dealer adjust the gear
range to your riding style and the terrain you
usually ride.
When you have the impression that riding
your Spirit stresses your stomach muscles
considerably, please lean consciously back and
take care not to pull on the handlebars.
In case of persistent problems please consult
your doctor.
Do not ride freehand
Strain, Do not ride freehand
Danger! In order to ride safely you have to
keep both hands at the handlebar. Even
when signaling keep at least one hand at the
handlebar. Otherwise, unforeseen bumps in
the road or oscillations of the steering may
lead to a serious fall.