Wooden recumbents from 2x4s?

[BryE]

Does anyone here know anything about these plans (http://mysite.verizon.net/res88kr1/) for a lowracer built from 2x4s? It looks pretty good to me, and weight isn't much of a problem around here (the biggest hills are the bridges over the interstate). I did find one guy (http://homepages.nildram.co.uk/~talizmar/xntrick/2x4.htm) who made one, and he seems pretty happy with it. Anyone else know anything about it, or have experience with something similar? Thanks!

[aikigreg]

At the last HPV race, a guy had a trike he'd made completely out of wood. It was a thing of absolute beauty. It was heavy, but handled well and felt nice and solid - just what you'd want. So if you're asking "do wooden bents work ok?" the answer would be a definite YES.

OTOH, the guy i saw who had made a LWB out of a steel I-beam on ragbrai was having a tough time of it :) Sucker had to weigh 100 pounds.

[BryE]

Actually, I'm asking if anyone knows anything specifically about the plans in the link in my first post. I want to try building a recumbent. I'm a decent woodworker and bike mechanic, so I think I'm up to the task. Also, I have no knowledge of welding and I'm too busy to take a class, so there will be no steel I-beam monsters for me. :) I'm just looking for a second opinion before I spend the $25 for the plans.

[Swimjim]

If you have the components lying around, that is a couple a DF's looking for work, Why not just spend a few bucks on the plans and go for it. It isnt that much. I install hardwood floors and refinish them for a living. From what I can see, this would be a relatively easy project. Got a miter saw and a screw gun? Your good to go. Whats the worst that can happen? Your out about fifty bucks. If thats the case, the stories you could tell would make up for it. I say, let 'er rip.

Jim

[BryE]

I say, let 'er rip.

Good advice. I'll take some pictures and post them here when I'm finished.

[jeff-o]

$25? If the plans are good, I say go for it.