In 2024, Vernon Shaw—a passionate recumbent rider with love for both trikes and two-wheelers—proposed a new tradition: making July 7 the official World Recumbent Bike Day. His idea resonated with us at RECUMBENT.news, and we marked the occasion with a dedicated article, sharing both his Facebook post and the fascinating historical background that supports this date.

So, why July 7?

On that day in 1933, French cyclist Francis Faure made history by riding a recumbent two-wheeler designed by Charles Mochet to beat the world hour record. He covered 27.996 miles, outpacing a nearly 20-year-old record set by Oscar Egg. For a moment, the recumbent wasn’t just different—it was dominant.

Unfortunately, that moment was short-lived. In 1934, cycling’s governing body, the UCI, caved to pressure from traditional bike makers and changed the rules. Recumbent two-wheelers and trikes were banned from mainstream racing and labeled as something “other.” From that point on, recumbents were pushed to the sidelines.

But here’s the thing: recumbents never disappeared. Today, two-wheelerstrikesvelomobiles, and even quads represent innovation, comfort, and freedom. They’re a symbol of open-minded cycling—inclusive of age, ability, and riding style.

That’s why we should celebrate July 7World Recumbent Bike Day is more than just a celebration of design. It’s a day to remember the rebels, the pioneers, and the joy of riding differently.