There may be some folks out there who want to believe that one model or another will make them good
climbers. Although this message is implied by manufacturers' advertising, it is simply untrue
because climbing also depends greatly on the rider's fitness, strength to weight, etc. Therefore, a
particular model of bike will not be a *good climber* if the rider is not fit. I believe this
response addresses issues that the original poster's question raises. I hope that others continue to
respond with their anecdotal experiences on Brands X, Y and Z, because it is all good.
Now, of the 9 responses responses to the original query, all but 1 have included discussion about
issues in addition to "WHICH BIKE". Responses include frame geometry and design characteristics,
weight (bike and rider), fitness, biomechanical considerations, gearing, advice to try several
models rather than rely on subjective opinions, comfort and seat design. Four responses included
experiences regarding specific models. This suggests that other experienced recumbists conceptualize
hill climbing as depending on issues more far ranging that subjective opinions about specific models
of bikes. Having thought about this issue more, clipless pedals really enhance hill climbing
efficiency.
If this response is too oblique, feel free to skip to the next message, press the delete key, or by
all means send my email directly to a kill file. Thanks.
Jon Shinefeld Philadelphia, PA
"Chris Crawford" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> We know that all engines are different and that "it's" .... "not about the bike" ! It would ve
> nice if these discussions would limit themselves to which "bike" is a better climber. I believe
> this the question asked.
>
> Regards Chris
>
> Jon Shinefeld wrote:
> > Echoing Larry's reply - it is usually the engine and not the bent that
is
> > the hill limiting factor. However, having offered that opinion, on the other side of the fence,
> > I am also riding an old Raleigh Clubman, with upright bars, Brooks suspension saddle and a 40
> > inch low gear, and I
clearly
> > do climb faster on this than on my VRex ... and with all the **** I
carry,
> > there is not a significant weight difference between the 2 bikes. This speaks volumes for the
> > advantages of being able to change the mechanical relationship between the rider and pedals. In
> > other words, sliding
forward
> > on the saddle to help in seated climbing, or, being able to stand and
honk
> > to take advantage of different muscle groups. Jon Shinefeld Philadelphia, PA 2001 VRex 1997
> > Stumpjumper - currently still dressed in studded Nokian tires 1982 ish Raleigh Clubman,
> > Carradice and all.
> >
> > "Sbtypesetter" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:20040229122545.06733.00000522@mb-
> > m05.aol.com...
> >
> >>I've heard that the Vision and the Cobra can climb while others can't. True? What consitiutes a
> >>good climber and why?
> >>
> >> -Rick
> >>
> >
> >