Adult trikes are basically three-wheeled cycling devices, used for cardio activity and is typically used in place of two-wheeled bikes. Tricycles come in three designs:
While adult trikes come in various models and styles, selecting a cheap adult trike should not be confusing at all. But what are the factors that you need to consider before purchasing an adult trike? Well, read on to go through the important considerations:
If you are looking for good cardio workouts, upright, semi-recumbent and recumbent trikes can suit your purpose. However, with recumbent and semi-recumbent trikes, users can get stretched out a bit and that too much lower to the ground. Moreover, body positioning often feels less intense while riding a recumbent or semi-recumbent trike because of space and weight disbursement. But if you consider the upright bikes, they are more comfortable when it comes to hand placement, back, and seat comfort. They help you relieve pressure on the user’s lower backs, and make it easier in shifting positions.
When it comes to upright adult trikes, they are wide, comfortable and have saddle-style seat. Buying a properly-sized trike makes sure that when users stop, they can firmly put both feet on the ground. Stable center of gravity and aided by three-wheel design, a trike enables users to start and stop sharply without having a fear of falling down.
Moreover, recumbent and semi-recumbent trikes often have sling-style nylon seating, padded platform seats aided with a back support. Such designs eliminate the fear of losing control of the trike, as they are made so low to the ground level.
Most of the upright trikes come with traditional curved handlebars. Typically, traditional handlebars are best for trikers with normal range of motion and good upper body strength. On the other hand, loop handlebars enable individuals to steer by using any part of the rectangular loop and this is why they work best for users with weak hands.
Now if we talk about the chopper handlebars, they are similar to that of traditional handlebars as they also require upper body strength and complete use of arms, hands, and shoulders. Chopper handlebars can be found in both upright and recumbent trikes.
A weight limit is decided by the manufacturers for every trike model. And this variation can lead to substantial differences between the model and manufacturer; therefore, you need to consider this factor carefully before going for a cheap adult trike. Usually, the weight limit for upright trikes range from 200-350 pounds. However, recumbent and semi-recumbent trikes often come with more weight limits i.e. up to 400 pounds. Moreover, if we talk about bariatric trikes, it can accommodate individuals up to 500 pounds.
Can traditional bikes accommodate people with disabilities? Well, a big no. But, adult trikes allow individuals with a wide range of medical diagnosis like Parkinson’s, cerebral palsy, and diabetes so that you enjoy the same advantage as other trikers or cyclists do. Trikes go a bit easier on the body and it allows users to continue reaping the cardiovascular benefits of exercise without the danger of tipping over and painful joint damage. Triking also helps in enhancing your muscle strength, improving joint mobility and better posture.
Purchasing an adult trike is more of an investment in your health or your loved one. This device is considered as a long-term tool and therefore, it is important to choose the trike that is apt both for your personal needs and riding style.