John,

I've been very impressed with the Shark (mine is the S variant, with
'custom' cranks and the low back seat).

It's very comfortable and extremely well put together. There are a
plethora of options, so it really is worth going to a dealer to try
one and specify exactly what you want. The frame isn't the lightest,
but it is very robust - I've ridden it on some fairly rough roads and
it hasn't complained. There is the odd rattle here and there on the
rough stuff - mainly from the QR rear wheels, which are prone to
working loose at the pin. They never get dangerous, and readjustment
is easy, but it your don't need the convenience/travel/storage space
saving I'd get the screw on ones.
The space behind the backrest is really useful for mounting a bottle
cage and a bag or two. The backrest itself is adjustable for space and
pitch.
The seat is really low - much lower than a Top End or Freedom Ryder -
I'd say about 4" off the deck. I think other options are available. My
frame is one-piece; there is a separable option that makes
transferring easier.
The gripshift on the right handle for 9 speed gear change works well.
The chainring shift is a nifty little lever by the headset.
One useful feature (missing on the Freedom Ryder for one) is a parking
brake. The service brake is adequate, but in the hills it could do
with a disc. This may be an option by now, I know Sunrise were
thinking of it.

If you get a new one, before you take it out, stick a couple of layers
of duct tape on the front corners of the frame. There is a tendency at
first to foul the frame with the handles as you corner. You soon get
the hang of 'pitching' the handles as you steer to avoid this, but
it's a shame to scrape your new frame.

Overall, I've been been very happy with it.

--- In handcyclists@yahoogroups.com, JOHN GILGER <cheifbrokenlegg@...>
wrote:
>
> I have been curious? They seem to be nice bike's. Rafael seems to
make his work? What was your opinion on the shark?
>
> triwasaki <pat1@...> wrote: I've owned a Quickie Shark S
for about 2 years if I can be of any help.
>
> Patrick
>
> --- In handcyclists@yahoogroups.com, Geoff Hopkins <pvasports@> wrote:
> >
> > Does anyone have Rafael Ibarra's email and/or phone
> > number? I have a friend who wants to buy a Quickie
> > Shark and wants to talk to him.
> >
> > Thanks!
> >
> >
> >
> > Geoff Hopkins
> >
> > "Madcycling through Virginia"
> >
> >
> >
> __________________________________________________________
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