On 5/14/2011 11:40 PM, SMS aka Steven M. Scharf, the *self-proclaimed*
World's Greatest Expert™ wrote:
On 5/14/2011 8:24 PM, Dan O wrote:

Actually I see a lot of people on recumbents in my area (considering
how few bikes I see at all) - almost all of them in town, so
presumably commuting (since they don't seem really recreational or
utilitarian). I kind of think they look rather silly, myself, but I'm
plenty weird.

We used to see a lot in the Bay Area as well. It was a fad taken up
mainly by those that wanted something "different," but it didn't last.

Scharf is again pulling fiction out of his arse, and presenting it as
fact. Not one 'bent rider I have known had wanting "something
different" as a primary motivation; in fact, most would rather be able
to ride *without* all the attention.

'Bents are bought for comfort, and/or speed, or in the case of trikes,
eliminating balance issues.

We still see them on occasion, and they're rare enough that they really
stand out.

That's surprising that you don't think they seem recreational since one
of the big advantages of recumbents is the comfort they offer on long
tours. The one place you frequently see them out here is on the coastal
route which is still pretty popular for long tours. They are very poor
for commuting because of visibility issues (both of the bike and of the
cyclist), maneuverability, and safety.

More male bovine excrement from the ignorant and dishonest Scharf.
Riding a 'bent in traffic as a vehicular cyclist is not an issue, even a
lowracer in Chicago (been there, done that).

--
Tºm Shermªn - 42.435731,-83.985007
I am a vehicular cyclist.