27 January 2003

Here are some pictures of my handcycle projects.  I live near Greenlake in North Seattle.  I'm interested in handcycles because of the novelty and the upper body workout.  Both the ones that I made have required no welding and used parts from junk bikes.  One of my best thrift store finds was the bike that donated the 3-speed coaster brake hub.

Original Version


       
   The first one is pedaled, steered and braked with the riders hands.  The feet operate only the bell.  It is front wheel drive and has a 3 speed gearhub with coaster brake on its 20" front wheel .  The rear wheel is a 4".  The handpedals on the original are constructed from pieces of 1-3/4" diameter Delrin plastic rod.  They were drilled to fit roller skate bearings and then mounted on bike pedal axles.  The handpedals are quite comfortable for long rides (10 miles max so far).  The 4" rear wheel was selected to lower the rear of the bike for a more slack head tube angle.  We have used this handcycle mostly for trips around the neighborhood and to the playground. It is quite easy to ride. I have about 250 miles on it, mostly pulling our child trailer with my daughter around Greenlake.  She loves it.  Soon, I will have to build her a kid sized handcycle.  Or maybe a tandem handcycle for both of us...
 
Newest Version