Two types of steering
Over Seat Steering (OSS) and Under Seat Steering (USS) define how you control a recumbent—each shaping comfort, handling, and riding feel.
There are many steering concepts in the recumbent world. From Above Seat Steering—also known as Over Seat Steering (OSS), sometimes called the praying hamster or praying mantis position (typically for very narrow handlebars)—to Under Seat Steering (USS), Open Cockpit (OC), and even highly specific solutions like dynamic booms or front-wheel drive systems. At AZUB, we made our choice years ago and focus on what works best for our bikes: OSS and also the USS in its refined, indirect version.
Over Seat Steering (OSS)
Over Seat Steering places the handlebars in front of the rider, similar to an upright bike. It’s intuitive, familiar, and widely used across many recumbent designs.
Advantages
- Familiar hand position for riders coming from upright bikes
- Easier low-speed control and precise steering input
- Simple cockpit layout with good access to controls
- Easy to mount a smartphone holder, GPS, or other accessories
- More aerodynamic thanks to a narrow design
- Easier to store the bike and to transport it in a car or on a train
- Lighter and less complex
Under Seat Steering (USS)
Under Seat Steering places the handlebars beside or below the seat, leaving the rider’s upper body open and relaxed for a true laid-back riding experience.
Advantages
- Exceptionally relaxed arm and shoulder position
- Unobstructed forward view and open cockpit feel
- Reduced upper-body fatigue on long rides
- Smooth, natural steering once accustomed
- Slightly safer in an accident, as there is no rigid obstacle directly in front of the rider
Although we use a dedicated safety system that allows the handlebars to rotate up or down in the event of a fall, USS setups are generally more vulnerable to damage. Still, many recumbent riders prefer them for the unmistakable, authentic recumbent feeling they deliver.
Indirect steering
From a technical perspective, we use indirect steering—a design that connects the handlebars to the front fork via a steering rod. While this solution is more complex, it allows for a far more comfortable and ergonomic hand position. Steering has a wider range, responds more quickly, and delivers a noticeably smaller turning radius compared to direct steering.
