Sure, racing bikes and the Tour de France get all the attention, but the truth of the matter is that recumbent bikes — bikes where you recline and pedal forward — have always been faster. In fact, they were banned from international racing in the 1930s. Not only that, but they’re more comfortable on long trips, have good visibility and are easier to ride uphill than a conventional bike.

One of the European leaders in recumbent designs is M5, and the Shock Proof 406 is one if its best-selling touring bikes. It features the trademark low-slung seat of a recumbent, with a choice of wheel sizes and gearings for your preferred riding style. It also has good low-speed stability, which has been a problem for some recumbents. Best of all, it delivers great performance, even with a load attached to the back.

Regular cyclists might look at you funny, but they won’t have much of a chance as you pass them by, happily horizontal in your comfortable seat.