Apparently the people at Taiwan-based Giant Bicycles sat down with a room full of active, aging Baby Boomers and asked them what it would take to get them back onto the seat of a bike, and what they came up with is the Revive DX.
The rather odd-looking, low-slung Revive DX is similar to a recumbent bike in that it has a seat with a backrest and small, 20-inch wheels. But instead of riding in a semi-reclining position with feet close to the height of the saddle as on a recumbent bike, Revive DX riders lean back only slightly, and their feet are much lower than their hips. Giant says the position is completely neutral, meaning riders can pedal and steer without stress to their backs, necks or shoulders.
The plush saddle is attached to an angled support bar, and the rider presses a thumb latch to adjust the seat to accommodate heights from 5 feet to 6 foot 6. The back-support pad also can be adjusted without tools.
The bike has an electronically controlled rear suspension system that can be set soft for bumpy terrain or firm to improve efficiency on paved roads. The system has a digital console mounted in the handlebars that displays the suspension setting as well as speed, distance and elapsed time.
The drive chain is enclosed in a housing to reduce noise and to keep the rider from getting dirty from grease and debris on the chain. The Revive DX has seven speeds and maintenance-free roller brakes.
The bike weighs 36 pounds and fits on a standard two-arm bike rack. There’s a cargo rack behind the seat, but the vehicle is not designed to hold a child seat.
The Revive DX has a suggested price of $799. More information on the bike, including dealer locations, is available at www.giantbicycle.com.
More Top Picks Signs Of An Eye Tracking Problem In Kids