I have some general questions regarding custom frame design and construction for a
LWB recumbent. I have never built a custom bike before, so please forgive me if some
of these issues are well-understood by the experienced community.
My hope is that a general discussion can be developed regarding design, materials,
and welding techniques.
Here are some questions I have :
Design :
1. I would assume that a truss-type design such as on the Wildkat would be more difficult
to construct, but be lighter and more rigid than a single-member frame, as found on
the Marauder. Are these assumptions correct?
Materials :
For building a single-member frame for a LWB recumbent :
LWB recumbent. I have never built a custom bike before, so please forgive me if some
of these issues are well-understood by the experienced community.
My hope is that a general discussion can be developed regarding design, materials,
and welding techniques.
Here are some questions I have :
Design :
1. I would assume that a truss-type design such as on the Wildkat would be more difficult
to construct, but be lighter and more rigid than a single-member frame, as found on
the Marauder. Are these assumptions correct?
Materials :
For building a single-member frame for a LWB recumbent :
- Which tubing cross-section type would be more rigid? Less expensive? Lighter?
- What wall-thickness values are proper?
- Where can suitable round or square cross-section tubing be purchased?
- Are most builders using stick-welding for frame construction, or MIG or TIG?
- How does stick welding compare to MIG for constructing bike frames?