Getting A Bike

One of the first exciting tasks you will face when starting a chapter of Cycling Without Age is: How do I get a trishaw (bike)?

We have created this list of requirements for a good trishaw for Cycling Without Age. There is currently several models on the market and we continue to work with new and existing manufacturers to adjust and improve the bikes. This is a list (always a work in progress) of criteria we recommend you take into consideration when evaluating a bike.

Criteria

  1. Low entry height. We recommend 15 cm or lower, preferably smart solutions for making entry easier for people with limited mobility.
  2. Passengers at the front of the bike. This makes conversation much easier. Elderly people with impaired hearing and weak voices find it difficult to have conversation if they are seated 1-2 meters behind the pilot. One care home put it like this: “We put the residents in the front seat”.
  3. Motor assist. Many cyclists would easily be able to ride the trishaw without motor assist, but to make riding available to everybody, we recommend a small electric motor. Even cyclists in good physical shape find that they have more air for conversation if they use the motor occasionally. But don’t let the motor assist lull you into inactivity – it should still be a cycling experience.
  4. Access with handicap lift. Some passengers will need to be lifted on board the bike and it’s important that the bike allows for lift access.
  5. A weather-proof hood and blanket, which can be easily mounted or dismounted.
  6. Space for luggage.
  7. Access to maintenance and repair in your local area.
  8. Safety belts that are easy to strap and tighten even with two passengers.
  9. Documented sturdiness and durability.
  10. Check dealer and producer for customer references (product quality, customer service and complaints).