Recumbent Pedal Binding Adjustment
by trike hobo
If you are using what is commonly termed “clipless” pedals, a counter-intuitive label because a rider actually does clip in to the pedals, then here are some thoughts. These clipless pedals hold your feet to the pedal, an absolute necessity for trikers who trek on tours or cross country. On a recumbent trike, the rider’s feet are behind the pedals, rather than above the pedals like on a bicycle. Thus, a binding retention system allows the rider freedom from consciously holding the feet against the pedals so they don’t simply fall to the ground. Anyway, here is a tip for those who may have not contemplated the adjustment potential of these pedals. The retention mechanism can be tightened or loosened to rider preference.
A little hex screw near the bottom must be turned counter-clockwise all the way
I keep my bindings adjusted as loose as they go, which works fine. My feet have never inadvertently come off the pedals, and when I do wish to remove my feet from the pedals, it is much easier with the bindings set this way. It is easier on my ankles, and it means less wear on the shoe, as the sideways force necessary to dismount is quite a bit less.
A hex-wrench is all you need for this adjustment
Also, if I ever did roll the trike off the side of a road into the ditch or down a mountainside, my feet would separate from the pedals more readily – I do not wish to go tumbling down a hillside with my trike attached to me! Same concept as when I ski – a skier does not want to remain attached to those long runners that have the potential to break legs and mess up hips. Best to break free in an accident.
