Recumbent ok for back problems?
 

Hi; I commute daily to work via bicycle. One of my employees wants to join the ranks of bike commuters, but has two ruptured disk in his back. He wondered if a recumbent would work for him. He seems to do ok sitting, but can not talk walking any long distances or riding a conventional bike for any length of time.

I welcome any thoughts or suggestions any of you might have. Thanks.

TC,
He should ask his doctor, he could try a few bents to see if he has any pain. I would look into FS bents, with the shock set to the softer side

I know my LWB has so many adjustment that can be made to the seat back you would almost be sure to find something that was comfortable. I would have them try riding some to see what feels good, and see how much adjustment can be made in case longer than trial rides prove still painful.

He may have a problem evaluating as bents are more demanding of the rider
early on. Most people take a few hundred miles to get used to balance and
steering differences. The butt takes some acclimation as well both to the seat and to the fact that bents make more demands on the gluteus muscles than DF bikes do. So initial impressions change after 500miles. Since you can't stand to avoid bumps, passive or active suspension may be useful. My Pursuit has very good passive suspension. Steve

I deal with a BAD back. The recumbent was a gift from the gods! I have a Rans Tailwind, the seat tip so its just a matter of messing around to get it right.

I have spoken with many riders, which is to say more than 5, who suffer with various back issues. I have read numerous posts over the last four years about how recumbents have been the answer for so many who could not ride the DF bikes. Lastly, there have been more than one Chiropractor go online and write glowing reports about how they recommend recumbents to patients suffering from back pain. While it may require more action from the gluteus max, that's not the back. Bottom line, it's his back and he's the only one who can have the final word. It would seem he has everything to gain and little to loose.