Used recumbent bicycles help lower the cost of getting into recumbent cycling. Bent's are low in production and manufactures have to increase cost to make a profit. Some 'bents cost upwards of $5,000. Some people just don't have that kind of cash to put in to a bicycle. However, there are people out there looking to upgrade. So, they will sell their bikes, take that money, and put forth toward a new bike. Buying used recumbent bicycles is great way to get a good bike for a great price.

Also, bicycles are just like computers: infinitely upgradeable. If you by a used bike you can spend as much money on upgrading as you like. Since recumbents are more expensive, it's more cost effective to upgrade a machine than to buy a new one. Unlike mountain bikes which are inexpensive because of mass production, it would be more cost effective to buy a new mountain bike than to upgrade it.

Bent Riders Online's forum has a classifieds section for people wanting to buy/sell used recumbent bikes and equipment. You can always find good deals there. I found a great deal on a set of 20/26 Alex DH-16 wheels for $90! To have a set of wheels custom built silimar to this would cost you about $200.