I thought my cycling days were finished as I have a medical condition where I cant sit on a saddle. I could actually cry with relief at the thought of being able to go cycling once again! The scenery where we live is like heaven on earth but I cant walk very far and experiencing the views from a car just isnt the same! Im saving up...freedom to cycle around will be worth every penny!!
@Helen Brown, you posted this 2 yrs ago, hope your health has improved, I'm curious, did you ever get a recumbent bike, you seemed quite upbeat with the possibility of cycling again.
Here in Brazil exists only two frame builders for handmade recumbent bicycles and trikes! I simply decided to build mine myself, including learning to solder in just a few days to make it possible. It was over a whole year dreaming about this change but when finally the courage to make it happen was enough, it took only 15 days to build and now I am the happy owner of a self-made recumbent bike!
Hi, I'm from Argentina, and currently eyeing the accessible recumbents made by Solyom from Curitiba Have you ever tried them? Would you recommend them? (I never rode a recumbent of any type) (I said "accessible" because the only recumbents sold in Argentina are at 2500 US$ while the Curitiba ones are at 600 US$, importing them here would hike the price but would probably still be cheaper) saludos!
I have three recumbents. I love them. I'm disabled after a fire and couldn't ride a 'normal' bike anymore. After seeing a dude riding a recumbent I thought it would be perfect for me. They allow me to get out and about without the car and get some exercise. If you've never tried one give it a go. There are so many types you'll find one that suits your needs.
This is powerfully Dutch/German. I love it. You mention that you are just starting out with this vid. I am looking forward to many more videos. Thank you for you hard work!
Great vid, and great to see young 'bent riders! I started riding a 'bent in my 20s, back in the 90s. I still sometimes ride a "regular" mountain bike, but for long, paved rides, nothing beats a recumbent!
I switched from uprights to recumbents 20 years ago when I just got tired of the constant discomfort of a sore butt, sore wrists, and sore neck. I chose a short wheelbase RANS Rocket with dual 20" wheels as I live in a very mountainous area and the smaller wheels translate to lower gearing and improved hill climbing ability. And yes! climbing hills on a recumbent can be a real challenge! As equipped from the factory my RANS Rocket had ridiculously high gearing. It might have been fine and the flatlands of Kansas where it's made but here along the hilly coast of Maine it was almost unrideable for a 60 year old man in only so-so shape. I initially tried switching to a Shimano 105 touring triple and an 11/34 rear cluster but even that was too high. I wound up switching to a mountain bike crankset and with the same 11/34 rear cluster I could climb even steep hills with relative ease! This gave me a top gear in the mid 80" range which theoretically cut my top speed but where I live going fast usually means going downhill and the lower aerodynamic drag of the reclined seating position makes up for the lower gearing. All in all recumbents are a blast to ride!
Good video, all things I have learned since my first "Bent" last year, a Cycle Genious, easy to learn on a semi-recumbent, now I have a Catbike and an HP Speedmachine. Recumbents changed my life and we have Amazing trails here in Canada ! I have to wear a helmet at those speeds !
I can Vouch for EVERYTHING he says ! I have 5 Herniated Discs, and two total Hip Replacements... I ride a BIKEE RX with front and rear air shocks... Smoother ride than a Toyota Camry !
Mooie Condor! Ik heb em in het geel, 21 jaar geleden gekocht. Zou nooit meer een gewone fiets willen voor recreatief fietsen. Het balans houden is wat moeilijker incerdaad, vooral wanneer je op de weg wordt gepasseerd door een vrachtwagen of bus. Dit omdat je op een gewone fiets ongemerkt een deel van de balans houdt door het veranderen van de houding van je bovenlichaam t.o.v. de fiets. Op een ligfiets lig je echter gefixeerd op je stoeltje en moet je alles met stuurbewegingen opvangen! Nog een paar nadeeltjes; Achterom kijken is een stuk lastiger. Ik heb daarom een spiegeltje om mijn pols, maar ik kom af en toe ook even overeind om om te kijken. Dit is weer een nadeeltje wat betreft veiligheid. De menselijke factor is soms ook een nadeeldingetje. Mensen die aan je kop zeuren over dat het gevaarlijk is omdat je zo laag zit en dat je verplicht zou moeten worden een vlaggetje te monteren. Grote onzin natuurlijk! Hetgeen wat het eerst opvalt aan een fietser zijn de snelle trapbewegingen en die trappers zitten bij een ligfiets natuurlijk juist hoger dan bij een normale fiets. Zeker een fietz als de Optima Condor! Wel steek je met je benen ver vooruit. Iets om terdege rekening mee te houden wanneer je een onoverzichtelijke kruising of weg moet oversteken. Verder heb ik als nadeel ervaren dat sommige ligfietsfabrikanten gewoon stronteigenwijs zijn! Ze kunnen er echt niet tegen als je ze erop wijst dat iets beter kan en op welke manier... Maar zoals ik al zei; het is een heerlijk ontspannende manier van fietsen en ik zou niet anders willen. Leuk dingetje; ik heb gemerkt, dat met een beetje oefenig en vertrouwen in je fiets, je minstens even steil kunt klimmen als op een gewone fiets! En met de Condor schijnen mensen trouwens ook gemountainbiked te hebben! In alle euforie werd wintig jaar geleden door de ligfietsers voorspeld, dat binnen afzienbare tijd bijna iedereen zou overschakelen naar de ligfiets. Dit is helaas nog niet gebeurd. Een paar reguliere ligfietsfabrikanten (Gazelle, Giant) hebben zic gewaagd aan een karikatuur van het begrip van ligfiets, maar dit is (gelukkig maar, misschien, want ze waren zo lelijk en ontbeerden alle voordelen van de ligfiets...) nooit aangeslagen. Hieruit blijkt eigenlijk, dat wij op vele fronten erg comservatief zijn. "Wat de boer niet kent, dat vreet ie niet!" gaat hier zeker op. We durven het niet, maar wie dat wel doet, is meteen verkocht!!
Excellent video. You got right to the points you wanted to make. Sounds like you may have rehearsed a bit, and if that's true, it was an excellent thing to do to cut down the uhs, ums, and "let's see, have I missed anything" pauses. One little thing you might have pointed out is that people with balance issues can get recumbent trikes for reasonable prices, and those with physical limitations can get hand cranks and/or e-assist to allow them to conquer hills and keep up with the pace of group rides. Trikes are a lot of fun and not just for old people like me and those with physical issues. Many young people love them. Recumbents of any kind rule! Thanks for posting this, and keep up your great work on videos.
I rode a Burley Django for awhile, but could not get used to the riding position. I switched to a more conventional Rans Tailwind, and did a lot better with that. I eventually wound up with an Easy Racers Tour Easy, which I rode for 20+ years. Gardner Martin knew what he was doing when he designed that bike.
really nice video! you can always get a job in the advertisement-world, you are so convincing that I almost want to buy a recumbent bike myself to go to work!
I have a Haluzak Horizon. I love riding recumbents. One thing you didn't mention is you have a lot more torque as you can push against the seat where on a conventional bike you can only push your weight. This makes hill climbing or acceleration easier. Recumbents are a lot of fun!
@@billmoxon9506 My Horizon is my second. I met Bill Haluzak at a recumbent rally when I just got my bike. He was looking it over before the ride and said " Let me adjust a couple of things before you ride. " I thought he was the Hosts shop mechanic, I didn't know who he was at the time. The host then told me it was Bill and he was a perfectionist. He didn't want me to ride it until he was happy. Great guy. Mine is under seat as well. Best way to ride if you ask me.
I want a recumbent trike because the dog can't pull it over so I'm less likely to fall as I take in the scenery. With fat tires I don't have to worry about pot holes either. But for me, it's mainly your FIRST reason - the comfortable seating.
Recumbents are very visible without any special devices. They stand out. We have road markings on the ground, drivers can see the ground, they can see a low bike, dog, ball or whatever. Please show where h-point hieght is correlated with traffic collisions. You don't need to see over cars and it's not more difficult that any other low machine. Mirrors are these magical things that let you see behind you. Also wtf are you doing playing with cars? Even if you were on the tallest bike in the world riding backwards why would you compete with 2 tons of steel?
@ Am I hurting anyone by only riding in the country? All possible mirror types adjusted in all possible ways have blind spots? How is a car or truck going to make a right turn from anything other than a right lane? Where are me and my recumbent in this scenario? A bike fits where a car doesn't, it would be odd for them to try to squeeze me out of my spot which they can't even fit in. And again, I'm not playing in traffic. Of course I stick to bike paths on my bike. Where else am I supposed to ride?
@ I see. A car taking a right at an intersection. How is it different if you're a kid or pedestrian or cyclist or whatever? Cars take great caution during such maneuvers and must yield to all traffic. This is drivers ed 101. If there is some tremendous conflict, a simple traffic signal for turning is implemented.
Well said, but let me add an important point: the variety of recumbents is far wider than traditional bikes, so is the easiness of getting acquainted with driving. Trikes are quite easy, compact long wheel base recumbents can be as easy as a folding bike, high racers are tricky, and the front wheel drive with moving bottom bracket bikes take time and care and a good deal of training on empty roads, before being safe on any road.
You need to unlearn various riding habits from a diamond frame to a recumbent. Lower gears before stopping as you do not have the ability to stand up and counter balance a recumbent , Clipped in as you need to spin at a higher cadence , tight corners may require you to lift your heel to avoid heel/ front tire interference, and it will take some time before you are capable of slow speed balance and tight corners with confidence. Speed up hills will be slower unless you train for it. Overall a recumbent will be far more comfortable than any diamond frame with the most expensive bike fit possible. As to buying a recumbent , buy USED not new as the first one is not going to be the last one and the money you save buying used can go towards replacing what parts you want to make it functional;. I replaced the gearing on my recumbent from a triple 26-36-48 to a double 22-42 as I require lower gears for loaded touring and I have 9 gears for cruising around town . I do not switch the front back and forth as a diamond bike or other recumbent riders may do. 9 speeds for long uphill slogs loaded and 9 for everything else. I have a lower low and a lower high gear as I just can not spin my average cadence of 85-90 rpm in a high gear so why have it. A diamond frame bike is basically the same design since 1934 when recumbents were banned from racing. Recumbents can be short , medium , long wheelbase, with above seat, or below seat steering, front wheel drive, or rear wheel drive . Each recumbent has it's own attributes . My Giro A 20 touring recumbent is number 10 of 12 bents so far . Taking into account some of those attributes of other bents led me to doing some changes to what my needs are and the only different parts on a recumbent are the seats or the steering , everything else is road or mountain bike parts. You need at least three weeks on any recumbent to actually feel the difference.
Hey! Thanks for making this video. I recently got a recumbent bicycle that looks similar to yours. I'm trying to learn the best way to mount it, since it has under seat steering that isn't exactly under the seat. I feel like I have to sit on the handlebar and slide back into the seat. Maybe the angle of the bar is set incorrectly... although it looks right... It was nice seeing how you stopped and stood up, because again it seems like the bar is under my legs and may make reaching the ground difficult. There don't seem to be a lot of videos with this style of recumbent bicycle. (or perhaps I'm not searching the right words) Anyways Thanks! :)
I'd love to try one (or several different ones), I love the idea of them, it is a very rational layout, but here in NZ they are as rare as hens teeth, and very expensive.
i mean no offense but i understand this could or does sound offensive but anyway with that shirt and sunglasses and the hair cut, you're like the embodiment of the late 80s and 90s futuristic dude
I'm considering a recumbent (same style as the featured one) because I broke my spine at 21. Now at 30 I'm suffering daily pain and my ability to ride a regular road/mountain bike is deminishing fast. Thing is my country has poor cycling infrastructure. Off road paved cycle paths have anti motorcycle barriers every kilometer or so, so I'm worried that a recumbent is going to be too much hassle as I'll probably have to dismount and fumble my way through where I can glide through on my road bike without even having to stop. Has anyone else had experience with these motorcycle barricades and a recumbent? Is it a major problem or a minor inconvenience?
@Finna Sprang Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately I live in a country where practically everywhere is a significant incline. I'm not sure a scooter would suit my area because I'd be walking it more than riding it. Thanks for the suggestion though. Have a great day.
Your reason No. 1 is basically the only but highly important reason, why I got me a recumbent. I wanted to go on seriously long rides (for days), but it's impossible with a regular bike because of the saddle pain. Not the back, but solely the butt. All the weight on such tiny surface, this can't work out. Well, after 100 miles, it's also a story with hands and wrists.......
@@Asunder09 If you are just getting into recumbent bikes, I suggest the EZ Sun Sport, its what I ride, and its a very good bike. ls also easy to put racks on. Plus your on eye level with most cars.
Recumbents are safer in my opinion however a helmet is still necessary as a prevention to head injury as an accident on a recumbent may be less damaging as you fall to the side , but you can still fall to the side and hit your head. There is a learning curve but well worth it. Buy used, as the first one will not be the last one. Buy new when you know exactly what you want.
I now have a new helmet as the front end of my bent went into a ditch on a high speed corner and I landed on my head in the ditch. Never thought I could do an endo,however now that I know it is possible ,I will not take that particular corner that fast again.
I will make a counterpoint about your point #4, being safer. I ride a baron lowracer, and if I run into any sort of slippery surfaces, small or loose gravel, I have to take it very, very easy. If there is sand, I just go down. Much easier to control on a standard road bike compared to a bent. But, those occasions are rare, and overall, a bent is a far superior ride.
Have you went down your first hill yet? My first downhill was amazing. It will take you around 500-1000 miles to fully develop your "bent legs". Took me around 750 or so before I really felt comfortable and faster than my roadie. You will love riding it, especially around twisty routes. And long rides are relaxing, like 200km brevets. Uphills will always suck, but you shouldn't be more than 1-2mph slower than your road bike. Barons are OK climbers. Enjoy!
I just did a downhill and it was smooth as butter. I can see what you mean by finding my legs as I'm strong on a regular bike but pretty weak in the bent position. I think my baron is slower than my tt bike. I just posted the baron back up for sale I'm going to try a bacchetta with 700c wheels instead of the baron
I wouldn't think a recumbent bicycle would be safe on roads with medium to heavy traffic, or on narrow roads. To me being inclined would give me less of a feeling of safety.
Trust me is not. I have been ride recumbent for over 25 years (my first was a Vision 42 USS), in all kinds of terrain and I an tell you the center of gravity is very low, with turn the bicycle easy to control in case of fall.
That seems to be true when you look at it in theory. In practice. you find that the 'weirdness factor' outweighs any other issues meaning that motorists treat you with more respect and give you more space on the road. I ride both types I know from experience that I am less at risk from motorists on by 'bent.
Great video footage and info, thanks! One question for you ...I am considering buying a used Condor, and you look very comfortable on yours...may I ask how tall you are, and your x-seam measurement, if you know it. Thanks (and happy riding!) Al
Nice video dude - very informative and helps dispel myths about recumbents. I’d love to try one. Nice dunes in the background by the way - where is this?
South of Katwijk. Interesting that you watch this video, as it is from quite a while ago and a lot has happened since :) (I ditched the recumbent bike)
TravelingTice Why so? Have you replaced it with something completely different? I was just skimming though a number of videos on the benefits of a recumbent versus a standard bike - what I really want to use is a fat trike!
Yeah that would be awesome! Don't get me wrong, I still think recumbents have a benefit. In this video I explain why I switched to a normal bike again: th-cam.com/video/Jxgi_2LrFa8/w-d-xo.html
I already see what's going to happen if I ride one of those. Either (A) I'm going to fall over when having a break real quick. Or (B) I'm going to fall asleep and fall over.
Hehe it only took me a few minutes too get the balance right but i luv my bike alto different than his still goof bicycle i rode it for miles when i first bought it a few days ago
@@Rottingboards I bought my CA3 in 2018 and love it. Sold the Giro 26 I had bought to do the Erie Canal ride but Covid stopped it and now I am going to ride here in the South. Great video!
that bike looks too leaned back, im looking for a bike that is more of a leaned back seated position. maybe i just need to try some out. looks comfy though.
I've heard they're a bit harder for climbing as you can't get out of your saddle /seat, and staying balanced at slow speeds is a bit harder. Though this probably isn't a problem in the Netherlands. :) I've also heard they are excellent for cycle touring, as they're comfortable for riding many hours every day.
Looks great though! I found an Optima Dragon on Marktplaats, and made an appointment with the current owner to buy it. I also noticed you were driving around the dunes. Do you, by any chance, live in The Hague/Scheveningen? If so, we could go on some trips if you're up for it! :D
Thanks! That's awesome! But as you can see in my more recent videos I switched back to a normal bike, because of a 4-month trip and my recumbent bike is also up for sale now... For small trips the recumbent bike is perfect but I wanted to bring so much stuff, it is a little too hard to cycle on it now (maybe it's because of the model) but yeah ... And no I live a little to the north in Katwijk, thanks anyways for the nice comment! :D
@@TravelingTice Oh wow, it's been a while! Now, post-covid, I'm looking to pick up some activities again and I see you have been going quite well! Any plans to go on trips through Belgium/France or Germany?
Hello brother how are you I want to buy the tree covenant bike cycle I am from India but India has doesn't have available recumbent bike cycle two wheeler so can you help me check out the recumbent bike cycle is this possible delivery cycle in India
5 reasons against recumbent bikes: Can you do a wheelie? Can you do a stoppie? Can you do a bunny hop? Can you climb upstairs? Can you jump gaps? I mean, it is more like driving a car on a recumbent compared to riding a horse on a bicycle.
So how do u stand up over a rough road? . Yes you catch less wind. But if you touring on roads that are changing road conditions how can you maneuver your body?
They have dedicated bike lanes in the Netherlands. You will NEVER share a high speed road with a car there, and rarely share a normal road with one. Motorists are used to giving cyclists right of way there as well.
#6 climbing hills is a no go with someone who just started out learning it. That is the Achilles heel of recumbents the mountains simply is out of the question. If you live in only flat lands then there is no other choice recumbent all the way.
Thats what Gears are For! I live in the Rocky Mountain West. and even though I go up hills slowly. I still go up them. I ride a EZ Sun Sport two wheeled long base recumbent.
@@longrider42 Yes that is correct but having the right chain ring size is more important to use those gears going uphill. As I stated "#6 climbing hills is a no go with someone who just started out learning it." with a beginner this is no easy task as it takes more skill to go uphill on a recumbent than in a upright bike. Nice bike!!
But the disadvantage is that they are not practical to transport, on the Transport system nor suitable for hilly terrain if you don't have dozens of gears
Recumbent bikes are ergonomically wrong! Here's why: Stand straight and lift one leg. Now sit down on a chair and stick one leg out horizontally. Move that stretched leg up and down and feel how much more muscle power it takes and how much more fatiguing it is compared to the vertical leg lift. Resting your feet on the bike paddles does not make any difference. Pure physiology!
I thought my cycling days were finished as I have a medical condition where I cant sit on a saddle. I could actually cry with relief at the thought of being able to go cycling once again! The scenery where we live is like heaven on earth but I cant walk very far and experiencing the views from a car just isnt the same! Im saving up...freedom to cycle around will be worth every penny!!
@Helen Brown, you posted this 2 yrs ago, hope your health has improved, I'm curious, did you ever get a recumbent bike, you seemed quite upbeat with the possibility of cycling again.
@@JMK1998 11 months, no response. This doesn't look good. Prayers.
Here in Brazil exists only two frame builders for handmade recumbent bicycles and trikes! I simply decided to build mine myself, including learning to solder in just a few days to make it possible. It was over a whole year dreaming about this change but when finally the courage to make it happen was enough, it took only 15 days to build and now I am the happy owner of a self-made recumbent bike!
Hero! 🎉
Hi, I'm from Argentina, and currently eyeing the accessible recumbents made by Solyom from Curitiba
Have you ever tried them? Would you recommend them? (I never rode a recumbent of any type)
(I said "accessible" because the only recumbents sold in Argentina are at 2500 US$ while the Curitiba ones are at 600 US$, importing them here would hike the price but would probably still be cheaper)
saludos!
Your voice is so relaxing you convinced me
I have three recumbents. I love them.
I'm disabled after a fire and couldn't ride a 'normal' bike anymore.
After seeing a dude riding a recumbent I thought it would be perfect for me.
They allow me to get out and about without the car and get some exercise.
If you've never tried one give it a go. There are so many types you'll find one that suits your needs.
This is a great cover... not sure what.. but my eyes gravitated to it more than others.
This is powerfully Dutch/German. I love it. You mention that you are just starting out with this vid. I am looking forward to many more videos. Thank you for you hard work!
Great vid, and great to see young 'bent riders! I started riding a 'bent in my 20s, back in the 90s. I still sometimes ride a "regular" mountain bike, but for long, paved rides, nothing beats a recumbent!
I switched from uprights to recumbents 20 years ago when I just got tired of the constant discomfort of a sore butt, sore wrists, and sore neck. I chose a short wheelbase RANS Rocket with dual 20" wheels as I live in a very mountainous area and the smaller wheels translate to lower gearing and improved hill climbing ability. And yes! climbing hills on a recumbent can be a real challenge! As equipped from the factory my RANS Rocket had ridiculously high gearing. It might have been fine and the flatlands of Kansas where it's made but here along the hilly coast of Maine it was almost unrideable for a 60 year old man in only so-so shape. I initially tried switching to a Shimano 105 touring triple and an 11/34 rear cluster but even that was too high. I wound up switching to a mountain bike crankset and with the same 11/34 rear cluster I could climb even steep hills with relative ease! This gave me a top gear in the mid 80" range which theoretically cut my top speed but where I live going fast usually means going downhill and the lower aerodynamic drag of the reclined seating position makes up for the lower gearing. All in all recumbents are a blast to ride!
Exactly the set up I would love to have when I go touring on a recumbent
Nice video. Very informative!
Good video, all things I have learned since my first "Bent" last year, a Cycle Genious, easy to learn on a semi-recumbent, now I have a Catbike and an HP Speedmachine. Recumbents changed my life and we have Amazing trails here in Canada ! I have to wear a helmet at those speeds !
I can Vouch for EVERYTHING he says ! I have 5 Herniated Discs, and two total Hip Replacements... I ride a BIKEE RX with front and rear air shocks... Smoother ride than a Toyota Camry !
Mooie Condor! Ik heb em in het geel, 21 jaar geleden gekocht. Zou nooit meer een gewone fiets willen voor recreatief fietsen. Het balans houden is wat moeilijker incerdaad, vooral wanneer je op de weg wordt gepasseerd door een vrachtwagen of bus. Dit omdat je op een gewone fiets ongemerkt een deel van de balans houdt door het veranderen van de houding van je bovenlichaam t.o.v. de fiets. Op een ligfiets lig je echter gefixeerd op je stoeltje en moet je alles met stuurbewegingen opvangen! Nog een paar nadeeltjes; Achterom kijken is een stuk lastiger. Ik heb daarom een spiegeltje om mijn pols, maar ik kom af en toe ook even overeind om om te kijken. Dit is weer een nadeeltje wat betreft veiligheid. De menselijke factor is soms ook een nadeeldingetje. Mensen die aan je kop zeuren over dat het gevaarlijk is omdat je zo laag zit en dat je verplicht zou moeten worden een vlaggetje te monteren. Grote onzin natuurlijk! Hetgeen wat het eerst opvalt aan een fietser zijn de snelle trapbewegingen en die trappers zitten bij een ligfiets natuurlijk juist hoger dan bij een normale fiets. Zeker een fietz als de Optima Condor! Wel steek je met je benen ver vooruit. Iets om terdege rekening mee te houden wanneer je een onoverzichtelijke kruising of weg moet oversteken. Verder heb ik als nadeel ervaren dat sommige ligfietsfabrikanten gewoon stronteigenwijs zijn! Ze kunnen er echt niet tegen als je ze erop wijst dat iets beter kan en op welke manier... Maar zoals ik al zei; het is een heerlijk ontspannende manier van fietsen en ik zou niet anders willen. Leuk dingetje; ik heb gemerkt, dat met een beetje oefenig en vertrouwen in je fiets, je minstens even steil kunt klimmen als op een gewone fiets! En met de Condor schijnen mensen trouwens ook gemountainbiked te hebben! In alle euforie werd wintig jaar geleden door de ligfietsers voorspeld, dat binnen afzienbare tijd bijna iedereen zou overschakelen naar de ligfiets. Dit is helaas nog niet gebeurd. Een paar reguliere ligfietsfabrikanten (Gazelle, Giant) hebben zic gewaagd aan een karikatuur van het begrip van ligfiets, maar dit is (gelukkig maar, misschien, want ze waren zo lelijk en ontbeerden alle voordelen van de ligfiets...) nooit aangeslagen. Hieruit blijkt eigenlijk, dat wij op vele fronten erg comservatief zijn. "Wat de boer niet kent, dat vreet ie niet!" gaat hier zeker op. We durven het niet, maar wie dat wel doet, is meteen verkocht!!
Excellent video. You got right to the points you wanted to make. Sounds like you may have rehearsed a bit, and if that's true, it was an excellent thing to do to cut down the uhs, ums, and "let's see, have I missed anything" pauses. One little thing you might have pointed out is that people with balance issues can get recumbent trikes for reasonable prices, and those with physical limitations can get hand cranks and/or e-assist to allow them to conquer hills and keep up with the pace of group rides. Trikes are a lot of fun and not just for old people like me and those with physical issues. Many young people love them. Recumbents of any kind rule! Thanks for posting this, and keep up your great work on videos.
This is an excellent video. Keep up the good work, young man. Also, I like the design of your recumbent.
I rode a Burley Django for awhile, but could not get used to the riding position. I switched to a more conventional Rans Tailwind, and did a lot better with that. I eventually wound up with an Easy Racers Tour Easy, which I rode for 20+ years. Gardner Martin knew what he was doing when he designed that bike.
For sure, he was a genius and amazing human being as well.
They need to make a more aerodynamic shoe for recumbent riders. A cone shaped sole would make for interesting stops at the local coffeeshop.
I just got a recumbent bike today. Excited to try.
really nice video! you can always get a job in the advertisement-world, you are so convincing that I almost want to buy a recumbent bike myself to go to work!
I have a Haluzak Horizon. I love riding recumbents. One thing you didn't mention is you have a lot more torque as you can push against the seat where on a conventional bike you can only push your weight. This makes hill climbing or acceleration easier. Recumbents are a lot of fun!
Me too!! My 3rd recumbent and I love it... under seat steering.
@@billmoxon9506 My Horizon is my second. I met Bill Haluzak at a recumbent rally when I just got my bike. He was looking it over before the ride and said " Let me adjust a couple of things before you ride. " I thought he was the Hosts shop mechanic, I didn't know who he was at the time. The host then told me it was Bill and he was a perfectionist. He didn't want me to ride it until he was happy. Great guy. Mine is under seat as well. Best way to ride if you ask me.
I can never get used to the recumbent look. Time trial bikes look the coolest.
Pretty sure Velokraft NoCom look way more badass.
@@VEC7ORlt It's just like an opinion man lol. Some people like recumbs. I like trikes.
Watching From The Philippines! 🇵🇭 🇵🇭
I want a recumbent trike because the dog can't pull it over so I'm less likely to fall as I take in the scenery. With fat tires I don't have to worry about pot holes either.
But for me, it's mainly your FIRST reason - the comfortable seating.
Recumbent bike in a city= instant road kill. Good video !
Recumbents are very visible without any special devices. They stand out. We have road markings on the ground, drivers can see the ground, they can see a low bike, dog, ball or whatever.
Please show where h-point hieght is correlated with traffic collisions.
You don't need to see over cars and it's not more difficult that any other low machine.
Mirrors are these magical things that let you see behind you.
Also wtf are you doing playing with cars? Even if you were on the tallest bike in the world riding backwards why would you compete with 2 tons of steel?
@ Am I hurting anyone by only riding in the country?
All possible mirror types adjusted in all possible ways have blind spots?
How is a car or truck going to make a right turn from anything other than a right lane? Where are me and my recumbent in this scenario?
A bike fits where a car doesn't, it would be odd for them to try to squeeze me out of my spot which they can't even fit in. And again, I'm not playing in traffic.
Of course I stick to bike paths on my bike. Where else am I supposed to ride?
@ I see. A car taking a right at an intersection. How is it different if you're a kid or pedestrian or cyclist or whatever? Cars take great caution during such maneuvers and must yield to all traffic. This is drivers ed 101. If there is some tremendous conflict, a simple traffic signal for turning is implemented.
@ Expect that cars running people over isn't an issue unless you're in Egypt or India or something. Yes drivers are cautious and courteous.
@ Or I continue to explore the country by bike and without risk.
Well said, but let me add an important point: the variety of recumbents is far wider than traditional bikes, so is the easiness of getting acquainted with driving. Trikes are quite easy, compact long wheel base recumbents can be as easy as a folding bike, high racers are tricky, and the front wheel drive with moving bottom bracket bikes take time and care and a good deal of training on empty roads, before being safe on any road.
You need to unlearn various riding habits from a diamond frame to a recumbent.
Lower gears before stopping as you do not have the ability to stand up and counter balance a recumbent , Clipped in as you need to spin at a higher cadence , tight corners may require you to lift your heel to avoid heel/ front tire interference, and it will take some time before you are capable of slow speed balance and tight corners with confidence. Speed up hills will be slower unless you train for it. Overall a recumbent will be far more comfortable than any diamond frame with the most expensive bike fit possible. As to buying a recumbent , buy USED not new as the first one is not going to be the last one and the money you save buying used can go towards replacing what parts you want to make it functional;. I replaced the gearing on my recumbent from a triple 26-36-48 to a double 22-42 as I require lower gears for loaded touring and I have 9 gears for cruising around town . I do not switch the front back and forth as a diamond bike or other recumbent riders may do. 9 speeds for long uphill slogs loaded and 9 for everything else. I have a lower low and a lower high gear as I just can not spin my average cadence of 85-90 rpm in a high gear so why have it. A diamond frame bike is basically the same design since 1934 when recumbents were banned from racing. Recumbents can be short , medium , long wheelbase, with above seat, or below seat steering, front wheel drive, or rear wheel drive . Each recumbent has it's own attributes . My Giro A 20 touring recumbent is number 10 of 12 bents so far . Taking into account some of those attributes of other bents led me to doing some changes to what my needs are and the only different parts on a recumbent are the seats or the steering , everything else is road or mountain bike parts.
You need at least three weeks on any recumbent to actually feel the difference.
They just look more comfortable!
Hey! Thanks for making this video. I recently got a recumbent bicycle that looks similar to yours. I'm trying to learn the best way to mount it, since it has under seat steering that isn't exactly under the seat. I feel like I have to sit on the handlebar and slide back into the seat. Maybe the angle of the bar is set incorrectly... although it looks right...
It was nice seeing how you stopped and stood up, because again it seems like the bar is under my legs and may make reaching the ground difficult. There don't seem to be a lot of videos with this style of recumbent bicycle. (or perhaps I'm not searching the right words)
Anyways Thanks! :)
I'd love to try one (or several different ones), I love the idea of them, it is a very rational layout, but here in NZ they are as rare as hens teeth, and very expensive.
i mean no offense but i understand this could or does sound offensive but anyway
with that shirt and sunglasses and the hair cut, you're like the embodiment of the late 80s and 90s futuristic dude
Vaporwave incarnate?
I'm considering a recumbent (same style as the featured one) because I broke my spine at 21. Now at 30 I'm suffering daily pain and my ability to ride a regular road/mountain bike is deminishing fast. Thing is my country has poor cycling infrastructure. Off road paved cycle paths have anti motorcycle barriers every kilometer or so, so I'm worried that a recumbent is going to be too much hassle as I'll probably have to dismount and fumble my way through where I can glide through on my road bike without even having to stop. Has anyone else had experience with these motorcycle barricades and a recumbent? Is it a major problem or a minor inconvenience?
@Finna Sprang Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately I live in a country where practically everywhere is a significant incline. I'm not sure a scooter would suit my area because I'd be walking it more than riding it. Thanks for the suggestion though. Have a great day.
Your reason No. 1 is basically the only but highly important reason, why I got me a recumbent. I wanted to go on seriously long rides (for days), but it's impossible with a regular bike because of the saddle pain. Not the back, but solely the butt. All the weight on such tiny surface, this can't work out. Well, after 100 miles, it's also a story with hands and wrists.......
Rule 6. Install a Flag so motorists can see you. Lastly Wear a Helmet! Oh and put rear view mirrors on your recumbent. Yes I ride one.
Are you from Ned? can you recommend me some Dutch Recumbent Brands please?
I was wondering about the safety of riding recumbent but i never thought of A flag. I will definitely be getting one of these!
@@Asunder09 If you are just getting into recumbent bikes, I suggest the EZ Sun Sport, its what I ride, and its a very good bike. ls also easy to put racks on. Plus your on eye level with most cars.
And a flashing light at the back
James Hart "Install a Flag " - And especially a sail ! 😉
Nice video! 😍 Is your bike stand sold as a set?
Recumbents are safer in my opinion however a helmet is still necessary as a prevention to head injury as an accident on a recumbent may be less damaging as you fall to the side , but you can still fall to the side and hit your head. There is a learning curve but well worth it. Buy used, as the first one will not be the last one. Buy new when you know exactly what you want.
I now have a new helmet as the front end of my bent went into a ditch on a high speed corner and I landed on my head in the ditch. Never thought I could do an endo,however now that I know it is possible ,I will not take that particular corner that fast again.
Good video by the way! Where did you buy it ? How much is it nowadays?
How about offroad, uphill and downhill?
I had no idea the Netherlands could look like that. I thought you were riding around in the foothills of California.
I will make a counterpoint about your point #4, being safer. I ride a baron lowracer, and if I run into any sort of slippery surfaces, small or loose gravel, I have to take it very, very easy. If there is sand, I just go down. Much easier to control on a standard road bike compared to a bent. But, those occasions are rare, and overall, a bent is a far superior ride.
I just got a baron low racer ! Just did my test fit and had to cut the boom because I couldn't move the pedals back far enough. Rode it first try
mindciller first recumbent?
Yes it's my first recumbent . I'm a roadie riding and racing for years. Want to go faster for longer
Have you went down your first hill yet? My first downhill was amazing.
It will take you around 500-1000 miles to fully develop your "bent legs". Took me around 750 or so before I really felt comfortable and faster than my roadie. You will love riding it, especially around twisty routes. And long rides are relaxing, like 200km brevets. Uphills will always suck, but you shouldn't be more than 1-2mph slower than your road bike. Barons are OK climbers. Enjoy!
I just did a downhill and it was smooth as butter. I can see what you mean by finding my legs as I'm strong on a regular bike but pretty weak in the bent position. I think my baron is slower than my tt bike. I just posted the baron back up for sale I'm going to try a bacchetta with 700c wheels instead of the baron
I wouldn't think a recumbent bicycle would be safe on roads with medium to heavy traffic, or on narrow roads. To me being inclined would give me less of a feeling of safety.
Feeling is one thing, fact an other.
Trust me is not.
I have been ride recumbent for over 25 years (my first was a Vision 42 USS), in all kinds of terrain and I an tell you the center of gravity is very low, with turn the bicycle easy to control in case of fall.
That seems to be true when you look at it in theory. In practice. you find that the 'weirdness factor' outweighs any other issues meaning that motorists treat you with more respect and give you more space on the road. I ride both types I know from experience that I am less at risk from motorists on by 'bent.
Great video footage and info, thanks!
One question for you ...I am considering buying a used Condor, and you look very comfortable on yours...may I ask how tall you are, and your x-seam measurement, if you know it.
Thanks (and happy riding!)
Al
Nice video dude - very informative and helps dispel myths about recumbents. I’d love to try one. Nice dunes in the background by the way - where is this?
South of Katwijk. Interesting that you watch this video, as it is from quite a while ago and a lot has happened since :) (I ditched the recumbent bike)
TravelingTice Why so? Have you replaced it with something completely different? I was just skimming though a number of videos on the benefits of a recumbent versus a standard bike - what I really want to use is a fat trike!
Yeah that would be awesome! Don't get me wrong, I still think recumbents have a benefit. In this video I explain why I switched to a normal bike again: th-cam.com/video/Jxgi_2LrFa8/w-d-xo.html
I already see what's going to happen if I ride one of those.
Either (A) I'm going to fall over when having a break real quick.
Or (B) I'm going to fall asleep and fall over.
Tricycle or bicycle?
I cannot cycle on saddles due to sensory issues, but I never learnt how to cycle.
USS scares me ....I like the preying mantis style steering ....Hoping to blag a go on a uss Recumbent
thanks! always wondered
Hehe it only took me a few minutes too get the balance right but i luv my bike alto different than his still goof bicycle i rode it for miles when i first bought it a few days ago
I'm 51 and love my Giro 26!
My first 'bent and I want another one!
@@beemerdon1 I just bought another used one. Carbon Aero! :-)
@@Rottingboards I bought my CA3 in 2018 and love it. Sold the Giro 26 I had bought to do the Erie Canal ride but Covid stopped it and now I am going to ride here in the South. Great video!
@@beemerdon1 Erie Canal ride looks great from the google pictures. Sorry your plans got changed.
that bike looks too leaned back, im looking for a bike that is more of a leaned back seated position. maybe i just need to try some out. looks comfy though.
yeah but will it climb steep hills though?
I have a semi recumbent mine has above bar steering and a mesh seat I love and won't ride anything else despite all the abuse I get.
rule#1: Check your recordings. If you're out of frame, record it again!
I've heard they're a bit harder for climbing as you can't get out of your saddle /seat, and staying balanced at slow speeds is a bit harder. Though this probably isn't a problem in the Netherlands. :)
I've also heard they are excellent for cycle touring, as they're comfortable for riding many hours every day.
Looks great though! I found an Optima Dragon on Marktplaats, and made an appointment with the current owner to buy it. I also noticed you were driving around the dunes. Do you, by any chance, live in The Hague/Scheveningen? If so, we could go on some trips if you're up for it! :D
Thanks! That's awesome! But as you can see in my more recent videos I switched back to a normal bike, because of a 4-month trip and my recumbent bike is also up for sale now... For small trips the recumbent bike is perfect but I wanted to bring so much stuff, it is a little too hard to cycle on it now (maybe it's because of the model) but yeah ... And no I live a little to the north in Katwijk, thanks anyways for the nice comment! :D
@@TravelingTice Oh wow, it's been a while! Now, post-covid, I'm looking to pick up some activities again and I see you have been going quite well! Any plans to go on trips through Belgium/France or Germany?
Which make and model of recumbent bike is this in your video?
Hey, I'm looking to get one and I'm based in Denmark. What was the name of that 'craigslist' where you found yours?
How you climb upward roads is it hard or easy?
Hello brother how are you I want to buy the tree covenant bike cycle I am from India but India has doesn't have available recumbent bike cycle two wheeler so can you help me check out the recumbent bike cycle is this possible delivery cycle in India
How about climbing hill going uphill
I want one but all bikes offered thru Amazon and Walmart are single speed bikes.
"It's just some getting used to. Just give it a shot. I'm sure your would like it" 🤣
I live in Netherlands, can you recommend me some Dutch Recumbent Brands, please?
5 reasons against recumbent bikes: Can you do a wheelie? Can you do a stoppie? Can you do a bunny hop? Can you climb upstairs? Can you jump gaps?
I mean, it is more like driving a car on a recumbent compared to riding a horse on a bicycle.
A guy named Viktor Zicho who traveled all the way from his home country hungary to India by this same type Bicycle in 2020...
Annan pwoli.
Superb
What will be the price of this machine in India...
How u will go uphil or a road upward
So how do u stand up over a rough road? . Yes you catch less wind. But if you touring on roads that are changing road conditions how can you maneuver your body?
Yeah that is definitely a good point and part of the reason I went back to an upright bike. I have seen people do it but I think it will be quite hard
Safer?! Lowering your head and torso to pretty much the exact height a car would hit obviously seems absolutely amazingly safe.
They have dedicated bike lanes in the Netherlands. You will NEVER share a high speed road with a car there, and rarely share a normal road with one. Motorists are used to giving cyclists right of way there as well.
@@wiegraf9009 in the US people often honk at you and speed up while you're riding on the gravely road shoulder that's full of potholes 👍
I like your bike but make it more comfortable and make more easy thank you, I wish you all the best ok till bye!
#6 climbing hills is a no go with someone who just started out learning it.
That is the Achilles heel of recumbents the mountains simply is out of the question. If you live in only flat lands then there is no other choice recumbent all the way.
Thats what Gears are For! I live in the Rocky Mountain West. and even though I go up hills slowly. I still go up them. I ride a EZ Sun Sport two wheeled long base recumbent.
@@longrider42 Yes that is correct but having the right chain ring size is more important to use those gears going uphill. As I stated "#6 climbing hills is a no go with someone who just started out learning it." with a beginner this is no easy task as it takes more skill to go uphill on a recumbent than in a upright bike. Nice bike!!
Wat voor stokje gebruik je om 'm rechtop te zetten in plaats van een standaard?
*It just doesn't look like it makes much sense except for the saddle pain*
Nice video!! My music😆
Are you in Zandvoort?!
1:16 wat voor soort stok gebruik je om de fiets rechtop te zetten?
your 100 percent Cool
It will difficult to ride on hight and in crowdy placs
What make and model of recumbent are you riding? Is that particular bike sold in the U.S.?
It's the Optima Condor, I don't know if it is sold in the US, I'm from Holland where I got it from someone on a craigslist kinda site (second hand)
I have it for sale btw, 500 bucks, don't know the cost of shipping to the US but I think new they are around 2000 bucks
Very beautiful
.....? I need these but first let me install my couch on it!
GOED!
I'm not getting one. Doesn't look very comfortable leaning back like that.
Nice
Super bro
What is the Netherlands Craigslist equivalent you mentioned in the video?
Paul Best marktplaats :)
@@TravelingTice What is the local name for recumbent bike? I would like to see if I can find one on marktplaats as well :)
@@nopalabra ligfiets
Where I buy this bicycle
Google HP velotechnic, performer cycles, and Azub
nice video
So, is his along the Dutch dunes?? I rode all along them from The Hague to Den Helder just last summer!
Yep, it is
But the disadvantage is that they are not practical to transport, on the Transport system nor suitable for hilly terrain if you don't have dozens of gears
It was a pros of recumbent not a rules video.
say could by to be cool!!
Price
Recumbent bikes are ergonomically wrong! Here's why: Stand straight and lift one leg. Now sit down on a chair and stick one leg out horizontally. Move that stretched leg up and down and feel how much more muscle power it takes and how much more fatiguing it is compared to the vertical leg lift. Resting your feet on the bike paddles does not make any difference. Pure physiology!
2:00 and if they get a more aerodynamic one they can even go faster than road bikers...
ที่ไทยมีขายไหมครับอยากได้
What should I do if I fall asleep?
Haha ride on!! See what happens
Dont worry, you just need to take a flight to go back as you already crossed the continent
Goodbye to saddle pain and hello to neck pain.
Lol. You get neck pain watching television?
MOVING BIKE COOLING AIR WIND EFFECT
But your not riding one now! ;)