Robert, I’d like to get a recumbent to commute to work, and I really like the SWB USS type. What made you choose the HP over others?
Thanks for the question, Matt. The reason I chose the HP was very simply that the Street Machine just seemed to be the most respected and well-proven workhorse in the recumbent world. To be honest, I think it was the Bentrideronline article about the Street Machine GTe that really sold me (see the article here). In particular, the following points really stood out: • A suspension system that doesn’t pogo when pedalling hard. • Designed for a low rack under the seat. • Body-link seat (fully adjustable). • Relatively light compared with other commuting/touring bikes. The thing to remember however is that you definitely do pay for quality. With my specs, the bike worked out at US$3400. That’s including US$250 for shipping to Japan from the US. When trying to decide on a bike, think about what you’ll be using it most for. If you want a fast bike to break out on in the weekends for some fast rides on the outskirts of town, then go for a lower and lighter recumbent. If you want a comfortable