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View Full Version : 26" Wheels on a Lode Runner?

GregLWB
02-19-2009, 06:21 PM
Okay guys, I searched the forum and the archive first so if this has been asked and answered already, sorry.

What would be the downsides of mounting 26" wheels on the LR? Those of you who have built one would it be possible to make the bearing supports longer and mount the bearings to the top of them (kind of like lowering the back end of a truck by putting the axles on top of the springs instead of below) so that the center of gravity stayed close to the same? Or make the bearing supports shorter so that the gears and such came up higher under the frame?

I understand the strength of using the 20" wheels and you do get alot more torque, but if I am going to put electric or gas assist do I need that much torque instead of the higher top end with the taller tires?

I am looking at building and fairing this for commuter use in foul weather (rain and cold) instead of my LWB recumbent I ride the rest of the time.

Greg
theDude
02-19-2009, 06:44 PM
The problem you will run into is the side load when you turn. 26" wheels will fold over.
jimFPU
02-19-2009, 06:53 PM
But can't that be overcome by doing the hub mod?
newrider3
02-19-2009, 07:09 PM
Unless you go for high end rims and spokes, 26" wheels will be like wet noodles compared to a 48 hole BMX rim.
GregLWB
02-19-2009, 07:18 PM
Wouldn't the hub mod like Brad shows on the Delta Wolf give the additional lateral strength?
newrider3
02-19-2009, 08:38 PM
The hub isn't the problem. It is the cheap floppy rims.
Radical Brad
02-19-2009, 08:52 PM
You can get really sturdy 48 hole 26 inch rims (Rynolite and JetSet) made for pedi-cabs, but they are going to cost you $$$, plus you loose the really low gearing for easy starts and hill climbing.

Brad
GregLWB
02-20-2009, 01:24 PM
You can get really sturdy 48 hole 26 inch rims (Rynolite and JetSet) made for pedi-cabs, but they are going to cost you $$$, plus you loose the really low gearing for easy starts and hill climbing.

Brad
Thanks Brad.
Locutus
02-20-2009, 02:24 PM
You can get really sturdy 48 hole 26 inch rims (Rynolite and JetSet) made for pedi-cabs, but they are going to cost you $$$, plus you loose the really low gearing for easy starts and hill climbing.

Brad

I bought some JetSet CH-300A double wall rims for my Street Fox, both 20" 36H and 26" 36H, direct from Taiwan through Bitex Hubs (I was ordering hubs anyway). I chose them specifically for strength and fit to Schwalbe Marathon and Big Apple tires. These rims only cost $13 each for the 20" rims and $14 for the 26" rim, plus shipping. I haven't received them yet so I've yet to test them.