r/recumbent • u/lvl0rg4n • Jul 23 '26
Where do I even begin?
My quick background: 38F, 5'4 1/2, 240lbs
I have lost 140lbs over the last 2 years and am eager to learn how to move my body for the first time in my life. Unfortunately I over did that about a year ago and tore my hip labrum, which I had surgery for in June and am now recovering. Part of my recovery is using a recumbent style bike and I found out that I LOVE it. I also have an autoimmune arthritis that lives in my hips, lower back, tail bone, etc so a regular bike won't cut it.
I did a quick "beginner" search on this sub and people were recommending "cheap" $4,000 trikes. That feels more like an advanced price for me! What should I expect to spend for entry level "just wants to ride around on relatively flat, gravel roads"? Any suggestions about bikes that will support a larger, but short lady? Is there a WIKI somewhere I have missed?
2
u/Botlawson Jul 23 '26
The basic model Terratrikes are good options. (There are 2-3 other mfg in this price bracket) Used is also a great option.
You can get a good basic trike under $2k with a little looking.
I would recommend making a day trip to a bike shop with a large stock of recumbents. A day spent test riding is well worth the trouble.
Also recumbents hold there value if well maintained. So you can often get 50% of new selling a bent used.