[Inthe10ring]

My friend Will is considering purchasing a recumbent bike, as his back and neck give him problems on a regular "wedgie". The bike he rode today (his first recumbent ride ever) was a Haluzak Horizon (SWB). He loved the bike, but he noticed that the bike tended to feel "darty" and "twitchy" on the controls, and tended to wander a bit. I chalked this up to lack of experience on the recumbent, as his skill greatly improved over the hourish ride. Is there going to be a big difference in dartyness going to a LWB bent? Anybody have any experience with this bike? Damn, he had more fun than i did on my new touring bike... :cry: Guess it's time to start shopping for a bent, maybe even a tadpole trike...:D Thanks again...
Ryan

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[BlazingPedals]

Generally, a LWB or compact will not have as much of that feeling, since the longer wheelbase tends to dampen the sensation. The cause isn't necessarily a defect in the bent's handling, it's most often caused by the rider tensing his upper body. Learning to relax is the key. "Take a deep breath, sit back in that comfy seat, and enjoy!" is not just a good philosophy, it's proper technique.

[Recumbomatic]

I agree with the above. LWBs are generally more stable, which makes them nice for long-distance cruising and touring. Also, they have slightly more frame flex, thus a cushier ride. SWBs can be great too, quite speedy, they just need a light touch for steering. Relaxation and practice is the key.

Haluzaks have a good rep. Perhaps your friend can try a variety of recumbents before he makes a choice.

[Inthe10ring]

Coming accross bents for sale in the area has proven to be trickier than origionally anticipated... He noticed the same thing about relaxing on the bike, and not using the upper body at all when mashin' on the pedals for a sprint etc... Also nocited a very small, but very noticable amount of play in the tie rod bushing closest to the bar steer tube (if that makes sense), and I'm sure that once properly serviced and maintained, that "neutral zone" riding straight on the bike will be less sloppy if nothing else... Thanks again for the input, and for making this the best bicycle recourse on the internet period!!!
Ryan