oberon
01-13-07, 02:07 PM
Any seasoned bent riders our there who can help me with this dilemma? I'm really wanting a recumbent, and am leaning towards SWB model, but would like to hear how they are different from each other in riding.
View Full Version : SWB or LWB?
Opedaler
01-13-07, 04:38 PM
I know that you asked for "experienced" bent riders but I'm going to stick my nose in here for a couple of reasons. One, I've been asking this question and this is some of the responses that I've gotten, and two, if I have misunderstood my advisers then I want to know now before I continue my own quest.
SWBs have a longer learning curve. You must learn to lean your body to help control the bike. If you can take a fairly sharp curve on an upright with decent speed, then you have already mastered this. They're faster and quicker (generaly speaking). They usually also climb better than most LWBs. They twitch more and you MUST learn to relax your upper body and not oversteer. Smaller so easer to transport and store.
LWBs are easier to learn and most claim are more relaxing. You can usually view the scenery better. The length of the bike helps absorb much road/trail shock. Most feel more visable on them. Harder to manage in really heavy traffic and not as quick to adjust to a riders adjustments. Not as good for really tight turns. Great for long trail and path rides.
SWBs have a longer learning curve. You must learn to lean your body to help control the bike. If you can take a fairly sharp curve on an upright with decent speed, then you have already mastered this. They're faster and quicker (generaly speaking). They usually also climb better than most LWBs. They twitch more and you MUST learn to relax your upper body and not oversteer. Smaller so easer to transport and store.
LWBs are easier to learn and most claim are more relaxing. You can usually view the scenery better. The length of the bike helps absorb much road/trail shock. Most feel more visable on them. Harder to manage in really heavy traffic and not as quick to adjust to a riders adjustments. Not as good for really tight turns. Great for long trail and path rides.
aikigreg
01-13-07, 06:11 PM
yup. If you're a fast rider and want speed, I'd go for the SWB. You want a relaxed, motorcycle kind of ride, go more towards LWB.
If you want a real recommendatio9n you should tell us what you want the bike for to begin with.
If you want a real recommendatio9n you should tell us what you want the bike for to begin with.
Trsnrtr
01-13-07, 06:18 PM
The problem with the SWB vs, LWB is that it's very hard to generalize about their differences because bents, unlike uprights, really do vary a lot. The only answer is to ride a lot of different bikes. I know it's a clich'e, but it is very true where bents are concerned.
About the only thing I would say definitely, is that many SWBs will fit on a regular bike rack, and even then, they all won't. :)
About the only thing I would say definitely, is that many SWBs will fit on a regular bike rack, and even then, they all won't. :)
BlazingPedals
01-13-07, 08:31 PM
SWB will handle more like an upright bike, because it's about the same wheelbase. That's not to say it'll handle *like* an upright, just that the LWB will be more differenter. :) What makes the SWBs generally harder to learn is the higher pedals and (often) the more reclined seats. However, the learning process only takes so long, even on a SWB; and once learned it's not an issue. Only test rides will tell you how different bikes will feel. Go get out there and do it!
oberon
01-13-07, 10:45 PM
Ok, I would (prospectively) be using my new bent as a touring steed, and road bike. Negotiating traffic and stop lights/signs on a regular basis. So I'm leaning more toward a SWB, to keep the crazy locals on 4 wheels from killing me. But for touring, would a LWB be better? For loading capacity, comfort for a looong day in the saddle.
BlazingPedals
01-14-07, 08:55 AM
The higher pedals on a SWB might be an issue for repeated stops - only you can make that determination. A LWB with low pedals would make for easier stops. For loaded touring, the longer frame on a LWB would have more spots to hang gear, although either style can pull a trailer. So I think you're describing attributes that a LWB would best serve.
Opedaler
01-14-07, 08:55 AM
I'll let others respond to your questions oberon, as I'm not qualified to answer. I would mention something one dealer told me when I was asking for good used ones. The only time he gets bents traded back in is when they want to upgrade. No one ever trades them back in for uprights once they have a bent regardless whether SWB or LWB. Also, on test rides the LWB riders always come back with what he referred to as the "recumbent grin".
Opedaler
01-14-07, 09:29 AM
Oh yeah, he also said to seriously consider going to clipless cleats. This is important on both, but more important on SWB because of the position and height of the feet. It, according to him, adds to both comfort (ie the clips help your legs fight the pull of gravity) and to the strength of the stroke.
BikeZen.org
01-14-07, 10:57 AM
I commute 25 miles each way to work (50 miles roundtrip) on a SWB. While it took a while to get the hang of frequent starts/stops (especially on inclines), the SWB is more maneuverable to a degree that is critical for riding in heavy traffic. If that is your need, plan to spend the summer using your bike for rec use only (bike paths or wide shouldered roads), then the fall actually using it for traffic riding (roads with little-to-no shoulder, stop lights).
Ric
01-15-07, 04:50 AM
I think you'll find most of whats been said is correct and personal opinon. The only thing I can add is that I own both, ( Strada ) SWB and a ( Rans Formula V ) LWB and I prefer the Strada 99% of the time, I also prefer the same size wheels. The SWB is for me is a lot faster and handles far better than the LWB and most of my riding is done in High Traffic areas. As far as the learning curve goes you should be able to handle both in a matter of a few hundred miles. The thing that has been mentioned is test ride, that's a must even after you decide what model or style you want, test as many different makes as you can because you'll find they all ride and feel differently. The other thing or style you might consider if your going touring and worried about a load is a trike, they're great for doing that and great in traffic, just thought I'd throw that in as a possibilty.
jeff-o
01-15-07, 07:50 AM
I've written a short page on the subject here: http://www.rebel-cycles.com/newride.html
Opedaler
01-15-07, 08:50 AM
I think you'll find most of whats been said is correct and personal opinon. The only thing I can add is that I own both, ( Strada ) SWB and a ( Rans Formula V ) LWB and I prefer the Strada 99% of the time, I also prefer the same size wheels. The SWB is for me is a lot faster and handles far better than the LWB and most of my riding is done in High Traffic areas. As far as the learning curve goes you should be able to handle both in a matter of a few hundred miles. The thing that has been mentioned is test ride, that's a must even after you decide what model or style you want, test as many different makes as you can because you'll find they all ride and feel differently. The other thing or style you might consider if your going touring and worried about a load is a trike, they're great for doing that and great in traffic, just thought I'd throw that in as a possibilty.
Ric........Would your preference for the SWB be any different if your riding was primarily long touring type rides? Thanks
Ric........Would your preference for the SWB be any different if your riding was primarily long touring type rides? Thanks
oberon
01-15-07, 09:13 AM
Hmmm... I'll probably end up getting the bent tech blue prints for both SWB and LWB and just building myself some, thanks to the fact that I have access to my college's machine shop.
Now another question. Above seat steering or under seat steering? I'm leaning more toward USS for touring (more relaxed arms), and I'm very questionable of ASS with knee clearance (I'm 6"3). Anybody have issues with this?
Now another question. Above seat steering or under seat steering? I'm leaning more toward USS for touring (more relaxed arms), and I'm very questionable of ASS with knee clearance (I'm 6"3). Anybody have issues with this?
BlazingPedals
01-15-07, 09:19 AM
There are basically two types of OSS. With 'praying hamster bars,' you typically adjust the steering so that the bars are just behind your knees; and in the case of superman (U-Bars,) the bars are in front of your knees but pull back alongside your legs.
Opedaler
01-15-07, 09:43 AM
Hmmm... I'll probably end up getting the bent tech blue prints for both SWB and LWB and just building myself some, thanks to the fact that I have access to my college's machine shop.
Now another question. Above seat steering or under seat steering? I'm leaning more toward USS for touring (more relaxed arms), and I'm very questionable of ASS with knee clearance (I'm 6"3). Anybody have issues with this?
Man, I wish that I had your abilities. Would make initial trial and error a lot more practical.
Again, just passing along others opinions. USS is more comfortable but intimidating not having anything in front of you. Long turn radius because the handles don't turn as far.
ASS....more aerodynamic if the grips are in front of the body. Turns shorter. Requirs some energy to maintain arm position.
PS......another thing that has been mentioned to me that might be of consideration and hasn't been covered here is heel strike......a consideration on certain SWBs.
Now another question. Above seat steering or under seat steering? I'm leaning more toward USS for touring (more relaxed arms), and I'm very questionable of ASS with knee clearance (I'm 6"3). Anybody have issues with this?
Man, I wish that I had your abilities. Would make initial trial and error a lot more practical.
Again, just passing along others opinions. USS is more comfortable but intimidating not having anything in front of you. Long turn radius because the handles don't turn as far.
ASS....more aerodynamic if the grips are in front of the body. Turns shorter. Requirs some energy to maintain arm position.
PS......another thing that has been mentioned to me that might be of consideration and hasn't been covered here is heel strike......a consideration on certain SWBs.
Ric
01-15-07, 10:16 AM
Ric........Would your preference for the SWB be any different if your riding was primarily long touring type rides? Thanks
If it was primarily touring and I had to make a choice between the two I'd have to say I'd stick with the / my SWB. I said testing different bikes IMO is a must, I've found that unlike a DF you are going to run across a bent that fits you and you'll know it when it happens, doesn't matter if it's SWB or LWB or a Trike it will fit like a glove and it kinda becomes part of you and everything you do on the bike will become second nature. That's what I found with the Strada and IMO that's what you should look for when buying a Bent. Having confidece in what you ride can make a lot of difference in the way you ride and how much you ride.
If it was primarily touring and I had to make a choice between the two I'd have to say I'd stick with the / my SWB. I said testing different bikes IMO is a must, I've found that unlike a DF you are going to run across a bent that fits you and you'll know it when it happens, doesn't matter if it's SWB or LWB or a Trike it will fit like a glove and it kinda becomes part of you and everything you do on the bike will become second nature. That's what I found with the Strada and IMO that's what you should look for when buying a Bent. Having confidece in what you ride can make a lot of difference in the way you ride and how much you ride.
World Tour
01-15-07, 11:15 AM
I own a truly wonderful LWB. My seat is 15" above the ground. Pedals are at seat height (important for preventing feet numbness). However, it is not suited to situations requiring great maneuverability. But it's perfect for long touring.
Little kids, and everyone I pass on my bike stop and look and often say cool bike. My 8 y/o nephew calls it a chopper hehehe. It's a copy of the old groundhugger. And I do love it.
Either way, go bent and never look back.
Little kids, and everyone I pass on my bike stop and look and often say cool bike. My 8 y/o nephew calls it a chopper hehehe. It's a copy of the old groundhugger. And I do love it.
Either way, go bent and never look back.
BlazingPedals
01-15-07, 03:02 PM
OSS (the counterpoint to UNDER is OVER, not ABOVE,) doesn't require you to hold up your arms. With tiller or hamster bars, your elbows are typically at your sides with forearms extended and your hands resting on the bars. In that case, you don't need to grip the bars, the natural curve of your fingers will 'hook' onto the bars and support the weight of your forearms. U-Bars or 'tweeners' are a little more work for your fingers, about the same as maintaining a grip on a car's steering wheel; but you're still not physically holding your arms up. That would cause tired arms in a hurry! I like OSS best because the handlebars are a convenient place to mount your computer, bell, or light.
Some people like USS for the unimpeded view it provides. Others think it's more comfortable. I suspect the 'alien factor' is a big reason, too - the average person on the street usually doesn't notice the handlebars under the seat and thinks the bike is steered by thought control.
Some people like USS for the unimpeded view it provides. Others think it's more comfortable. I suspect the 'alien factor' is a big reason, too - the average person on the street usually doesn't notice the handlebars under the seat and thinks the bike is steered by thought control.
Opedaler
01-15-07, 06:51 PM
[QUOTE=BlazingPedals]OSS (the counterpoint to UNDER is OVER, not ABOVE,) x
Jeez, thanks BP. Had I gone into a store and asked for Above Seat Steering, using my acronym I might have gotten my face slapped.
Jeez, thanks BP. Had I gone into a store and asked for Above Seat Steering, using my acronym I might have gotten my face slapped.
bentbaggerlen
01-15-07, 07:33 PM
Ric, You hit right on the head when you said >I think you'll find most of whats been said is correct and personal opinon.< Thats one of the great things about recumbent, no rules.
Like yourself, I ride both SWB and LWB bikes. But I find that I prefer the LWB bikes. Even when riding in city traffic, I find them more stable and predicable. Especially when fully loaded on tour. I've ridden both on long tours fully loaded and never had a problem in traffic, even with the tandems. The wheel base on my preferred touring bike (Longbikes Gulfstream) has a 106" wheel base (10" longer then my car!) The only time the bikes length has been a problem was at a motel, they only had 2nd floor rooms left and I had split the bike to get it to go around the corner into the room.
And then we have USS or OSS, I prefer the USS for the view and I find it more comfortable on long rides. With OSS like on the Rans Screamer I find it causes pain in my elbows after a long day in the saddl... ummm seat. It all comes down to personal prefaces.
My recommendation to Oberon, ride as many as you can. Try to find some bent riders in your area. LWB/SWB USS/OSS it's just the start of it. High bottom bracket, low bottom bracket, low racers, high racer, dual 26's, CWB, upright, laid back.... the combinations are endless
Blazing Pedals said:
>I suspect the 'alien factor' is a big reason, too - the average person on the street usually doesn't notice the handlebars under the seat and thinks the bike is steered by thought control.<
I've told people that as a joke. But the alien factor could play a big part in why many of ride bents in the first place.
Like yourself, I ride both SWB and LWB bikes. But I find that I prefer the LWB bikes. Even when riding in city traffic, I find them more stable and predicable. Especially when fully loaded on tour. I've ridden both on long tours fully loaded and never had a problem in traffic, even with the tandems. The wheel base on my preferred touring bike (Longbikes Gulfstream) has a 106" wheel base (10" longer then my car!) The only time the bikes length has been a problem was at a motel, they only had 2nd floor rooms left and I had split the bike to get it to go around the corner into the room.
And then we have USS or OSS, I prefer the USS for the view and I find it more comfortable on long rides. With OSS like on the Rans Screamer I find it causes pain in my elbows after a long day in the saddl... ummm seat. It all comes down to personal prefaces.
My recommendation to Oberon, ride as many as you can. Try to find some bent riders in your area. LWB/SWB USS/OSS it's just the start of it. High bottom bracket, low bottom bracket, low racers, high racer, dual 26's, CWB, upright, laid back.... the combinations are endless
Blazing Pedals said:
>I suspect the 'alien factor' is a big reason, too - the average person on the street usually doesn't notice the handlebars under the seat and thinks the bike is steered by thought control.<
I've told people that as a joke. But the alien factor could play a big part in why many of ride bents in the first place.
oberon
01-15-07, 09:44 PM
Ahha. So I should go out and try a bunch of different models and stick to what feels the best. Unfortunately the ONLY bike shop within 40 miles doesn't regularly carry bents. That, and they aren't very nice to noob cyclists, at least to me.
TMT
01-15-07, 11:35 PM
I like a trike. takes a min to get used to but the width is worth it. goes fast, goes slow, goes up, goes down, keeps pace with cars in the city, and makes a great camp platform on those long trips. no rear strain or pain.
Opedaler
01-16-07, 06:21 AM
[QUOTE=oberon]Ahha. So I should go out and try a bunch of different models and stick to what feels the best. Unfortunately the ONLY bike shop within 40 miles doesn't regularly carry bents.
Oberon
I'm finding this and other related problems. They don't carry bents and if they do they don't have used ones. The test rides on new ones are limited to 30 to 40 minutes (and I don't blame them). Mastering the 99 mile learning curve (I don't need the full hundred 'cause I'm a fast learner) is ususlly out of the question. I'm in a very rural area and can't think of anyone who has one. There is a bent group about six hours away who ride in the summer but must confess that I'm a little intimidated approaching them about giving up one of their bikes for a day. I'm trying to find some rental place within driving distance that has a variety of bikes and just rent different ones for an afternoon.
I guess at least the dealships around here are friendly. If you find a solution, would you kindly post.....Thanks
Oberon
I'm finding this and other related problems. They don't carry bents and if they do they don't have used ones. The test rides on new ones are limited to 30 to 40 minutes (and I don't blame them). Mastering the 99 mile learning curve (I don't need the full hundred 'cause I'm a fast learner) is ususlly out of the question. I'm in a very rural area and can't think of anyone who has one. There is a bent group about six hours away who ride in the summer but must confess that I'm a little intimidated approaching them about giving up one of their bikes for a day. I'm trying to find some rental place within driving distance that has a variety of bikes and just rent different ones for an afternoon.
I guess at least the dealships around here are friendly. If you find a solution, would you kindly post.....Thanks
jawnn
02-23-07, 02:25 PM
LWB is best for touring and slow riding....the lower the pedals the easier to balance, but then your butt may suffer on long rides. I think the best compromise is to have the pedal ready to push at seat level.:eek:
ppc
02-24-07, 05:35 PM
Any seasoned bent riders our there who can help me with this dilemma? I'm really wanting a recumbent, and am leaning towards SWB model, but would like to hear how they are different from each other in riding.
The true answer to your question is: whatever bike you feel good with. The only way to know whether you'll prefer SWB or LWB, ASS or USS, or whatever other bike feature, is to try bikes one by one for an hour or two. I know it's not easy, because you most likely don't have a store near you with many kinds of different bents to try out, but it's the only way to find out whether you'll get recumbutt on a seat, or whether you'll find yourself scared to death of USS no matter how hard you try to get used to it, or whether you prefer this bike's handling over that bike's. If you don't try different bikes before settling on a model (or building it), chances are you'll want to sell the bike within a year and get something else.
I think the easiest thing to do if you want to try bikes is to ask on this here board if there are bent riders near you who might let you try their bike for a ride. I think you'll find most riders are okay with the idea. In my area, whenever someone shows up and expresses an interest in recumbents, we're usually quick to setup a ride with several different bents and the guy (or gal) tries each model in turn.
The true answer to your question is: whatever bike you feel good with. The only way to know whether you'll prefer SWB or LWB, ASS or USS, or whatever other bike feature, is to try bikes one by one for an hour or two. I know it's not easy, because you most likely don't have a store near you with many kinds of different bents to try out, but it's the only way to find out whether you'll get recumbutt on a seat, or whether you'll find yourself scared to death of USS no matter how hard you try to get used to it, or whether you prefer this bike's handling over that bike's. If you don't try different bikes before settling on a model (or building it), chances are you'll want to sell the bike within a year and get something else.
I think the easiest thing to do if you want to try bikes is to ask on this here board if there are bent riders near you who might let you try their bike for a ride. I think you'll find most riders are okay with the idea. In my area, whenever someone shows up and expresses an interest in recumbents, we're usually quick to setup a ride with several different bents and the guy (or gal) tries each model in turn.
Richlec
01-12-08, 11:22 PM
I have a Vision R40 USS Convertible. Best of both worlds. Real easy to switch between SWB & LWB when needed. It's also very fast... :)
dgholmes59
01-13-08, 07:25 AM
Ahha. So I should go out and try a bunch of different models and stick to what feels the best. Unfortunately the ONLY bike shop within 40 miles doesn't regularly carry bents. That, and they aren't very nice to noob cyclists, at least to me.
How about a 100 or 200 miles? There are so many differences in bents that I would suggest finding a large bike shop that carries a fair selection of bents. I had to drive over 100 miles and glad I did. I had decided that the Rans Stratus XP was the bike for me. I was riding an EZ Sport so I thought I would step up and buy a better LWB. I did not think I could ride a high BB recumbent.
I test rode the XP and really liked it. I was just about to pay for it when I asked if they had any SWB bikes in my size. I needed a large frame. I test rode a Bacchetta Giro 20 and man what a ride. The handling was much different than the Stratus, much more like a regular bike (DF). The seat laid back so far, that my recumbutt problem would not be a problem anymore. And the high BB was great. I had no problem with it at all. I bought the Giro and it is the best bike I have EVER owned. I absolutely love it.
I would agree with others that test riding is a must. Opinions are great to hear other's experiences, but not to decide which bike is right for you. For example, a lot of people think the 26/26 high racers are the greatest bikes ever made. I read all of these opinions and went back to the original bike shop to have some warranty work done on my Giro. While I was there, I test rode 2 different 26/26 high racers and did not like either as much as my 26/20 Giro.
How about a 100 or 200 miles? There are so many differences in bents that I would suggest finding a large bike shop that carries a fair selection of bents. I had to drive over 100 miles and glad I did. I had decided that the Rans Stratus XP was the bike for me. I was riding an EZ Sport so I thought I would step up and buy a better LWB. I did not think I could ride a high BB recumbent.
I test rode the XP and really liked it. I was just about to pay for it when I asked if they had any SWB bikes in my size. I needed a large frame. I test rode a Bacchetta Giro 20 and man what a ride. The handling was much different than the Stratus, much more like a regular bike (DF). The seat laid back so far, that my recumbutt problem would not be a problem anymore. And the high BB was great. I had no problem with it at all. I bought the Giro and it is the best bike I have EVER owned. I absolutely love it.
I would agree with others that test riding is a must. Opinions are great to hear other's experiences, but not to decide which bike is right for you. For example, a lot of people think the 26/26 high racers are the greatest bikes ever made. I read all of these opinions and went back to the original bike shop to have some warranty work done on my Giro. While I was there, I test rode 2 different 26/26 high racers and did not like either as much as my 26/20 Giro.
Wilbur Bud
01-13-08, 07:49 AM
The only sure conclusion is that you will want some changes, big or small, after you ride a year or at least a couple thousand miles. So, my advice is to make some research on an SWB/OSS and LWB/USS and determine a model of each that sells and resells at an extremely stable price, and then buy the one closest to home that looks good to you and ride it for a year. Only after that baseline should you build up or trade up to a machine that is almost everything you wanted in the first place, and the initial money spent won't be lost.
mrlee
01-14-08, 09:31 AM
I also own both a swb and lwb recumbent and enjoy them both. It took longer to feel comfortable on the swb though, since it had under seat steering and putting my feet down felt awkward with the handlebar there. It was also twitchier than the long wheelbase. I converted the steering to "praying hamster" style and am very pleased with it. The pedals are quite high on the swb so clips are essential- I had my feet jarred off the pedals several times going over bumps- not pleasant at all! My advice would be to test ride each type before you buy, and if you can, buy 1 each! I used the swb on my first century last year, and for longer training rides, but use the lwb with platform pedals for local spur of the moment rides, trips to the store, etc. Don't hesitate to approach the recumbent riders you may encounter, they are more likely than most to be helpful since we are always looking for new "recruits", lol.
defjack
01-14-08, 08:48 PM
I like high racers. Jack
Chaco
01-14-08, 09:12 PM
I don't have much to add, except to say that riding an LWB doesn't at all condemn you to going slow. There are very few riders on the road that I can't keep up with, if not pass easily.
gnome
01-14-08, 09:50 PM
I don't have a LWB, but have briefly tried a couple. They were extremely easy to learn, particularly after riding a SWB. The only one I couldn't ride was a very long and low LWB with front wheel drive and underseat stearing.
I prefer the SWB design for the general sportyness of the ride. I ride a RANS Rocket with the flying hampster style bars. I use it for commuting and have just competed a 900km unsuported cycle tour. I have found it very comfortable and with the pedals at roughly the seat height, I have almost cured my numb feet problem.
If you can test ride, or beg and borrow rides in a variety of recumbents, including trikes, to see what you like.
I prefer the SWB design for the general sportyness of the ride. I ride a RANS Rocket with the flying hampster style bars. I use it for commuting and have just competed a 900km unsuported cycle tour. I have found it very comfortable and with the pedals at roughly the seat height, I have almost cured my numb feet problem.
If you can test ride, or beg and borrow rides in a variety of recumbents, including trikes, to see what you like.
cat0020
01-15-08, 06:28 AM
LWB take up storage room, harder to transport with other vehicle, more difficult to use public transportation (like bus or train).
SWB may be more difficult to ride at first, but once you learned to master it, you'll have a bike that take up less room than a LWB bike, easier to transport and getting on public transportation... parobably weigh less, also.
SWB may be more difficult to ride at first, but once you learned to master it, you'll have a bike that take up less room than a LWB bike, easier to transport and getting on public transportation... parobably weigh less, also.
Artkansas
01-15-08, 09:54 AM
For me the defining difference has been that I can plunk my SWB recumbent on the front of a bus in the bike racks. That adds so much flexibility. An LWB just wouldn't fit.
Ric
01-15-08, 11:14 AM
I tend too agree that the LWB is harder to store and transport than a SWB but I also believe for some it's the best choice. It's kinda like having the High Racer with 700c, it's not for everyone, it's a personal choice and each has a specific use, that's why they make so many different models.
gcottay
01-15-08, 12:32 PM
Ahha. So I should go out and try a bunch of different models and stick to what feels the best. Unfortunately the ONLY bike shop within 40 miles doesn't regularly carry bents. That, and they aren't very nice to noob cyclists, at least to me.
Just in my opinion, it's worth some travel to get a bike or trike that fits you and your riding.
Also, again just as a matter of personal opinion, it can be worth asking around about bike shops and perhaps giving one a second chance if they have a generally good reputation. Depending on the day they are having, even a good shop can seem less than interested in your business no matter what your level of experience.
Just in my opinion, it's worth some travel to get a bike or trike that fits you and your riding.
Also, again just as a matter of personal opinion, it can be worth asking around about bike shops and perhaps giving one a second chance if they have a generally good reputation. Depending on the day they are having, even a good shop can seem less than interested in your business no matter what your level of experience.
Doug5150
01-27-08, 03:36 PM
Any seasoned bent riders our there who can help me with this dilemma? I'm really wanting a recumbent, and am leaning towards SWB model, but would like to hear how they are different from each other in riding.
LWB's ride more stable riding, but SWB's are easier to transport (especially on car racks and bus racks). The main time SWB's are unstable is when riding through gravel.
Also--on SWB's shorter people tend to not be comfortable stopping and standing (because ground reach is difficult).
~
LWB's ride more stable riding, but SWB's are easier to transport (especially on car racks and bus racks). The main time SWB's are unstable is when riding through gravel.
Also--on SWB's shorter people tend to not be comfortable stopping and standing (because ground reach is difficult).
~
vBulletin® v3.7.3, Copyright ©2000-2008, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.