Year I got my recumbent:  1999 
Model Ridden:  Trek R200, RANS V-Rex, Easy Racers Gold Rush 
Contact Info:  Web Page  
Comments:    My V-Rex was a lot faster than my Trek, but the Gold Rush is much faster than either. I'm a slow rider preferring to take my time and smell the roses, but on a 42 mile ride this fall, I averaged 17 mph. On the R-200 I felt that instead of propelling myself forward with a strong pedal stroke (especially on hills), too much energy was expended by the shock system scissoring the frame components. The Trek has been relegated to use indoors on a trainer and the V-Rex will soon be for sale. I've used the V-Rex on several long distance tours (e.g. around Lake Erie) and enjoyed it, but on day rides, I always fell to the back of the pack, often riding alone. Now I can keep up if I want to. I attribute much of the speed advantage of the Gold Rush to its Zzipper fairing. I also find the Gold Rush frame geometry puts my legs in what to me feels like a more natural and powerful position than the short wheelbase Trek or V-Rex. My Gold Rush is equipped with disc brakes, so I've just installed a heavy duty Planet Bike rear rack designed to clear disc brakes. For self-supported touring, I intend also to install a TerraCycle Easy Reacher underseat rack.