You rest, you rust

 

You Rest, You Rust: 

The Joy of Recumbent Trike Riding

Joseph Antonio

Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down—it means finding smarter, more joyful ways to keep moving. That’s where recumbent trikes come in. Whether it’s joint pain, balance concerns, or simply a desire for a more comfortable ride, trikes offer stability, accessibility, and the freedom to keep exploring. Add an e-assist motor, and suddenly, hills become possibilities instead of obstacles. Here’s this old guy’s blog for this week. 

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Let’s get something out of the way up front—most riders of recumbent trikes are older than the average cyclist. I know that makes some people bristle, but it’s just a fact. And honestly? It’s one of the best things about our community.

We’re a group of people who know who we are. We don’t have anything to prove, no need to posture or pretend. We ride because we love it, because it keeps us moving, because it allows us to continue doing something we enjoy—even when two-wheeled cycling starts becoming more of a challenge. In a world that sometimes seems obsessed with youth, I find that refreshing.

Why Recumbent Trikes?

For many of us, recumbent trikes are a game-changer. There comes a time when balance issues, joint pain, injuries, or degenerative conditions make traditional cycling difficult or even impossible. That’s where trikes come in. They offer:

• Unparalleled Comfort – No more pressure on the wrists, neck, or lower back. A relaxed, reclined position lets you enjoy the ride without feeling like you’re punishing your body.
• Increased Stability – Fewer worries about tipping over at a stop sign or losing balance on a tricky turn. Three wheels keep you steady. While I’ve proved beyond the shadow of a doubt that you can flip a trike, more careful riders seldom face this issue. 
• Accessibility for All – Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with arthritis, or simply want a more forgiving ride, a recumbent trike makes cycling possible again.
• The Power of E-Assist – Motorized trikes are a fantastic equalizer. If you want to climb hills without feeling like you’re in a never-ending battle with gravity, an e-trike can make all the difference. They bring cycling back into reach for so many people.

For me, recumbent trikes represent freedom—freedom to move, to explore, to feel the wind in my face without worrying about whether my body can keep up with my spirit.

A Lesson in Longevity

This whole conversation about age and movement reminds me of a story from years ago. I was skiing alone at my home mountain in Colorado, using the singles line to pair up with other skiers for the chairlift. One day, I found myself seated next to a couple who were in their 90s. The chairlift we were on serviced black and double-black diamond runs—no easy terrain.

We got to chatting, and I finally had to ask: “What’s your secret? How are you still out here doing this at your age?”

The woman leaned in, raised her goggles so I could see her eyes, and said something I’ll never forget:

“You rest, you rust.”

I think that’s about as perfect a mantra as you can get for us in the recumbent trike community. Whether you’re riding an $800 unassisted trike or a $12,000 electric-powered machine, the point is the same—get out, get moving, and keep living life on your own terms.

Celebrating Who We Are

If you’re offended by the idea that we’re an older group, I genuinely don’t mean to upset you. I see it as something to be proud of. We’re people who know what we’re made of. We’re still out here pushing forward, staying active, and embracing the joy of movement.

So here’s to us—the recumbent riders, the trikers, the mature folks who refuse to sit still. Keep pedaling. Keep exploring. Because you rest? You rust.

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