On a regular bike you can stand and put your entire weight on a pedal. Not much harder than walking up a stairway.
On a recumbent, you're pushing sideways, and your back is going into your seat even as your feet push forwards. The weight of your body doesn't help, and you're not using your muscles as effectively.
@mariusor @plactagonic @bicycle_touring
On a regular bike you can stand and put your entire weight on a pedal. Not much harder than walking up a stairway.
On a recumbent, you're pushing sideways, and your back is going into your seat even as your feet push forwards. The weight of your body doesn't help, and you're not using your muscles as effectively.