Just bought a recumbent!

[jodeet]

I just bought a Rans long wheel base recumbent. I have been riding a road bike for about 6 years and wanted to try a recumbent, that would be comfortable and go fast. Ive only had it for a week, and think I'll really like it, because most of my pains have gone away!
But I'm having a heck of a time getting started peddling.
Any Bent riders out there who can give me some advice?

[KnottedYet]

When I started riding my 'bent I did a lot of skateboard starts. Eventually, as my body got used to the new position, I was able to start "normally."

[TsPoet]

Gear down, put your dominant leg on the pedal in the ~12 O'clock position and push off with that pedal and with your other foot on the ground.
Practice practice practice.

[emily_in_nc]

I just bought a Rans long wheel base recumbent. I have been riding a road bike for about 6 years and wanted to try a recumbent, that would be comfortable and go fast. Ive only had it for a week, and think I'll really like it, because most of my pains have gone away!
But I'm having a heck of a time getting started peddling.
Any Bent riders out there who can give me some advice?

Clipless pedals are a must -- I used to have a long wheelbase recumbent (Easy Racers Tour Easy), and my feet would slip right off the pedals without them. I practiced in a school parking lot before feeling comfortable enough to hit the road. But once you "get it", you just "get it". Kinda like driving a car with a stick shift.

Good luck and enjoy your new ride!

Emily

[MomOnBike]

The music teacher in me is snarling "It yields to practice."

To be more kind, just ride the thing. The feel is different than an upright, so it takes the muscles a bit of time (I've heard 3K miles - and it seems about right) to adjust.

Clipless is good.

One hint on starting, look down the road to where you're going. It helps get you and your bike lined out.

Going over bumps at speed, I've learned to deweight my rear by leaning into the seat back and "standing" on the pedals. It helps with the bumps.

And, oh, enjoy the view. Ain't it great to look at something other than the front tire? Like the scenery? The stars on a night ride?

I love my 'bent. I have a sentimental attachment to the old Raleigh, but when I want to Go Places, it's the 'bent that takes me. (One solo tour, RAGBRAI, and day trips with DH - not to mention the commute - and more trips planned)