How to Select Low Rider Tricycles

"Low Rider" refers to a car, bike or tricycle that has been customized to ride lower to the ground. An entire culture has developed around low riders, including low rider magazines, gatherings and ride-a-longs. You can get into this world by converting your tricycle into a low rider. Because they are custom built, you can select from a nearly limitless variety of accessories and looks.

Instructions

Familiarize Yourself with Low Rider Styles

1. Visit low rider magazine Web sites such as Lowrider Bicycle.

2. Read about award-winning low rider bikes and tricycles to see what judges consider the most desirable features. For example, the 2004 Lowrider Magazine bicycle of the year sported cross-shaped mirrors and a skull-shaped steering wheel.

3. Read the "Discussion Boards" on the Lowrider magazine Web site for a wealth of customizing ideas. Post any questions you have about tricycle customizing.

4. Cruise the discussion posts to find out where and when the next low rider gathering is happening.

5. Click on the "Events" link to find the next low rider event. Low rider gatherings showcase hundreds of custom bicycles and tricycles that can help you decide how to select your own low rider options.

6. Click on the "Bike Tech" link to read about low rider specialists who can perform custom work on your tricycle.

Decide How to Customize Your Tricycle

1. Visit Web sites such as Street Low Rider to select upgrades for your tricycle.

2. Click on the "Parts" link from the Street Rider homepage.

3. Click on the "Seats" link to view a selection of custom low rider seats. Banana-shaped seats are the most popular low rider bicycle seats.

4. Select the "Sissy bar" link (a sissy bar is a curved metal backrest that gives the tricycle a motorcycle look). Sissy bars are a classic feature on low riders.

5. Choose the "Handle Bars" link for more accessories.

6. Select "Apehanger" handlebars for the ultimate low rider style. Apehangers are tall handlebars that make your low rider tricycle look like a custom motorcycle.

Tips & Warnings

• Tricycles are often called "bikes" or bicycles in low rider parlance.

• Low rider styles are often outrageous, so select wildly colored accessories when possible.

• Consult a professional for safety advice if you plan to alter the frame of your tricycle.