Hello to all, and thanks in advance for any thoughtful replies.

I fear I am about to ask a question that has been brought up once or twice, please bear with me?

6'0" and 360lbs (+/-) with a 30" pant inseam, and a 58" waist.

Left complete replacement knee 11/09 (eighth surgery)

Current bike is a 2010 Giant Suede DX
Longest ride 41 miles.
Preferred riding is tow-path or MUP, level if possible.
Preferred average daily ride is 27 miles (a nice out and back loop on tow-path)
Wish to increase miles.
I love riding, and it is my primary cardio fitness (heart issues in my past)

I've been off my bike for 10 weeks due to rotator cuff surgery followed by multiple PEs (long story there) - so I went from being able to do my 27 miles non-stop at a 12 MPH average, multiple 100+ mile weeks back-to-back, and a butt that got really sore after about 35 miles (but could ride more multiple hours later or next day)

So, getting back on the bike again (thank God) - 10 miles yesterday, 11 miles today - and my butt is killing me - feels like I am having to start over...

The Question:

Recumbent vs current bike? Yes / No? Thoughts? Why? How do I decide without risking funds I do not have?

Please sell me, or scare me away?

I've waited 30+ years to start riding again, and I love it, and wish to improve and ride even more - Heart DR is thrilled and it's only been since March.

Will my knee be an issue on a 'bent?

Being as fat as I am - is that an issue????