Recumbent bikes that stand out
Recumbent bikes are finally getting some respect. Enthusiast cyclists older than 35 love them because they have “blazing speed” without the neck or rear-end aches of regular bikes, says Victor Larivee, who stopped selling Italian racers to sell only recumbents at his Santa Monica bike shop. Although slow on hills (since you can’t stand up), ‘bents win smiles from passersby and are more scenery-friendly than traditional “upright” bikes.
*
A stable model for beginners
Easy Racers EZ-1 SC: An entry-level bike with a long wheelbase that provides good stability from a 30-year-old category pioneer.
Likes: Comfy position that resembles some health club bikes. (The pedals are just below seat level, not above, like other recumbents, which gives better balance on hills. Built-in rack for touring and commuting. Chopper handlebars feel natural and have a Harley-like cool.
Dislikes: Small wheels are slow and require different-sized spare tubes. Six-foot length makes U-turns, storage and transport awkward.
Price: $600. (831) 722-9797; easyracers.com.
*
Faster than you can say ‘recumbent’
Vision R40: The sports car of this category, with a short wheelbase and convenient steering.
Likes: Very fast. The short wheelbase helps with maneuvering in the city. Converts to a medium-length wheelbase that is ideal for beginners, for century (100-mile) rides and touring. Under-seat steering keeps hands at sides, reducing fatigue. (A normal handlebar is optional.)
Dislikes: The seat bottom is too short, so upper thighs may rub on seat frame. Wheelbase conversion must be done by a bike shop. Requires different-sized spares.
Price: $1,165. (425) 673-2448; visionrecumbents.com.
*
A smooth ride with adjustability
Burley Limbo: Comfort is a priority with this bike.
Likes: Padded seat bottom and rear shock absorbers provide a smooth ride. Converts from a long to a short wheelbase. Has the precision feel of a major bike manufacturer, which Burley is.
Dislikes: Price is higher than most, including a bike shop conversion fee. Two spares needed (front wheel is 20-inches).
Price: $1,499. (800) 311-5294; burley.com.
*
Three wheels and 72 gears
Greenspeed GTO: Red-hot recumbent tricycle with a 72-gear drive train.
Likes: An exhilarating ride. Instant acceleration, high speed and good hill-climbing result from 72 gears and an aerodynamic reclined seat that is 6 inches from the ground. Superb stability, braking because of the three-wheeled format and drum brakes. With some effort, it folds up small enough to fit in carry-on luggage.
Dislikes: Scary in traffic. Low seat means the rider can’t see around or over cars or be seen easily -- even with its 6-foot flag.
Cost: $3,200. (310) 450-3180; www.green speed.com.au.
-- Roy M. Wallack