Bikes

To try a recumbent bicycle is to take your first ride all over again, but in the lap of luxury.

With your body weight gently suspended and spread over several square feet of the back and buttocks, rather than the few square inches of the sit bones and hands – as on an upright bike – the ergonomics are clear: riding a recumbent means less stress on the body.

For some of us, riding a regular bike can be a pain in the butt at the end of the day. Not even the chubbiest gel saddle kept my rear end happy for much more than an hour or two on my trusty upright steed. My lifelong dream of touring began to feel like an invitation to a hazing.

Comfort is one issue, but is it possible that less stress also equals better sex?

Some studies show a link between distance cycling on a standard bike seat and genital numbness in men and women, as well as male erectile dysfunction.

Okay, I will admit that my first foray into ‘bents was driven by stark terror. But I haven’t looked back: I’ll now tour a leisurely 120 kilometers (74 miles) a day in peaceful comfort.

Although many cyclists suffer no problems at all riding upright bikes, others do, and the recumbent position – face naturally forward, hands resting gently on the grips, feet up – can feel fun and liberating. But might a ‘bent be practical for every-day commuting around the city? For more and more laid-back lads and lasses, the answer is an unstressed yes!

Recumbent design has evolved slowly, with some substantial leaps in recent years. I spoke with three recumbent specialists: Toronto’s Urbane Cyclist, Calhoun Cycle in Minneapolis and Vancouver’s Cambie cycles, asking: “What kinds of machines do you suggest for those who may want to try going ‘bent in the city?”

John McConaghay of Calhoun Cycle in Minneapolis is inclined to have first-time urban ‘bent riders try what’s known as a “Short Wheel base” model with a 26” rear and 20” front wheel, such as the Rans Vrex ($1500 US/$1800 CAN) or Bacchetta Giro 20 ($1500 US/$1800 CAN). “These machines have a relatively low crank, so it’s easier to set your feet down when stopping frequently in city traffic,” said John. “Although we do have more experienced recumbent riders who prefer a swifter commute on a “high-racer” with two full-sized wheels, such as the Giro 26($1700 US/ $2150 CAN).” (see photo)

Toronto’s Carey Chen tends to steer urban commuters toward a style of recumbent known as a “compact long wheelbase,” such as the HP Velotechnik Spirit. Although that particular model is a bit pricey at ($1800 US/$2200 CAN), there are other options. “The old bikeE actually was a really good city recumbent; you’re fairly upright, and you can get your feet down quite easily,” Carey said. “Although the BikeE is out of production, you can find a used one for a few hundred dollars. The compact style makes it easier to watch your front wheel when navigating on-street obstacles like street car tracks (which we have in Toronto). The only disadvantage is that the smaller wheels make it a bit slower, especially on rough roads.”

Brock Davis of Vancouver’s Cambie Cycles offered a laid-back West-coast take:

“I just let people go toward the recumbent they are attracted to. The fact is that every design has its advantages and disadvantages for city riding, so people will come to embrace those.”

The one thing that all three specialists agree on: while recumbents aren’t the only solution to the comfort question, once most people experience the ‘bent smile – relaxed and ready to go after a full day of roaring around town – they seldom want to go back to an upright bike. Why ride in pain? Unless, of course, that’s your thing.

Reviews & forums: www.bentrideronline.com FAQ & buyer’s guide: www.recumbents.com