Bicycle ergonomics is about applying science to meet the physical needs of the human body. Why would a company dedicate itself to this task? The belief at Cruzbike Inc is that with today's science and design capability, there is no reason to present the body with excess stress and discomfort and to do so is to compromise the ability of the rider to ride safely. The optimal ergonomics of the cruzbike prevents wasted physical and mental effort.

To quote wikipedia: Ergonomics is the science of designing ... to fit the worker. Proper ergonomic design is necessary to prevent repetitive strain injuries, which can develop over time and can lead to long-term disability.

Long term disability is found in the many riders who can no longer enjoy cycling without suffering pain in various parts of the anatomy. With the ergonomically correct bicycle design of the cruzbike, this pain disappears.

The Cruzbike lets you use a wide range of muscle groups, as with a standard bike, which strangely is something other recumbents don't allow. On other recumbents the mantra is "relax your arms and upper body" as there is no way they can contribute to the riding activity. On other recumbents, the focus is on building up your "bent legs" to compensate for taking the rest of your body out of the equation - and so many riders see a deteriation in their performance for at least two months. On a cruzbike there is no such adjustment period as you can apply your same cycling talent as you would on your normal bike.

The whole body's proper engagement with the bicycle is critical to avoid wasted effort

On a standard bike, you can and do use your arms. This is possible because you pull on the handlebars at right angles to the steering tube. Only in extreme cases, like the dash to the finishing line, does the pull on the handlebars make the bike wobble. Effectively then, on both a standard bike and on the Cruzbike, the frame including the handlebars is solid enough to hang onto and dig in. And as you do, you benefit by:

• Building bone density throughout the whole body;
• Achieving a low-impact workout;
• Getting upper body resistance training;
• Developing leg and upper body strength, including various muscle groups such as the lower arms, upper arms, shoulders, pecs, abs, back, as well as development of the leg muscles; and
• Producing more power of course!

As with walking, running or riding a standard bike, there is a natural bodily rhythm to riding a Cruzbike. Movement of the bottom bracket introduces slight variety into the joint movement and so protects against knee injury and knee pain. Unnecessary effort and pain is something you can leave to folk on other bikes.

The Cruzbike creates the perfect balance of arm, torso and leg effort. So you are able to give that little extra something just when you need it most. That is what we mean by the art and science of bicycle ergonomics - all the advantages of an upright bicycle, without the health risks and discomfort of the usual riding position. We are serious when we say we are delivering you all of the benefits but none of the drawbacks - that is the bottom line of our front wheel drive technology.