How to Handcycle

A handcycle makes the joys of riding a bicycle available to people with disabilities and even if you aren't disabled, a handcycle makes a fun alternative to a bicycle. The increased stability and speed of the newest models make handcycles an ideal way to get some exercise and to get around.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Adjust the cycle to fit your body. Position the cranks so your arms are slightly bent when you pedal the cranks farthest from your body. Use restraining straps for your legs if you need them.

2. Lengthen or tighten the chain so you can shift into all the available gears without the chain coming off.

3. Accustom yourself to the position of the breaks, which can be near the hand pedals or the seat.

4. Find a straight, level road without many cars on which to practice riding.

5. Start out slowly to get a feel for the bike's center of gravity. Handcycles fall over easily, so take turns slowly until you get used to it.

6. Increase your stability when coasting and turning at high speeds by holding onto the handlebars at the sides of the seat rather than the hand pedals.

7. Maintain the handcycle as you would a bicycle by oiling the chain regularly, adjusting, cleaning and greasing all moving parts and monitoring the brakes and control cables.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many varieties of handcycles, ranging from attachments that clamp on to your wheelchair to high-tech racing cycles. Some turn like a bicycle, by turning the front wheel, while others turn by leaning in the direction you want to turn. Research your options at "Handcycling 101" and the Disaboom (see Additional Resources) to find the right model.
• Remember to wear a helmet, obey traffic and cycling safety laws and watch out for cars. You're low to the ground in a handcycle and may be difficult to see, so it's a good idea to attach a safety flag to your handcycle to make you more visible.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• See models of handcycles at Handcycling 101.
• Get help choosing a handcycle.