Recumbent - Searching for the bike?

Hi, I am brand spanking new to recumbent bicycles. My wife and I are both 50 years old. We think we would like the tricycle style so we could ride it into the sunset so to speak and not have to balance the darn things and crash and burn so to speak.. Will anyone give me some advice on what to look for and how to go about finding what we need? I am lost and need some help. Thanks PEABOB

Search for trike dealers in your area. Wizwheelz are made in Hastings, Michigan if that's anywhere near you. Maybe you can arrange a test ride with them. Test ride several different trike brands for as long as you can. That way you will have some idea of what you like and don't like. Also, be aware, like with any bent you will use different muscles than your upright bike. If you ride a lot these muscles will come quickly.

There is a buyer's guide on http://www.bentrideronline.com which includes trikes. Generally speaking, a low tadpole trike is more stable and faster (translates to "more aero") than a tall delta trike, but harder to enter/exit. If you are planning on keeping these trikes for 20 years or more - something I don't completely understand - then getting into/out of a 6-inch high seat at age 80 becomes a consideration.

Edit: Yes I know 50 + 20 = 70 but I am keying more on the possibility that these are intended to be the *last* bike/trike purchase, so they may be in service a lot longer.

Peabob, I would echo the advice on this thread so far. Imperative to try as many different bikes/trikes as possible and then when you've narrowed your choices, go back and try those again. My wife and I are 58 and 60 years young. We rode a DF tandem for 14 years and then switched to a recumbent tandem two years ago. 6000 km later we can't figure why we waited so long to go recumbent. While you're looking, consider a tandem bike or tandem trike; the cost of one tandem is not much more than the cost of two singles and it is so much fun to ride together. Be patient, try lots and good luck.

If you are planning on keeping these trikes for 20 years or more - something I don't completely understand

Why?

Why?

The Urge to Upgrade is very strong... ;)