Messages

1

General Discussion / Re: recumbent steering tiller versus linkage

« on: March 13, 2013, 08:13:38 pm »

Lightfoot cycles is not a large mfg and finding someone with the linkage steering will be difficult. You will have better luck posting on Bentrideronline.com. You could ask Rod of Lightfoot. Slow climbing on any 2 wheel recumbent is challenging.  That is one reason so many recumbent trikes are sold. I own a Rans Stratus(like the Ranger) with major tiller steering. I have climbed the Blue Ridge mts 4 times. I once climbed a hill drafting off someone walking.
www.Thejerseypedaler.com

2

General Discussion / Re: I am new and would like to take my first tour

« on: May 02, 2012, 01:24:01 pm »

The GAP and C&O are on my bucket list. Another great short tour is The Pine Creek Trail in PA. It stars in Jersey Shore Pa, about 4 hrs from central NJ. It is 62 very scenic miles on hard packed gravel trail. 2 miles after the end you can get a motel in Wellsboro, a gaslight quaint town and ride the 62 mile back the next day. The best time to go is mid week as the trail is least crowded. Make sure to book your motel in advance. The nice thing, it is not far so you can make last minute arrangements based on the weather. I have a small writ up and pics on my blog go to 9/3/10.
Marty
http://marty-thejerseypedaler.blogspot.com/

3

Gear Talk / Re: Pedal Suggestions for Soft Soled Shoes?

« on: May 28, 2009, 09:36:12 am »

I gave up on cycling shoes years ago.  I find the best pedal for me is the Odessey Triple Trap.  They are very wide and grip well to any shoe.  Cost about $25.  I also prefer Sketcher sneakers as they have a firm sole, come in wide widths and are reasonably light.  I have turned recumbent rider since 99 and I have never had my foot slip off the pedals.  Best combo for me.  You can check out my BLOG.
http://marty-thejerseypedaler.blogspot.com/2008/04/clipless-pedals-or-not.htmlThe Jersey pedaler  under April 08 Clipless pedals or not

4

Gear Talk / Recumbent advice?

« on: February 15, 2006, 08:24:06 am »

Great 1st choice.  I have a 00 Stratus with over 18k miles.  I have tried the XP and believe it is the best do all recumbent on the market. Fast, good climber and with it's passive suspension one of the most comfortable rides.  Remember it will take a few months to develop those bent legs.  Good Luck and Keep Riding.
Marty

This message was edited by bent4me on 2-15-06 @ 6:34 AM

5

Gear Talk / What size panniers and how many

« on: February 29, 2004, 11:15:00 pm »

I am a recumbent rider and have toured with Arkels t42, 2550ci.  Which I think are outstanding and the company to be one of the best customer service oriented I have come across. Enough room for a 4 day tour without carrying food and utensils.  I have looked at the new RT60, 3650ci which look humungus.  I am more inclined to get a second set of panniers for my underseat rack, probably 1700ci from Inertia.  It seems 2 sets of panniers may be more convenient for accessing.  As I am new to self contained touring I was wondering what size panniers people feel they need and whether they prefer 1 set of large bags or 2 sets  

6

Routes / Circling nj

« on: December 05, 2006, 03:12:15 pm »

I am looking for map info to tour the circumference of NJ.  Preferable self contained with occassional motels.  All info appreciated
Marty

7

General Discussion / Recumbent Bike Touring

« on: March 19, 2004, 10:53:19 am »

I have 3 recumbents.  A SWB, LWB, and Trike.  I did a 4 day self contained tour with my son on my SWB and LWB.  I use 2 sets of panniers on each bike using an underseat rack in addition to the rear rack.  Very stable with the underseat rack as the bags are close to the ground and centered on the bikes.  Recumbents climb well but slow, so you need to have low gearing.  On the flats or down hill they are very stable and fast.  It takes a few months to get your bent legs as you use different muscles.  They are much better for touring as you are always looking up and can really enjoy the senery, along with comfort you have yet to experience.  Once you get used to a recumbent you will never go back.
Marty