DnvrFox

Hi!!

I am seriously considering adding a new dimension to my bicycling, which currently consists of a couple of road bikes, a mtn bike and a vintage. That new dimension would be a recumbent, I want to try one and see how I like it. I have ridden one just in a parking lot a few years back, and was able to balance and ride it first try.

I riide about 3.000 - 4,000 miles per year. I ride solo simply for the pleasure on our wonderful MUPS here in the Denver area. Speed is of no concern to me. I like to stop and take pictures, smell the roses, etc.

I would like to purchase a basic entry-level bent simply as a starter bent to get a feel for bents. One I could resell fairly easily if things don't work out.

Here is one on our local CL - a Sun LWB.

https://denver.craigslist.org/bik/2412367960.html

Any thoughts greatly appreciated. Heck, I am almost 72 - time for something new - right? Something under $600. Used is fine.

Oh, I don't have a goatee. Is that OK?

All input GREATLY appreciated.

Retro Grouch 

Denver, I went through that decision process a year ago. Knowing what I do now, I'll give you the same advice that I give to everybody else. Find a recumbent specialist dealer and take a road trip.

There are so many different designs and they ride quite differently one from another. I wouldn't reject a trike out-of-hand either. Transportation and storage present some additional challenges as compared to conventional bicycles.

DnvrFox

Good advice. There must be one in the Denver metro area somewhere. I know there are none here in Parker. although one bike shop might carry a model or two.

Thanks

altozwei

I will heartily concur that IF you can get out to some shops and try out some different bikes (and trikes) it will help you make the best decision, even if you choose to buy a used bike or trike. Here are some recumbent dealers in your area. Talk to them or, better, go visit and find the style you are most happy with. I just got a decent bike on Craigslist a few weeks ago for $450 so your budget is not out of line but it really helps to know what you are looking for, what size frame you need, what style you most enjoy, and whether or not the asking price is really a good one or not. Happy shopping!

https://www.angletechcycles.com/

https://www.recumbenttrikestore.com/

https://www.recumbentbikesdenver.com/

https://www.rockymountainrecumbents.com/

https://www.recumbentbrothers.com/

DnvrFox

Hey, THANKS - most helpful. You found more than I did in my google search. I appreciate your effort.

DnvrFox

Unfortunately, they are either online, a phone number only or in Fort Collins or Colorado Springs. There may be one at 2800 S. University in Denver, but that may be rental only. I'll check it out tomorrow.

BlazingPedals

Kelvin Clark at Angletech is one of the undisputed authorities on recumbents. But he's near Colorado Springs. Still, not that far away. For recumbent dealers, that's like right next door.

DnvrFox

I may have located a couple more stores here in Denver, but certainly not one comprehensive 'bent shop, which sort of amazes me.

VegasTriker

Thinking of moving to the dark side? Almost every recumbent rider is going to insist you try out many different recumbents. Each of us perceives comfort and handling differently. Unfortunately, few live in places where finding a wide array to try out is even possible. When posters list their current and previous recumbents, sometimes the list can be quite long as the quest may never end. That's why buying a used recumbent can often be a wise choice. It lessens the likelyhood you will lose a lot of money if your choice doesn't work out. I looked at the CL ad your posted. It is one of the entry level recumbents so don't expect it to match the performance of your $$$$ MTBs or road bikes. In general Sun models tend to be a bit heavy. The ad also mentions a warranty. I'd read the Sun warranty carefully before you take this as gospel. Most warranties only cover the original purchaser. I have come across people riding this very model in my area. They seem to be happy with what they are riding but perhaps it is because that is the only one they have ridden or can afford. They show up on our local CL more frequently than any other recumbent. It is pretty hard to find a recumbent costing less than $350.

rydabent

Since you mentioned that you like riding solo on MUPs for the enjoyment, a bent is outstanding. Being able to set upright and and the freedom to look all around and even up is you want to is great.

DnvrFox

Thanks for all the replies. Isn't learning about and trying new things a blast?

SesameCrunch

I just converted to 'bents after years of road riding. Back problems. It's been wonderful! I keep asking myself why I didn't switch sooner!

The first thing I noticed is how wonderful the view is from the recumbent position. You get to see everything. I now have to put sunscreen on my face; never bothered before because my head was always down on a DF bike. Second thing is how much faster I am on the flats (about 1.5-2mph faster, IMHO). Third thing is how I am not worried about the wind anymore. I live along the Pacific Coast in the SF area. Wind comes up every afternoon 10-20 mph like clockwork. I would always have to take that into account. Now, I don't care nearly as much, as my recumbent slices through it. Finally, I don't get as tired or have as much body comfort issues.

The one compromise is hills. Lots of them where I live. It'll take me a long time to get my 'bent legs in the same shape as my DF legs, but what the heck, it's all about exercise and fun for me.

I still have my roadies and mountain bikes and folders, although I'm trying to reduce the collection in order to make room for 'bents

I went with a Cruzbike Silvio (https://www.cruzbike.com/silvio-10). I like the fact that its components are compatible with my DF's, as I have a garage full of parts. The front wheel drive, moving bottom bracket design gives me an upper body workout while I'm riding also. It's more transportable than fixed boom 'bents. And it's pretty light for a 'bent at 26 lbs.

Good luck in your search for a new riding experience. It's fun!

DnvrFox

To correct any false impressions I may have given:

1. 1999 Lemond BA - new for $1,700 current value maybe $500 or less

2. 2001 Windsor Leeds - my "utility road bike" - paid $285 on EBay new

3. Spec Rock Hopper - 1 year old, not very expensive

4. Peugeot U08 - 70's - free to me.

Not a big spender on bikes!!

bobbycorno

Anything from Sun would be several orders of magnitude BELOW your df's. More like a Huffy or Roadmaster. It'd pretty much guarantee you a short recumbent "career". Look for something from a higher-end mfr: RANS, Bacchetta, Lightning, etc.

SP
Bend, OR

DnvrFox

Test rode the Sun $350.00 'bent

I rode the Sun $350 bent today. Firstly, it had only 8 gears, so I dropped it off of my list, as I believe that would hurt resale. Otherwise, I did fine - a bit wobbly at first, but better afterwards.

As far as weight, it did not seem super heavy with my "lift test."

The guy can get me the same model with 24 speed for $499.00

Told him I would think about it.

Thoughts?

DnvrFox

Thanks

Still trying not to break the bank first time around. As far as the DF goes, I started on a Spec Hardrock ($300) for a year - even rode the Ride the Rockies on it - which gave me a good clue that I wanted to buy the Lemond.

gcottay

The Sun is better than a discount store special but not by much. With your riding experience you'd likely outgrow in weeks not even months. I'd suggest holding out for something a little better.

bjjoondo 

Denver, I'm not sure why all the "SUN" haters but we bought both the Sun EZ-1 SX and I bought a Sun EZ-Sport AX (Alumn. and up graded components). Yes, the Sun EZ-1 SX is a bit heavy at 40lbs but it's very capable of doing what you what to do and more (SEE PHOTO)




(Our overnight ride from Colorado Springs, to Castle Rock May 26/27, 2011)

Sun makes "affordable" bents our EZ-1 SX's were brand new and at $700 we could afford to buy "TWO" for the price of most other brands "Entry level" models

Now if you had a bit more money you could spend, I'd highly recommend a SUN EZ-Sport CX (chrome molly frame) for less than $1000, (even cheaper USED), you get the 20/26 in. wheel combo and a really nice riding bent that is good enough to "tour" on but great at all the the type of riding you do and VERY easy to ride with it being a LWB and "Low Bottom Bracket"!

LOL, These SUN haters, it's like all the rodies that HATE, cheaper hybrids that can do the job just as well as the way expensive road bikes, but aren't COOL! JMHO. Whatever you find in a bent, ENJOY

BlazingPedals

Any chance of finding a used RANS Rocket for a test ride? I'm not exactly a Sun "hater," but I've seen plenty of club-level enthusiasts get one because it was a cheap way to enter the recumbent field, then almost immediately have to start saving for the upgrade. If you want something that is a performance equal to, say, your Leeds, then a low-end Sun isn't it.

DnvrFox

Thanks for the PM's and emails.

Thoughts about?

https://denver.craigslist.org/bik/2416913445.html

Thanks

Floyd

don't know specifics about the Canto, but my preference is a long wheel base and not the racing style or short wheel base. I have a lightning P-38 SWB and do not ride it. I have a RANS Stratus that I ride and my most recent is a tadpole trike. With the kind of riding you are talking about, the LWB ...i think...will be more your style.
Good luck in your looking...peace

DnvrFox

Thanks, but I am even more confused than ever. I thought the link above

https://denver.craigslist.org/bik/2416913445.html

was to a long wheelbase?? I thought the difference was front sprocket behind wheel (LWB) and front sprocket in front of wheel (SWB). Guess I am wrong.

HELP!!

Thanks for all the input.

cranky old dude

You're correct, that is a LWB (or possibly a CLWB...Compact LWB) .

Three points come to mind:
* Burley is no longer in the bicycle business so some parts may be difficult to replace if the need arises.
* I don't see much bracing behind the seat and I wonder how robust it is. Check manufacturer's pictures of the Rans Stratus, Sun EZ Sport, and Easy Racers Tour Easy to see what I'm refering to.
* The BB height appears to be even with or a tad higher than the seat vs. many other LWB bikes with much lower BB's. Again, you can see this on the manufacturers pictures. Of course being higher doesn't mean it's not good...just a bit different than many LWB bikes.

These are just my observations. Your personal preferences are what really matters.

Good hunting!!

DnvrFox

Thanks - learning ever so s-l-o-w-l-y. I sure don't have much yet in the way of personal preferences, except I have heard that the LWB is easier on the body for longer, bumpy or whatever rides. True?

cranky old dude

I just stumbled into this old review on the Burley Canto.......very interesting machine, very interesting indeed.

https://www.bentrideronline.com/archi...ey%20canto.htm

I don't know if the craigslist add represents one of these machines or not, it's kinda hard to tell from the picture....time for more research I guess.

I'm not really sure if this is the base, simple, LWB bike you're looking for though.

EDIT: So after some research I've learned quite a bit. The Burley Canto is a convertable recumbent that the owner/mechanic can set up as either a LWB or SWB. It could considered two bikes in one, I guess.