pedal/crank spacing

[Sinewave]

what kind of effect would spacing the cranks/pedals wider apart have on pedaling?..say about 3 inches total, thats about 1/2 inch on each side.

 

[dogman dan]

If you are talking about long peadles, it would increase the leverage on the threads in the crank arms, possibly stripping them out, but that souldn't happen unless you ride with a loose peadle. It might feel a bit funny, but most of us don't push so hard on the things on ebikes unless you have a huge front crank.

 

[Zoot Katz]

If you pedal through turns, pedal strike can become an issue if the bottom bracket isn't high enough to accomodate the greater "Q factor" or "tread".
If you stand to pedal then you'll have to exert more force on the handlebar to keep the bike from rocking from side to side.

 

[Sinewave]

so would the wider pedal spacing affect the effort it takes to pedal the bike?

 

[Rassy]

Sinewave, I am using pedal extenders on both my recumbent bike and my trike. I like them. There was a discussion a couple of months ago here:

http://www.endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=6217

 

[Zoot Katz]

so would the wider pedal spacing affect the effort it takes to pedal the bike?

Not as far as I know but it could affect how effectively you apply that effort.
When I look at those molded scooter shaped things the distance between the pedals looks stupid wide. That coupled with the stubby cranks and wide low saddles makes pedalling them a joke.

In theory, a wider tread will give you more wobble. A narrower tread will give you more speed.
When people walk their foot prints fall in an almost single straight line under the body's center of gravity.

The primary deciding factor is comfort. A wider stance may lead to hip or knee pain.

Why are you interested in moving the pedals farther apart and how do you intend to achieve it?

 

[AussieJester]

Wider bottom brackets and axles to suit are available from ChoppersUS if you wish to extend them out without risking stripping the threads on the axles etc...


Hope this helps, best of luck

Kim

 

[Sinewave]

thanks guys...im asking about the width because im thinking about ripping out the entire crank assembly and putting a planetary gear setup in its place with a freewheel and axial motor.

just examining my options.