Adaptive Cycling: Handcycles, Amputee Adaptation, Visual Impairment, and Other Needs - Handcycle riding and Calories Burned

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MojojoM
06-25-12, 10:32 PM
A friend of mine started riding hs new Freedom Ryder - handcycle last week.

http://www.freedomryder.com/FRH-1.htm

He asked me a question that I do not have the answer for. He wanted to know how to determine calories burned while riding. All computers that I'm aware of - base calories burned on regular bicycle riding.

He is attempting to maximize his calorie burn by seat placement. He has determined that proper seat placement will force him to lean forward and backward while "pedaling".

Any advice I could pass on is appreciated. I am also going to encourage him to come here and participate.

I apologize for the cryptic nature of the question and I also know that there are many variables.

Thanks

runner pat
06-26-12, 12:20 AM
I'm a handcycle rider. As far as I can tell, it's no different than riding a DF at any given speed. Wind resistance and therefore required power output is the same.

The only difference might be an increase in rolling resistance due to the extra wheel.
CbadRider
06-26-12, 09:13 PM
Most computers base calorie estimates on heart rate or power output. That should not be different for riding a handcycle.

kleonin
07-17-12, 02:19 PM
Same response as the others... the calorie count is estimated anyway, so what your friend should do is minimize the work so he ride longer and burn more calories. The FRH-1 is highly adjustable and configurable. To make it "easier" what he may consider is rasing the seat to me more upright (versus leaning back) and lowering the cranks and moving the cranks closer to his body. That way, he can get "on top" of the cranks and maximize output.

I actually have a Fredom Ryder myself, but the LC-1, which is a lean-steer. The FRH-1 is an awesome handcycle, but there is nothing more fun than carving a long winding road on a lean-steer.