I have been looking for a particular kind of Hand Cycle for a few weeks now and I've finally found it!

GAELFORCE HANDCYCLE



This is a 'grown up' version of the one I had as a child, and I'm really keen to try one and find out how much they are but so far I haven't found any stockists in the UK (I'm looking for them in the Somerset region).

If anyone knows of a stockist in my area, I'd be grateful if you'd let me know

It looks very agricultural and may not be as good as you recall. The following is a UK handbike by a company called mission but again its very very basic.

http://www.missioncycles.co.uk/disdetail.a...KEY%3A198PAR%3A

The nearest model to yours that i am aware of is the Top End Excelerator or Quickie Mach 2. Whislt there are UK Stockists i would try www.bike-on.com in the USA. Importing will save you many £s and you are exempt from import duty and tax. I can advise you on the process if you need, its relatively simple.

Also i would strongly advise you to look at a more modern recumbent handbikes which will deliver more performance and smiles per hour than any upright bike. Check out the Quickie Shark or Top End Force. These more aerodynamic and sporty bikes will roll easier, are more efficient and require alot less rider power, which is an obvious advantage for us pedalling with our arms.

If i can be any help let me know, i love talking bikes!

Happy riding

Hello Rob

Thanks for the advice. The recumbent is definitely out as I lose my balance completely if I put my legs out in front of me when sitting, I just 'lock up'. The Quickie Mach 2 looks more suitable for me, but to be honest I'm getting a new wheelchair soon as I am finding I need a lot more trunk support so I might find the best thing to do is get one of the 'clip on' bike attachments so I can be comfortable in my chair and get the benefit of the handcyle.

I've emailed the manufacturer of the Gaelforce so we'll see what they have to say....

It's still just something I'm toying with at the moment, but thanks for the help, I appreciate it .

Gaina

No problem. Handcycling is great i t gets you out, its social and you get alot of benefits from the freedom.

Before you commit to buying a clip on, have a look at the Top End XLT Pro and also the Intrepid Tourer. I dont know if the position on these bikes might work for you? Legs are slightly bent.

If you decide to go down the clip on route, think about getting a decent size front wheel at least 20" but better off with a 26". reason being a) traction on hills, ramps etc Getting up the good old UK Kerb!

Of the clip ons i have seen the Da Vinci Veloce and Praschberger Challenger look to be best. I have a friend selling the 1st one and it can be seen on http://handcycles.synthasite.com/Current_u...es_for_sale.php
But beware its easy to pay lots of money for these types of bike and would recommend you shop about, get quotes. I know there are some german companies on Germanies Ebay (One caleed Rohlstuhl Shop) who will ship a basic used clip on bike including a wheelchair for <£1000. I have heard horror stories of people spending £3000+ which is as much as i spent on a bespoke racing handbike.

Please keep us posted as to how you get on?

Cheers
Robbo

Thank you! I'll keep you posted

Hey webwych, Any updates on your progress?

No, I emailed the company a few weeks ago but got no reply....not having any luck on the new wheelchair front either! I may have to check in the mirror to make sure I haven't disappeared! haha

Hi Webwych I live in somerset, hence my post name, I am paraplegic and use a Chevron Easyrider with 21 gears, its very easy to get on and off, I would say very user friendly, I may sell ? If interested for photo's or further information e-mail me at simon.anderson15@btopenworld.com.

Hello Si

I am not in a position to buy at the moment, but I appreciate the information about that model very much .

Thanks,

Gaina ;)