The tyre pressures are allowing for extreme heat days, so are perfectly safe to go to max pressure in a heatwave. Brake adjustment is same for any cycles with cable brakes. Going uphill trikes are better because you can stop to rest without falling off, and ALL bikes and trikes with gears can go low enough to not be hard to pedal. A driver that doesn't notice a trike also wont notice a bike or motorcycle because theyre just not looking. In fact more people notice trikes cause theyre different.(most car drivers ARE looking so do see you). Ride a bike with road tyres in the gravel and youll wheelspin too. As for fitting it in a car, buy one that folds and has quick detatch front wheels- many are like that now. Most bikes youll need to take the front wheel off to fit it in a small wagon. Trikes are safer on rough gravel- where a bike can faceplant you.
That is good information. I do want to create a more informative video on tire pressure with detailed information.Your comment could be useful in a future video. I know this person who I interviewed for this video wanted a fold up bike, but ruled against it once seeing how it was not user friendly. Thanks for the comment!
I switched to a trike because it is far more comfortable. No more neck, hand, wrist and bottom pain. That alone is worth changing. In addition, it's more fun zipping around. I've been riding trike for ten years and a lot gets mentioned about visibility. The reality is that the danger is from motorists not paying attention and that is the same for every vehicle. I frankly can't understand why people still ride uprights they are so uncomfortable.
Now I've had my trike for 2300km and have only needed to adjust my brakes when they bedded in (around 700km) and just recently because the parking latches were not holding solidly. Take note this is with drum brakes that will probably last the life of the trike. Disc brakes need much more frequent adjusting as the surface area of the pads is much smaller even though they pull you up better.
That brings up the point that upright bikes are extremely dangerous to crash. Your face goes into the pavement, which can kill you, destroy your face and cripple you badly. Even a helmet won't help that much. I lived in an apartment complex that had illegal grates over rain catchers. I knew they were dangerous but coming back from a ride I saw a cat I wanted to meet and my front tired hit the grate and threw me from the recumbent SIDEWAYS onto the pavement. Its the same for trikes, no faceplants and reconstructive facial surgery ;-) I reported the grate and a lawyer got me a new bike since mine was destroyed.
I am a fairly new tadpole style trike owner myself. Great information in the video. The thing with climbing hills is that its all lower body power you cant put your body weight into it like you can with a stand up bike. I also noticed just going to my backyard my rear tire would slip and I would go no where even with proper inflation. How I solved that by changing out the rear tire to a more nobby rear drive tire. If there is any leaves on a steep hill good luck getting up it no matter if you have the right tire pressure and tire you will just spin your drive tire. I also noticed you can definitely tip it going around a corner really fast. Despite these disadvantages of a trike I absolutely love mine because I have 0 back and butt pain riding one and I can once again enjoy riding.
@@RideandShineBicycling Its always happy riding on a trike. :) by the way since you actually replied. I will subscribe to ya channel. I hope you will return the favor. I am trying to get this one at least above 100. If you like dogs I also have Pawsuasive Dog Teaching. My Ruby Doo knows over 60 tricks so far and for every 1000 subscribers she gets a steak dinner. :)
A tire pressure check with your fingers? Use a gauge. There are so many different kinds of trikes (or recumbent for that matter) models. Some trikes fold (like my 2 ICE trikes). It seems there was a lot of 'disadvantages' in this video, but no 'advantages'. 1. Look, recumbents are just fun. 2. I don't get neck, shoulder, arm, wrist, or BUTT pain. 3. I've been on trikes for almost 10 years now, and have never flipped or turned over. 4. Trikes are fun! 5. With experience, you can keep up with just about anyone, even the 'roadies'. 6. The ride is just so relaxing. I don't have to get up and walk around to stretch or relive pain at stops. I simply sit. 7. Did I mention they are just fun?
For my trike, I do have a flag/spinner and warning lights - on the highway, other vehicles give me a much wider berth than they do for bikes. I can transport the trike either in my Tacoma truck bed, on the roof rack, or on the tonneau cover. My trike weighs in the neighborhood of 75 lbs, and when I first got it, my weight was 250 lbs. I use e-assist to "even the odds" against bikes, but I still work much harder than most, because I enjoy it. The major reasons I got a recumbent trike were that bike seats were hard on my prostate, and the constant pressure on my palms aggravated my carpal tunnel issues. One thing I had to do, though, was raise the seat to twice the built in range because, even though I had a headrest, I was still straining my neck too much. The extra height turned the seat into more of a bucket seat, and also increased my center of gravity - I've had a number of wipeouts for that reason :-) My setup is much more expensive than any bike I'd ever have purchased (enough to buy a new small car), but it is also one of my best investments ever.
Thanks for sharing your experience with your recumbent trike. It’s inspiring to see how you’ve adapted it to fit your preferences and needs. Your trike setup might be more expensive than a bike but it sounds like it’s was worth every penny for the comfort and enjoyment you get out of it. Also, those wipeouts must have been quite the adventure! At least you’re getting a good workout, right?
@@RideandShineBicycling Of course! Unfortunately, I don't have riding weather for nearly half the year, but I'm keeping in shape and expect to really ramp up for the upcoming season - many, many more and longer trips...
My Wife and I ride our tadpole trikes all the time for about 7 years now, we love them. Yes we go on rides 50 miles or more just for a Saturday outing. There was only one point I could agree with you, they are harder to transport. The other points you made I feel were because of inexperience in proper bicycle riding safety and operation whether it be a diamond frame or trike.
Wow! That is amazing you ride 50 miles or more. Regarding the video, this is what this beginner experienced as a new trike owner. It is possible after she has more time in riding it that her point of view could change.These were her 'disadvantages' to share with other potential beginner trike owners. Thank you so much for your comment. They are always appreciated.
Other cyclists do have attitudes about trikes. But on the good side of that, drivers give you a wide berth because they think you are on a wheel chair of some kind. Going down hill a trike beats all the upright crotch torture bikes, hands down. Up hill, yeah its a little slower, but I have seen trikes also beat those uprights, just depends on your level of fitness. Back when I was 18, I rose upright bikes a LOT. Drivers back then would call me names and some tried to run over me in Florida, because they thought drop handlebar ten speed bikes were for sissies. What turned me onto recumbents was the movie "Brainstorm" which was Natalie Wood's last movie. Christopher Walken rode a long wheelbase recumbent with a laptop type computer on the handle bars. I thought that was the coolest thing in the world and a year later saved up enough to get one. I was about to stop bike riding because of neck, wrist, shoulder and crotch pain in my early 40's from my Peugeot racing bike. Ultimately I moved to the trikes because they are faster on the flats and downhill and SOOOOOO COMFORTABLE. And now at age 73 its the perfect cycling experience with zero pain of any kind.
Nice to hear from you! After learning more about them and talking to people who own them, I have a new perspective on them. Originally, I thought they just looked strange.
Thanks so much for this video. My wife and I are considering trikes since an unfortunate accident on a regular bicycle. Safety and then comfort are our major criteria.
I’m new to trikes, I just bought a Catrike Dumont. So far I’m loving it. Age and old injuries that are coming back to haunt me have put me off biking for the past couple of years. I’ve been looking at test riding various makes and models. For me full suspension is a game changer, it’s why I got a Dumont. It’s like riding in your car, only your pedaling. I also test rode E Cats, electric assist trikes. They’re expensive, but the electric assist increases the fun factor by about 10. I didn’t get one with a motor, but can add it later if I find I need it. Whatever you buy, test ride them first they all have different characteristics and ride qualities. For me, Catrike covered all my needs. Good luck, hope this information helps you in your search.
When climbing, with each turn of the pedal I'm having to push around 390 pounds uphill. Suffice to say the lowest gear ratio gets a bit of use but yeah - if you're heavy then a trike is definitely a more comfortable choice as imagine all that weight bearing down on the seat and handlebars. After an hour riding a diamond frame I was in all sorts of pain and that was when 45 pounds lighter. Rode for five hours today no problems.
Trikes aren't about speed, and you can always gear lower, but they also can also save your knees. I dare say you could not have walked for 5 hours at a 390 lbs load.
@@kusukacolaylowlee1611 for novice trike riders, I agree. That being said, there are plenty of us long time recumbent riders, that have zero problems with hills.
I would argue most of those issues apply to any bike. Turning at speed is an issue on a normal bike as well with the same solution, lean into it. On a normal bike you can lean a bit further because the whole bike can tilt but on a trike thats somewhat offset by being much lower to the ground. Yes too agressive and you'll flip but on a 2 wheel if you get 2 agressive your tires can loose traction and skid out from under you. It comes down to knowing your equipment and road conditions. visability is an issue but mostly for the same kind of drivers that will not notice a regular bike. you do have the advantage of looking out of the ordinary so you might catch their attention because of that. Either way put up flags and pray, drivers that will run you over on a trike will do the same thing to a road bike (hard won personal experience) hill climbs and loss of traction on poor surfaces are a problem for all bikes. I think the bigest dissadvantage is the size. There are just not many good rack options for a trike, especialy if you dont have one that folds to fit in a car.
You make some valid points about the similarities and challenges faced by all types of bikes. It really comes down to knowing your equipment and being mindful of road/ trail conditions. Cheers to more biking adventures!
I just picked up a used Terratrike Path trike and will be getting it on the road after a thorough rebuild from the 3 speed it was to the 20 speed I will make it. Gearing will be very low for the roads I will be on and normal gears for paths . I do not intend to use it in traffic or in the city unless on a bike path. as someone else in the comment section said it does not matter how much you dress up your trike for safety if the driver is not paying attention to the road .As for pedals I will be clipped in as always as I spin at 85-90 rpm on Kojak tires pumped 5 psi over max.
Your Trike rebuild sounds epic! Dressing up the trike for safety is important, but a little flashy gear never hurts either! Thanks for sharing your exciting journey with us. Wishing you safe and enjoyable rides on your updated trike.
I enjoyed you two in making this video . About your foot slipping off the pedal, you girls forgot to tell us why that Velcro strap is important. Pardon me for my comment, but if your foot slipped off pedal, there a big chance your shoe will dragged and crushed your leg into the frame cross member causing your leg an injury. Remember if you rent a suv to transport your trike, bring a old towel for the center console, save a buck or two cleaning bill! Or if your trike dose not fit. Remove rear and from wheel, mark your boom while it’s set to your riding position then puts your boom back into frame. Helps you to rent other size cars. Me my trike dose not fit in my Mustang so I rent a suv or pickup for a weekend.. rentals are cheaper if you rent Thursday to Monday weekend rates. Or Friday to Monday morning. I really enjoyed your video, thanks
Thank you for this very useful information. You are a dedicated trike rider renting an SUV to go riding. Regarding the Velcro strap, yes that was an important piece of information not passed on. The funny thing is that she was a beginner and she wasn’t sure their purpose and how to put them on properly at first. So, I think in this video she put them very creatively. Thanks for joining our biking community.
I ride, a catrike expedition and I love it! I am a aboveknee knee amputee and it is great for exercise and just plain fun being 78 years years old, the main problem is I have to carefully find the right routes and times because people who drive cars are not to be trusted in terms of running over. So I have to find rural areas with trails to overcome this which is a pain in the a.. b but weather permitting and health ok I ride! Incidentally I have to trikes since I am a snowbird!😊
You are amazing! We appreciate you sharing your information. It's easy to make excuses and say no in life, but you get it done. Those are some downsides to riding the trike. I have even had trouble riding on bike lanes, sometimes the trike is just too wide to fit through the barrier posts. But is that going to stop us? NO! Hope to see you riding.😃
@@RideandShineBicycling in a future video please let us see the straps without your foot on the pedal and an up close view, of you slowly putting the Velcro together on you foot.
I have to pedal harder (or downshift) to ride on loose stone. I also struggle on two-track stone trails (the ones with a grass strip in the middle). One tire is always in the grass.
I cant help but think that the shape of a recumbent bike can be easily adapted to accommodate a hammock frame add on which would allow people to sleep anywhere they feel like parking.
@@RideandShineBicycling I have too many million dollar ideas to afford to patent them all + i dont think i really agree with the ethics of patenting anything. Its just a way of oppressing other peoples right to trade. + the whole system of patenting is also a giant corrupt money making scam anyway.
I'll watch and see where this channel goes before subscribing... Delta/Tadpole trike is another whole issue. They have their 'features' I love my tadpole trike but love the feature of the delta that can be almost an endless recumbent train. I have a Trail. Look forward to seeing more posts.
We are channel that promotes all kinds of bikes. I work with a trike, Brompton, hybrid bike dealers to show you the latest information about various bikes. I will be posting a Hase Pino all abilities bike soon.Thanks for watching.
I've been riding recumbent trikes for 12 years and wouldn't go back to a diamond frame bike. In those 12 years, I have ridden thousands of miles, and ridden with at least a hundred other trike riders who have been on numerous types of trikes. I have seen and heard of all sorts of experiences from other trike riders, as well as my own experiences. People on bicycles are killed by cars every year so the hyper concern about recumbents being more hazardous than bikes is almost completely false. The one place I'll say that recumbents are actually more prone to getting hit by a car is in parking lots. I have a flag on my trike, as do most recumbent riders. But I'm not sure that the flag is what drivers see first. I think they see something strange, and strange things make them pay attention. I ride a very fast trike and I have to slow down more when making tight turns than an experienced bicycle rider does in the same turn. I repeat, this is tight turns only. I pass them back though on the normal stretches of road because I am laying way back on my trike, and push much less air than they do. Yes, a top athlete on a road bike will leave me behind when he gets into the high end of his speed range, but I'm retirement age and 80 pounds overweight. It should be expected that I'm not going to hang with a super athlete no matter what I'm riding. Also, most bike riders, even average ones, will beat me to the top of a long steep climb. There's a mountain I've ridden that requires me to shift into low gear and grind up hill. Average folks on upright bikes just roll by me as if I'm sitting still. Unfortunately for me, if there are turns on the way down, I may not be able to take advantage of my superior aerodynamics to beat them to the bottom. My trike is very low to the ground, but I am not willing to risk my life on going 50 plus MPH down a mountain with hopes that I can make all the turns without needing to slow down. I'll let it go pretty fast, but I stay on those brakes almost all the way down. Yes, a trike is harder to transport, and there is no remedy for that except maybe a folding trike. I'm not up on those, so I don't know how easy they are to fold up and unfold. I bought a huge van just so I can transport multiple trikes. There was no mention in this video about the two types of recumbent trikes and their relative merits. The two types are tadpoles, which are like the one in the video, and deltas, which have one wheel in front, and two in back. The tadpole design is on average, a bit less prone to tipping sideways in turns than deltas, but a lot of the tippyness factor is related to how high the seat is. Both styles of trikes are made with models that have the seats fairly high, and other models have them low. It's related to whether the manufacturer wanted to sell a trike that's easy to get on and off of, and meant for them to be ridden at a sedate pace. Or if the manufacturer focused on making a performance trike at the cost of it being hard to get on and off of. Generally speaking, whether a trike is a tadpole, or a delta, the lower the seat is, and the more laid out the rider is, the higher the speed it was intended to go. Most delta trikes turn much tighter than tadpole trikes, but that only applies when going slow of course. One other thing about delta trikes is that multiple trikes can be connected together into a train. It requires a device that has to be purchased extra, but it's a neat feature for couples who want the tandem experience without the terrifying feel of riding a tandem bicycle.
I don’t know if she said they were more dangerous than a bicycle, only that you just have to be vigilant when riding on them around cars. It would be interesting to know the statics on that. That would make sense that people would be attracted to something odder looking than a regular bike. That's a good point. Also, I would have to point out that it does depend on what kind of trike you have to make sharp turns. Hers is a lower-end trike. She did look into the folding bikes, but it was not an easy fold that she would want to do every day. There is a future video in the making on the differences between the tadpole and delta, those are all good points that you brought up. I did not know that about the connecting deltas trikes. I have started putting together the delta vs the tadpole video, but I will have to rethink it after your informative video. It was good to hear. Thank you so much for your comment.
@@RideandShineBicycling I was not directly responding to anything that your guest said about safety, it's just that lots of people have flawed ideas about safety and I wanted to express my experience on the subject. There are multiple videos on RUclips that show "trike trains", so you can see how deltas can be connected together.
I just bought a Catrike Dumont. (Full suspension is the only way to ride) but that’s not why I’m here. About braking, I learned in my first few yards, try not to panic brake! The trike stopped on a dime, and the back wheel lifted several inches off the ground, throwing me forward, I didn’t flip it, but I don’t want to know how close a came to flipping it. Trikes, at least catrikes only have front wheel brakes. So practice breaking before you got out on big ride or riding in traffic. Also remember, you got to use both brakes. So far I’m loving my trike, should have gotten one years ago, but they come with a learning curve.
@@RideandShineBicycling no injury, just an unexpected SURPRISE! Well it was two fold really. One Catrike only has front brakes, which I guess makes some sense because of the weight distribution. The other part of the equation is this the first bike I’ve owned with disc brakes, when they grab, they REALLY grab. As soon as I started to flip forward I let go of the brakes back wheel set back on the ground all was good. It was my inaugural introduction to riding a trike so I was testing things out on a quiet street. First thing to learn, you don’t have to squeeze the brake levers all that hard to stop the trike. 😉😂 I’m getting some miles in and getting more comfortable riding it. What I really love is no sore joints, no numb hands, arms or feet, and my back feel great! Should have gotten one of these years ago. 😎
Being 65 and having had multiple lower back surgeries complete with lots of metal fusing my spine I bit the bullet and got myself a a BIG trike with the 4” balloon grip tires for off road. I love it. It isn’t a speed machine by any means but neither am I. It’s about enjoying the work out. With that said I have had multiple nose dives from applying the brakes too abruptly and one ugly crash when my dogs long leash wrapped around a front wheel. That sent me completely head over heals in a flipping spin and I ended up face down with the trike on top of me. My left thigh hit the left handle bar so hard I severely bent it and almost couldn’t ride it home. Ouch! That left a mark. But it was all my fault, not the trikes. (Learning curve) It is a trike and must be rode and respected as one.
Ooo.. so sorry about your accident. What a terrible experience, but glad that didn’t stop you from riding. I have seen people walk their dogs from the trike. You must have a lot of coordination to do that. Thanks for joining our community!
For many years a Danish designed cabin bike, "The Leitra", was made in Denmark (Now the production is sold to Germany) and sadly I never tried to ride in one, because the dealer claimed a heavy fee for a try. But because of the cover it is possible to ride in one also during winter. It also is sold in an open top body versions for summer rides. But I have seen foldable versions of a trike also.
What kind of dealer would not let you try riding the bike?. Sounds ridiculous. I wonder how their sales are going? Thank you for your interesting information.
There is Leiba in Germany, they make the Classic, looks similar to the Leitra. It is a velomobile, but with a taller cabin improving visibility by other road users.
@@RideandShineBicycling He claimed that eventually changing "pedals" (for size of rider?), would make it complicated!!! Maybe also not to be overrun by people just wanting a try? But by then I would have had room for a such bike, so by that, he lost a possible sale of one. Today I live in an apartment with my wife, and hardly have room in the small, connected garden for one. The "Leitra" was originally designed by a Danish Pilot. And I think mending a puncture on the back wheel is at best, to be named, difficult!
Before buying my Brompton, folding bike (Actually a horrible, hard rolling contraption on the small wheels!), I asked for a try of one, and was allowed to do it from a by then, nearby repair shop! When I had decided to buy one he sadly had closed, so I found one from another Dealer. Presently my former top, "SuperlightM6LXBrompton" is down to around 9 kilos and still with mudguards, as a "Rainy Dane"! 😄 Its purpose is the ease of transport, as folded!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 Size is certainly and weight is certainly an issue for me too. mmm... you also have given me an idea for another video. Thanks!
There are a number of issues with the inexpensive trike shown. That said a trike is better than no trike. I will discuss one thing mentioned that is important. Trikes use bike tires--essentially, there are no trike tires. The recommended pressures are designed so that two tires hold up the rider on a bike. Since a trike uses three tires, it is counterproductive to fully inflate--rough ride and much faster wear. The proper pressure is about 20 per cent less--even 30 is perfectly fine--than the maximum listed on the tire. [Can't resist one more: New cables stretch no matter on bikes or trikes. They will need adjusting.]
Thank you for your inciteful and interesting information. I did not know that about the tires. I should probably do a video about tire pressure. Thanks again.
@@RideandShineBicycling I was a trike retailer for 12 years with clients in most states and Canada. As a one man shop I was also the mechanic. Retired, I remain a trike evangelist with three of my own, two powered. Good luck with your channel!
@@cjs1948 You are a great source. Thank you. We work with a trike dealer to get all of our information, but after putting out the 2nd trike video, we see that there is an amazing trike community out there with a wealth of information.
Sorry to say, but tires ware out faster with a lower pressure then recommended. True high tire pressure, hard ride, but less rolling resistance make for a enjoyable ride. Low air pressure make for the feeing of a head wind. Low air pressure two wheels, three even four wheel can cause knee pain.
@@APhotographerTravels2025JohnMc Wrong!!! A trike does not behave like a bike. It rides on the same tread surface even around corners because it does not lean, whereas a bike leans which moves the wear area around the tread surface--it's why bike tires have a round tread rather than flat like cars. No one said low pressure. Just adjust the pressure to accommodate the rider's weight spread over three tires rather than two (bikes). Get a trike, put on about 10,000 miles, then come back share your new found expertise.
I have a little chevy aveo. But I hang my tadpole trike in 20 seconds on a simple regular hitch receiver bike rack with parallel forks that they sell at walmart for less than 100 bucks. I bought mine for $10 at the Salvation Army store. 2 tires up. the frame of the cross is the one that sits on the rack. the tire with the speeds is the one on the bottom. Just add 2 flat 2-inch metal plates to the bottom. to keep the tire in place.
@@captscarlet8793 It is exactly this. ( EDOSTORY Platform Hitch Mount Bike Rack,Foldable 2 Bicycle Rack fit for Cars, Trucks, SUV and Sedan with 1.25" and 2" Hitch Receiver-Hitch Stabilizer) in harborfreight I saw that it is in 39 dls. Just remove the holders from the rack arms. because they get in the way to slide the trike. On the screw where the rack hinges to fold. I put a 2 inch metal plate from side to side. Which is secured by the same through bolt. to form a channel or track and secure the rear tire of the tadpole. I have an EZ sunseeker.
This is great information. Thanks for being part of our biking community. I would think this would be one of the biggest factors to consider before purchasing a trike. Thank you!
I have ridden trikes for several years. For offroad and dirt paths you want to air down to the minimum on the tire it lets it conform to the ground and get a better grip. Offroaders do the same thing in their 4X4's (another of my hobbies) There is a 4x4 trike out there but the name escapes me. As far as people "not seeing you" that is just code for I was careless and did not look. Drivers see painted lines on the road so a trike should not be an issue. My 559 folds so it is easy to put in a SUV or even a Prius like my buddy has. I find it being something unique makes drivers pay attention to me. I have had a few try to run me off the road too but those people would do that regardless of what you are riding. As far as adjustments any good bike shop will do a free adjustment session after a few hundred miles and get you all tuned up for free.
Excuse me 160 lbs...bike is 40 lbs. Come on!!!!!no more than 150 lbs. One of the best realistic informational videos on a trike. I got a recumbent, and enjoy it, the performance you get riding into the wind is pretty nice. I like too cruise around pretty slow so not too dificult.
Wow! high praise. Thank you....🤣She wasn't revealing her actual weight. I know I would not want to. Maybe it is time for a workout plan! Thanks for dropping the comment. Happy cruising.
After being a road bike rider at a high level for 50 years I recently got a Catrike after a stoke. Let me just say that so many of you are passing out bad advice about tire pressures as well as many other things about riding. If you are a large, grown man, you are going to get more flats from being underinflated than overinflated. Yes stay inside your tire's marked pressure range, but if you're over 200 pounds, pump those babies up. NEVER in 50 years have I had a tube give out on a hot Texas day from a tire getting hot. If you fix your flats as I do, what you see is snake bite, two holes where something on the road slammed your tire until the rim bit it, and the other cause of flats is thorns or other sharp things. Oh and some bend in your legs is better than a straight out extension, so get the boom set for you. And if you are new to gears, just use your middle chainring on your front sprocket and only shift the rear gears. For a newbie, you'll have all the gears that you need until you get used to it. In general, just avoid cars whenever possible. Most folks don't care about your safety.
I disagree about keeping tire presure in the range if you use marathon plus. The ride will be too harsh and your rear wheel will lose traction over rough surfaces. If you drop it from (50-70) to 30-40 , it will still be very stiff but have a little give for comfort and road holding.
We recently filmed a gravel road riding video and suggested the same tip about lowering your pressure below the suggested PSI. It would seem that would also apply to a trike. But I would just be a little careful of getting the pressure too low. Thanks for your insight.
Hi you all there is only one disadvantage your list that is real, that is transportation! Hills are easier on a trike, you can slow to a stop and never get off bike. Dirt and gravel are an issue depending on the bike, slipping tractions would happen on most road bikes. Transportation,transportation, transportation a lot of trike rides are people with mobility problems. For me I was in a position that I could buy a Ford Transit Connect Cargo just to transport, now it is a set of ramps, roll up & down. I tried a number of other options and while I could make them work it was always awkward and dangerous for me in some cases.
I think we will have to disagree with some of your points that there is only one disadvantage. With a bike you are able to lift your body up to pedal more easily when you are attempting hills. Thanks for your points. Happy trails.
The problem going up hill is simply gearing. They use drivetrains with too much tall of gearing. You can easily swap out to lower gearing that will make climbing much easier.
Totally agree! Lower gearing can be a game-changer when tackling those tough climbs. Thanks for the tip! Although I might prefer a jetpack for those uphill battles!
@@RideandShineBicycling Or E assist ;) - that's what I did. There's a physical "build" reason they use the groupo's tall gearing they do, but I can't remember the specifics of why.
On my MTB I use hydraulic, oversize disc brakes. It should be an easy swap from ordinary type brakes? In my former home, my then neighbor used a trike.
Actually, lower tire pressure gives you more "grip," or as we say in the real world, traction. The traction issue isn't low pressure. You need more weight on the tires or more aggressive tread. In this design, there just isn't enough weight on the tires for the amount of torque provided by the cyclist. It doesn't look too off road to me, though...
Yes, you are right about the tire pressure. When I do gravel road riding I always lower the PSI to get better grip. In this case in this video, the tires were below the recommended PSI level. We appreciate the comment.
Five months ago I fell off my bike and broke my wrist. Now I'm afraid to ride my bike again 😢 but it's the only way I can get to work. I ride through a forest bike road and some uneven farm paths. Do you think the trike is safer? It feels like since it's so much closer to the ground there is less chance of injuries when falling? (Not counting in car roads ofc where it's so dangerous)
Because recumbent trikes are lower to the ground, it helps with steadiness and balance. So after your bicycle fall, I would be a little worried about balance and more injuries. Riding a recumbent trike could help reduce the risk of falls and accidents. I know many people who have turned in their bikes for the recumbent trike and love it. It is comfortable and you have a better center of gravity. Other than the belief that trikes are safer, they do come with other factors to consider. They are lower to the ground so cars might have more trouble seeing you and they are wider than a bike so parking or transporting them might be an issue. I hope this will help you in making your decision.
My things are trying to find parts. When you are at crosswalks and there are cars on either side it is difficult to see the passing traffic, your front is three to four feet out into traffic before you can see around the cars. There are bike paths with sensors that will change the lights to stop traffic, but you are to low for the sensor to recognize you. Transporting them are difficult. If you are riding with a cyclist, they don't realize that you are wider and can't squeeze between people and things like a bike can.
I'm partially blind from a juvenile brain tumor, and have balance issues. Due to all of that, I'm still bale to ride a trike. My trike is 20 years old, and weighs about 50 lbs., so I need a new one. I'm a bigger guy, and am on a limited budget due to being a substitute teacher. Do you have any recommendations on what to get? Thanks!
No balance here. No longer able to get on/off my already owned tadpoles. Plan ahead. Even sidesaddle sitting, be able to swing/lift single leg over frame. EVEN get on/off a delta planform trike to/from a wheelchair. Look at that lowest frame to swing leg over on the Hase Trigo. Under seat OR over seat steering. Under seat steering is most comfortable. Over seat steering offers more bracing getting on/off. Look at video showing incredible height variance of seat. You will never outgrow a recumbent with two wheels in the rear! Grow older, raise Hase Trigo seat higher!
It's a car, it's a plane ...no no it's a trike! Some people are confused to what they are seeing on the road. They do tend to give you more space as they are passing you though, compared to a regular bicycle at least.
It would seem that she would need to get an e-trike to get up those hills. We will be coming out with a compare and contrast video on various e-trikes. I wasn’t a big fan of e-bikes… but my mind is changing and I can see all the good they can do. Thanks for the comment.
@@RideandShineBicycling they can help a *LOT* when you get on in years and/or develop severe health problems. In my case, it’s most definitely both of those things, meaning when/if my legs and knees give out, I can still get home from long, 50+ mile trips paying bills and getting groceries. I cannot afford a car’s operating expenses, but I can run a (diy) Ebike. Public transport is problematic, due to the previously mentioned health issues causing extreme fatigue, which makes it impossible to hide how disabled (and hence vulnerable) I am.
Cancel, Cancel... Hopefully, your knees will not give out! I am interested in the DIY e-bike. It is great and pretty amazing that the E-trike can make transportation easier for you.
@@RideandShineBicycling what do you wish to know? I bought a used Trek 4900 frame at a local bike shop, then over a period of 16 months I bought the other things I needed - then spent roughly a month integrating all the parts. Total invested, including a number of bike-specific tools beyond what I already had (which was quite a bit, including a crank-up assembly and repair stand, wheel truing stand, etc) was about 4,000.
Yeah, the height thing puts me off i must say. I think it's dangerous to be that low - especially anywhere near traffic. Everything else is good, but it's the height thing. I think with a motor assist in the open countryside - I want one. But I live in the Pennines of Northern England among big hills and mountains so it needs power.
I would be a little cautious myself if I were you. I know this lady who rides a trike only rides on trails. Although I have heard from long term riders that it is easier to ride on a road with a trike than a bicycle because the cars tend to move over more. The car drivers are not sure what they are passing.
I edited out a bunch of footage of the dog being over-friendly to the trike rider in this particular video. Funny and very cute, but it could become an issue.
I love my trike. I've been riding recumbents since the late 70's. The problem is there is a danger of too much comfort, joy, and extending your life from the exercise. You no longer have to unclip from the pedals at every stop sign and street corner. ANY road thats gravel is a problem with any bike, just take it slow and be smart. To combat dumb drivers I put a car horn on my trike, drivers hear a car horn and slam their brakes on because they sometimes can't see where you are. Flags are useless. I use blindingly bright lights on read and headlight and run them in day time. Trikes don't have to be heavy, get aluminum trikes, don't hang alot of gear on them. This stuff about pushing 300 pounds on the pedals, jeez if you weigh that much the trike will help you burn it off, there are ample gears and I've never had any foot problems, thank you. They're also not "old people" bikes either. I bought my trike after a really young guy smoked my butt going down hill on my two wheel recumbent. 6 months later I bought a Catrike Road and it was instant LOVE. Buy the flat proof tires, never had a flat or "blow out" and use 70 PSI in the summer without any problems.
I would like to know about maintenance issues as nobody talks about that. I learned a couple things from shop owners, but I'm concerned about it becoming a money pit.
We have 3 recumbent trikes and have been riding several years. Maintenance is the same for the trikes as it is for the upright bicycles we started riding, racing and touring on in 1982. It starts by not storing them outdoors and exposed to the elements. Then learning to shift gears properly and smoothly so as to minimize stress on the chain, derailleurs, chain rings and cogset. It is not difficult to learn to maintain the chain with cleaning and lubrication every couple hundred miles or after riding in wet conditions. Pay attention to how your brakes are working. I haven't worked on the Disc brakes myself, but I do know there are helpful videos online, especially those by Park Tools that can teach you. I did my own work on rim brakes for many years. Note the steering. Any looseness, uneven wear on the tires might call for the need of a front end adjustment-but on a trike, checking that tire pressure is even all around costs you only a good floor pump and a check before each ride. Wiping down the frame, checking for loose screws and accessory mounts, and for any disruptions in the paint which could indicate a frame issue, are common for the care of any bicycle. Take the trike into your LBS annually for a professional inspection and deep cleaning of parts and components. My observation has been that preventive care and maintenance is contributes to the longevity of both the frame and parts attached to it. Our trikes haven't been more difficult or expensive to maintain than our upright bicycles were. I wouldn't let the fear of maintenance costs keep me from having a lot of fun and taking care of my health!
Hmm, I see some obvious things. The low seating. People don't see you. What about road markings then? Those are even lower.... Enviolo/Nuvinci variable drives are notorious for the "heavy" pedaling. (My go to are IGH's, not to brag, but the Nexus 8 is real value for money, and the Rolhoff is just the bees knees. Hidiously expensive, but will last a lifetime, or 2) Single front chainring means no "granny gear". Even without a shifter, changing the chain on the rings by hand isn't difficult (pedal backwards, and guide the chain, done). The velcro strap ins. Good idea, if used correctly. But bigger platform pedals can help too. Lack of traction in the rear. More weight over the rear wheel, better tyre and a granny gear are the solutions. Tyre pressure. In the worst case scenario, use a Tyre Pressure Measurment system that goes on the schrader (car) valve and gives the pressure on a display. And the way to load a trike in the car, we do the same, and we're driving a tiny Eco-monovolume.
Twice the suspension, greater comfort, greatest traction for two wheels in rear. 2WD IS available for running dogs off road, or riding across mud or snow. Some Hase models easily fold. Tadpoles ARE best for those wanting a sports car. Vast majority riding on bicycle trails, scenery watching, wildlife watching, getting exercise, are better suited for a single wheel to steer with. Most bike paths are every bit as straight as railroad tracks (pun intended). Redundant steer wheels equals the greatest suspension under the rider's knees. WAIT, WUT?
@@RideandShineBicycling Have only seen trikes tip over at Cycle Con annual trade shows in Tennessee and Dayton, Ohio. Have NEVER even seen recumbent tricycles ridden wildly here in SW Ohio in 30 years. SW Ohio has the largest bike trail network in America! Outgrew tadpoles here. Can no longer get on/off them. Delta planform trikes cannot be outgrown. One can grow oldest on a delta planform trike. Even getting on/off from a wheelchair (Not there yet.). Trikes are expensive. Don't outgrow your choices. Own tadpoles, quad and 4 each Hase delta trikes here. Some Hase delta models can be made E-assist and 2WD, POST PURCHASE!!! Check out rain fairing & rain poncho to allow more riding if it rains. Plan Ahead! Gary AKA: "Jason Stillwater" in the recumbent world.
Yes, this lady did look into the folding kind and they just were not very quick and easy to fold. I think she said you needed tools to fold it. Thanks for the comment. It could be a future video.
Tire pressure is a function of weight. There is no right number. It depends on the weight, and how you are going to ride it. If you want comfort and good traction, 60-65psi that the shop owner recommended is far far far too much to carry 160lb over 3 wheels. You would probably need 30psi. Might even go lower if you don't plan to hop curbs.
That is actually a less expensive Trike that you see in the video, but of course you are right they are pricey. I have a video coming out soon called a $12,000 vs. $5,000 e-trike. It will be fun to see the difference. Thanks for the comment.
@@garyseckel295 You are saying if you replace the straps with the heel cup pedal sets? Right? You can see the woman in the video needed the straps to prevent her from slipping off the pedals.
Yes, replace straps, or pedal clips (called "clipless") and clip-on cycling shoes with only these pedals. I do not lift pedals when riding (more power), as would a real, hardcore athlete. NO hand/arm reaching to pedals ever needed!!!!! @@RideandShineBicycling Look up "TerraTrike" heel support pedals. PICTURES AVAILABLE! They come with straps. Most riders would never need them. I am handicapped and cannot reach anywhere much beyond my knees. (The included straps could be used for spasmic muscle disabled riders.) The heel cup alone is all most would ever need for feet retention. I own both tadpoles and Hase delta trikes. TerraTrike heel cup pedals used on BOTH my tadpoles and delta trikes. Totally safe from never running over dropped leg, AND no included straps were ever needed, but they are included for greatest handicappers. You wear your normal shoes on these pedals. I don't wear my heelless "Croc" rubber sandals while riding. After riding a while, heelless Crocs can rub on heel cups due to bare skin touching heel cups. I also cannot stand walking in my owned cleated bicycle clip shoes either! Multiple trike brands sell these identical pedals, including Hase AND other USA mayor trike shops. Great up-close photos in the pedal ads! Sorry for my confusion.
So many inaccurate statements in this video! You should ALWAYS use clip in pedals. This removes the very real chance of your foot slipping off a pedal resulting in a potentially serious injury.
I don't understand, you said you had trouble loading the bike into your car because you DIDN'T have an SUV, but you loaded the bike into an SUV to show how you load it up.
Oh boy, you have a good point there. I went back to view the video again to see what was said. That SUV was not hers, so I can definitely see the confusion. The lady said it didn't fit in her car which is a sedan. But how are you to know that after she says she didn't have an SUV? And then we are putting the trike in an SUV. 🙃You are keeping me on my toes! Thanks.
The biggest drawback in her case is the lack of independent suspension. Her turns would be much safer and comfortable with independent suspension. They also have some newer ideals where when you lean into turns on a tricycle it will behave just like a bicycle and the trike will lean with you. But with that model she has it is a cheap cheap model with really really old technology. Not saying she didn't pay around 2 grand for it, but they just used already known and practiced technology and just threw it together. You can't lean into the turns with that old stuff, i mean you can throw your weight but the trike will still stand straight, making the turn more dangerous and uncomfortable. So that is really why it needs independent suspension and why they came out with it for trikes. Not that independent suspension is new tech, but it is "new" to have it on a pedal trike. Well, newer than if it didn't have it. It has already been on cars and trucks, but on a trike now so that they can refine it just right for a light duty unit that is engineered just perfect so you can lean into the turns and the suspension allows the trike to lean with your body weight. So you are more sporty now, meaning you can turns at high speeds now.
You know it is interesting that you wrote this. She has come to the conclusion that it must be a lower end trike. Even though she did pay about 2 grand for it. But that happens often with any low end bike you buy for the first time, you start to realize its limitations. I didn't know about the independent suspension. I will relay this information to her. Thanks!
I think the trike in the video was either a Terra Trike Rover or a Maverick. Terra Trike has been designing, engineering and manufacturing recumbent trikes since 1996 or 1997 here in Grand Rapids, MI. They have a full line of recumbent, tadpole trikes frome entry/leisure level to
@@phyllisboone8957 Not sure which one it is, but I do know it was difficult for her to find trike where she would be able to pedal comfortably. Not all trikes are made for smaller-size people.
advanced touring and now enthusiast trikes for those desiring a faster, more nimble ride. The trike she has is from the leisure line of trikes. All Terra Trike models come with a lifetime frame warranty for the original owner, and service at 30 days and a year. They are sold by reputable bike shops and dealers. You won't find them at Walmart. Yes, a relatively inexpensive (not cheap) bike shop quality trike with a great warranty and backup service from both dealers and the company itself.
@@phyllisboone8957 Thank you for that valuable information. I think the trike owner in the video was open to other models but she was just having a tough time finding one that would fit her height.
I think 45 psi is plenty on the front wheels. lol I would only consider 60 psi on skinny tyres or when hauling extremely heavy loads but the tyres and wheels would have to be made for the job.
She probably is just following the manufactures recommendations. In my case, it certainly depends on the terrain. Thanks for your insightful perspective.
What a lot absolute bullshit...I am lying in my tent watching this on a rest day...I have done now 7 500km on my ICE Adventure trike with a Burley trailer...I still got 1 500km left to go.Stop talking to no brainers...this thing is absolutly amazing...
Everything said in this video is from the perspective of a beginner trike owner. Everyone has got to start some where. Obviously, we could learn from your experience if you are willing to share. Do you have any idea suggestions? Please let us know. Thank you for the comment
I am sorry but I TOTALLY disagree with her conclusions. - Her conclusions may have to do with the Trike she is currently using. - I would recommend that she try other makes and models. Also, there are many different trikes racks for most cars. - I cycle with an AZUB Tri-Con 26”. I have found mostly the complete opposite of her complaints. -
Thanks for the comment. She did not want a trike rack sticking out in the back of her car, also the rooftop ones were not an option because of the weight issue. She is really enjoying her trike and yes it could be the model that you are referring to but this is from a beginner's perspective. AZUB Tri-Con 26 is much more pricey than the TerraTrike that she is riding so that could be an issue too? Thanks again.
On my Catrike Dumont I had to go to a much more aggressive tire because the slick tire it had on the rear caused to much slippage. That's the only problem I have had. A 2 wheeler is very dangerous, balance #1, health #2 ( take a mirror after riding a 2 wheeler and look between your legs, the Bruising is a life killer, cause blood clots and other health problems), no matter what bike or trike you ride, you will have the idiots that will open their doors on you so why did you even show that?? You're report is all anti-Trike so stop crying and try it. I have no more lower back pains, no neck pains, no shoulder pains, no wrist and hand pains. I will send you a crying towel tomorrow
This is mostly biking ignorance & mechanical ignorance in general, not much is trike specific. Even some of the few remarks that one might argue are more trike specific are only misunderstandings or misinformation. Sorry, I do support the concept of this video, but on balance must give it a thumbs down.
No thanks ,expensive, dangerous , difficulty to pass narrow cooridors and not light to life , oh did I say much slower to get where you go than a bike.👎 Your review is impeccable a big thumbs up , I wouldn't want one for reasons I said above.
As long as I can balance, I will use my two Cruzbike recumbents, although I admit it's a hassle to have to put feet down at lights. Main problem I see with trikes is straddling a pothole or object. If I had a trike, it would definitely be an electric assist.
Also saying from direct experience that EVEN regarding SINGLE wheel drive, twin rear wheels are still superior! Wait, Wut? A single rear tadpole tire can easily be heavily loaded. SO.., if inadequate traction is encountered, twin rear tires lessen likelihood of a double loaded SINGLE rear tire from sinking. Walking dog off pavement? Double the tire tread area best to prevent sinking. 2WD even better yet! Not just beginner information here, as decades long tadpole riders do not realize these facts either!
Delta trikes tend to sit higher so it's easier to mount and dismount. That higher seating position does however make it much easier to flip the trike over.
@@larryhobbs6045 Own both tadpoles and deltas. Never flipped either. 95++% of all recumbent riding is exercise, scenic viewing and nature observance. Tadpole IS the sports car for higher speed maneuvering! There, AND.., I always say that! Most do not ride trikes in such a manner. Not at all, "much easier to flip over" if ridden with any common sense. Never outgrow a Hase delta that can be MADE 2WD and E-assist POST PURCHASE. Grow oldest too, riding a Hase delta trike. Hase Trigo SEAT (see video) can be adjusted very LOW, OR.., very HIGH! MUCH MORE SEAT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT THAN TADPOLES! OH, and BTW, I cannot get on/off my tadpole trikes for over10 years now!
@@larryhobbs6045 Yes, it is important to know the differences between the two trikes. We do have a video that has not been posted on the differences between the 2 different kinds of trikes. Thanks for the comment.
Those are fighting words when you post something like that on a channel that is run by women. We should all stick together! The more bicycle riders out there the more we can influence the city planners to create bike friendly routes.
You don't know what you're talking about! Any Trike is much more comfortable than an ordinary bicycle! Get off the road and stay on a paved trail if you are worried about hitting a parked car. By the way, drivers in cars pay more respect to Trike riders because sometimes they resemble wheelchairs. Old Goat's Net - 3910 kHz. - 1130 UTC (Ham Radio Network)
This is the perspective of a new Trike owner. I think she was on a paved trail, she had to cross a street, so anyone would have to be alert. I do agree with you on drivers paying more respect to trike riders. They tend to move over even wider for a bicycle.
Love it !! So much great information. Love the terrain. Where are you guys located? 🙌
Thanks so much! We are located in the Washington DC Area.
The tyre pressures are allowing for extreme heat days, so are perfectly safe to go to max pressure in a heatwave. Brake adjustment is same for any cycles with cable brakes. Going uphill trikes are better because you can stop to rest without falling off, and ALL bikes and trikes with gears can go low enough to not be hard to pedal. A driver that doesn't notice a trike also wont notice a bike or motorcycle because theyre just not looking. In fact more people notice trikes cause theyre different.(most car drivers ARE looking so do see you). Ride a bike with road tyres in the gravel and youll wheelspin too. As for fitting it in a car, buy one that folds and has quick detatch front wheels- many are like that now. Most bikes youll need to take the front wheel off to fit it in a small wagon. Trikes are safer on rough gravel- where a bike can faceplant you.
That is good information. I do want to create a more informative video on tire pressure with detailed information.Your comment could be useful in a future video. I know this person who I interviewed for this video wanted a fold up bike, but ruled against it once seeing how it was not user friendly. Thanks for the comment!
I switched to a trike because it is far more comfortable. No more neck, hand, wrist and bottom pain. That alone is worth changing. In addition, it's more fun zipping around. I've been riding trike for ten years and a lot gets mentioned about visibility. The reality is that the danger is from motorists not paying attention and that is the same for every vehicle. I frankly can't understand why people still ride uprights they are so uncomfortable.
@@trisailer1 Good point, but I still love my upright even with some bottom pain😄!
Now I've had my trike for 2300km and have only needed to adjust my brakes when they bedded in (around 700km) and just recently because the parking latches were not holding solidly. Take note this is with drum brakes that will probably last the life of the trike. Disc brakes need much more frequent adjusting as the surface area of the pads is much smaller even though they pull you up better.
That brings up the point that upright bikes are extremely dangerous to crash. Your face goes into the pavement, which can kill you, destroy your face and cripple you badly. Even a helmet won't help that much. I lived in an apartment complex that had illegal grates over rain catchers. I knew they were dangerous but coming back from a ride I saw a cat I wanted to meet and my front tired hit the grate and threw me from the recumbent SIDEWAYS onto the pavement. Its the same for trikes, no faceplants and reconstructive facial surgery ;-) I reported the grate and a lawyer got me a new bike since mine was destroyed.
I am a fairly new tadpole style trike owner myself. Great information in the video. The thing with climbing hills is that its all lower body power you cant put your body weight into it like you can with a stand up bike. I also noticed just going to my backyard my rear tire would slip and I would go no where even with proper inflation. How I solved that by changing out the rear tire to a more nobby rear drive tire. If there is any leaves on a steep hill good luck getting up it no matter if you have the right tire pressure and tire you will just spin your drive tire. I also noticed you can definitely tip it going around a corner really fast. Despite these disadvantages of a trike I absolutely love mine because I have 0 back and butt pain riding one and I can once again enjoy riding.
You are so right. That is a great tip to change out the rear tire. Thanks for the comment. Happy riding.😃
@@RideandShineBicycling Its always happy riding on a trike. :) by the way since you actually replied. I will subscribe to ya channel. I hope you will return the favor. I am trying to get this one at least above 100. If you like dogs I also have Pawsuasive Dog Teaching. My Ruby Doo knows over 60 tricks so far and for every 1000 subscribers she gets a steak dinner. :)
A tire pressure check with your fingers? Use a gauge. There are so many different kinds of trikes (or recumbent for that matter) models. Some trikes fold (like my 2 ICE trikes). It seems there was a lot of 'disadvantages' in this video, but no 'advantages'.
1. Look, recumbents are just fun.
2. I don't get neck, shoulder, arm, wrist, or BUTT pain.
3. I've been on trikes for almost 10 years now, and have never flipped or turned over.
4. Trikes are fun!
5. With experience, you can keep up with just about anyone, even the 'roadies'.
6. The ride is just so relaxing. I don't have to get up and walk around to stretch or relive pain at stops. I simply sit.
7. Did I mention they are just fun?
You are funny...Great points! Thanks again.
For my trike, I do have a flag/spinner and warning lights - on the highway, other vehicles give me a much wider berth than they do for bikes.
I can transport the trike either in my Tacoma truck bed, on the roof rack, or on the tonneau cover.
My trike weighs in the neighborhood of 75 lbs, and when I first got it, my weight was 250 lbs. I use e-assist to "even the odds" against bikes, but I still work much harder than most, because I enjoy it.
The major reasons I got a recumbent trike were that bike seats were hard on my prostate, and the constant pressure on my palms aggravated my carpal tunnel issues. One thing I had to do, though, was raise the seat to twice the built in range because, even though I had a headrest, I was still straining my neck too much. The extra height turned the seat into more of a bucket seat, and also increased my center of gravity - I've had a number of wipeouts for that reason :-) My setup is much more expensive than any bike I'd ever have purchased (enough to buy a new small car), but it is also one of my best investments ever.
Thanks for sharing your experience with your recumbent trike. It’s inspiring to see how you’ve adapted it to fit your preferences and needs. Your trike setup might be more expensive than a bike but it sounds like it’s was worth every penny for the comfort and enjoyment you get out of it. Also, those wipeouts must have been quite the adventure! At least you’re getting a good workout, right?
@@RideandShineBicycling Of course! Unfortunately, I don't have riding weather for nearly half the year, but I'm keeping in shape and expect to really ramp up for the upcoming season - many, many more and longer trips...
My Wife and I ride our tadpole trikes all the time for about 7 years now, we love them. Yes we go on rides 50 miles or more just for a Saturday outing.
There was only one point I could agree with you, they are harder to transport. The other points you made I feel were because of inexperience in proper bicycle riding safety and operation whether it be a diamond frame or trike.
Wow! That is amazing you ride 50 miles or more. Regarding the video, this is what this beginner experienced as a new trike owner. It is possible after she has more time in riding it that her point of view could change.These were her 'disadvantages' to share with other potential beginner trike owners. Thank you so much for your comment. They are always appreciated.
Other cyclists do have attitudes about trikes. But on the good side of that, drivers give you a wide berth because they think you are on a wheel chair of some kind. Going down hill a trike beats all the upright crotch torture bikes, hands down. Up hill, yeah its a little slower, but I have seen trikes also beat those uprights, just depends on your level of fitness. Back when I was 18, I rose upright bikes a LOT. Drivers back then would call me names and some tried to run over me in Florida, because they thought drop handlebar ten speed bikes were for sissies. What turned me onto recumbents was the movie "Brainstorm" which was Natalie Wood's last movie. Christopher Walken rode a long wheelbase recumbent with a laptop type computer on the handle bars. I thought that was the coolest thing in the world and a year later saved up enough to get one. I was about to stop bike riding because of neck, wrist, shoulder and crotch pain in my early 40's from my Peugeot racing bike. Ultimately I moved to the trikes because they are faster on the flats and downhill and SOOOOOO COMFORTABLE. And now at age 73 its the perfect cycling experience with zero pain of any kind.
Good to see you being loud and seen rather than in black and unseen . Also being fit and fantastic well done you .
I’m hoping to test drive a recumbent one day! I too find them very intriguing 😊
Nice to hear from you! After learning more about them and talking to people who own them, I have a new perspective on them. Originally, I thought they just looked strange.
Thanks so much for this video. My wife and I are considering trikes since an unfortunate accident on a regular bicycle. Safety and then comfort are our major criteria.
Sorry to hear about the accident. The trike is a great solution. Glad this video helps you.
I’m new to trikes, I just bought a Catrike Dumont. So far I’m loving it. Age and old injuries that are coming back to haunt me have put me off biking for the past couple of years. I’ve been looking at test riding various makes and models. For me full suspension is a game changer, it’s why I got a Dumont. It’s like riding in your car, only your pedaling. I also test rode E Cats, electric assist trikes. They’re expensive, but the electric assist increases the fun factor by about 10. I didn’t get one with a motor, but can add it later if I find I need it. Whatever you buy, test ride them first they all have different characteristics and ride qualities. For me, Catrike covered all my needs. Good luck, hope this information helps you in your search.
When climbing, with each turn of the pedal I'm having to push around 390 pounds uphill. Suffice to say the lowest gear ratio gets a bit of use but yeah - if you're heavy then a trike is definitely a more comfortable choice as imagine all that weight bearing down on the seat and handlebars. After an hour riding a diamond frame I was in all sorts of pain and that was when 45 pounds lighter. Rode for five hours today no problems.
That’s the beauty of a trike. Glad you found the trike agreeable. That is good information. Yeah trikes!
The comfort of having to push from a seat with a back, will give much more power than just the weight of th body!
Trikes aren't about speed, and you can always gear lower, but they also can also save your knees. I dare say you could not have walked for 5 hours at a 390 lbs load.
My wife and I have ridden trikes (me a tadpole, her a delta) for years. I do not think there are disadvantages other than transporting them.
Up hill
If I live close a bike/trike path, this is wonderful.
@@kusukacolaylowlee1611 for novice trike riders, I agree. That being said, there are plenty of us long time recumbent riders, that have zero problems with hills.
Nice Trike - looks well designed and comfortable - sling seat designs work good
Glad you think the sling seat designs work well.
I would argue most of those issues apply to any bike.
Turning at speed is an issue on a normal bike as well with the same solution, lean into it. On a normal bike you can lean a bit further because the whole bike can tilt but on a trike thats somewhat offset by being much lower to the ground. Yes too agressive and you'll flip but on a 2 wheel if you get 2 agressive your tires can loose traction and skid out from under you. It comes down to knowing your equipment and road conditions.
visability is an issue but mostly for the same kind of drivers that will not notice a regular bike. you do have the advantage of looking out of the ordinary so you might catch their attention because of that. Either way put up flags and pray, drivers that will run you over on a trike will do the same thing to a road bike (hard won personal experience)
hill climbs and loss of traction on poor surfaces are a problem for all bikes.
I think the bigest dissadvantage is the size. There are just not many good rack options for a trike, especialy if you dont have one that folds to fit in a car.
You make some valid points about the similarities and challenges faced by all types of bikes. It really comes down to knowing your equipment and being mindful of road/ trail conditions. Cheers to more biking adventures!
I just picked up a used Terratrike Path trike and will be getting it on the road after a thorough rebuild from the 3 speed it was to the 20 speed I will make it. Gearing will be very low for the roads I will be on and normal gears for paths . I do not intend to use it in traffic or in the city unless on a bike path. as someone else in the comment section said it does not matter how much you dress up your trike for safety if the driver is not paying attention to the road .As for pedals I will be clipped in as always as I spin at 85-90 rpm on Kojak tires pumped 5 psi over max.
Your Trike rebuild sounds epic! Dressing up the trike for safety is important, but a little flashy gear never hurts either! Thanks for sharing your exciting journey with us. Wishing you safe and enjoyable rides on your updated trike.
I enjoyed you two in making this video . About your foot slipping off the pedal, you girls forgot to tell us why that Velcro strap is important. Pardon me for my comment, but if your foot slipped off pedal, there a big chance your shoe will dragged and crushed your leg into the frame cross member causing your leg an injury. Remember if you rent a suv to transport your trike, bring a old towel for the center console, save a buck or two cleaning bill! Or if your trike dose not fit. Remove rear and from wheel, mark your boom while it’s set to your riding position then puts your boom back into frame. Helps you to rent other size cars. Me my trike dose not fit in my Mustang so I rent a suv or pickup for a weekend.. rentals are cheaper if you rent Thursday to Monday weekend rates. Or Friday to Monday morning. I really enjoyed your video, thanks
Thank you for this very useful information. You are a dedicated trike rider renting an SUV to go riding. Regarding the Velcro strap, yes that was an important piece of information not passed on. The funny thing is that she was a beginner and she wasn’t sure their purpose and how to put them on properly at first. So, I think in this video she put them very creatively. Thanks for joining our biking community.
I ride, a catrike expedition and I love it! I am a aboveknee knee amputee and it is great for exercise and just plain fun being 78 years years old, the main problem is I have to carefully find the right routes and times because people who drive cars are not to be trusted in terms of running over. So I have to find rural areas with trails to overcome this which is a pain in the a.. b
but weather permitting and health ok I ride! Incidentally I have to trikes since I am a snowbird!😊
You are amazing! We appreciate you sharing your information. It's easy to make excuses and say no in life, but you get it done. Those are some downsides to riding the trike. I have even had trouble riding on bike lanes, sometimes the trike is just too wide to fit through the barrier posts. But is that going to stop us? NO! Hope to see you riding.😃
Very helpful. Where did you get the Velcro strap pedal? The clip on shoes are a pain, literally!
Glad it was helpful. The velcro straps already came with the trike. Thank you for watching!
@@RideandShineBicycling in a future video please let us see the straps without your foot on the pedal and an up close view, of you slowly putting the Velcro together on you foot.
I never used clipless pedals until I started triking. Love them.
You can lift a two wheeler over most obstructions or run it up a set of stairs with little trouble but a trike will always be awkward.
Yes, I can see that. Thanks for the comment.
I have to pedal harder (or downshift) to ride on loose stone.
I also struggle on two-track stone trails (the ones with a grass strip in the middle). One tire is always in the grass.
Yes, that has happened to her too. 😬Some have said it depends on what kind of Trike you have.
@@RideandShineBicycling Compacted gravel is fine, but loose chat (pea-sized gravel) just chucked on the trail is taxing. But so is walking on it.
I cant help but think that the shape of a recumbent bike can be easily adapted to accommodate a hammock frame add on which would allow people to sleep anywhere they feel like parking.
Patent that million-dollar idea.😜
@@RideandShineBicycling I have too many million dollar ideas to afford to patent them all + i dont think i really agree with the ethics of patenting anything. Its just a way of oppressing other peoples right to trade. + the whole system of patenting is also a giant corrupt money making scam anyway.
@@100musicplaylists3 Interesting perspective. I never thought of it that way.
I'll watch and see where this channel goes before subscribing... Delta/Tadpole trike is another whole issue. They have their 'features' I love my tadpole trike but love the feature of the delta that can be almost an endless recumbent train. I have a Trail. Look forward to seeing more posts.
We are channel that promotes all kinds of bikes. I work with a trike, Brompton, hybrid bike dealers to show you the latest information about various bikes. I will be posting a Hase Pino all abilities bike soon.Thanks for watching.
I've been riding recumbent trikes for 12 years and wouldn't go back to a diamond frame bike.
In those 12 years, I have ridden thousands of miles, and ridden with at least a hundred other trike riders who have been on numerous types of trikes. I have seen and heard of all sorts of experiences from other trike riders, as well as my own experiences.
People on bicycles are killed by cars every year so the hyper concern about recumbents being more hazardous than bikes is almost completely false. The one place I'll say that recumbents are actually more prone to getting hit by a car is in parking lots. I have a flag on my trike, as do most recumbent riders. But I'm not sure that the flag is what drivers see first. I think they see something strange, and strange things make them pay attention.
I ride a very fast trike and I have to slow down more when making tight turns than an experienced bicycle rider does in the same turn. I repeat, this is tight turns only. I pass them back though on the normal stretches of road because I am laying way back on my trike, and push much less air than they do. Yes, a top athlete on a road bike will leave me behind when he gets into the high end of his speed range, but I'm retirement age and 80 pounds overweight. It should be expected that I'm not going to hang with a super athlete no matter what I'm riding.
Also, most bike riders, even average ones, will beat me to the top of a long steep climb. There's a mountain I've ridden that requires me to shift into low gear and grind up hill. Average folks on upright bikes just roll by me as if I'm sitting still. Unfortunately for me, if there are turns on the way down, I may not be able to take advantage of my superior aerodynamics to beat them to the bottom. My trike is very low to the ground, but I am not willing to risk my life on going 50 plus MPH down a mountain with hopes that I can make all the turns without needing to slow down. I'll let it go pretty fast, but I stay on those brakes almost all the way down.
Yes, a trike is harder to transport, and there is no remedy for that except maybe a folding trike. I'm not up on those, so I don't know how easy they are to fold up and unfold. I bought a huge van just so I can transport multiple trikes.
There was no mention in this video about the two types of recumbent trikes and their relative merits. The two types are tadpoles, which are like the one in the video, and deltas, which have one wheel in front, and two in back. The tadpole design is on average, a bit less prone to tipping sideways in turns than deltas, but a lot of the tippyness factor is related to how high the seat is. Both styles of trikes are made with models that have the seats fairly high, and other models have them low. It's related to whether the manufacturer wanted to sell a trike that's easy to get on and off of, and meant for them to be ridden at a sedate pace. Or if the manufacturer focused on making a performance trike at the cost of it being hard to get on and off of. Generally speaking, whether a trike is a tadpole, or a delta, the lower the seat is, and the more laid out the rider is, the higher the speed it was intended to go.
Most delta trikes turn much tighter than tadpole trikes, but that only applies when going slow of course.
One other thing about delta trikes is that multiple trikes can be connected together into a train. It requires a device that has to be purchased extra, but it's a neat feature for couples who want the tandem experience without the terrifying feel of riding a tandem bicycle.
I don’t know if she said they were more dangerous than a bicycle, only that you just have to be vigilant when riding on them around cars. It would be interesting to know the statics on that. That would make sense that people would be attracted to something odder looking than a regular bike. That's a good point. Also, I would have to point out that it does depend on what kind of trike you have to make sharp turns. Hers is a lower-end trike. She did look into the folding bikes, but it was not an easy fold that she would want to do every day. There is a future video in the making on the differences between the tadpole and delta, those are all good points that you brought up. I did not know that about the connecting deltas trikes. I have started putting together the delta vs the tadpole video, but I will have to rethink it after your informative video. It was good to hear. Thank you so much for your comment.
@@RideandShineBicycling
I was not directly responding to anything that your guest said about safety, it's just that lots of people have flawed ideas about safety and I wanted to express my experience on the subject.
There are multiple videos on RUclips that show "trike trains", so you can see how deltas can be connected together.
@@deezynar It could make a good video for the future. Thanks.
I just bought a Catrike Dumont. (Full suspension is the only way to ride) but that’s not why I’m here. About braking, I learned in my first few yards, try not to panic brake! The trike stopped on a dime, and the back wheel lifted several inches off the ground, throwing me forward, I didn’t flip it, but I don’t want to know how close a came to flipping it. Trikes, at least catrikes only have front wheel brakes. So practice breaking before you got out on big ride or riding in traffic. Also remember, you got to use both brakes. So far I’m loving my trike, should have gotten one years ago, but they come with a learning curve.
Oh my gosh! Thank you for sharing your cautionary tale. I hope you were not injured.
@@RideandShineBicycling no injury, just an unexpected SURPRISE! Well it was two fold really. One Catrike only has front brakes, which I guess makes some sense because of the weight distribution. The other part of the equation is this the first bike I’ve owned with disc brakes, when they grab, they REALLY grab. As soon as I started to flip forward I let go of the brakes back wheel set back on the ground all was good. It was my inaugural introduction to riding a trike so I was testing things out on a quiet street. First thing to learn, you don’t have to squeeze the brake levers all that hard to stop the trike. 😉😂 I’m getting some miles in and getting more comfortable riding it. What I really love is no sore joints, no numb hands, arms or feet, and my back feel great! Should have gotten one of these years ago. 😎
That is really awesome how a trike can change your life.@@jamesmchugo9422 🤩
Being 65 and having had multiple lower back surgeries complete with lots of metal fusing my spine I bit the bullet and got myself a a BIG trike with the 4” balloon grip tires for off road. I love it. It isn’t a speed machine by any means but neither am I. It’s about enjoying the work out. With that said I have had multiple nose dives from applying the brakes too abruptly and one ugly crash when my dogs long leash wrapped around a front wheel. That sent me completely head over heals in a flipping spin and I ended up face down with the trike on top of me. My left thigh hit the left handle bar so hard I severely bent it and almost couldn’t ride it home. Ouch! That left a mark. But it was all my fault, not the trikes. (Learning curve) It is a trike and must be rode and respected as one.
Ooo.. so sorry about your accident. What a terrible experience, but glad that didn’t stop you from riding. I have seen people walk their dogs from the trike. You must have a lot of coordination to do that. Thanks for joining our community!
تحياتي لك من مصر فيديو رائع جدا ومميز أنا ادعمك بالتوفيق
شكرًا لكونك جزءًا من مجتمع ركوب الدراجات لدينا
For many years a Danish designed cabin bike, "The Leitra", was made in Denmark (Now the production is sold to Germany) and sadly I never tried to ride in one, because the dealer claimed a heavy fee for a try. But because of the cover it is possible to ride in one also during winter. It also is sold in an open top body versions for summer rides. But I have seen foldable versions of a trike also.
What kind of dealer would not let you try riding the bike?. Sounds ridiculous. I wonder how their sales are going? Thank you for your interesting information.
There is Leiba in Germany, they make the Classic, looks similar to the Leitra. It is a velomobile, but with a taller cabin improving visibility by other road users.
@@RideandShineBicycling He claimed that eventually changing "pedals" (for size of rider?), would make it complicated!!! Maybe also not to be overrun by people just wanting a try? But by then I would have had room for a such bike, so by that, he lost a possible sale of one. Today I live in an apartment with my wife, and hardly have room in the small, connected garden for one. The "Leitra" was originally designed by a Danish Pilot. And I think mending a puncture on the back wheel is at best, to be named, difficult!
Before buying my Brompton, folding bike (Actually a horrible, hard rolling contraption on the small wheels!), I asked for a try of one, and was allowed to do it from a by then, nearby repair shop! When I had decided to buy one he sadly had closed, so I found one from another Dealer. Presently my former top, "SuperlightM6LXBrompton" is down to around 9 kilos and still with mudguards, as a "Rainy Dane"! 😄 Its purpose is the ease of transport, as folded!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 Size is certainly and weight is certainly an issue for me too. mmm... you also have given me an idea for another video. Thanks!
Nice Trike - sling seat designs work good
Thanks for the shoutout on the trike.
There are a number of issues with the inexpensive trike shown. That said a trike is better than no trike. I will discuss one thing mentioned that is important. Trikes use bike tires--essentially, there are no trike tires. The recommended pressures are designed so that two tires hold up the rider on a bike. Since a trike uses three tires, it is counterproductive to fully inflate--rough ride and much faster wear. The proper pressure is about 20 per cent less--even 30 is perfectly fine--than the maximum listed on the tire. [Can't resist one more: New cables stretch no matter on bikes or trikes. They will need adjusting.]
Thank you for your inciteful and interesting information. I did not know that about the tires. I should probably do a video about tire pressure. Thanks again.
@@RideandShineBicycling I was a trike retailer for 12 years with clients in most states and Canada. As a one man shop I was also the mechanic. Retired, I remain a trike evangelist with three of my own, two powered. Good luck with your channel!
@@cjs1948 You are a great source. Thank you. We work with a trike dealer to get all of our information, but after putting out the 2nd trike video, we see that there is an amazing trike community out there with a wealth of information.
Sorry to say, but tires ware out faster with a lower pressure then recommended. True high tire pressure, hard ride, but less rolling resistance make for a enjoyable ride. Low air pressure make for the feeing of a head wind. Low air pressure two wheels, three even four wheel can cause knee pain.
@@APhotographerTravels2025JohnMc Wrong!!! A trike does not behave like a bike. It rides on the same tread surface even around corners because it does not lean, whereas a bike leans which moves the wear area around the tread surface--it's why bike tires have a round tread rather than flat like cars. No one said low pressure. Just adjust the pressure to accommodate the rider's weight spread over three tires rather than two (bikes). Get a trike, put on about 10,000 miles, then come back share your new found expertise.
I have a little chevy aveo. But I hang my tadpole trike in 20 seconds on a simple regular hitch receiver bike rack with parallel forks that they sell at walmart for less than 100 bucks. I bought mine for $10 at the Salvation Army store.
2 tires up. the frame of the cross is the one that sits on the rack. the tire with the speeds is the one on the bottom. Just add 2 flat 2-inch metal plates to the bottom. to keep the tire in place.
can you post a link to the rack you got?
@@captscarlet8793 It is exactly this. ( EDOSTORY Platform Hitch Mount Bike Rack,Foldable 2 Bicycle Rack fit for Cars, Trucks, SUV and Sedan with 1.25" and 2" Hitch Receiver-Hitch Stabilizer)
in harborfreight I saw that it is in 39 dls. Just remove the holders from the rack arms. because they get in the way to slide the trike. On the screw where the rack hinges to fold. I put a 2 inch metal plate from side to side. Which is secured by the same through bolt. to form a channel or track and secure the rear tire of the tadpole. I have an EZ sunseeker.
This is great information. Thanks for being part of our biking community. I would think this would be one of the biggest factors to consider before purchasing a trike. Thank you!
I have ridden trikes for several years. For offroad and dirt paths you want to air down to the minimum on the tire it lets it conform to the ground and get a better grip. Offroaders do the same thing in their 4X4's (another of my hobbies) There is a 4x4 trike out there but the name escapes me. As far as people "not seeing you" that is just code for I was careless and did not look. Drivers see painted lines on the road so a trike should not be an issue. My 559 folds so it is easy to put in a SUV or even a Prius like my buddy has. I find it being something unique makes drivers pay attention to me. I have had a few try to run me off the road too but those people would do that regardless of what you are riding. As far as adjustments any good bike shop will do a free adjustment session after a few hundred miles and get you all tuned up for free.
Thank you! That is good advice. And you gave us a video idea! 😃
Excuse me 160 lbs...bike is 40 lbs. Come on!!!!!no more than 150 lbs.
One of the best realistic informational videos on a trike. I got a recumbent, and enjoy it, the performance you get riding into the wind is pretty nice. I like too cruise around pretty slow so not too dificult.
Wow! high praise. Thank you....🤣She wasn't revealing her actual weight. I know I would not want to. Maybe it is time for a workout plan! Thanks for dropping the comment. Happy cruising.
After being a road bike rider at a high level for 50 years I recently got a Catrike after a stoke. Let me just say that so many of you are passing out bad advice about tire pressures as well as many other things about riding. If you are a large, grown man, you are going to get more flats from being underinflated than overinflated. Yes stay inside your tire's marked pressure range, but if you're over 200 pounds, pump those babies up. NEVER in 50 years have I had a tube give out on a hot Texas day from a tire getting hot. If you fix your flats as I do, what you see is snake bite, two holes where something on the road slammed your tire until the rim bit it, and the other cause of flats is thorns or other sharp things. Oh and some bend in your legs is better than a straight out extension, so get the boom set for you. And if you are new to gears, just use your middle chainring on your front sprocket and only shift the rear gears. For a newbie, you'll have all the gears that you need until you get used to it. In general, just avoid cars whenever possible. Most folks don't care about your safety.
Thank you for sharing your valuable insights and experience with us!
Thanks for the information 👍
I disagree about keeping tire presure in the range if you use marathon plus. The ride will be too harsh and your rear wheel will lose traction over rough surfaces. If you drop it from (50-70) to 30-40 , it will still be very stiff but have a little give for comfort and road holding.
We recently filmed a gravel road riding video and suggested the same tip about lowering your pressure below the suggested PSI. It would seem that would also apply to a trike. But I would just be a little careful of getting the pressure too low. Thanks for your insight.
Hi you all there is only one disadvantage your list that is real, that is transportation! Hills are easier on a trike, you can slow to a stop and never get off bike. Dirt and gravel are an issue depending on the bike, slipping tractions would happen on most road bikes. Transportation,transportation, transportation a lot of trike rides are people with mobility problems. For me I was in a position that I could buy a Ford Transit Connect Cargo just to transport, now it is a set of ramps, roll up & down. I tried a number of other options and while I could make them work it was always awkward and dangerous for me in some cases.
I think we will have to disagree with some of your points that there is only one disadvantage. With a bike you are able to lift your body up to pedal more easily when you are attempting hills. Thanks for your points. Happy trails.
Ahh, fellow Kia Soul and bent trike rider. Have the front chain sprockets scratched the rear hatch?
Hey, I had to check, but I didn't see anything. We put the brake on after we load so it won't slide.
The problem going up hill is simply gearing. They use drivetrains with too much tall of gearing. You can easily swap out to lower gearing that will make climbing much easier.
Totally agree! Lower gearing can be a game-changer when tackling those tough climbs. Thanks for the tip! Although I might prefer a jetpack for those uphill battles!
@@RideandShineBicycling Or E assist ;) - that's what I did. There's a physical "build" reason they use the groupo's tall gearing they do, but I can't remember the specifics of why.
On my MTB I use hydraulic, oversize disc brakes. It should be an easy swap from ordinary type brakes? In my former home, my then neighbor used a trike.
I don't know about an easy swap, but they are much better than mechanical disc brakes. They have better braking power.🙂
Yes, *four-pot hydraulics.*
perhaps a set of gravel tires and Tanus armor inserts
That could be a clever idea. I had to look up Tanus armor. It sounds too good to be true.
Actually, lower tire pressure gives you more "grip," or as we say in the real world, traction. The traction issue isn't low pressure. You need more weight on the tires or more aggressive tread. In this design, there just isn't enough weight on the tires for the amount of torque provided by the cyclist. It doesn't look too off road to me, though...
Yes, you are right about the tire pressure. When I do gravel road riding I always lower the PSI to get better grip. In this case in this video, the tires were below the recommended PSI level. We appreciate the comment.
Five months ago I fell off my bike and broke my wrist. Now I'm afraid to ride my bike again 😢 but it's the only way I can get to work. I ride through a forest bike road and some uneven farm paths. Do you think the trike is safer? It feels like since it's so much closer to the ground there is less chance of injuries when falling? (Not counting in car roads ofc where it's so dangerous)
Or maybe just a regular tricycle could make me feel safer with balancing?
Because recumbent trikes are lower to the ground, it helps with steadiness and balance. So after your bicycle fall, I would be a little worried about balance and more injuries. Riding a recumbent trike could help reduce the risk of falls and accidents. I know many people who have turned in their bikes for the recumbent trike and love it. It is comfortable and you have a better center of gravity. Other than the belief that trikes are safer, they do come with other factors to consider. They are lower to the ground so cars might have more trouble seeing you and they are wider than a bike so parking or transporting them might be an issue. I hope this will help you in making your decision.
My things are trying to find parts.
When you are at crosswalks and there are cars on either side it is difficult to see the passing traffic, your front is three to four feet out into traffic before you can see around the cars.
There are bike paths with sensors that will change the lights to stop traffic, but you are to low for the sensor to recognize you.
Transporting them are difficult.
If you are riding with a cyclist, they don't realize that you are wider and can't squeeze between people and things like a bike can.
That is dangerous. I had not known about the bike path sensors. All good information. Thanks for the insight.
0:29 The velcro strap isn't supposed wrap around your leg.
That is interesting. She was a beginner and no one had given her instructions on how to use the velcro. What is the correct way?
I'm partially blind from a juvenile brain tumor, and have balance issues. Due to all of that, I'm still bale to ride a trike. My trike is 20 years old, and weighs about 50 lbs., so I need a new one. I'm a bigger guy, and am on a limited budget due to being a substitute teacher. Do you have any recommendations on what to get? Thanks!
That would be a question for Tim at Bikes@Vienna. You can either email him or call 703 938 8900
info@bikesatvienna.com I hope this helps.
No balance here. No longer able to get on/off my already owned tadpoles.
Plan ahead. Even sidesaddle sitting, be able to swing/lift single leg over frame.
EVEN get on/off a delta planform trike to/from a wheelchair.
Look at that lowest frame to swing leg over on the Hase Trigo.
Under seat OR over seat steering.
Under seat steering is most comfortable. Over seat steering offers more bracing getting on/off.
Look at video showing incredible height variance of seat.
You will never outgrow a recumbent with two wheels in the rear!
Grow older, raise Hase Trigo seat higher!
I have to constantly wave cars to go around me. They seem to totally panic.
It's a car, it's a plane ...no no it's a trike! Some people are confused to what they are seeing on the road. They do tend to give you more space as they are passing you though, compared to a regular bicycle at least.
Curious about these as I get older and my balance goes south. Currently run two wheels under electrification.
It would seem that she would need to get an e-trike to get up those hills. We will be coming out with a compare and contrast video on various e-trikes. I wasn’t a big fan of e-bikes… but my mind is changing and I can see all the good they can do. Thanks for the comment.
@@RideandShineBicycling they can help a *LOT* when you get on in years and/or develop severe health problems. In my case, it’s most definitely both of those things, meaning when/if my legs and knees give out, I can still get home from long, 50+ mile trips paying bills and getting groceries.
I cannot afford a car’s operating expenses, but I can run a (diy) Ebike. Public transport is problematic, due to the previously mentioned health issues causing extreme fatigue, which makes it impossible to hide how disabled (and hence vulnerable) I am.
Cancel, Cancel... Hopefully, your knees will not give out! I am interested in the DIY e-bike. It is great and pretty amazing that the E-trike can make transportation easier for you.
@@RideandShineBicycling what do you wish to know? I bought a used Trek 4900 frame at a local bike shop, then over a period of 16 months I bought the other things I needed - then spent roughly a month integrating all the parts. Total invested, including a number of bike-specific tools beyond what I already had (which was quite a bit, including a crank-up assembly and repair stand, wheel truing stand, etc) was about 4,000.
@@dennisyoung4631 That is ambitious. I wish I could have watched or filmed you building it.
Yeah, the height thing puts me off i must say. I think it's dangerous to be that low - especially anywhere near traffic. Everything else is good, but it's the height thing. I think with a motor assist in the open countryside - I want one. But I live in the Pennines of Northern England among big hills and mountains so it needs power.
I would be a little cautious myself if I were you. I know this lady who rides a trike only rides on trails. Although I have heard from long term riders that it is easier to ride on a road with a trike than a bicycle because the cars tend to move over more. The car drivers are not sure what they are passing.
Dogs on walks are sometimes problematic, but mostly they want to play!
I edited out a bunch of footage of the dog being over-friendly to the trike rider in this particular video. Funny and very cute, but it could become an issue.
I love my trike. I've been riding recumbents since the late 70's. The problem is there is a danger of too much comfort, joy, and extending your life from the exercise. You no longer have to unclip from the pedals at every stop sign and street corner. ANY road thats gravel is a problem with any bike, just take it slow and be smart. To combat dumb drivers I put a car horn on my trike, drivers hear a car horn and slam their brakes on because they sometimes can't see where you are. Flags are useless. I use blindingly bright lights on read and headlight and run them in day time. Trikes don't have to be heavy, get aluminum trikes, don't hang alot of gear on them. This stuff about pushing 300 pounds on the pedals, jeez if you weigh that much the trike will help you burn it off, there are ample gears and I've never had any foot problems, thank you. They're also not "old people" bikes either. I bought my trike after a really young guy smoked my butt going down hill on my two wheel recumbent. 6 months later I bought a Catrike Road and it was instant LOVE. Buy the flat proof tires, never had a flat or "blow out" and use 70 PSI in the summer without any problems.
I love the perspective on life. The car horn is genius, although that would annoy me. Glad you contributed to our trike community. Keep on Triking!😀
I would like to know about maintenance issues as nobody talks about that. I learned a couple things from shop owners, but I'm concerned about it becoming a money pit.
Hmm.. that would make a good video. We do have some tips on care for your trike coming out soon. Thank you for being part of our community.
We have 3 recumbent trikes and have been riding several years. Maintenance is the same for the trikes as it is for the upright bicycles we started riding, racing and touring on in 1982. It starts by not storing them outdoors and exposed to the elements. Then learning to shift gears properly and smoothly so as to minimize stress on the chain, derailleurs, chain rings and cogset. It is not difficult to learn to maintain the chain with cleaning and lubrication every couple hundred miles or after riding in wet conditions. Pay attention to how your brakes are working. I haven't worked on the Disc brakes myself, but I do know there are helpful videos online, especially those by Park Tools that can teach you. I did my own work on rim brakes for many years. Note the steering. Any looseness, uneven wear on the tires might call for the need of a front end adjustment-but on a trike, checking that tire pressure is even all around costs you only a good floor pump and a check before each ride. Wiping down the frame, checking for loose screws and accessory mounts, and for any disruptions in the paint which could indicate a frame issue, are common for the care of any bicycle. Take the trike into your LBS annually for a professional inspection and deep cleaning of parts and components. My observation has been that preventive care and maintenance is contributes to the longevity of both the frame and parts attached to it. Our trikes haven't been more difficult or expensive to maintain than our upright bicycles were. I wouldn't let the fear of maintenance costs keep me from having a lot of fun and taking care of my health!
@@PhyllisBoone-sn8oi This is great! Thanks.
Hmm, I see some obvious things.
The low seating. People don't see you. What about road markings then? Those are even lower....
Enviolo/Nuvinci variable drives are notorious for the "heavy" pedaling. (My go to are IGH's, not to brag, but the Nexus 8 is real value for money, and the Rolhoff is just the bees knees. Hidiously expensive, but will last a lifetime, or 2)
Single front chainring means no "granny gear". Even without a shifter, changing the chain on the rings by hand isn't difficult (pedal backwards, and guide the chain, done).
The velcro strap ins. Good idea, if used correctly. But bigger platform pedals can help too.
Lack of traction in the rear. More weight over the rear wheel, better tyre and a granny gear are the solutions.
Tyre pressure. In the worst case scenario, use a Tyre Pressure Measurment system that goes on the schrader (car) valve and gives the pressure on a display.
And the way to load a trike in the car, we do the same, and we're driving a tiny Eco-monovolume.
Great insights. Thanks for the additions.
At least half of these issues are not exclusive to tadpole trikes!
That is an interesting perspective I didn't think of. Thanks for the comment.
Twice the suspension, greater comfort, greatest traction for two wheels in rear.
2WD IS available for running dogs off road, or riding across mud or snow.
Some Hase models easily fold.
Tadpoles ARE best for those wanting a sports car.
Vast majority riding on bicycle trails, scenery watching, wildlife watching, getting exercise,
are better suited for a single wheel to steer with.
Most bike paths are every bit as straight as railroad tracks (pun intended).
Redundant steer wheels equals the greatest suspension under the rider's knees.
WAIT, WUT?
Thanks for your insightful comments. I think you gave me an idea of doing a video the delta vs. the tadpole.
@@RideandShineBicycling
Have only seen trikes tip over at Cycle Con annual trade shows in Tennessee and Dayton, Ohio.
Have NEVER even seen recumbent tricycles ridden wildly here in SW Ohio in 30 years.
SW Ohio has the largest bike trail network in America!
Outgrew tadpoles here. Can no longer get on/off them.
Delta planform trikes cannot be outgrown.
One can grow oldest on a delta planform trike.
Even getting on/off from a wheelchair (Not there yet.).
Trikes are expensive. Don't outgrow your choices.
Own tadpoles, quad and 4 each Hase delta trikes here.
Some Hase delta models can be made E-assist and 2WD, POST PURCHASE!!!
Check out rain fairing & rain poncho to allow more riding if it rains.
Plan Ahead!
Gary
AKA: "Jason Stillwater" in the recumbent world.
@@garyseckel295 Thank you for all your great advice and information.
There are brands that have models that fold.
Yes, this lady did look into the folding kind and they just were not very quick and easy to fold. I think she said you needed tools to fold it. Thanks for the comment. It could be a future video.
@@RideandShineBicycling Easiest folding is some Hase models. Watch their folding video.
Tire pressure is a function of weight. There is no right number. It depends on the weight, and how you are going to ride it. If you want comfort and good traction, 60-65psi that the shop owner recommended is far far far too much to carry 160lb over 3 wheels. You would probably need 30psi. Might even go lower if you don't plan to hop curbs.
Thanks for the interesting information and joining our bike community.
looks like a nice bike but out of the price range for most people
That is actually a less expensive Trike that you see in the video, but of course you are right they are pricey. I have a video coming out soon called a $12,000 vs. $5,000 e-trike. It will be fun to see the difference. Thanks for the comment.
She said you could flip it.
Wonder how many times she flipped it.
I am sure she hasn't flipped it. It was just something told to her by the bike shops that this possible might happen.
I see how mud would be a problem.
next I will have to do a 'How To Clean A Muddy Bike" video..Thanks for the comment!
Heel cup pedals FAR, FAR superior to other foot retention systems for non-athletic riders.
Good suggestion!
NO need what-so-ever to use included straps.
I took the included straps off of my four heel cup pedal sets.
@@garyseckel295 You are saying if you replace the straps with the heel cup pedal sets? Right? You can see the woman in the video needed the straps to prevent her from slipping off the pedals.
Yes, replace straps, or pedal clips (called "clipless") and clip-on cycling shoes with only these pedals.
I do not lift pedals when riding (more power), as would a real, hardcore athlete.
NO hand/arm reaching to pedals ever needed!!!!!
@@RideandShineBicycling
Look up "TerraTrike" heel support pedals. PICTURES AVAILABLE!
They come with straps. Most riders would never need them. I am handicapped and cannot
reach anywhere much beyond my knees.
(The included straps could be used for spasmic muscle disabled riders.)
The heel cup alone is all most would ever need for feet retention.
I own both tadpoles and Hase delta trikes.
TerraTrike heel cup pedals used on BOTH my tadpoles and delta trikes.
Totally safe from never running over dropped leg, AND no included straps were ever needed,
but they are included for greatest handicappers.
You wear your normal shoes on these pedals. I don't wear my heelless "Croc" rubber sandals while riding.
After riding a while, heelless Crocs can rub on heel cups due to bare skin touching heel cups.
I also cannot stand walking in my owned cleated bicycle clip shoes either!
Multiple trike brands sell these identical pedals, including Hase AND other USA mayor trike shops.
Great up-close photos in the pedal ads!
Sorry for my confusion.
For clarity looking at choices, the TerraTrike price is $144.95.
Compare that to cost of strap struggling & PITAs* cycling shoes.
오우 쏘울 차에 쏙 들어가네요. 영상 잘보고갑니다 (๑ᵔᗜᵔ๑)
그것이 Soul에 맞는지 알아내는 데 시간이 좀 걸렸지만 효과가 있었고 우리는 세발 자전거를 다른 위치로 가져가는 데 많은 즐거움을 누렸습니다. 영상이 마음에 드셨다니 기쁘네요. 시청 해주셔서 감사합니다!
@@RideandShineBicycling 이렇게 답글 까지 적어주셔서 정말 감사합니다 ^^ 가정에 행복과 건강이 가득하시길 바랄게요 ^^
So many inaccurate statements in this video!
You should ALWAYS use clip in pedals. This removes the very real chance of your foot slipping off a pedal resulting in a potentially serious injury.
Thank you for sharing your perspective, it's always interesting to hear different viewpoints.
I don't understand, you said you had trouble loading the bike into your car because you DIDN'T have an SUV, but you loaded the bike into an SUV to show how you load it up.
Oh boy, you have a good point there. I went back to view the video again to see what was said. That SUV was not hers, so I can definitely see the confusion. The lady said it didn't fit in her car which is a sedan. But how are you to know that after she says she didn't have an SUV? And then we are putting the trike in an SUV. 🙃You are keeping me on my toes! Thanks.
If you ride in the door zone with ANY form of bike, you should expect to get hit by an opening door.
So True!!🤕
The biggest drawback in her case is the lack of independent suspension. Her turns would be much safer and comfortable with independent suspension. They also have some newer ideals where when you lean into turns on a tricycle it will behave just like a bicycle and the trike will lean with you. But with that model she has it is a cheap cheap model with really really old technology. Not saying she didn't pay around 2 grand for it, but they just used already known and practiced technology and just threw it together. You can't lean into the turns with that old stuff, i mean you can throw your weight but the trike will still stand straight, making the turn more dangerous and uncomfortable. So that is really why it needs independent suspension and why they came out with it for trikes. Not that independent suspension is new tech, but it is "new" to have it on a pedal trike. Well, newer than if it didn't have it. It has already been on cars and trucks, but on a trike now so that they can refine it just right for a light duty unit that is engineered just perfect so you can lean into the turns and the suspension allows the trike to lean with your body weight. So you are more sporty now, meaning you can turns at high speeds now.
You know it is interesting that you wrote this. She has come to the conclusion that it must be a lower end trike. Even though she did pay about 2 grand for it. But that happens often with any low end bike you buy for the first time, you start to realize its limitations. I didn't know about the independent suspension. I will relay this information to her. Thanks!
I think the trike in the video was either a Terra Trike Rover or a Maverick. Terra Trike has been designing, engineering and manufacturing recumbent trikes since 1996 or 1997 here in Grand Rapids, MI. They have a full line of recumbent, tadpole trikes frome entry/leisure level to
@@phyllisboone8957 Not sure which one it is, but I do know it was difficult for her to find trike where she would be able to pedal comfortably. Not all trikes are made for smaller-size people.
advanced touring and now enthusiast trikes for those desiring a faster, more nimble ride. The trike she has is from the leisure line of trikes. All Terra Trike models come with a lifetime frame warranty for the original owner, and service at 30 days and a year. They are sold by reputable bike shops and dealers. You won't find them at Walmart. Yes, a relatively inexpensive (not cheap) bike shop quality trike with a great warranty and backup service from both dealers and the company itself.
@@phyllisboone8957 Thank you for that valuable information. I think the trike owner in the video was open to other models but she was just having a tough time finding one that would fit her height.
Sorry y comment was ment for the guy on the trike who climbed the hill in America.
That's okay..any comment is a a good comment
@@RideandShineBicycling Thankyou your very nice.
You kinda left out they're about four times the price of a regular bike.
The are definitely way more expensive than a regular bike. But if you can't ride a regular bike, it's worth it to some people.
I think 45 psi is plenty on the front wheels. lol I would only consider 60 psi on skinny tyres or when hauling extremely heavy loads but the tyres and wheels would have to be made for the job.
She probably is just following the manufactures recommendations. In my case, it certainly depends on the terrain. Thanks for your insightful perspective.
I prefer trikes. Bikes are just two tired.
😂
What a lot absolute bullshit...I am lying in my tent watching this on a rest day...I have done now 7 500km on my ICE Adventure trike with a Burley trailer...I still got 1 500km left to go.Stop talking to no brainers...this thing is absolutly amazing...
Everything said in this video is from the perspective of a beginner trike owner. Everyone has got to start some where. Obviously, we could learn from your experience if you are willing to share. Do you have any idea suggestions? Please let us know. Thank you for the comment
Some tadpole owner's manuals literally forbid trailer towing.
I have 30k miles riding a trike. Take most of this information with a grain of salt. Test ride a trike for yourself before make any judgements.
Yes you are right, this is just a heads up for beginners. Thanks for the comment.
I am sorry but I TOTALLY disagree with her conclusions.
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Her conclusions may have to do with the Trike she is currently using.
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I would recommend that she try other makes and models. Also, there are many different trikes racks for most cars.
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I cycle with an AZUB Tri-Con 26”. I have found mostly the complete opposite of her complaints.
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Thanks for the comment. She did not want a trike rack sticking out in the back of her car, also the rooftop ones were not an option because of the weight issue. She is really enjoying her trike and yes it could be the model that you are referring to but this is from a beginner's perspective. AZUB Tri-Con 26 is much more pricey than the TerraTrike that she is riding so that could be an issue too? Thanks again.
..dogs!!
They certainly do make us smile. Unless they have no leash and are running around on the bike path.😆
On my Catrike Dumont I had to go to a much more aggressive tire because the slick tire it had on the rear caused to much slippage. That's the only problem I have had. A 2 wheeler is very dangerous, balance #1, health #2 ( take a mirror after riding a 2 wheeler and look between your legs, the Bruising is a life killer, cause blood clots and other health problems), no matter what bike or trike you ride, you will have the idiots that will open their doors on you so why did you even show that?? You're report is all anti-Trike so stop crying and try it. I have no more lower back pains, no neck pains, no shoulder pains, no wrist and hand pains.
I will send you a crying towel tomorrow
Geez, that is the first time I have heard of that. Thanks for the comment.
This is mostly biking ignorance & mechanical ignorance in general, not much is trike specific. Even some of the few remarks that one might argue are more trike specific are only misunderstandings or misinformation. Sorry, I do support the concept of this video, but on balance must give it a thumbs down.
It is a video for beginners. The woman is new to trikes. Everyone has to start somewhere.
Being at an easy height to get grabbed by a thief
That is an interesting thought. Something else to worry about.
40 lbs bike are you kidding me! That’s like riding a donkey
Pretty funny statement.😅
I have never used a recumbent bike and haven't watched this video yet but you just have to look at a recumbent bike to know that it's a stupid idea.
Ha!Ha! a brave comment to a trike lovers site.
The narrator is overly strident. 😫
I will take that as a compliment. Thank you!
No thanks ,expensive, dangerous , difficulty to pass narrow cooridors and not light to life , oh did I say much slower to get where you go than a bike.👎 Your review is impeccable a big thumbs up , I wouldn't want one for reasons I said above.
Thanks for the compliment and for expressing your opinion. I am sure it is a controversial statement among the many trike fans. 😉
As long as I can balance, I will use my two Cruzbike recumbents, although I admit it's a hassle to have to put feet down at lights. Main problem I see with trikes is straddling a pothole or object. If I had a trike, it would definitely be an electric assist.
Also saying from direct experience that EVEN regarding SINGLE wheel drive, twin rear wheels are still superior!
Wait, Wut?
A single rear tadpole tire can easily be heavily loaded.
SO.., if inadequate traction is encountered, twin rear tires lessen likelihood of a double loaded SINGLE rear tire from sinking.
Walking dog off pavement? Double the tire tread area best to prevent sinking. 2WD even better yet!
Not just beginner information here, as decades long tadpole riders do not realize these facts either!
Some more great information for the future video! Thank you! Thank you!
Delta trikes tend to sit higher so it's easier to mount and dismount. That higher seating position does however make it much easier to flip the trike over.
@@larryhobbs6045 Own both tadpoles and deltas. Never flipped either.
95++% of all recumbent riding is exercise, scenic viewing and nature observance.
Tadpole IS the sports car for higher speed maneuvering! There, AND.., I always say that!
Most do not ride trikes in such a manner.
Not at all, "much easier to flip over" if ridden with any common sense.
Never outgrow a Hase delta that can be MADE 2WD and E-assist POST PURCHASE.
Grow oldest too, riding a Hase delta trike.
Hase Trigo SEAT (see video) can be adjusted very LOW, OR.., very HIGH!
MUCH MORE SEAT HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT THAN TADPOLES!
OH, and BTW, I cannot get on/off my tadpole trikes for over10 years now!
@@larryhobbs6045 Yes, it is important to know the differences between the two trikes. We do have a video that has not been posted on the differences between the 2 different kinds of trikes. Thanks for the comment.
Baloney. Not buying what your saying
That is an interesting comment. This is the perspective of this woman who is a new trike owner.
What a load of CRAP
The whole thing? Please explain. This is the perspective of a beginner cyclist and what she has experienced.
Maybe women shouldn't be riding something like this
Those are fighting words when you post something like that on a channel that is run by women. We should all stick together! The more bicycle riders out there the more we can influence the city planners to create bike friendly routes.
don green: What a dufus comment!
You don't know what you're talking about! Any Trike is much more comfortable than an ordinary bicycle! Get off the road and stay on a paved trail if you are worried about hitting a parked car. By the way, drivers in cars pay more respect to Trike riders because sometimes they resemble wheelchairs.
Old Goat's Net - 3910 kHz. - 1130 UTC (Ham Radio Network)
This is the perspective of a new Trike owner. I think she was on a paved trail, she had to cross a street, so anyone would have to be alert. I do agree with you on drivers paying more respect to trike riders. They tend to move over even wider for a bicycle.