'04 Burley Hepcat ?

[jwh]

I have never ridden a bent but with recent back problems I am considering one. Any opinions of the Burley Hepcat? I like the looks of it.

[ronsmithjunior]

I have a 2003 Hepcat. It is the same as the 2004 except that the 2004 has better wheels and disk brakes. Last year I put around 2500 miles on my Hepcat, doing a number of long rides, including 3 double centuries in the California Triple Crown series. If I had to do it over again I'd get another Hepcat. The short wheel base works for me, as does the over-seat steering. One plus of the Hepcat is the normal "rapid fire" shifters, as opposed to the grip shifters, which feel awkward to me.

If you are a large and/or powerful rider I'd suggest that you get the "speed struts" that support the rear of the seat. Me, I am 6'7", 215 lbs, and make enough power to make the bike feel like it was going to fold up. The struts fixed that.

Be aware that this bike will have a mind of its own when climbing at slow speeds. It takes a lot of concentration to keep the thing going in a straight line while doing 3-4 mph up a steep hill. While doing the Knoxville Double Century (outside of Sacramento CA), I spent a lot of the time grinding up the 11-12k feet of climbing. What makes it worthwhile is the 11-12k feet of descending. The bike goes down hills like it is on rails.

[bentcruiser]

I have never ridden a bent but with recent back problems I am considering one. Any opinions of the Burley Hepcat? I like the looks of it.

I ride a Burley Canto. I think the Burley Coop makes a great line of products. Their tandems, trailers and recumbents are made great. Granted I am a bit critical of the seat. But overall the bike is great.

[dlharrison]

I noticed your comments regarding a Burley Hepcat. I have a 2001 Burley Hepcat for sale. It is loaded with all the accessories. If you are interested, please drop me a line. I just placed the bike on Ebay. It is listed under Ebay number 7133678843.