I too have had disc surgery. L4/L5 I had a ruptured disk that impinged on nerves for my legs. I also had very little back pain; it was all in my legs. I didn't go to the recumbent because of the back problems or as a result of my surgery. I started riding the recumbent for comfort! I don't know if my wedgie bike didn't fit me right; but I was always uncomfortable after about 25 miles. My hands would go numb, my neck would go into spasm....

I just love my Vision R40. It's a short wheelbase with underseat steering. It took 40-50 miles to be completely comfortable with the handle bars below me. However, it feels very comfortable with my hands below my butt. Tight corners in sand or gravel are a no-no; but everything else is just fine. It is true that you use different muscles with the bent. But it doesn't take long to get used to it. I can ride all day and have no aches and pains!

You do have to be prepared to be the object of stares, questions, and good natured ribbing. If you don't like to talk to people it may not be the bike for you. Face it, you stand out and even still some people have never seen a recumbent.

Your question about hills is very valid. They really are hard to push up a hill. I'm lucky to maintain 8 miles an hour. The funny thing is that my friends all pass me on the way up; but I'm passing them on the way down. Their fat tires (mountain bikes) can't keep up with my skinnies. I keep thinking if I were in better shape though that I could do better going up hill.

Too bad that you don't have places to ride some bents. They are all really different and you need to FIT one......

Good Luck!