Recumbent - Challenge Seiran: E vs SL?

I'm on the verge of purchasing my first recumbent, but am not in an area where the bikes are available to experience first hand (Palo Alto, CA).

Does anyone have experience with the SL vs E versions of the Challenge Seiran?

In particular, insight into the following trade offs would be much appreciated:

("E" features on left; "SL" features on right)

durability vs. light weight (hill climbing impact?)
suspension vs. hard tail (comfort impact?)

My main use of the bike will be commuting daily. I'm also in an area where climbing is a factor, but only for the non-commuting pleasure rides.

Thanks!

Hi Jeff. The Seiran is one gorgeous bike. I have no experience with either of them, but have some with commuting and with commuting by bent. My bent has rear suspension and it makes quite a difference to my comfort and sense of safety. Commuting is hard on a bike and you need something that is going to stand up to the potholes, manhole covers, cracks and the odd spill. I have found the the weight of my bent, though heavier than my road bike, is not a factor 99% of the time I ride....

So, I would suggest you go with the E vs. the SL. Unless, of course, you are in love. Love knows no bounds or sense. If that is the case, go with the SL!!

I have a Challenge Hurricane w/rear suspension. If you want versatility, get suspension. All out speed, go hardtail. As a note, I'm down in Monterey if you want to try the Hurri' before your lay down the green.

Dr. D,

Thank you. If I'm in the neighborhood before pulling the trigger on the purchase, I may have to take you up on your offer, as it sounds like you have quite a recumbent collection!

If you're interested, I summarized my thoughts on the hard tail vs. rear suspension thread. I'd probably choose the "E" if I hadn't stumbled onto a great deal on the "SL", but both bikes have their advantages, especially with all the hills around here.

Best,
Jeffery

Dr. D,

Thank you. If I'm in the neighborhood before pulling the trigger on the purchase, I may have to take you up on your offer, as it sounds like you have quite a recumbent collection!

If you're interested, I summarized my thoughts on the hard tail vs. rear suspension thread. I'd probably choose the "E" if I hadn't stumbled onto a great deal on the "SL", but both bikes have their advantages, especially with all the hills around here.

Best,
Jeffery

Jeffery, Which ever way it works out for you, come on down & ride. we have many GREAT places to ride around here. Or you can be stoker on one of the tandem trikes. As a note; I ALWAYS go for a good deal, because it's easier to recoup your investment and move on, if the need arrises. Me?; I just keep adding to the stack!
Cheers,
Dr.D
p.s. I'm currently debating painting the Hurri, so it might not be ridable for a few weeks. Let me know if you're headed this way soon. Otherwise I should have it reskinned for the Sea Otter Classic.

Which Bike did you purchase. I am looking at the Seiran E, rear suspension, upgraded lighter wheels and USS. How do you like yours. I like the SL, but I am over 230 and like the suspension.

I have not heard much about the Challange, but they look like a great bike.


wac

I'm on the verge of purchasing my first recumbent, but am not in an area where the bikes are available to experience first hand (Palo Alto, CA).

Does anyone have experience with the SL vs E versions of the Challenge Seiran?

In particular, insight into the following trade offs would be much appreciated:

("E" features on left; "SL" features on right)

durability vs. light weight (hill climbing impact?)
suspension vs. hard tail (comfort impact?)

My main use of the bike will be commuting daily. I'm also in an area where climbing is a factor, but only for the non-commuting pleasure rides.

Thanks!

I recently purchased a Seiran SL and like it a lot. The weather has been very bad, so I only have
about 80 miles on it. It is quite comfortable on the rides I have taken. Even though there is no
suspension the ride is very smooth. My llongest ride has been 22 miles on highway shoulders.
My deciding factor was speed and climbing ability although I do also plan to use it for commuting.

Don