tom o

Is there an Optima Baron owner in the Chicago area who would let me test ride their bike? I want to see if I could ride one of these comfortably.

lowracer1

the answer is yes. anyone could ride a baron comfortably. A baron would be more comfortable than your current bike.

tom o

How about the difference between a Baron and a Stinger. Most of my riding is 15 to 30 miles on city streets and paved trails. I commuted to work last year and I participate in charity and other group rides 5 or 6 times a year.

BentKent

Hello, there is one at the recumbent shop near me. Valley Bikes in Carmel, IN 800-730-9021. The owners son, Drew, rides it.

tom o

Thank you and everyone who answered or thought about answering. I bought a Baron so the test ride is no longer needed. Delivery is tomorrow.

lowracer1

cool, let us know what your intial impressions are with the baron once you get out and get some rides on it. Also keep in mind if you want to try a tour on it this september, a bunch of us lowracer riders are doing the BRAT tour in Tennessee (september)

jeff-o

How much do Barons go for these days?

tom o

I am told that you can get a new framset for around $1,800. You can then customize to your heart's content. I have seen them for $3,000 and up. In Europe they sell for less but they quote prices in Euros and duty and shipping will kill you.