Bicycles For The Rest Of Us -- The Three Wheeled Bicycle
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Bike riding in this country is becoming more and more popular all the time. But many people have difficulty in writing traditional (2-wheeled) bicycles -- for example, the elderly, those with back, joint, or leg problems, the overweight, and others. What can these folks do? Is it possible for them to enjoy the benefits of bicycling? The answer is YES -- by using a three wheeled bicycle.
The most common form of a three wheeled bicycle -- commonly called a tricycle -- is one that features two wheels at the back, and one wheel upfront, giving this type of three wheeled bicycle its distinctive triangle-shaped design. Through this type of three wheeled bicycle design is much easier for people with physical or medical conditions to operate -- the three wheel bicycle is much more stable and less likely to tip over, and some models (called recumbent bicycles) actually allow you to operate them while seated in a reclining position.
A good example of a sporty three wheeled bicycle which utilizes a recumbent design is the Triton Pro Ultimate Three Wheeled Cruiser, manufactured by Triton. This three wheeled bicycle features full support for your back and is made with an ultra-adjustable frame to fit riders from 4 feet to 6'3" in height. The steel frame of this three wheel bicycle is able to support up to 250 pounds in weight. This three wheel bicycle also features pneumatic tires, caliper hand brakes -- and comes in several different colors: blue, orange, silver, and burgundy.
Another great three wheeled bicycle that I like a lot is manufactured by Schwinn. The Schwinn Meridian Adult 26-Inch 3-Wheel Bike has a list price of just under $300, and it is built on a lightweight aluminum step-through frame (people with mobility problems will appreciate that) with a folding rear basket -- just the thing for a short trip to the grocery store. Braking is controlled on this three wheel bicycle by a handbrake that controls the rear wheels and a front linear pull-brake. You probably owned a Schwinn 2-wheeler when you are a kid; now that you are a little older, why not use a Schwinn three wheeled bicycle?
Lastly, let me mention a model of three wheeled bicycle for the kids: The Huffy Green Machine 2. One of the problems in getting kids who are a bit older to use a three wheeled bicycle is that many models simply look too "childish" -- older kids don't like to use them. If you have kids that are too old for a toddler's tricycle, but who aren't quite ready for a regular bicycle, you can turn them on to the Huffy Green Machine 2.
This three wheel bicycle has a list price of about $100, and of course it is painted green -- and has a molded adjustable seat, so your child can still continue to use it as they grow older. This three wheel bicycle for kids is very sturdily built with a high-tension steel frame, with molded rear wheels. You can use joysticks to steer the rear wheel, and the front wheel on this three wheeled bicycle is equipped with a handbrake. I can't think of any kid who wouldn't love to get this bicycle as a birthday present or as a gift during the holidays!
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