Rotor cranks are one of the hottest technologies currently available for recumbent riders who want to improve their performance.  A system of cams help recumbent riders improve their speed by eliminating the "dead spot" in pedaling that occurs when cranks are aligned horizontally and no power can be produced.

Set-up

Set-up of the RS4 model is a relatively simple process with easy to understand instructions included (13 illustrated steps). Read the instructions and follow them closely.
You need to remove your current cranks and bottom bracket set. The Rotor right crank arm and bottom bracket are integrated and are simply threaded into your frame’s bottom bracket shell as you would a normal cartridge bottom bracket set.
You then set the chain-line and regulation point (according to the instructions) and tighten the left-side splined fixing cup using a splined bottom-bracket tool (available for sale at most bike shops for about $20.00). The Rotor has five different “reference” regulation points, which change the amount of angle (offset) between the cranks when one of your cranks is somewhat fully extended forward in the position that is known as the dead-spot. Changing the angle of the cranks at this particular time is what essentially eliminates the dead-spot. The dead-spot is the position of traditional cranks when it is impossible to apply power to the rear wheel, which makes climbing so much more difficult on recumbents and especially on trikes that are heavier than bikes. The first time installation took me about 30-45 minutes, the second time was less.

On the road

Initially, pedaling on a Rotor equipped trike feels quite strange as your pedaling stroke must overcome the memory of previously compensating for the dead spot. Rotor suggest trying at least 3 of the 5 possible settings starting with #3. After riding 250 miles and settling on position #2 I became adjusted and began realizing the benefits of the Rotors without that "strange" feeling. The benefits included faster time of roughly 2 minutes an hour along with less noticeable knee discomfort.
  If you are seeking a way to enhance the performance of your Recumbent, Rotor cranks is an ideal option to consider.

RTR Home