I have been 'bent for 7 years. First an Easy Racer Tour Easy (steel), than an ER Gold Rush Replica (Aluminum) and now an ER Ti-Rush (Titanium). I also have a Bacchetta Giro 20 that I commute on. The TiRush is long-wheel based and does not fit on the rack on the MAX train. The Giro fits.

These bikes are definitely a lot easier on the back, neck, shoulders, arms, etc. Glad you found one that works for you, doesn't make your back hurt, and you enjoy the ride. I have always believed the best bike for you ...... is the one you'll ride. Goes for any style bike, bent or upright, 2 wheel or 3 wheel (or one??? or more?).

It's harder to get the feeling of a strong workout because you don't use your upper body much. And it's better to be gradual about making your rides more intense. It will be easy to hurt your knees if you go too hard, too soon. You do use some different muscles in this position, so it takes awhile to get them used to pushing hard. There is enough difference in riding position between my Ti-Rush and the Giro that I feel it. I am lots faster on the ER bike. But I have been riding that position for 7 years. I have only been on the Giro since January. I am lots slower on the Giro, but improving gradually. I figure by next summer I should be about the same speed on both bikes.

For specific recumbent questions, a very good forum is www.bentrideronline.com - they are as friendly and helpful as the TE forum. 90-95% male, but very nice to us females.

Keep us posted as you ride more - Enjoy!!!
Edna