I've been wanting a fast recumbent for some time now. This bike started out as a small framed Raleigh 10-speed. The goal was to create a recumbent with only the parts from one bike. I did it except for the remote steering head tube. I could have fabricated something, but I had this head tube assembly already cut and ground and ready to go.
Interested in building your own? My instructions were featured on Instructables.com!
I completed this bike during the week of July 16th, 2007. I probably have 32 hours into it. It is low, not much heavier than the donor bike (I added two tubes, removed one, and added a seat, head tube, and extra chain), and its pretty fast - I can easily get it up to 35 mph on a flat road. Once painted, this will be my main bike - I like!
The only thing left to do is mount the fenders, sand/fill, and paint. I also plan to build a small carrier for my light batteries. I may try to build some sort of cargo carrier, but for now my kids' trailer works. I'd be happy to answer any questions if you plan to build your own.
The fenders are mounted and look really nice. I've thought of a few more things I would like to add to the bike. I've found some really bright and inexpensive LED lights that I plan to try to make a cherry fixture for so I can mount it to the front fender. I also want to incorporate some thin cherry strips along the side of the bottom tube and on the battery carrier. I would also love to laminate a cherry seat, but I don't have to tools to cut the thin strips needed. I'll have to ask around. More photos soon.
I received half of the leds in the mail and am starting the rear light. I've built a mounting bracket for some bags that will serve as panniers on the back, and I finished the battery basket. I also found a small lunch box that fits the basket perfectly for daytime use. I plan to paint (ruby red metallic) sometime next week and will post photos.
Added a video in which this bike is included here