Edumakate me on Recumbent bicycles!

[scottmandue]

These things LOOK so much more comfortable that a regular bicycle...

Anyone own one? Comments, suggestions?

Recommendations on where to buy, how much to spend?

Thanks in advance,

[cantdrv55]

I guess you can start here.

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/recumbents.html

[Racerbvd]

I had one way back in the day, very cool and yes, they are more comfortable but less maneuverable. I looking into getting a new one myself since my back & knee problems. Be prepared to spend a few bucks, good ones aren't cheap, but are worth it.

Here is a site..


http://www.bikeforums.net/forumdisplay.php?f=37

And onother one..

http://www.bikeroute.com/ibrd_cgi/Classifieds/class_ad.cgi?database=recumbent.setup
I'll try & find pix of Mine from the 80s..

[artplumber]

Poor visibility (I mean cars seeing you). Slow uphill. Faster on the flats (some even have fairings).

That being said, I'm thinking about them too.
http://www.rbr.info/index.php

If you want to go crazy:http://www.bentrideronline.com/Buyer's%20Guide/velomobileguide.htm and watching the development of a velo by someone familiar with the materials http://www.nimbuskayaks.com/velomobile%20mainpage.htm

[stomachmonkey]

Originally Posted by artplumber

Poor visibility (I mean cars seeing you).

Nearly ran over one this morning.

Guy was wearing all yellow and he was still hard to pick up.

[nostatic]

I came close to buying one about 10 years ago. Rode both long and short wheelbase models. They are a completely different animal from a regular bike. They can be a pain a variety of ways. You would be amazed at how much you move around on a regular bike and you can't do that on a 'bent.

And they are almost invisible in traffic.

[jhynesrockmtn]

A "regular" bike can be very comfortable if it fits well and you get used to it and in shape. I've done hours of training and long hard one day marathon type rides 10+ hours on the saddle. You have to work up to it but it can be done. I've seen many recumbents on my commute and people seem to do fine on them. I don't think it would be for me. I like the manuverability, speed and handling of a good race style bike. Those seem to be lacking on a lay down type bike but to each his own and the most important thing is to ride.

[Racerbvd]

Did you ever get one???

[john70t]

I'm still waiting for a 3-wheel recumbant to appear on the American market for $500.
It would have:
-Shaft drive to dual tires, leaning, shock absorbing rear end,
-"Rear Nine Continent Motors" in the hub, or a "MY1018Z" motor attachment,
-Tow hitch for an optional trailer capable of 80-100lbs of battery, or cargo.
-Fairing front and top for rain protection.

Don't see one yet on the laize-faire American market. The Lada looks cheaper so far Commerades.

[Racerbvd]

My old one..

[stealthn]

Sorry, when I see guys on them I just think "what a douce"...

YOMV

[Racerbvd]

Originally Posted by stealthn

Sorry, when I see guys on them I just think "what a douce"...

YOMV

Well, depending on what happens with my back, it may be my only choice to ride for a while...

[TechnoViking]

I don't know much about them, but I have to wonder if they are so freaking efficient, why don't you see the guys in the Tour de France riding them?

[Racerbvd]

Originally Posted by Martin Smith

I don't know much about them, but I have to wonder if they are so freaking efficient, why don't you see the guys in the Tour de France riding them?

They aren't very fun on hills & don't handle as well... I love my road bike, but then again, I love bikes..

[herr_oberst]

Seems to me that if you get a recumbent, you and the wife have to start wearing matching clothes, (be sure to buy lots of white socks to wear with your sandals), you'll want to get the belly putter for your golf game, and consider something like Brandon, Mo, for your vacation plans.

I may feel different later in life, but recumbents are kind of nerdy, to me.

And I like bikes a lot.

[porsche4life]

I know a guy with back problems that puts tons of miles on his. He can only ride a standard bike for short spells.