Wheelchair bike: types and choices

A wheelchair bike is an unusual hybrid transport that can already be found on the streets of modern cities. It almost looks like a motorcycle with a sidecar, except that instead of an engine, it uses a mechanical drive and the muscular strength of a parent. There are models of bicycle strollers for 1 and 2 children, allowing the whole family to travel in comfort. There are also versions exclusively for the younger audience - the children's transformer is gradually turning from a cradle for a baby into a full-fledged bicycle for the first independent trips.

What features of bicycle strollers for a mother with a child should be taken into account when choosing a shared transport, are adult models with a cradle suitable for long trips or transporting babies, are there any difficulties in controlling a bicycle stroller - all these issues require the most careful consideration.

A stroller bike, depending on the version, is non-motorized transport that combines the function of transporting passengers and independent movement. Depending on the performance, adult models may differ slightly technically, as well as in the way of transformation and the number of options.

Among the common features that a stroller bike has, it can be noted:

• durable metal frames that can withstand loads up to 100-120 kg;
• access to all controls only for an adult rider;
• front position of the cradle;
• the presence of seats for children of different ages;
• transforming structure;
• wheel diameter about 16'';
• availability of seats for 1 or 2 children;
• the ability to use the parent frame after the children grow up.

All types of wheelchair bicycles can be divided into those designed for independent riding of children and designed for mothers and children. The most expensive models - transformers with a carrycot in front, which can be turned into a regular stroller or separate modules for mother and baby in a couple of minutes.

Russian firms are currently producing only 3-wheel versions with a handle for parents and a child seat. But they can hardly be compared with real wheelchair bicycles, on which you can easily go shopping or go for a walk, even with a baby, enjoying the ride.

A stroller bike for children is a three-wheeled vehicle in which the child can press the pedals himself or put his feet on the footrest and ride for his own pleasure as a passenger. Such models are designed for ages from 1 to 3 years old, sometimes there is a cradle for babies in the kit, but most often we are talking about transformers, from which you can gradually remove attachments, leaving only the really necessary visor, a basket for toys.

Adult sidecar bikes can be divided into multifunctional and classic. In addition, there are foldable models available that can be placed in the trunk of a car. There are transformers that can be easily converted into a separate bike for the mother or father and a stroller for the child. Some models also have a rear hitch option with the option of using the baby unit as a trailer.

There are many options, in addition, according to the type of seats there is a division into versions:

• with a cradle, which can then be replaced with a chair;
• with 2 seats, one of which is a carrycot;
• with 2 landing units: children sit one behind the other or face to face.

The parent part of such a bike can simply be folded, forming a single unit with the frame, or completely detached. The first option is convenient if you plan to travel only with a child and you need a certain amount of mobility. The second is relevant if the mother plans to ride a bike separately - in this case, by unfastening the baby block and pulling out an additional pair of wheels, you can get 2 vehicles instead of 1.

On the bicycle stroller market there is 2 largest brands – Zigo and Taga Bike... They do not have official stores in Russia, products can be purchased via the Internet. It is worth considering that original models are often counterfeited, so when choosing a seller, you need to make sure that it is branded products that are available. Both firms deserve attention, as they devote a lot of time to perfecting their models.

Zigo Cycles LLC is a US company based in New Jersey that specializes in the production of Carrier Bikes, or Bakfiets, as they are called in Europe. The brand supports family values, promotes a healthy lifestyle. The main product of the company is the Zigo Leader Carrier Bicycle System, on the basis of which the company offers the following options.

• Create a three-wheeled design for mom and baby... The baby unit is in front, constantly monitored by a parent, and ensures maximum safety. Its design is similar to popular bicycle trailers, but safer, the seats are equipped with seat belts and other elements for the comfort of children of different ages.
• Convert the module into a baby stroller. When detaching the parent unit with the pedals and the rear wheel, the protective booster handle and a pair of front wheels can be pulled out with one touch for walking with the child.
• With a little refinement, create a jogging stroller. Sports with children are steadily gaining popularity in the United States and around the world. In Russia, it still looks exotic, but no one bothers to try something new.
• Use the baby unit as a bicycle trailer. To do this, simply attach it to the back of your city bike.
• Receive a bike for mom with 26 '' wheels. A good urban option for driving for fun or driving on the highway.

The versatility of Zigo Cycles products is impressive, and all modules can be purchased separately. But the choice of accessories from the company is not very large. There are 2 modifications: "sedan" X1 for one child and X2 for two children - the so-called off-road vehicle with increased carrying capacity.

The first company that decided to implement the idea of ​​the Bakfiets cargo bicycles, which are widespread in Holland and other European countries, in a new incarnation. The enthusiastic design team has been able to find a balance between aesthetics and riding comfort over time. It took 4 years to develop the concept. Today, Taga transformer bicycles for transporting 1, 2, 3 children can be found in dozens of European countries, in the USA, and Canada.

Among the brand's models, there are 2 main product lines. The first is Taga 1.0, with open seat type, 16 "wheels, 5-point seat belts and a footrest. The model is easily transformed without leaving unnecessary details, in a single version it looks like a stroller with a high chassis, easily passes between the rows of goods in a supermarket, fits in an elevator.

When used in combination with a saddle and pedals for an adult, the stroller is suitable for fun walks with children. The carrying capacity of the child seat is 25 kg, it is suitable for children from 6 months to 6 years old, in the stroller mode, the chassis can withstand a child's weight up to 15 kg.

Taga 2.0 is a real hit for parents with 1 or 2 children over 3 years old. If necessary, you can also attach the rear seat, adapted to carry passengers up to 25 kg. The cargo compartment can be easily transformed into a fully cargo or cargo-passenger compartment.

In the version for 2 children, it is possible to sit facing each other, side by side, in a single one - facing the parent or with his back to him. The carrying capacity of the box reaches 70 kg, while in the basket 1 child up to 9 years old and 1 to 5-6 years old can be transported.

Taga also has an electric version of the sidecar. Such models are equipped with a 250 W electric motor, but can also be mechanically controlled, as usual. Also, all versions of Taga 2.0 allow the use of additional accessories that facilitate the use of a transformer bike.

Popular options include:

• multibar of accessories - looks like a holder for children's toys;
• car seat adapter;
• royal canopy with folding and removable sides;
• compact sun canopy.

Choosing a stroller bike for a baby or mom and baby requires a lot of attention to detail. Since this technique still looks very exotic in the Russian open spaces, it is worth carefully weighing all the pros and cons. Let's consider what criteria will become the main ones.

• Availability of places for skiing. If you plan to drive around the city, it is recommended to immediately assess possible problems.Wheelchair bicycles are not focused on off-road riding; it will also not work to lift equipment onto a curb or overcome another obstacle right in the saddle. It is optimal if you choose a park with a barrier-free environment or an equipped path for the movement of such vehicles. If it is not there, it is better to choose a universal bicycle stroller that can be transported in the form of a trailer if necessary.
• Age restrictions. Only a small number of wheelchair models are adapted to transport children over 5 years old and heavier than 25 kg. You should definitely pay attention to these characteristics, otherwise there is a great risk of simply breaking the frame.
• The location of the child seats. If there are 2 children, it is better to choose models in which they will sit next to or face each other. With sequential seating, babies will be distracted and try to leave the chair.
• The presence of a parent module. If you have nowhere to move around on a wheelchair bike with an adult seat and pedals, you can get by with the children's option, which can then be turned into your child's personal three-wheeled transport. Typically, such models are equipped with a convenient handle with which you can control and maneuver.
• Ease of transformation. In high-quality models, this work can be done in 20-30 seconds. Some cycling strollers will leave parts that need to be stored separately when they are transformed. You won't be able to cope with them on the road.

How to choose a tricycle wheelchair, see below.