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.
Ed passed away on Feb 19, 2010, at 67 years young, following shoulder surgery. Ed was a community leader, adventurer, student mentor, cycling enthusiast, and friend to everyone he met. He will be missed greatly.
