How to get started up a steep incline on a Cruzbike (or any recumbent bike)

To get started up a steep incline or hill on a Cruzbike (or any recumbent bike) using clip-in pedals follow the following steps:

1. Shift into a very low gear. If you need to get off the bike to lift the front wheel off the ground to do the shifting, then do it.
2. With brake engaged and bike pointed up the hill, clip ONE foot in, and place that foot in the up (12:00) position while the other foot balances you on the ground.
3. Prepare thyself for an intense effort!
4. In rapid sequence, begin a forceful forward stroke of the clipped-in pedal, release brake, push backward on your "ground" foot and once forward momentum is established, move that foot to the pedal.
5.  keep pedaling full circles with your clipped-in foot (to maintain speed) while working to engage your other shoe with the pedal. Once both feet are engaged, you are golden.

If you don't clip-in, then follow this sequence to get started up a steep hill on a Cruzbike (or any recumbent bike):

1. Shift into a very low gear. If you need to get off the bike to lift the front wheel off the ground to do the shifting, then do it.
2. With brake engaged and bike pointed up the hill, place one foot in the up (12:00) position while the other foot balances you on the ground.
3. Prepare thyself for an intense effort!
4. In rapid sequence, begin forceful forward stroke of the "up" pedal, release brake, push backward on your "ground" foot and once forward momentum is established, move that foot to the pedal.
5. keep pedaling with both feet as long as momentum and balance are maintained. If you start to lose balance (i.e. tip over to the side) then stop and place both feet on the ground, and try again.