Thinking about pruchasing a Speed in General Discussion Forum

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Thinking about pruchasing a Speed

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Jarrod Sheppard	Thinking about pruchasing a Speed	Lead	[-]
Posts: 31 Feb 10 12 10:05 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Tags : None Hello all, I've been off the forums for some time since crashing my 04 Speed a few years back due to an impaired driver. I've been wanting a 700 ever since it came out. Absolutely love its looks etc. but it isn't practical for me. I love the way my Speed handled in turns, less flex etc. and can't see myself giving up that go-cartk like feeling unless I have to. I also live in Newfoundland, Canada and there are a lot of hills/mountains so climbing ability is well up there. I also have a Schlumpf HSD that I can swap from my 04 to the new model. I would think that if I were to purchase a 700 I would probably require a Schlumpf Mountain Drive for it. So I'm seriously considering another Speed. Question: Has Catrike fixed the problem regarding the frame diging into the back/shoulder area? I don't remember reading about this problem with older models. I'm also looking for suggestions regarding what colour to get. I'm not kicked up on yellow but thinking of either Bangal or Sparkle orange. Part of my reasoning is having something that'll hopefully catch the attention of drivers. While lurking the forum last night I read that the Speed will be discontinued very shortly. So it looks as though I have to place an order very shortly. Thank you in advance for your help. Jarrod
mikeatlbch		#1	[-]
Posts: 3399 Feb 11 12 5:14 AM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	The fit of a catrike frame is an individual issue. The 2003 and 2004 frames are significantly different than the 2005 and beyond. The seat width is now narrower. This will change the contact points for you, but I cannot say to what effect this will have for you positive or negative. Most riders don't have an issue. I think it is trunk length and weight in relation to frame. Individual. The feel of the newer Speeds compared to your 2004 is much more "solid". The 2003/4 Speeds remind me of a MG compared to a 2005 and newer Speed feeling like a Camaro. I like my Speed. I wouldn't mind at all having a 700 as well. I don't have the frame contact issue on new or old frames. If you want a Speed you need to order that right now or buy used.
texpug		#2	[-]
Posts: 1730 Feb 11 12 6:40 AM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	My 700 is my #1 trike, but my Speed is a close 2nd. The Speed is tremendously fun to whip around on, climbs a LOT easier for this ole girl. No frame discomfort issues for me on either trike. I am reading you really want that Speed. Just Do It!
GrantAndre	Go for it!	#3	[-]
Posts: 211 Feb 12 12 12:14 AM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Jarrod - Not sure if you've seen the discussion thread titled 'Whats With the SPEED' from early last week, but Big Cat is retiring the Speed model in a little less than a month. You'll note that it's been removed from the Catrike.com website and moved into the 'Previous Models' section under 'Resources'. If you're considering ordering a Speed, the fuse is pretty short! I've got a 2010 Speed and absolutely LOVE it for all the reasons you mentioned in your post. It's a joy to ride! Stiff, go-kart handling, great climber, compact, responsive and stable in corners. Evidently, the 700 has been so popular that they're selling comparatively few Speeds and have decided to retire the jigs for the Speed since they are trying to streamline their production line and make room for a new model they will introduce in March at the rally. I personally would choose the Speed over a 700 any day (of course, that is my bias). The smaller wheel is stiffer and stronger and the overall package is more compact and nimble. On the flip side, many 700 owners like the reportedly softer ride and gearing afforded by the larger wheel. Your Shlumph definitively helps make the gearing argument a moot issue. To answer your question: I do get some shoulder-blade interference on the crossbar on my Speed. In general, I don't really find this to be an issue I'd complain about. I really only notice it on gravel trails and fire roads. However, it's true that the crossbar is located just behind where the top of the seat fabric ends. If you want a Speed, go for it!
jimali		#4	[-]
Posts: 1018 Feb 12 12 7:46 AM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Jarrod Sheppard wrote: Question: Has Catrike fixed the problem regarding the frame diging into the back/shoulder area? I don't remember reading about this problem with older models. this "problem" exists with the ~2010 model and newer. prior to that the frame member was further away from shoulders. So, you might prefer an older version. the '05, '06, and possibly early '07 are similar to current without the seat's ergo bend the '07, '08, '09, early '10 are similar to the current with that ergo bend Catrike changes never seem to occur at calendar year transitions Last Edited By: jimali Feb 12 12 10:53 AM. Edited 1 times.
mikeatlbch		#5	[-]
Posts: 3399 Feb 12 12 2:40 PM Reply Quote More My Recent Posts	Not all riders experience issues with ANY SINGLE model year and the frames do vary with years. Differences in seat angle, and movement of the cross seat stay to accommodate wheel sizes and seat width and lumbar bends all move relative positions have been made through the years. Trying is the only way to determine one's personal comfort. Catrike has made changes in frames when needed and model year or time of day does not prevent them from a correction or improvement. Try it you will like it. Last Edited By: mikeatlbch Feb 12 12 3:30 PM. Edited 4 times.

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