Hi folks.
Background: I am unusually big & tall (6'3", 390 lbs.) I do strongman, Crossfit, and powerlifting as hobbies, so I'm not quite the physical basket case that might sound like. But I'd really like to do some biking. I also have strange proportions (very short legs, very long torso) and I think a recumbent would be a much better fit for me than traditional bikes. I've talked to folks at bike shots and they really struggled to figure out how to fit me. Mostly, I'd probably be riding on roads or paved paths, but there are some really nice developed mountain bike and combination use trails nearby (Fredericksburg, VA) that I'd love to be able to hit.
Questions:
Thanks for any comments or suggestions!
Background: I am unusually big & tall (6'3", 390 lbs.) I do strongman, Crossfit, and powerlifting as hobbies, so I'm not quite the physical basket case that might sound like. But I'd really like to do some biking. I also have strange proportions (very short legs, very long torso) and I think a recumbent would be a much better fit for me than traditional bikes. I've talked to folks at bike shots and they really struggled to figure out how to fit me. Mostly, I'd probably be riding on roads or paved paths, but there are some really nice developed mountain bike and combination use trails nearby (Fredericksburg, VA) that I'd love to be able to hit.
Questions:
- What style/plan would be best suited for someone of my size? I'm leaning towards a tadpole style because the shorter wheel base will mean less moment arm, but it would also seem to place most of my weight on the smaller (and presumably less stout) wheels.
- I notice that most of the plans are based on 1" mild steel tubing. Should I consider upgrading the frame materials (either by using a larger size, thicker wall, higher grade of steel)?
- What other upgrades should I consider? I should probably mention that I don't mind spending a few hundred on components if that will result in a better bike, but the boss says I can't buy a $2500 recumbent even if I could find one rated for my size.
- Any other thoughts/tips before I embark on this?
Thanks for any comments or suggestions!