The Catrike Speed recumbent tricycle uses lightweight igubal® spherical rod ends from igus® Inc in its steering system. Manufactured by Big Cat Human Powered Vehicles of Orlando, FL, Catrike Speed trikes alleviate the stress and pain felt in the knees, back, and buttocks on upright bicycles, delivering comfort, ease-of-use, and speed. Recumbent tricycling is the fastest growing category in bicycling today; if a rider has trouble with balance, a trike is the ideal solution.

When developing the steering component of the Catrike Speed, Catrike creator and company president Paulo Camasmie first used metal bearings. He changed to igus igubal rod ends based on their lighter weight and better dampening qualities.

"The igubal bearings do a much better job of absorbing vibration from wheel to arms," says Camasmie. "We also can use a really large rod end without increasing the weight too much. This in turn enables us to use a stiffer rod, which produces better wheel alignment."

The igubal® spherical bearings eliminate installation hassles encountered with pivoting bearings thanks to their self-aligning properties, which alleviate the need for exact placement of shafts and housing. Made with high-performance plastics, they are lubrication free and completely resistant to corrosion and contaminants. The polymer material is 80% lighter than steel, and delivers excellent vibration dampening as well as maintenance-free operation.

The igubal bearings are an integral part of the Catrike's direct steering component. Two igubal rod ends are used on the tricycle. Each bearing connects one of the two front spindles (or steering knuckles) to a tie rod; the handlebars used to steer the trike are attached directly on the spindles. This provides lighter, cleaner, and more reliable steering for the rider because there are fewer moving parts than with conventional indirect steering.

Another benefit of igubal plastic bearings is their complete corrosion resistance. Unlike metal bearings, they never rust or need to be replaced due to wear. Unsightly rust or discoloration will never detract from the aesthetics of the Catrike Speed or any other equipment employing an igubal bearing. The bearings are ideal for use in the packaging, automotive, agricultural, exercise, and sports-equipment industries.