i just bid on a rather expensive vision r44 on ebay. I used to commute on a trek hybrid that was stolen a few months ago and the allure of comfort overcame my caution. The problem is that I do have to climb a 4 block hill on my way back home. from what i read in the forums, recumbent bikes aren't great on hills. in case i'm not the highest bidder, what sayeth you, oh experienced recumbent riders? should i look into another recumbent bike or stick with a regular bike? I have serious shoulder and upper back problems, that's why i thought a recumbent would be better.
inge

Did you have to stand to get up the hill on your hybrid? You can't stand when you're riding a recumbent. If the hill is too steep you'll need a low gear. Otherwise, it's no big deal.

They will climb hills, just slower. I ride a trike and have several kilometers of fairly steep hills on my nightly ride, they are no great worry but at first it will kill you until your muscles adjust. People tour all over the world on recumbents so the hills should be ok. You won't believe how comfortable they are.

You won't find problems on the hills if you are simply trying to get up them. If you are trying to keep up with upright bikes, then you'll probably be left behind. But, the other side of the hill, you'll most likely catch up. Recumbants are great on the downhills. And your back and shoulder will feel much, much better.

John

Recumbents use different muscle sets. It will take some time.