I just got back from Plano Cycling (http://planocycling.com/site/) in Plano, TX. I tried out a Yellow Bacchetta Corsa.
Nice bike, definitely a different experience than anything I've ridden before. A bit squirrely on the steering at first, but I think I acclimated after a lap or three in the parking lot. Reminded me of flying a R-22 helicopter for the first couple of hours - never really sure which way it's going to dart.
It seemed pretty fast too, but what do I know, I haven't ever owned a bike with multiple gears. 🙄
What's with the seat on this bike? It consisted of a hard shell (fibreglass or similar) and a soft foam piece that seemed to be rather haphazardly attached to the shell. Is this normal and adequate? It was comfortable enough, but seemed flimsy, like it may shift around or detach.
How will the riding experience differ between a bike like this and something really sexy like a HP-V Speedmachine or Optima Baron? Is this bike similar to a Challenge Mistral/Hurricane or Burley Hepcat? Do you get used to the darty steering - is it always there, but minimized with technique?
With recumbents in general, it seems like the use of body "english" for steering is a very tricky skill to master.
Thanks for your replies.