16 replies to this topic

[bigdz68]

Hi,

I have been looking around at handcycles and am not quite sure which one to buy.
I am 6'4" and 250 lbs so I it seems my options are limited due to the length of my legs.
Just curious if there any bigger folk out there that may have a recommendation.
I have massive upper body strength and am sick of using my wheelchair on the local trails...not
to mention how many times my doc yells at me for doing so.
Any advice or can you point me in any direction?
Thanks

[AndrewB]

If your going offroad, and can afford it checkout "one off" titanium handcycles, For the pavement, look at Varna Handcycles. some of the best in my opinion.

[Wheelchair Traveler]

I would go with the Quickie Shark... it's badass and low to the ground, so there's great stability and you fly real fast. Hope this helps.

Ashley
wheelchairtraveling.com

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[robbo100bike]

I am 6' 2" and have found most handcycles (off the shelf) have plenty adjustment that would accomdate riders taller than myself.

I would agree that the quickie shark would be worth a look, also check out the top end force. best to try as many as possible to see which fits your needs. Try www.bike-on.com they give good advice.

[JohnnyO]

I had a Top End XLT Pro for a few years and it was a great bike. Although I'm only about 5'8", you were able to adjust the leg supports and seat to accommodate most heights. I think you would be able to fit in one with your size. It's a great workout once you get it out on the road and here in California there are miles upon miles of bike lanes I was able to use it on.

I was able to test a couple different bike manufacturers at a local disability sports gathering the city of San Diego holds every few months. It was a great way to get information on the bikes and the pros/cons with each. I don't know if you have something like that in your area but it would be worth the trip to check them out before buying.

Good luck in your search.

J

[Tetracyclone]

forgive my ignorance, but is there a hand and foot cycle for those of us with leg pedaling power but no balance?

[greybeard]

Tetracyclone, on Feb 1 2010, 10:41 PM, said:

forgive my ignorance, but is there a hand and foot cycle for those of us with leg pedaling power but no balance?

Have you tried a tricycle? Doesn't go much for the hands though, but balance isn't an issue..

[robbo100bike]

Tetracyclone, on Feb 1 2010, 10:41 PM, said:

forgive my ignorance, but is there a hand and foot cycle for those of us with leg pedaling power but no balance?

http://bike-on.com/p...g-cycles-pg503/

[JimG]

Tetracyclone, on Feb 1 2010, 10:41 PM, said:

forgive my ignorance, but is there a hand and foot cycle for those of us with leg pedaling power but no balance?

We haven't been down to their facility (it's about a 90 min. drive), but we were impressed by their website/offerings:

http://www.utahtrikes.com/

[animadversor]

I'm a C 5-6, no triceps but strong bis.

anyone with similar function handcycle? what style? any warnings/thoughts?

my local toy retailer hasn't been too helpful.

Thanks!

doug

(my apologies for hijacking the thread!)

[robbo100bike]

animadversor, on Mar 22 2010, 04:37 AM, said:

I'm a C 5-6, no triceps but strong bis.

anyone with similar function handcycle? what style? any warnings/thoughts?

my local toy retailer hasn't been too helpful.

Thanks!

doug

(my apologies for hijacking the thread!)

Tals to Scott at www.bike-on.com they have adapted many bikes for quads to use. The have various quad grips and controls which can be fit to most handcycles. They have fotos of the quad top end pro and have adapted many other bikes too.

I have a quad adpted shark for sale (on behalf of a friend). Sadly its in the UK otherwise you would be welcome to try.

[animadversor]

Thanks for the info! I wish i lived closer.

They've ordered a couple demos for me to to play with, so I'll give it a go.

I hope I find something-i NEED an outdoor activity for this summer.

[graphic]

I use a Draft handcycle which is a good bike and can be custom made to fit the rider but the manufacturer is based in the UK. I'd recommend handcycling to anyone as you get to travel at fast speeds and it's much more invigorating than wheeling in a chair. Plus, my arms tend to ache after years of pushing a chair but I don't get this problem with my bike because a different group of muscles is used. As a social activity it's also a way of meeting others.

Hey Robbo100bike, you made a comment about me on John Osborne's Facebook page saying I looked as if I was in Sun Lounger's Class .... are you saying I look like a lazy sod??? Not far wrong there!

[guido]

And for those in the UK (or prepared to arrange shipping) you can buy second hand to save a few quid: http://disabledgear....x?categoryid=39

[robbo100bike]

graphic, on Mar 25 2010, 10:12 AM, said:

I use a Draft handcycle which is a good bike and can be custom made to fit the rider but the manufacturer is based in the UK. I'd recommend handcycling to anyone as you get to travel at fast speeds and it's much more invigorating than wheeling in a chair. Plus, my arms tend to ache after years of pushing a chair but I don't get this problem with my bike because a different group of muscles is used. As a social activity it's also a way of meeting others.

Hey Robbo100bike, you made a comment about me on John Osborne's Facebook page saying I looked as if I was in Sun Lounger's Class .... are you saying I look like a lazy sod??? Not far wrong there!

Nah was the David Dickinson sun tan and pina colada in your drinks bottle!!!!!!!

[graphic]

robbo100bike, on Mar 30 2010, 12:32 PM, said:

Nah was the David Dickinson sun tan and pina colada in your drinks bottle!!!!!!!

Now you mention it, I suppose it was a bit of a giveaway.

[FROG]

I own two handcycles and both are Top End from Invacare. That is my preference in making a suggestion for you and they can accomadate your body size. I have riden as heavy as 300 lbs. and am nearly six foot and have plenty of room for more length. Good luck.