I just came across this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMFP8tfzGXU
The Varibike is made in Germany. It’s more refined than the pins, tape and gum version above. The idea that you get more exercise for your upper body is interesting. Could be useful for an indoor trainer workout.
But I’m still seeing a few flaws with the concept. The steering can’t be that great, with just the narrow-grip handlebars on top of the hand cranks. Looks like it would be difficult to make tight turns with the set-up. The bike is fairly heavy, about 33 lbs. Plus the back is placed in an awkward position. The video says that you can sit in three different positions: upright, aero or power. The upright position I get. But aero? No. That’s not aero. It’s in between upright and aero/road bike, without much support for the back. (The arms are extended too far forward, which means that the back will have to do most of the work, and in a semi-bent position.) The power position is when the rider is using the arms to pedal, alone or with the legs.
I’d rather swim and do strength training to work my upper body. Interesting idea but I won’t be buying a Varibike. A flying bike, maybe. Varibike, no.
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