Hi folks. I'm making this thread to try to find out more information on my Dad's recumbent bicycle. I believe it is an EZ Racer Gold Rush.

He originally got this because of physical problems that arose from riding his normal road bike, but the switch to recumbent was a bit too difficult for him, so he switched to swimming for exercise. This thing hasn't been ridden since the first week he got it, and has been sitting in their basement for years. I'm going to attempt to either start riding this myself (if I like the feel of recumbents) or convince him to sell it (as it is not doing anyone any good sitting in a basement). Like I said, I don't know the first thing about recumbents-- I don't even know how to measure it to see if it fits me, so any pointers you all can give me would be great. Also, were I to buy this from him, what do you think a fair price would be? Thanks in advance for any advice you all can provide.

The Gold Rush used to be the top of the line for EasyRacers, before the Titanium model came along. So it's a nice bike. If you can sit in it and extend your legs to the pedals to a nearly-straight position, just like on an upright bike, then it's the right size. There is some adjustment in the seat, which is bolted to the frame. With a front fairing, they are fairly fast; but add a body sock and they can keep up with lowracers.

Price depends on the age of the bike. I presume it's in almost unused condition. I could only guess, but somewhere in the $1500-2500 range? Like a house, you should clean it up and do any required maintenance on it before you sell, to get the best price. You might get a better idea if you ask at the EasyRacer forums. http://www.easyracers.com/vbb/

If it were me, I'd keep it!

+1 on the keep it. once you start riding it, and get used to it, you may falll in love / like with it. Not everyone likes recumbents, but at least give it a good shot, before you decide to part with it. If dad sees ya out having a good time, he may think that he is missing out on something.

If you just want it out of the basement, ship it to me and I'll reimburse the shipping. Long wheelbase bents are hard to learn to ride; you wouldn't like it. I'm doing you a favor.
Don't listen to those other guys

Are you the same height as your Dad, if so it may already be set up for you.

http://www.easyracers.com/04-gold_rush.htm

The GR is a good bike, Meph. You may have a few issues when first riding it. That is completely normal.

Start out in a nice big parking lot. Use a lowish-middle gear. Bring your favorite foot to about the 12 position and start off strongly but without a rush to reach speed. Stay relaxed. Focus your attention in the distance. Before long you will be riding well enough to have an informed opinion on whether riding bent is for you.

The ER Gold Rush is pretty well the top of the line, and about as good a recumbent as you can get!
Try it, and I'll bet that if you like riding at all you'll love it andf never go back to an upright bike. Long wheel base bents are very easy to learn to ride. Just hop on and go. As someone said, ride on a flat area for a half hour or so till you get it adjusted then have at it!