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Frequently Asked Questions - Recumbent Bike Models

What are the recument bike models and parts available?
We stock the following complete bikes: Quest, Sofrider, Silvio, Sigma, and Vendetta recumbent bikes. Everything you need to ride down the road is included.

There is a Silvio frameset, for which need to supply the wheels and components, usually from a high-end road bike.

There is a Conversion Kit for the budget-minded or do-it-yourselfer who wants to convert a rear wheel drive bike to a front wheel drive recumbent.

We also stock a Freerider handlebar kit to convert a Sofrider or kit-built bike to a bike with "chopper" style handlebars.

What is the difference between a Sofrider and a Freerider? Which one would be better for me?
The Freerider is no longer sold as a separate model, but you can effectively convert a Sofrider to a Freerider by changing the handlebars. The Freerider has a wider handlebar with more possible adjustments while the Sofrider has more conventional handlebars.

The logic behind the Freerider handlebars, apart from the relaxed lifestyle they invoke, is that the wide grip gives you easier control over the tendency for pedaling to affect steering. Because the handlebar rises from the telescopic front tube (TFT), it creates a larger cockpit.

We recommend the Freerider for 1) people who are heavier, or more generously proportioned; 2) people who plan short neighbourhood hops; 3) people who want a little more upper body control and input; or 4) people who just like the "cool" look of the big handlebars.

What is the height range of people who can ride a Sofrider or Freerider?
In our experience, people from about 5'1" to 6'5" can ride a Silvio, Sofrider, or Quest bike. The more important measurement is x-seam. The range of x-seam that will be able to ride our bikes is approximately 36 inches to 49 inches.

How do you measure x-seam?
Here is the Cruzbike way to measure x-seam, and it's the most comfortable and convenient way to measure it. You will need a tape measure and a straight back chair on a smooth (uncarpeted) floor. Place the chair facing a wall about two feet away. with your shoes off, sit in the chair with your back pressed against the chair's backrest. Place both feet on the wall about 1 to 2 feet above the floor. Push off slowly and gently with your feet, allowing the chair to slide backwards, keeping all four chair legs on the floor and your heels on the wall. When your knees are fully extended, stop, get out of the chair without moving it, and measure from the wall to the backrest of the chair (at the level of your lower back). This distance is your x-seam.

What is the weight limit for a Cruzbike?
Here is a quote from the Owner's manual: "Rider weight: The Cruzbike frame, like most adult bicycle frames, is designed for riders up to 250 pounds (114 kg). While there are many Cruzbike enthusiasts whose weight exceeds 250 lbs., we cannot officially endorse its use for riders above this weight and we recommend caution and frequent examination of the frame and other components for signs of structural fatigue."

Are you going to make a recumbent bike for people above the weight limit?
Yes, sometime in the future.

What other colors are available?
All models are produced in the colours pictured.



Want to find out more about Cruzbike recumbent bikes? Go to www.cruzbike.com
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