Quoted post said:Originally posted by Bill Butler
I have ridden the MS 150 eight times but, at age 57, my back is giving out. I can no longer assume
that position on my dropped handlebars. I can't bear the thought of sitting up in the breeze. I want
to go to a recumbent, but they are very expensive. Anybody have a used one they want to sell me? I
live in Norfolk, Virginia, I guess shipping is also a factor if you are not close by.
Thanks.
Hey grandpappy namesake:
What a difference a bent makes on the back.
I have no chronic back issues, but 25 miles on my mountain bike and my 47 year old back feels it for 2 days, 1 day recovery for a comparable distance on my road or cruiser bikes. 35 miles on the bent, not a hint of back pain. I do have rear suspension on my bent, but the seat and straighter waist-back angle appears to be the bigger aid. However, suspension is an additional nicety I’d recommend for easing the jolts on the back.
The major recumbent dealers here in metro DC- Bikes at Vienna and Mt. Airy Bikes, sell used bents, if there are no bent dealers in your area give them a try.
There are a few low cost bents you might consider in case you don’t find a used one.
Sounds like you're wanting to stay on 2 wheels.
Sun EZ-1
Actionbent
Human Powered Machines Phasor
S & B recumbents
Backsafer (a folding clwb with chiropractor designed seat)
BikeE (they went out of business in ’02 but there are some new ones still around selling at big discount).
You might also consider rear suspension as that would be a big help on backs too.
-grandson of another Bill Butler