Experts in Our Field

Having been in Seattle since 1932 we are often called upon to share our expertise on different subjects concerning bicycles and riding. This was the case recently when our Aurora Cycle assistant manager, Conrad, gave an interview about one of our specialties at the Aurora store; recumbent bicycles. Here's what he had to say:

The low down on low-riders

Recumbents come in short and long wheelbases. With a short wheelbase, the distance between wheels is about 6 to 10 inches greater than on a diamond frame.
Long-wheelbase recumbents often have their cranks (pedals) lower than the seat. Short-wheelbase models, especially those meant to be high performance, have cranks set higher than the seat. "When the crank's higher than the seat, you use more muscles. You really put your quads and hamstrings into it," said Conrad Plyler, who manages Gregg's Aurora Cycle in Seattle.
"The long wheelbase is best for trails and long, flat rides," he said. "They're comfy and stable. The short wheelbase is city-friendly and easier to steer. It turns fast, and the shorter wheelbase makes it agile, like a sports car."
Steering options range from under-seat steering to a stationary bar similar to conventional handlebars.
Still considered a specialty item, recumbents are a bit more expensive than conventional bicycles. A popular starter model with steel-construction cost about $550 in 2005. It has 21 gears and weighs 39 pounds.
Plyler has seen customers seek out recumbents for pain issues, including a rider who had hip surgery. But, he said, "People also just like them because they're different."

If you'd like to see the full article written by Gretchen Konrady a Group Health staff writer follow this link > http://www.ghc.org/cycling/gearAndFit/recumbent.jhtml