I spent the day today test riding different styles of 'bents. Tried SWB, LWB, even a trike.
My rides tend to run about 25 miles, three times a week, then a good 50 mile to metric century on the weekend. I also like to do the occasional century, and my highlight ride of the year is the Pan Massachusetts Challenge, 192 miles over two days.
I have been riding a DF and really like it. However, late last year I developed some cervical disc problems that have resulted in a recurring problem with pinched nerves in my neck. I also have the usual problems with wrist pain on the DF.
So, after trying seven or eight 'bents today, I have narrowed it to a Rans Formula 26. A LWB, with a high BB, disc brakes, very comfy seating. I did note that there will be a learning curve with this puppy, but seemed to be getting a handle on the handling so that I was beginning to feel comfortable on it after only a short time.
My question...given the type of riding I described, does this sound like a good choice? I didn't really feel comfrotable or stable on SWB bikes I tried.
Also...this is a 2007 model, original price $1695, asking price $1495. Does this sound reasonable? I am also looking at the possiblity of finding a used one, as price is a big factor, but there don't seem to be many of these around. Maybe an indication that people who have them like them....
The BikeForums Team
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It's hard to make a mistake with Rans. LWB is not my style, but of those, I think Rans of whatever flavor and the Easy Racers are the shizz!
lowracer1
not my style either, but I think it would be a great first recumbent for you.........and I do mean first. The problem is that you will always want more speed. I'm on my 5th recumbent now.
credits on this picture go to warren from recumbents.com
Pockets
Take a look at www.hostelshoppe.com they have that same bike for $1195. I have a Rans Stratus and V2, love them both. I tried the duel 26" wheels but like the 26-20 combo better
Pierre!
Hello geofitz13,
That Rans is a nice bike. I went back and forth between the LWB, and the SWB bents... and then a Volae Expedition came up for sale at a sweet price only 2hr drive away... so I jumped on it.
I also have neck issues - 3 discs collapsing - so I might understand your plight. I think you have really selected a pretty sable bike.
the ONLY concern for a commuter is that it may not FIT in the ELEVATOR!!! (grin) Even with the SWB bike I get the funny looks as I "monopolize" the elevators. I can just see you holding your front wheel and the front of the bike as someone boards the elevator.
Could be a totally non issue, but something to check out on a weekend or off day.
The security on the first floor of my building can't be trusted (IMHO) and the bike comes upstairs with me where it is safe.
You are also right about the SWB stability, but man, it is fast! The only issues I really had was during the change over to clipless pedals. I "tried" the cleats on for fit, but failed to return to "lock em in" with locktight on the cleat screws... Within a week I was a crashing fool. Not really good for the neck.
Before I discovered this Fo-Paw, I panicked and picked up a Bachetta Agio (also a nice bike) and discovered that it will only fit in the elevator pretty much one way... and only one other person will fit in the elevator with us. Your situation may be totally unrelated, but thought I would mention this...
Once I discovered the oversight on the cleats, the Expedition and I bonded Very Nicely and it's my ride. My wife love the Agio, so it is happy as well.
I am really excited to be Bent - it is so comfortable and good exercise. You will be happy you have made the change. Many times the most pain free part of the day is on the Bent... well for my neck anyway... (LOL)
So, just a couple thoughts... Hope they are helpful to you.
gruffydd
I prefer the SWBs but I have ridden several LWBs and I do have a Tour Easy, that I don't ride very much any more but it is a great bike. I have had a Rans Rocket for 8 years now and I have been on many different Rans bike, but never a Formula 26. It is my opinion that you can't go wrong with a Rans bike, they make them quite well in little ol' Fort Hays.
gruffydd
ooh, Darth the lowracer1, you are making me want to race you. I have a similar looking low racer (Challenge) but not the cool looking disc wheels. If I was Luke, I would hunt you down.
Sianelle
not my style either, but I think it would be a great first recumbent for you.........and I do mean first. The problem is that you will always want more speed. I'm on my 5th recumbent now.
credits on this picture go to warren from recumbents.com
Gotta love that cycle helmet ;)
BlazingPedals
ooh, Darth the lowracer1, you are making me want to race you. I have a similar looking low racer (Challenge) but not the cool looking disc wheels. If I was Luke, I would hunt you down.
Merely go to the HPV races. He will find you. I have foreseen it.
Where do you live, gruffydd?
WB2WGX
I love mine.It is a big bike,but not hard to learn to ride.
They are a bit unstable at low speed,however you should not have any problem after a few miles.
It was my first 2 wheel bent' and I still love it.The disc brakes are great,and the price sounds pretty
good also.I am sure you will not regret buying any Rans bike.They are well made with quality components.
Good Luck,
Rich WB2WGX
geofitz13
The search is on!!
Thanks for all the input. I have a couple leads at this time, hoping to do something soon.
If I make a buy, I will post a report.