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General Category >> rbent Lobby >> choosing a bike
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Message started by rosemary on May 2^nd, 2007, 4:39pm

Title: choosing a bike
Post by rosemary on May 2^nd, 2007, 4:39pm

I am a lady about 5'1 with 36 x-seam at most. Which bents do you think I should consider? Used is OK too. Are Richardson Bike Mart and Plano Cycling the best bets for retailers? Thanks!!

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by diannalightning on May 2^nd, 2007, 6:16pm

Rosemary, I have a Sun EZ 1 and a lightning Thunderbolt and I'm short. I looked at Richardson and at Plano, but do your research on the internet about the different brands, types. You may want a CLWB (compact long wheel base) or SWB (short wheel base), etc. Just do some research and ride several types at the shops.
B & B in Duncanville also has some recumbents.

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by Bud_Bent on May 2^nd, 2007, 9:03pm

Don't be afraid to test ride a long wheelbase recumbent, too. Some, like a Rans Stratus, work very well for someone short. LWB bikes tend to take a little more getting used to, as opposed to a CLWB like an EZ-1, but they are very comfortable, and have a great ride.

Most bike shops around here have at least a few recumbents, but Plano and Richardson tend to have the best selection in stock, so they are great places to test ride. Good luck, and welcome to rbent!

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by aikigreg on May 2^nd, 2007, 10:24pm

Also don't be afraid to come out with us and test our bikes as well! My wife is only a couple inches taller than you, if that, so you should be able to give her v-rex a try, which we'd be glad to let you do.

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by Richard on May 3^rd, 2007, 9:23am

Hello Rosemary,

My advice is to take lots of time an try to ride as many as you possibly can. Most bent riders will be glad to give you a try on their bike. This is a very friendly group as are most bent people. :D. Hope you find just the right one and come ride with us!

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by rosemary on May 3^rd, 2007, 2:30pm

Thanks so much, you have been very helpful ---All of you!!! I think I will try a Starling and an Giro too ---even though I know they're close to $1000 apart!! I look forward to joining you

Title: Re: choosing a bike
Post by FlyingLaZBoy on May 8^th, 2007, 8:42am

I lean towards Plano Cycling over RBM for 'bents. Talk to Kyle or ask for Rick, they're both very knowledgeable and friendly. Plano handles RANS, Bacchetta, and Sun/EasyRacers. RBM has an excellent selection of trikes on the floor, handling Wizwheels, Cattrike, and Sun, but I've found their sales staff to be less knowledgeable.

Most LWBs will have enough seat adjustment to deal with a short rider, although some like the Stratus come in different frame lengths for that purpose.

Paul

(EZ-1, Stratus XP)