Anyone heard of Handcycling

[philipebutler]

Hey guys, I really enjoy keeping fit, and i have been looking for things that i could do. I found this Handcycle website [PM member for link]. They sell these modified bicycles which you peddle with your arms instead of your legs. I had to get one, and I am having so much fun on it that i had to share this with everyone. They are actually giving away a hand cycle this month, so definitely check it out.

[epistrophy]

Handcycling is a wonderful form of recreation that's finally getting some real attention. We just bought an Intrepid Tourer handcycle for our eight-year-old son who has spina bifida. He tried out several of their models and they were very helpful in determining the best options for him. I assume that the website you found was Intrepid's since they are doing a giveaway. :-)

A lot of people also use Top End handcycles, which are made by Invacare, and Lightning handcycles from El Segundo, CA. We had some very negative experiences dealing with the owner of Lightning, so if someone is interested in one of those they might want to go through an outside distributor instead of dealing with the company directly. Top End is one of the most popular and reputable brands, but we couldn't find a dealer for them in our area. So we were glad to find that Intrepid was only a couple of hours away.

My wife and I know next to nothing about bicycles, so we were relieved to find out that 90% or more of the components in most handcycles can be replaced and repaired at any bicycle shop. That was key for us since we live 100+ miles away from Intrepid's facility and wouldn't be able to run down there easily for repairs. For those who are knowledgeable about bikes, the manufacturers can usually provide lists of all the components they use so potential buyers can compare and select options.

The most important thing, of course, is to have fun and get exercise!

- Todd