Recumbent - Newbie questions

I'm relatively new to recumbents ( had a LWB EZ Rider about 5 years ago) and now in the market for a SWB. One question is, which wheel setup is better/faster etc, 26/26 or 26/20. And, what makes/models do you suggest? Looking for price between $1500-$2200. Will use for long distance riding, centuries etc. Thanks, Rick

Main advantage of the 26/20 is for the height challenged. Those of us at 66-67" tall or
less will find the lower saddle height of the 20" FW more comfortable when stop/starting.
The general opinion is that larger wheels 'roll better' but the tire has a lot more to do with
this than wheel size. Shorter types have to strain a bit to reach the ground when stopped
or slide forward in the seat and sit up with 26/26 wheels on Volae/Bacchetta style bikes
which is mostly what I referenced above. Saddle heights in the 22-24" range require a
strain to reach the ground for shorter riders and semi reclined seating. Saddles with more
erect posture are less of a problem.

I'm relatively new to recumbents ( had a LWB EZ Rider about 5 years ago) and now in the market for a SWB. One question is, which wheel setup is better/faster etc, 26/26 or 26/20. And, what makes/models do you suggest? Looking for price between $1500-$2200. Will use for long distance riding, centuries etc. Thanks, Rick

No particular setup is better than another. Generally the more aero (the more reclined the seat and higher the pedals) the faster on the flats and downhills but lighter weight is better for climbing hills. A small front wheel makes it easier for shorter riders to start and stop, particularly uphills. A larger wheel will roll easier once moving and will generally ride over rough ground easier. A 20 inch wheel will generally accelerate quicker, but will require more effort to keep moving, and is likely to ride rougher on rough roads.

You could look at models from RANS, Barchetta, Volae or others. Search Bentrider Online for information on the various types and models.

What bike will be better and faster over time is the one that you are most comfortable on since that has the biggest impact over long distances.

Well, the lowracer is the fastest bent out there, and all of them are SWB. So the answer is, it depends on what models you're looking at buying. It's so much more about weight of the bike than it is about wheel size.

But if you're not going with a lowracer, 26/26 will be the faster bike most of the time.

Go to www.bentrideronline.com and ask. That is probably "the" best recumbent forum available. They will be more than happy to help.

Best,

Jeff

LWB Linear
RANS Tailwind ( sold )
SWB Linear ( sold )
Penninger Delta trike

Thanks to all of you for your advice and input.

Rick