Grandpa1946

I'm 68 years old and substantially paralyzed on one side. I recently got a Sun Trike with a 3 speed internal hub. It is practically brand new and I thought I stole it for $200. Now that I realize that it doesn't do hills...I'm wondering... I discovered that I can pedal! It has been less than a month and this morning I did 8 and a half miles. Remember, I am 68, I only have 1/2 of a fully able body, and it IS a big tricycle; poor gearing, heavier, and third wheel rolling resistance.

My Question: If I can pedal 8 and a half miles, how far can I do pedal assistance with a front electric hub? I do not want to just sit on the bike. I want to pedal! I have Honda 250 with training wheels that will go 70mph. I am becoming obsessed with pedaling! My paralyzed leg is getting stronger, and I am feeling really good! Uhh.... When I'm not on that third lap around town and my mouth is gapped open for breath, and all I can see is my front tire.

I'm not certain why I am doing this. Maybe it is because I can't run, and have trouble walking, but just learned that I can pedal. Maybe I just want to "feel great again".

CliffordK

Are you riding for fun, exercise, or riding for commuting/errands/etc? Tours?

I doubt you will get more exercise using the pedal assist. You could extend the time on your bike, but you can do the same by just dropping to a lower gear.

Personally I would keep your bike manual as you have it, unless you are planning on doing 20+ mile commutes using the bike as primary transportation. In that case, rather than upgrading the bike you have, buy a "new" one so that you will have a choice of bikes.

tmac100

Pedal as much as you can without over stressing yourself. As a 67 y.o. and insulin-dependent type 1 diabetic I rode east from Perth Australia for about 2700 km in a month (July 7th to Aug 8th). It took me about 10 days "to get into shape" and by then 80 km a day was about average. There were days when I stopped and rested (maybe 3 days total). Some days with a tail wind I did 115 km. Camping by the eyre Hwy was a great treat and I could sleep from dark (6 pm) to daylight (6 am). My body liked the rest and fresh air and simple food. Meat was good to eat at night or at breakfast - even though it was cold chicken or bacon.

My body revived itself remarkably well even though I have a leg brace on my right leg due to a fused right ankle.

Stay manual and keep pedalling. 8 miles is a great start. Extend it be a few 100 yards every day and occasionally cut back or take a rest day. YOU HAVE NOTHING TO PROVE. It is important to listen to YOUR body and behave appropriately. we may be giving you advice, BUT it is based on our experiences/prejudices etc.

Listen to your body and it will treat you well. The electric front hub is essentially a bit of a cheat. You have nothing to prove distance wise.