Riding Revolution: A Handcycle Update

Summer is here and it's time to join the handcycle revolution.

Do you want to get some exercise but don’t necessarily want to join the local wheelchair basketball team or play competitive tennis? Now that the weather is warming up, it’s a good time to enjoy the great outdoors.

Why not try handcycling? You can take off on your own or get the whole family involved. And you don’t need to be an elite athlete; it’s an activity just about anyone can enjoy.

Thanks to modern technology, handcycles come in a variety of styles, making them accessible to people of all abilities: individuals who are able-bodied, have a spinal-cord injury, multiple sclerosis, amputations, etc.  Some of the latest equipment includes lightweight components such as carbon fiber and systems like wide-range gearing, hi-tech seating, hydration, and ingenious steering for optimal handling.

While not everyone is an elite racer, many people can appreciate a nice ride. There is no shortage of swanky bling out there, and for folks who appreciate nice equipment nothing is off limits if you’ve got the green.

A variety of handcycles are available for recreational riders. These include the traditional “upright” models that usually have 3–7 speeds and are designed for speeds less than 15 mph due to their high center of gravity. Upright handcycles are great for those looking to get more exercise but don’t plan on riding more than 30–40 minutes at a time. They are also much easier to transfer to and from, which is a bonus for riders with limited trunk stability and/or arm strength.

When buying a handcycle, test ride it first. Many buyers have been disappointed because they didn’t know what they were getting. If you’re not sure where you can test ride a handcycle, check out your local rehab center or DSUSA (Disabled Sports USA, dsusa.org) chapters or PVA chapters (pva.org).

Following is a list of companies that manufacture handcycles. Neither S’NS nor PVA endorses any of their products. You are urged to thoroughly investigate any of their products before making a purchase.

 

• Brike International (Freedom Ryder)

• Carbonbike

•High Performance Mobility

 

•Invacare/Top End

 

•One-Off Titanium

• ReActive Adaptations

• Schmicking

• Varna

 

 

To order the PN, Click Here.
To Subscribe, Click Here.