The Bacchetta Carbon Aero 2.0 is one of the lightest and fastest stock recumbents made. Our scale here at the Bicycleman says just over 21lbs with the base parts group. I think it’s also one of the best looking I’ve seen. It doesn’t look like the early recumbents that were built out in the workshop. The Carbon Aero 2.0 looks refined and organic in the way the monotube flows and curves into the chainstays and the paint seems a step up in quality compared to most recumbents.

It is definitely a fast recumbent, the only thing holding it back on my test ride was the motor. The laid back, high racer position really helps cut down on wind resistance and only helps more the faster you go. Comfort is good compared to other high racers and great compared to a diamond frame race bike. Touring/commuting recumbents are going to be the most comfortable with more upright seating and thicker padding under your bottom but slower because the wind is hitting more of you.

The only negative I noticed was a little extra noise which I attribute to the carbon acting like an echo chamber. I’ve noticed the same on carbon race bikes I’ve owned compared to aluminum or steel. To save weight Bacchetta uses a couple of wing nuts to attach the seat which is a nuisance to use and make removing the seat for transport something I would try to avoid.

This isn’t a good choice for your first recumbent. You will need one under your belt to make beginner mistakes on first. This is a good choice for your last recumbent. This is the one you tell your Wife or Husband is the LAST one Honey, I REALLY mean it this time.

Click here for a  Bacchetta Owners Manual (pdf 1.22mb)