Recumbent - noob questions re: underseat steering

Does anyone make an off-the-shelf 'bent with underseat steering?

And (the more important question, I guess), what are the advantages/disadvantages of underseat steering?

My Vision R40 came with underseat steering. But ATP went out of business making the R40 hard to find now. I suppose that really doens't help you.

Actionbent (http://www.actionbent.com/ASSEMBLY_MANUAL/ABTW3.htm) makes an USS bike and I own it. I can't compare the difference of an OSS to an USS as I've only rode an USS. I can tell you that it's been a joy to ride. I find breathing is easy on a USS as your arms are to the side. I run out of legs before I run out of lungs. :D I have no pain in my arms from holding them up as they are postioned naturally to the side with my hands resting comfortably on the shifters. The shape and position of the handlebars have actually saved the rest of the bike from damage the couple of times I've pulled an Artie Johnson. (Coming to a stop then falling over :rolleyes: ). Also, if I ever do an endo, I won't have a post smashing into my nether region :eek:

I have read the learning curve for a USS is a little steeper than a OSS. The balance felt really weird having rode nothing but DF's. I didn't get a full crank revolution before falling over the first 3 times I attempted to start off with this bike. The 4th time my buddy held me up and ran along side for about 20 feet then I was on my way. :p I quickly got used to the feel and the next time I started from a complete stop. The more I rode, the more skilled I got. I can now start off as easily as I can on my DF.

I have sat on a couple of OSS bikes in dealers and I didn't especially like the feel of the handlebars being up, but I guess it may just be what I've gotten used to.

Challenge makes several models with USS, and some with both USS or ASS as options.

I've ridden perhaps 8 different recumbents, most with ASS. I like the USS best because my arms are more relaxed and I don't have any aluminum close to my inner legs! Two disadvantages of USS: (1) while navigating tight spaces, your hands are closer to other obstacles (bridge railings, vehicle doors), (2) on some bikes, you might lose some aerodynamic efficiency due to the extra width. This latter disadvantage is negligable for non-racers. The first disadvantage can be significant if you ride many bike paths in urban areas.

Overall, I prefer USS for sheer relaxation. I'd rather have strain in my legs, and nothing else!

Does anyone make an off-the-shelf 'bent with underseat steering?

And (the more important question, I guess), what are the advantages/disadvantages of underseat steering?

Linear makes USS bikes, the original aluminum "beam". :) You can see them here: http://www.linearrecumbent.com/

Also Quetzal makes chromo and aluminum versions of it's USS bike, which you can see here: http://www.quetzal.ca/vente.htm

Linear is located in upstate New York and Quetzal in Montreal.

Other posts have already discussed the pros/cons, so I won't repeat it.

Well, I sell one. ;)

Basically, USS is slightly more comfortable because your arms rest at your sides. The rider is also afforded an open, unobstructed view of the road. Great for cruising country roads!

My Vision R40 came with underseat steering. But ATP went out of business making the R40 hard to find now. I suppose that really doens't help you.
Several ATP/Vision recumbents are currently on eBay, so they aren't THAT hard to find really.
As for me, I prefer to have the handlebars in front of me on two wheels. My trikes (both Greenspeeds) are almost USS, but with 3 wheels starting/stopping is a non issue. The other 3 'bents are all above seat steering. Just a personal preference. I've owned more than 40 recumbents and thats the way I like them.
Trikes or above seat steering 2 wheel bents. Trying them all is the only way to know for sure what works for you. Good luck in your search for recumbency.
Dr.D

have any bent Q's, PM me anytime!