Press Release

Contact: Marlisa Shapiro, public relations
305-445-9111, ext. 226/mshapiro@turkel.info

For Immediate Release

AGING BOOMERS REDISCOVER THE JOY OF CYCLING WITH “COMFORT BIKES”

Recumbent bikes are growing in popularity as active Baby Boomers seek a kinder, gentler fitness regimen.

Miami, FL Thanks mainly to aging Baby Boomers with aching body parts and large disposable incomes, the recumbent bicycle market is soaring. A team of bike riding local businessmen are at the forefront of this new fitness trend, with an ergonomically designed recumbent called BackSafer. The bikes are sold exclusively on the company's Web site, www.backsafer.com, but soon will be available on Amazon.com.

The recumbent bicycle is an odd-looking, low-riding bike with a chair-shaped seat that allows a rider to sit in a reclined position with the pedals out in front. The recumbent seat is specifically engineered to support the lumbar spine and pelvis and redistribute the rider's weight, taking pressure off the neck, back and wrists. A decade ago only a few thousand recumbent bikes per year were sold. Now manufacturers are selling 50,000 to 60,000 recumbents a year.

“Once you try a recumbent, you'll be hooked,” said Paul Lester, co-founder of Miami-based BackSafer. “The bike's ergonomic design puts you in a comfortable position that lets you ride virtually all day without pain.” Lester, a Miami attorney and 25-year distance cyclist thought he'd have to give up his passion when he developed herniated disks in his back. A friend, and self-trained bike engineer, introduced him to recumbents.

Lester's business partner and chiropractor is Dr. Elliott Grusky. Grusky is also a team doctor for the University of Miami Hurricanes football team and has worked with the U.S. Olympic Swimming Team. He consulted on the bike design with the renowned Logan College of Chiropractic Ergonomics Institute. The Institute conducts ergonomic research for Ford and General Motors.

“The bike is ideal for people suffering from osteoporosis, prostate, lower back and neck problems,” said Grusky. “It's s great way to get people riding who ordinarily wouldn't or couldn't.”

While comparable recumbents sell for $1,500+, the BackSafer is priced at $499, plus shipping. The bikes feature top quality components including Shimano grip-shift drive train, forged crank and KendaQwest 100 psi tires. BackSafer offers an optional training stand which provides the added benefits of a stationary bike workout.

BackSafer's unique folding design makes it easy to store and transport. The bike comes 85% pre-assembled, so the customer simply attaches the handlebars, adjusts the seat and they're ready to ride.

The company is offering a customer referral program. BackSafer recumbent owners will receive $100 for every customer they refer to the company's Web site that results in a sale.

For more information, please contact Lois Joy Lester, director of operations at BackSafer at 800-815-BACK (2225).

Photos, partner bios, backgrounder and fact sheet available.

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