Trikes - How Practical?

[Steveal]

A typical journey I make on my DF is to ride into the local town, park the bike and spend an hour in the library.
How does that translate with a trike? Can you tie them to a lamppost and leave them?
How do you leave yours when shopping, etc?

Steve

[beowoulfe]

I run my cable lock through the front chain ring and around a pole. Wouldn't last long in New York, but it works just fine down here. Funny,,,,I tie mine up to the library here for an hour also. Takes a while to browse the CD's.

[BigAlMN]

Let me extend the intent of the above question?

I am wanting to get in a 'bent' and am leaning toward a trike. Looking for some of that additional relaxed ride. But I will be using it to commute between home and work a couple times per week as the weather permits. {I am in MN so there are some months that will prevent that.} That is about 22 miles one way.

I have seen several comments about being seen by the traffic so won't re-ask that question.

There are several people that speak highly about CarTrike? What about GreenSpeed - is that an overpriced version of the same thing?

I have reviewed a lot of web sites to learn what is available. Does anyone buy a trike without having a test ride; there are so few shops around that carry these trikes so the variety opportunity for demo rides just doesn't exist. - or do I live in the wrong part of the country?

Any suggestions about what to look for as I continue my search?

[Trsnrtr]

Just a side note to the topic. Anyone wanting to see what can be done on a trike should read the following tour diary of a woman who is in the midst of riding a trike to Alaska and back from No. Carolina:

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/journal/?opts=184&doc_id=430&mtime=20041021103440

She's ridden 11,865 miles since February of this year.

[funbun]

Good point, Trsnrtr. The Greenspeed GRT was designed to circumnavigate Austrailia. That's 9,000+ miles with 88lbs of gear! If that's not practical I don't know what is!!!

Check out www.bentrideronline.com/messageboard They have an entire forum devoted to trikes. People who use them daily for commuting, touring, etc.

[cjs1948]

Let me extend the intent of the above question?

There are several people that speak highly about CarTrike? What about GreenSpeed - is that an overpriced version of the same thing?

Does anyone buy a trike without having a test ride; there are so few shops around that carry these trikes so the variety opportunity for demo rides just doesn't exist. - or do I live in the wrong part of the country?

Any suggestions about what to look for as I continue my search?
I am one who bought my first trike sight unseen. It was a Wizwheelz which is made in Michigan. It was as good as I expected. We still have two of them. I have since been able to try a couple different kinds by making contact with owners and meeting for a ride. I've also ridden a Catrike briefly at a shop. They are all different in ways that are nuance and preference. They are all the same in the stability of three wheels and that you drive them rather than ride them (they have steering gear and on corners you lean 'cause they don't).

I don't think you can go wrong with any of the major brands. If you had them all in a row, you would probably find preferences but those preferences will not likely be all on one trike.

Chip
TT and Logo

[DJB14]

I ride Greenspeed GT3, which I purchased in June after just two afternoons of looking. I liked the Cattrike and the WW, which were a bit cheaper. The dealer steered me towards the Greenspeed by extolling its quality. The machine is wonderful. I would certainly give the Cattrike another look, but the WW no chain tubes and a somewhat convoluted chain route that I've read can be cause for concern. I'm unable to do my own repairs and the Greenspeed has proved dependable in a way that is necessary for me. Whether the other trikes would have required service or been less dependable, I cannot say.

I do think, however, given the inherent complexity of a tadpole tricycle's frontend and that they're all virtually custom built, spending an extra $800-1000 on getting what you're most comfortable with is money well spent.

[beaterbike]

I have reviewed a lot of web sites to learn what is available. Does anyone buy a trike without having a test ride; there are so few shops around that carry these trikes so the variety opportunity for demo rides just doesn't exist. - or do I live in the wrong part of the country?

Any suggestions about what to look for as I continue my search?

I know there are folks who have successfully bought a trike w/o trying it out, but I would strongly suggest that you try out different models before you buy. There's nothing worse than buyer's remorse. I would post a thread asking folks in your area for test rides of their trikes. I'm sure someone will volunteer.

Good luck and welcome to the bent community!! :p

[PedalDog]

I have a Hase Lepus from Germany (frog!) and a Trice Classic made in the UK (Tadpole!).
They are both fantastic but both ride very differently, the Lepus being a more slow and relaxing ride if a little heavier. Only negative to commuting on trikes is the parking space they take up can be annoying to other people. On the plus side, if anybody tries to steal it.... THEY WILL BE NOTICED!!!

[Steveal]

Anyone have any negative aspects of parking/leaving a trike in town?

Steve

[nualle]

BigAl: If you're in or near the Twin Cities, you've got resources nearby that can help you shop for a trike and the means to become an all-season commuter on it. Trikes are definitely the way to go in snow.


http://mnhpva.org/

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/recumbentsmn/

http://www.calhouncycle.com/

Just on general principles, here's a link to the Icebike site -- a font of info on winter cycling.

http://www.icebike.com/

[ChiliDog]

Another viewpoint, not so "pro trike": I had "trike fever" back in the early summer. Now I am not too interested and the reason is visibility. Me seeing from that low on the ground and me being SEEN (by cars) that low on the ground.

Yeah, I know what trike devotees will say, but I would not feel comfortable in any way shape or form with cars behind, beside, or in front of me and their hubcaps at my eye level. If that doesn't bother some folks, then great. As for me, no thanks. That is too darn scary for my liking.

If all you're going to ride is a rail trail, they might be great. Or if you ride way out in the country where there is little traffic. Otherwise, I think it's very dangerous.

But I am a wuss...I don't ride my DFs in areas of heavy traffic...heck, I even am fearful in my SUV! Drivers are just "nuts" today and could care less if they cut in front of you, brake suddenly, run up on your bumper. No thanks~

Chili
Tour Easy SS

[cjs1948]

but the WW no chain tubes and a somewhat convoluted chain route that I've read can be cause for concern. I do think, however, given the inherent complexity of a tadpole tricycle's frontend and that they're all virtually custom built, spending an extra $800-1000 on getting what you're most comfortable with is money well spent.
There is NO issue with WW chain routing by our experience on two trikes. In fact I have tubed the chain on my third trike to keep its oil off me and the frame. Because of WW controlled chain routing neither is an issue.

CS

[DJB14]

There is NO issue with WW chain routing by our experience on two trikes. In fact I have tubed the chain on my third trike to keep its oil off me and the frame. Because of WW controlled chain routing neither is an issue.

CS
This is good news. I suspected that chain tubes could be added, and the chain routing issue is something I've read about elsewhere. Reports of no problems on less expensive trikes only makes me happy because I'm a proselytizing convert to the tricycle church.:) I always ride with a flag and I have lights on a mast for riding at night. Thanks.

[bikerski]

here is my trike experience
1. buddy had a greenspeed. more money, slow, low and I don't get the point. why make something heavier, harder to haul, more complicated etc.....unless you need the trike for disability.
2. rode GRR in colorado mountain ride. no trikes, OH yea, one guy was trike nuts and hauled the bike up all the passes on top of car. I take that back. Another guy had a trike, no use of legs. He hand powered his trike to the top only to haul it down the mountain do to lack of control. My hero.
3. I see no trikes in any compititions of any kind, reg bike or HPV.
I would suggest getting bent, two wheel style.

[funbun]

1. buddy had a greenspeed. more money, slow, low and I don't get the point. why make something heavier, harder to haul, more complicated etc.....unless you need the trike for disability.

Most commercial trikes like WW and Catrike can't take the weight I need. 2 wheel bents don't fair any better. I weigh 255lbs. and I want to tour with 60lbs+ of gear. Catrike can't handle that. I'm not a race junkie I don't care about light wieght or how fast everyone else can get uphill or that there aren't any trikes at the HPV meets. I'm not interested in racing. I want long, cross country touring. Greenspeeds were built for just this. the original GRT was built for a 9000+ mile trek around Austrialia hauling 88lbs of gear. Show me a two wheel commercial bent that can haul a 330lbs (max.) rider and 88lbs (max) gear! I don't want to go uphill on a 2 wheel bent with that much weight. Ain't no stability @ 3 mph with a bent, man.

I'm also interested in going car free. 3 wheels is more stable than 2 (tadpole). Much better for riding on rotted autumn leaves and ice.

[bruceha_2000]

I would not feel comfortable in any way shape or form with cars behind, beside, or in front of me and their hubcaps at my eye level. Though that depends on the trike doesn't it. :-) Not all are the low slung style, with a seat height less than a foot off the ground.

Bruce

[funbun]

The lane lines are lower on the ground than I would be and people seem to read them just fine.

[cyclingshane73]

The lane lines are lower on the ground than I would be and people seem to read them just fine.

I wouldn't say that statement is 100% accurate. I do see your point though.

I've been commuting on my Speed since I bought it in late October in Toronto which takes me through the downtown lake front area. I don't have a problem with traffic. In fact once I put on a mirror and mounted the flag higher, I think the visibility is fine. I also have my lights on and wear reflective clothing to further enhance my visibility.

Its about attitude really. If you act scared and worried on the road, motorists will pick up on this. If you ride with a purpose, strong and appear to know what you are doing they react differently. Nothing is 100% but I think this is one of many keys to getting around, no matter what you ride. I also think some motorists assume there is something "wrong" (read: disability, sorry not meant to offend) with me and I am forced to ride my easy chair into work. So the reaction is sympathetic in a manner of speaking.

I had one woman, tailgate me for a block down a narrow street with vehicles parked along the right side, lay on her horn and yell at me that I was stupid, about a week ago. Bad day at work, whatever, I got really pissed and chased her down the street until she parked. I told her to learn how share the road, and remember to read the quote in first page in the driver's manual, "Driving is a priviledge, not a right." She looked at me like I had two heads. I just shook my head and continued home. Whatever. Getting off topic anyways.

Heck ride what makes you comfortable. I think it can be done as long as you take the steps to make the ride a safe and enjoyable as possible.

[bent3wheeler]

i have a 3 wheel ez3usx and i lock it with a wire cable around the frame.i have locked it to door handles at the grocery and anything i can get my cable around.so far i have better than handicapped parking,and with no sticker.

[izgod]

I'm still recovering from the broken femur I suffered on Oct 31, when my BikeE went over hard on some wet leaves. I'm very much looking forward to test riding some trikes as soon as I'm able to pedal again.
I don't own or use cars, and depend on my bike for basic transportation. Because of this, it is necessary for me to be out in all kinds of weather and conditions. Only ice has stopped me in the past, and I would either get a ride from a friend with a car, or call in "sick" to work. I certainly never want to go through the agony of this kind of injury ever again. I don't care how practical a trike may or may not be, it's really subjective after all. Friends and family thought I was crazy when I bought the BikeE. I just want reasonable, healthy, dependable transportation to get me around town, and throw on a bus, train or plane, when I want a vacation. I'm favoring the SUN EZ3 USX. Can't wait to test ride one!! Anyone know of a dealer in the Northeast US around Philadelphia area?

[cjs1948]

I'm still recovering from the broken femur I suffered on Oct 31, when my BikeE went over hard on some wet leaves. I'm very much looking forward to test riding some trikes as soon as I'm able to pedal again.
I just want reasonable, healthy, dependable transportation to get me around town, and throw on a bus, train or plane, when I want a vacation. I'm favoring the SUN EZ3 USX. Can't wait to test ride one!! Anyone know of a dealer in the Northeast US around Philadelphia area?
Perhaps you need to look at a Greenspeed GT3 when it come time to take it with you--it folds. The Sun trike, while a perfectly fine ride, is pretty long and weighs 65 lbs.

I ride only trikes and, fortunately, didn't have to break anything to get my clue. My two-wheelers left one at a time because the trikes were so much more enjoyable to ride.

Chip
TT and Logo

[bent3wheeler]

i have a ex3 usx and it's a blast with the electric hub motor i put on it.i'd highly recommend it for a bike for your recovery,however i doubt you would want to get out of it after your done licking your wounds.my bike is more comfortable than some recliners i have been in.mmm...wonder how my bike wouild look parked in the family room with a puter next to it?i like to ride the trails they have in ohio.i blast past everyone with the motor and it's not relly noticable.one lady cruised up on a 10 speed thing and said that bike is fast.made me laugh,,,i finally told her i had a electric motor on it.she told me she thouight she was just out of shape,,,was so funny but i guess you had to be there and see her in her spandex.i have decided to install a irrigation system on my bike for not only cooling,but to make it look like i have been peddling.i don't mind the extra weight of this machine over something that might go faster i just got this bike and i am going to hang as much stuff on it as i can to make it as safe and comfortable and high tech as i can.my guess is there are a lot of fog's(fat old geezers) out there who will be doing the same from the response i have gotten so far riding my i don't know what to call it really.bike i guess but what a ride.

go for the trike you can loose your behind in the seat so comfortable for me anyways

happy trails and good luck dodging the squirrels wet leaves and other dangerous wet patches...oh no mrbill black ice,,,i'm thinking of studded tires

[izgod]

I'm very mindful of "You getz what you payz for;" Greenspeed or Hase Kettwiesel are my trikes of choice. For some reason, I like the "delta" types like Hase and Sun better; higher seat, better visibility, better turning radius. Money will be an issue for sure, but the good news is I won't be able to pedal anything till spring at the earliest, so I have plenty of time to do the research and test rides, and to save up the money. May I call on you for specific advise when I am closer to purchase time?


Perhaps you need to look at a Greenspeed GT3 when it come time to take it with you--it folds. The Sun trike, while a perfectly fine ride, is pretty long and weighs 65 lbs.

I ride only trikes and, fortunately, didn't have to break anything to get my clue. My two-wheelers left one at a time because the trikes were so much more enjoyable to ride.

Chip
TT and Logo

[cjs1948]

I'm very mindful of "You getz what you payz for;" Greenspeed or Hase Kettwiesel are my trikes of choice. For some reason, I like the "delta" types like Hase and Sun better; higher seat, better visibility, better turning radius. Money will be an issue for sure, but the good news is I won't be able to pedal anything till spring at the earliest, so I have plenty of time to do the research and test rides, and to save up the money. May I call on you for specific advise when I am closer to purchase time?
I certainly would be willing to share the result of my experience and research. It wouldn't be unfair to say that I get a bit carried away with my enthusiasm. I've even considered opening a shop specializing in trikes. Unfortunately, that's probably just a way to get rid of money rather than the other way around. For direct contact: chasjstern@comcast.net

Chip

[funbun]

How do you tour with a delta? Use a trailer?

[BigAlMN]

I am back again and asking for some additional opinions, expert and the like.
I have seen alot of value in the Cattrike and been told that it is an extremely fast bike because of how low it rides. I like the price point.

Is there any advantage to upgrading the hubs to a speed drive. I want to keep up with 4 sons in the RAGBRAI. There is motivation to get the right bike that I can afford and performs against some rough odds.

Is there any advantage to finding a trike with a 26" rear wheel? or ... what other advise does any one have. Yes I already understand that I must be certain to be in good condition; unlike 'golf where the equipment takes care of the game' - but we won't go there. ;)

Thanks for all suggestions, advice and opinions.

[funbun]

I'm building a Greenspeed GTR for s tour this summer. I talked with Ian and Paul Simms (Mr. Greenspeed themselves) they said theat they've tested both 20 and 26 inch wheel and found no advantage to a 20 inch wheel. The first Greenspeeds were 26 inch rear wheel. A 20 inch wheel is stronger and lighter. 20 inch wheel mean a lower gearing.

If you want speed talk to Tony Stark (Iron Man). Get him to build you a pair of super strong knees. Then put a 100 tooth front chainring an go babiieee!!! Just joking. I'm notintersted in speed or trying to keep up with people. Why not let your boys do their spped and find someone else on the tour that will ride at your pace?

[Pedal Power]

Is there any advantage to finding a trike with a 26" rear wheel? or ... what other advise does any one have.

It seems to me that the consensus standard for rear wheels on tadpole trikes is the 20 inch size. Ian Sims of Greenspeed has stated elsewhere all the reasons they have standardised on that size for their touring trikes; among them: stronger wheel, one wheel size for the trike, availability of tires, and others. All of which add to my primary reason to think of using the smaller rear wheel. Gearing ranges in the Greenspeed trikes, and other makers' as well, are to be made up with the various specialty hubs,and cranks, Schlumf, Rohloff, et.al as required.

My trike has a 26 inch rear wheel and a gear inch range of approximately 24 to 123. Although my average cruising speed in 3600 miles has crept from less than 12 to 14.5+ mph (includes stops and starts over a regular route), I find that I never achieve the top gear here in the flat lands. So, for me (cruising cadence in the 90's rpm), I am thinking my next trike will have a 20 inch rear wheel with same sprocket sets and no specialty hubs or crank sets. This will change my gear inch range to 19 to 95 and (hopefully) allow me to carry loads on tour when I go to the mountains west of here. No matter to me if I spin out going down hill. More important to me is getting up the hill in the first place. Presently, on the flats, I cruise comfortably (light load) near the 70 gear inch range (need to verify that).

Of course, there are other ways to adjust my gear ratios. Changing the front rings from 52-42-30 to 48-36-24 will provide a gear inch range ( with same 11-32 eight speed cassette) of 18-104. I may do that to test whether such a ratio range is satisfactory. However, using the 20 inch wheel is the only way to gain all the advantages mentioned by Mr. Sims as well. I am in good physical condition and am built more for spinning than mashing on the pedals. So, I tend to work in the low to mid range on my present trike.

I think that a powerful rider riding lightly loaded will find greatest benefit from a 26 inch rear wheel, but that rider could also use different cranks and larger front sprockets with the smaller rear wheel. If you have an abundance of power, you have more options.

Jim

[funbun]

No matter to me if I spin out going down hill. More important to me is getting up the hill in the first place.

Good advise. I find that racing downhill drains energy fast, which leaves no power to get uphill! Gravity is a good thing!

[beowoulfe]

I've got the 81 gear option on my Greenspeed GTO and I rarely get into the front big ring. When I'm at a speed where I could use it, I find way too much pedal steer which is troublesome at high speed. Just using the middle ring, I can push 24 mph without spinning out.

[chieftwonuneez]

The Hostel shoppe in Stephens Point, Wis has plenty of recumbents, 2 wheel and 3. If possible you should take a trip over and ride em all. There is also a manuacturer of two wheel bents in town - Volae. They have a recumbent rally each July which is a superb time to try out recumbents from around the globe. This last summer was very good, many many bent riders there. Hostel Shoppe is online also. I tour on a two wheel bent but would not be averse to grabbing any of the trikes I tested and bugging out on a long trip. It would be like comparing which peice of pie to eat first! Each had their pros/cons and it boils down your personal needs and desires and wallet.
My personal likes favored the Cattrike for it's all-function look and wicked-good way it cornered at high speeds. I pushed the be-jesus out of it and the smile on my face kept getting bigger. The other were good with there good points too. Mind you I was in the midst of a summer tour with my recumbent and had to conserve the funds, but I got spoiled, right there, in a few hours, at the rally in ST Pt, Wi. Oh! The toys (serious toys of course!)

Mike

PS: Pratical is staying home all summer and mowing the lawn!

[mtessmer]

Anyone have any negative aspects of parking/leaving a trike in town?

Steve

Steve, I've been riding my Catrike (and my previous tadpole trike) through out the Minneapolis and St Paul areas (including downtown) for over six years with no problems. I park it and lock it just like any other bike I've own. Of course the Catrike frame makes it pretty easy to do. I use the traditional U bolt type lock.

[mtessmer]

I am back again and asking for some additional opinions, expert and the like.
I have seen alot of value in the Cattrike and been told that it is an extremely fast bike because of how low it rides. I like the price point.

Is there any advantage to upgrading the hubs to a speed drive. I want to keep up with 4 sons in the RAGBRAI. There is motivation to get the right bike that I can afford and performs against some rough odds.

Is there any advantage to finding a trike with a 26" rear wheel? or ... what other advise does any one have. Yes I already understand that I must be certain to be in good condition; unlike 'golf where the equipment takes care of the game' - but we won't go there. ;)

Thanks for all suggestions, advice and opinions.

Catrike is coming out with a 26'' rear wheel tadpole trike this coming spring 2005. check out there website: http://www.catrike.com

[mtessmer]

Calhoun Cycle in South Minneapolis has two tadpole trikes in stock (at least as of today) and if you want to try a delta trike, Hiogaards (sp) in St Louis Park carries those.

[cjs1948]

Catrike is coming out with a 26'' rear wheel tadpole trike this coming spring 2005. check out there website: http://www.catrike.com
Hellbent also has a trike with a 26 inch rear wheel in their design pipeline.

http://www.hellbentcycles.com/spitfire_rs26_preview.htm

Might be worth comparing to the Catrike. Ah...so many trikes, so little time.

Chip

[kimo]

I posted in the +50 forum that I am currently riding a mountain bike to lose weight (325) and plan to reward myself with a bike at 275. (Years ago I used to race and do triathlons.....oh well). I've also had a knee replacement and the other's working toward the same treatment (too much running and jumping when younger).

I initially inquired in another thread about a bent because I was curious about their suitablity. A person in that thread recommended a trike. but I have concerns as well.

First, I live in WV....mountains. Steep grades and narrow roads with hardly any shoulders. I find that I am spinning in my lowest gear on my MB on most climbs (heart rate 160+, when I had my EKG I got my heart 190+ and the doc was really suprised...) and wonder if a trike would be even more difficult to climb in or easier than a bent.

I know nothing about trikes....always associated them with old people in Florida (silly I know).

How do they hold up with heavier people?

How safe are they in traffic?

How do they climb compared to a bent?

How hard are they to transport....do you just use a bike rack?

Can you get them more elevated? Most I've seen in pictures are really low. How maneuverable are they and how quick are they? (I have to confess that due to my earlier racing years I tend to be one who really rides hard...I never seem to be able to ride just for enjoyment....always trying to better my last time etc)

How many here ride them as the primary form of riding?

What ones are the best to look at?

I must say that I have never seen one being ridden (Even in CA where I used to train and do triathlons). I can guess that to buy one I would have to go outside this area to even find them.

[funbun]

1. Trikes have no balance issues. you can pedal uphill .25 mph if you want.
2. Greenspeed has a trike that has been known to hold up 400+lbs people
3. It's got 3 wheels just put it on top your car and rope it down.
4. It's got three wheels you can take corners at speed without worrying about balance
5. They are heavier so they climb slower than uprights.
6. Because they are 2x as wide as other bicycles people give you more space on the roads. People have touredfaround the world on these things so they are safe on the roads.
7. Check out www.greenspeed.com.au they do a lot of custom work.

[kimo]

Funbun


The greenspeed looks nice but $3500 for a trike? not including shipping? :eek: Are all trikes this expensive?

[funbun]

Not all are than expensive. Try scarabtrikes. They are based on Greenspeed's design and cost about a 1/3 cheaper, plus they are made right here in the good old USA. They can hold your wieght also. Trimuter is another trike. they are all made by Doyle recumbent manufactoring. Here are they're URLs:

http://www.scarabtrikes.com/
http://www.trimuter.com/
http://www.doylecustombikes.com/contact.html

[beatle bailey]

I ride a trike. But only during the warm months. I have a pit bull that likes to run with me. He has been trained to attack any one who messes with my trike. He will immediately go for the crotch. So far, I haven't had any problems leaving my trike, when I go into a store.

[dfulton]

Go give a trike a test ride. They are a blast! I have made all styles of recumbents for myself and family, and all the kids in the neighborhood come by to try them out when they see me in the shop. The one thing they all beg me to make for them is a tadpole trike.

Darren

[john riley]

I'm favoring the SUN EZ3 USX. Can't wait to test ride one!! Anyone know of a dealer in the Northeast US around Philadelphia area?

Not close, but very knowledgeable:

wheeldr@goeaston.net

Wheel Doctor Cycle and Sports Inc.
St. Michaels, MD
800-586-6645

[john riley]

I am back again and asking for some additional opinions, expert and the like.
I have seen alot of value in the Cattrike and been told that it is an extremely fast bike because of how low it rides. I like the price point.

Is there any advantage to upgrading the hubs to a speed drive. I want to keep up with 4 sons in the RAGBRAI. There is motivation to get the right bike that I can afford and performs against some rough odds.

Is there any advantage to finding a trike with a 26" rear wheel? or ... what other advise does any one have. Yes I already understand that I must be certain to be in good condition; unlike 'golf where the equipment takes care of the game' - but we won't go there. ;)

Thanks for all suggestions, advice and opinions.

Trice claims a big rear wheel is faster. Others don't think it is significant. I think you are better off with same size wheels (preferably 20"; tires and tubes can be found anywhere) for touring. Main thing is, find something you are comfortable with, including high speed stability for downhills.

Re RAGBRAI, don't worry about keeping up with your sons. It usually doesn't work for people to ride together, and this is one ride where it isn't necessary. In most of the towns on RAGBRAI you find half the people standing around trying to find the other half ;) because people are trying to stay together.

Make sure they know how to take care of themselves before the ride, then each morning tell them to have a nice ride, and meet up in the evening again and tell stories to each other... "Did you see the guy...."

[oldy57]

Does anyone have any experience with Tri-Sled trikes out of Austrailia. I had a chance to ride one last summer for a short while and it was a great ride. I have not ridden another trike and there is none to try in Winnipeg Mb. I now have the chance to buy the one I rode for a very decent price. Just looking for more info from other owners or riders.

[Trekke]

Let me extend the intent of the above question?

I am wanting to get in a 'bent' and am leaning toward a trike. Looking for some of that additional relaxed ride. But I will be using it to commute between home and work a couple times per week as the weather permits. {I am in MN so there are some months that will prevent that.} That is about 22 miles one way.

I have seen several comments about being seen by the traffic so won't re-ask that question.

There are several people that speak highly about CarTrike? What about GreenSpeed - is that an overpriced version of the same thing?

I have reviewed a lot of web sites to learn what is available. Does anyone buy a trike without having a test ride; there are so few shops around that carry these trikes so the variety opportunity for demo rides just doesn't exist. - or do I live in the wrong part of the country?

Any suggestions about what to look for as I continue my search?
One of my riding buddies uses only Greenspeed. If you PM me with your email I will get him to email you and get his opinion. He has owned 3 of these I believe and rides them over his other recumbents.

[Gary Mc]

I own a Greenspeed Trike and feel that I was rewarded for the extra cost as I could have it geared and equiped the way that I wanted. I live in the mountains and low gearing (about 10 gear inches) opens all sorts of climbs to me that were previously beyond my capabilities on the Rans Stratus. Low speed balancing is, of course, no issue. You can stop on the steepest grade without unclipping and then start again at will.

I have over 7500 miles on the trike and have had no problem being seen on the open road. I do ride with extra caution in town but always did. One nice thing about the trike is that you can edge out slowly from behind parked cars. Overall, I feel safer on the trike than on my 2 wheel, though that was not true at first. My worst accidents have been on upright bikes. At least the trike is unlikely to catch a wheel in a road obstacle (road edge, train tracks, hair brush) and throw you into the path of traffic.

Gary Mc, Greenspeed GTO, Salt Lake City

[jawnn]

I turned my ez3 into a cargo tike, any one looking for info should email me: jawnn.geo@yahoo.com :eek: