How to Choose Your First Recumbent
We can't begin to count the number of times we speak to customers who are looking at a specific bike, with nothing to go on but what they've read on the Internet or heard from some well-intentioned friends. However we will almost always interrupt that customer with this simple question: What type of riding are you planning on doing?
The type of riding you are planning on doing, along with your riding style are the two most determining factors in purchasing a bike. If you plan on doing hammer rides with the local fast group, then you may want to consider bikes like the Corsa or Aero. On the flip side, if your idea of riding is heading down the trail for a leisurely ride or an extended day trip, then you may want to look at bikes like the Café or Agio.
While all of this may seem daunting at first, it doesn't have to be! Being honest with yourself will get you on track and allow you to work with your shop in determining your riding needs. When purchasing your first recumbent, ask yourself the following questions (and be honest with yourself!)
1. What type of riding will I be doing?
- I'm more concerned about taking leisurely rides and getting in some miles for my health, but also want a bike that could take me on a day or weeklong tour? If this is the case you will probably want to check out the following models: Café, Agio, Giro20, Giro26
- I'm more concerned about using my bike as a tool; commuting, touring and the occasional fast but not extreme club ride? In this case check out the following models: Giro20, Giro26, Strada
- I'm a performance minded, second is no good type personality who wants to go fast, period! If this is the case you are definitely a candidate for the following models: Strada (especially for big fast guys), Corsa, Aero3K, Aero, Carbon Aero.
2. How many miles a day, week or month will I be riding?
- I'm just hoping to get out there three times a week for an hour at a time to get some exercise (which can be anywhere from 10-20 miles on average). If this is the case, then the Café and Agio would be the bikes to check out.
- I'm a casual rider and commuter and my bike needs to be able to work for me everyday. Options: Café, Agio, Giro20 and Giro26
- I commute everyday and I love to go touring. My bike needs to be tough and dependable. Check out the Giro20 and Giro26.
- I like to do fast club rides and centuries. I may put on anywhere from 100-250 miles a week of fast riding. You're a definite candidate for the Corsa, Aero3K, Aero and Carbon Aero.
3. How much money do I have to spend?
- I'm just getting started and I don't want the cheapest bike on the market but I also don't want to have a $2,000 piece of furniture taking up space. Check out the Café and Agio. These are two bikes that offer the highest quality available for the price. Recumbents by comparison are more expensive and a cheap recumbent is just like any other cheap bike (in other words, you get what you pay for).
- I don't mind spending a few extra dollars for quality and because I've been riding for years, I know that I'll use the bike on a regular basis. Check out the Café, Agio, Giro20, Giro26, Strada. All of these models are priced between $995 and $1900 and have been noted as being some of the best values on the market!
- I'm interested in performance and realize that I'm going to have to spend a little more to get what I want. No problem! Check out the Strada, Corsa and Aero3K all priced between $2,000 and $3,000.
- I'm willing to spend what ever it takes to have the best; money is no object! Check out the Aero and Carbon Aero. The Aero is already a legend in racing circles and the Carbon Aero is cutting edge technology in design.
To help you out with your purchasing process, we have conveniently labeled our bikes based on the riding style that fits with their design and while not an exact science it will at least arm you with the necessary information to begin your recumbent search. As always we encourage you test ride if at all possible. Reading all you can and researching on the Internet is great, but the proof is in the ride.
As always, we at Bacchetta are here to help you in your research and purchase of Bacchetta bikes, parts and accessories and we feel that all questions are good questions, so do not hesitate to give us a call toll free at 866-364-9677 or email us at info@bacchettabikes.com
We look forward to hearing from you soon!