The seat of my recumbent bike is 24 inches above the pavement. That's a lot lower than the one on my upright bike.

Does this mean it's harder to balance? No, it's not harder, but it takes more countersteering than an upright bike. Part of this has to do with the longer wheelbase and part of this has to do with a smaller (20in. diameter) front wheel. It's not all about seat height.

However, I am much less likely to fall off my recumbent bike because the seat is so low. Riding the recumbent bike is the only way to acquire the skills for turning and balancing. It took me about 20 or 25 hours riding my recumbent before I was comfortable taking it out onto the streets.

Don't consider buying a recumbent bike until you are sure it is the one you want and you like the way it rides.