The Optima Stinger is a recumbent bicycle made in the [WP:Netherlands]. It is a compromise between a tourer and a lowracer; the seat height is 15″, making it possible to touch the ground while seated, and the seat angle will go from just over 20º to about 30º. The stinger has rear suspension and a comfortable seat cushion. Both wheels are 20″ (ETRTO 406) fitted on delivery with Vredestein s’licks in 20×1.3. Mine is frame number 0198 and was supplied by Future Cycles of Forest Row on 7 September, 2002.

Original frame

Red frame

Red frame

Red frame

Upgrades I’ve added include a SON hub dynamo, Hope Mono Mini brakes (paid for by Optima in compensation for frame failures) and changing the tyres to Schwalbe Stelvio racing slicks.