~ Health Benefits ~

No doubt you've seen a recumbent bicycle by now (if not, see the Gallery!), and it should be quite obvious. Yes, recumbents are very comfortable! The difference between a regular bicycle and a recumbent bicycle is like the difference between a barstool and a plush leather couch. The large seatback of a recumbent supports both your lower and upper back, and the headrest supports your neck and head. A regular bicycle forces all your weight on your shoulders and lower back. Both medical professionals and anecdotal evidence agree; recumbents are the way to go if you suffer from back pain.

Your hands and arms will benefit from the recumbent riding position as well. On a regular bike you must support the weight of your upper body with your hands, which can lead to carpal tunnel aggravation, stiffness, and numbness in your palms. A recumbent bicycle takes the weight off your hands and arms, and distributes it evenly along the entire length of your back.

Some regular bicycles force you to lean forward, and then bend your head back in order to see where you're going! Not so with a recumbent, where your head is naturally facing straight ahead. You may find that you suffer less neck fatigue as a result.

~ Performance Benefits ~

Recumbent bicycles are more aerodynamic than regular bicycles. What this means to you, is that it will take less energy to travel at the same speed. Or, for the same energy output, you can go faster! A recumbent bicycle has less "frontal area," which means that there is less resistance from the air. See these diagrams:

This aerodynamic advantage has real-life proof. To date, all of the human-powered land-speed records have been set on recumbent bicycles. A world record of 80.55mph was set by Sam Wittingham on October 6, 2001 in a fully faired recumbent bicycle. The average rider won't come close to that speed, but you might feel like you're breaking a record the next time you fly down a steep hill!

~ Greater Enjoyment! ~

Recumbent bicycles are FUN to ride. Some describe it as a "magic carpet" type of feeling. Others just ride around with a silly grin on their face. Whatever the case may be for you, rest assured that a recumbent will feel different - and probably better - than any regular bicycle you've ever tried.

One last thing... If you like to meet people, be prepared to meet a whole lot more who are interested in your bike. A recumbent is a unique vehicle indeed, and the world around you WILL notice. So perfect your wave, don a happy smile, and consider how you'll respond when people say, "Whoa, cool bike!"

~ Additional Outside Links ~

Citizens for Safe Cycling - An article on the many benefits of recumbent bicycles

Cleveland Seniors - Recommends recumbents for riders with back problems

BBC - Recommends recumbents for riders with back problems

Ezine Articles - Lists many benefits of recumbent exercise bikes

The Victorian Government's Health info website - The benefits of cycling in general, also mentions recumbents

Jean M. Eelma, MD - An article on the benefits of cycling; mentions the benefits of a recumbent bicycle

Wikipedia.org - Wikipedia's excellent, and thorough entry on recumbent bicycles

NY Times - (subscription required) An article on the potential hazards of traditional saddles and impotence