Ready to give up…

[Drstimpy]

Ok. I have to admit that after practicing for an hour every day since my original message, I am noticing some improvement, but to say that I’m stable as a long shot. Also, today I got heartbreak of chainsuck…now I would be even more tempted by a single front chain ring setup like SRAM.

 

[Frito Bandito]

Glad to hear you are improving Drstimpy, and that sucks about the chain. I was considering a 1x system since I am always riding on relatively flat pavement, but I made a compromise. I still run a 2x SRAM system with Shimano cranks, but I simply put the chain on the big ring and removed the front derailleur. If necessary when climbing I can pedal with my left leg and kick the chain over with my right foot to the small ring but going back to the big ring it is just easier to do it by hand. I got a good deal on a set of Dura Ace cranks and another chainring for the flats so those stay on my V20 now, but I can swap those out for the smaller Shimano 105 cranks and the spare chain in a few minutes.

 

[LarryOz]

You fit looks pretty good! I agree with Robert about the handle bar adjustment - make small changes and try them out - whatever ends up feeling the best - stick with it.

My only other comment is that you knees look took compressed during your backstroke. This was my issue when I first started riding Cruzbike. Shorter cranks solved that problem for me - If you are not experiencing any knee pain - then probably a non-issue - but if you are , then order some short cranks - they improve the ride in many ways - even if you don't have pain.
https://cruzbike.com/collections/recumbent-road-bicycle-accessories-and-parts/products/145mm-short-crank-chainring-bb-axle-upgrade-kit - get the BSA version for the S40

 

[chicorider]

Also, today I got heartbreak of chainsuck…now I would be even more tempted by a single front chain ring setup like SRAM.

I dropped my chain a few times on my V20, usually when shifting into the smaller chainring coincided with going over bumps. When I built up my V20c, I cut and applied adhesive frame protectant where your chain scuffs are. Your chain stay is probably fine, but you could cover those scuffs with frame protectant. Out of sight, out of mind. I also installed a K-Edge Pro Road chain catcher (actually on all three of my bikes that have front derailleurs), and I haven't dropped a chain since. It's a fairly inexpensive and easy-to-install bit of prevention.

 

[Greg S]

One comment that I've not seen in this thread: the V20c is hyper-sensitive to very small weight shifts.

I rode my V20c today after having ridden a couple of other 'bents for several weeks and I was all over the place until I remembered that. You might think your weaving is due to pulling unevenly on the bars and that can certainly cause it but weight shifts will do likewise.

It's a small thing but it makes a big difference.

Hope this helps and that you're making progress!

 

[Drstimpy]

One comment that I've not seen in this thread: the V20c is hyper-sensitive to very small weight shifts.

I rode my V20c today after having ridden a couple of other 'bents for several weeks and I was all over the place until I remembered that. You might think your weaving is due to pulling unevenly on the bars and that can certainly cause it but weight shifts will do likewise.

It's a small thing but it makes a big difference.

Hope this helps and that you're making progress!

What specific body parts were causing you to weight shift?

 

[Greg S]

What specific body parts were causing you to weight shift?

Nothing specific - just e.g., dropping a shoulder, leaning a bit more in one direction etc.

It's a rather subtle thing and somewhat lower down in the hierarchy of things that can cause you to weave but it's definitely real and something worth paying attention to.

The longer wheelbase and 20 degree seat angle makes balance and staying centered/smooth on the bike more important.

 

[Ivan_Liew]

After having ridden my Silvio 2.0 with a 29 degree seat for 12 years, I was surprised how different the V20c felt, even though my cranks were similarly high. I could ride it immediately but I was slower and tight turns were problematic at first.

It took me about 10 hours to feel similarly comfortable, be able to ride in traffic and lane split cars. But I enjoyed the experience!

Dialling in final fit now with tiny changes and trying different handlebars!

 

[Joe Riel]

I dropped my chain a few times on my V20, usually when shifting into the smaller chainring coincided with going over bumps. When I built up my V20c, I cut and applied adhesive frame protectant where your chain scuffs are. Your chain stay is probably fine, but you could cover those scuffs with frame protectant. Out of sight, out of mind. I also installed a K-Edge Pro Road chain catcher (actually on all three of my bikes that have front derailleurs), and I haven't dropped a chain since. It's a fairly inexpensive and easy-to-install bit of prevention.

Where is the shift cable in those photographs? I was looking at my setup and wondering whether that chain catcher would hit the cable.

 

[chicorider]

That is a Shimano Di2 front derailleur, with the wire running behind the derailleur and chain catcher, held to the stalk by a zip-tie. It stays well out of the way. The second pic is of my S30, with a Shimano mechanical front derailleur. Again, the cable runs behind it all, kept in place by the cable stop and pulley on the stalk. Hope this helps.

 

[3bs]

when i am teaching people to ride i start them on my t50 with 406 wheels. its like learning to ride on a stingray. i think mc road racing makes it a little harder becuase your brain is wired to not be upside down and not that far off the ground.

and, there is a primal aspect to this position that makes it hard to accept. most animals dont like to be on the ground with their abdomens exposed and feet in the air. it is contrary to every survival instinct. it is a sign of submission in dogs. turtles hate it.

i still have problems going superfast downhill, and i hate riding in the rain. when i watch old @RojoRacing videos i get nervous.

but, once you get used to it, cycling is transformed.

 

[IyhelM]

most animals dont like to be on the ground with their abdomens exposed

Makikatas beg to differ

 

[3bs]

everything is little bit different in madagascar..

 

[Tuloose]

For the OP I can only echo the comments of others,
I started out with a Silvio 2.0 with a 27 deg seat 13 years ago. I had 10 years experience with RWD bents but the Cruzbike was something else altogether.
I was a nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs. Group rides were the worst. If someone pulled up beside me I felt like I might veer into them. Ditto for riding a narrow shoulder with a deep ditch alongside. I thought about trading it for an earlier Silvio with a 45 deg. seat but decided that if Maria could win the RAAM race on a Vendetta, then damn it, I could learn to ride this Silvio.
I made the seat angle a bit less laid back with the addition of a few pieces of foam and as my confidence increased I was able to fully recline. I would say it took me 3 months to become somewhat adept at riding that bike. When I sold it and bought a Vendetta I had no problem with the change.

It all comes down commitment, perseverance and practice, practice, practice but once you get the hang of it you'll be grinning from ear to ear as you pass a pace line of legacy bike riders.