I got a kit and fitted on a light weight non-Y frame bike. See my album posted -
'pramodan's bike'.
I learnt to drive it in three days - and after that learning a few tricks on
every run I make. I am addicted to take it out on trip in early morning for an
hour or so and now I am able to cover 25 Kms in that hour. A difference from
upright bike experience I feel is no pain in back, neck, shoulders and wrists. I
feel heavy legs and arms - but in positive way - I feel more strength in them.

As this is perhaps first recumbent in my city, I draw looks, exclamations,
laughs and queries when I am on streets. Kids invariably stop and watch it
going.

I took help of a local cycle shop to get it fitted under my supervision.

I love it.

--- In Cruzbike@yahoogroups.com, "James Lake" <jimlake2@...> wrote:
>
> It seems I've been bitten by the Cruzbike bug. However, having never riden
one, I don't know whether this will turn into a positive addiction or a passing
interest. Therefore, I am wondering whether to take the plunge via a conversion
kit or the purchase of a new Softrider. Cost is a consideration, but the
primary consideration is what end product will I prefer to ride.
>
> I can handle most bicycle mechanics but have zero design or machine shop
skills. I am fit and bicycle regularly, but all my biking experience is on
traditional, upright bicycles - mountain bike, road bike, 3-speed. I am quite
short at 5' 6" and have neither a donor bike nor an inventory of bike parts.
>
> If I do a conversion kit I am considering using the Walmart 24" Women's Tiara
(http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5412095), which I know has
been used successfully. I am also considering the Walmart 26" Men's Nitro
(http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10162411), which has an
aluminum frame and alloy wheels. However, I have a concern that frame could end
up being too tall for my conversion.
>
> It appears to me after looking at many of the posts and photos on this site
that builders who start out with a Tiara frame end up adding all new drivetrain
components, new 26" or 700c wheels, which also require new brakes, and test
multiple handlebars. I am left wondering if the overall cost might not end up
being very close to or exceed that of a new Softrider, especially if I need my
LBS to help me. I am also very concerned about a conversion that ends up being
too tall for me to learn to ride easily.
>
> From reviewing the information on the Cruzbike site, it appears the Softrider
can be quite easily converted to accommodate taller and shorter riders.
However, I have seen references to a minimum X-seam for conversions.
>
> I do like the idea of building something myself and having a somewhat unique
end product. However, truth be told, I prefer riding over tinkering and
wrenching.
>
> So, what say you with greater Cruzbike experience to these initial
cogitations?
>