HOT Recumbent Rally 2012 - Day 3 

+Big Ian Builds TerraTrike in US sells an 8 speed model for $999(US). Trident Trikes has a $999, 7 speed FOLDING trike. You can go to their sites to find shipping costs. This may all seem like a lot of money but I always say my most expensive bike was the $300 one i didn't want to ride because of the discomfort. I started on a second-hand $700 TW Bent trike, and later upgraded to a $2500 Catrike Expedition. I get so many miles and so much enjoyment and exercise out of my trike, it is worth the cost. But certainly start small-cost with a less expensive brand or a second-hand model. And think of it as not just a trike, but as an exercise program that you will actually use. Happy Trails!

+Big Ian Builds Sun Trikes also has two $900 models (7 speed), the Sunseeker Tad (Tadpole wheel arrangement, one wheel in back) and the Sunseeker Eco Delta (one wheel in front). It's a heavier built trike than some brands (steel instead of aluminum) but well made. Best of luck finding a great ride!

+Steve Erickson Hi Steve and thanks for the reply. I'm afraid they're about double that here. I've looked at a few and even used they're £800 to £1500 for anything decent. They're not that popular here either so that keeps prices on the high side. It's well out of my price range still but I did see a kit to convert a mountain bike but even that was about £500.

Big Ian Builds hi there mate,just come across your post,better late than never! Did you manage to get a bike to suit you? I only ask as I was/am in a similar situation having broke my back in military and ended up with fusion and fixation from pelvis to T3. I have a recumbent bike and it has allowed me to get out cycling again and I love it. As an engineer,I have a very well equipped workshop and would be happy to work with you to build a trike custom to your needs. I have built and customised bike for others. Just let me know.

Andrew Wilson where are you?

+Jorge Estevez (Sorry for late reply!) Low recumbents generally have better aerodynamics. The Catrike 700 is one of the fastest mainstream trikes out there, due to low to ground design, more reclined seat angle, light aluminum frame, and larger rear wheel.

Jorge Estevez The fastes Trike is a Hitrike from Germany BuS Velomo

33605pgood The Greenspeed Magnum and Magnum XL are sturdy, fast and well designed for heavier folks.

Just use the food money for a bike if your fat you’ll lose weight faster

Did you get a trike? As "Steven H" wrote, the Magnum XL is great for heavier riders. So is the Terratrike Rover, if you're on a more limited budget.