How to Ride a Catrike

The Catrike is a brand of recumbent bicycle trike. As its name implies, the Catrike has three wheels, one at the rear and two at the front. Unlike a standard bicycle, the Catrike is placed low to the ground and allows the rider enjoy a reclined position. Pedals are located forward of the machine and gear, and brake levers are accessible to the hands. With a little know-how and practice, riding a recumbent bicycle can be an enjoyable and healthful experience.

Instructions

    • 1

      Roll the Catrike onto an even surface to prevent the Catrike from rolling forward or backward.

    • 2

      Lower yourself into the recumbent seat. Place both feet against the pedals, at the front of the Catrike.

    • 3

      Reach for the left hand control with the left hand and the right hand control with the right hand. The controls are located on either side of the seat.

    • 4

      Note the dual controls. There is a brake lever, and above the brake lever, a gear shifter. The shifter will either be a bar-end shifter or twist-grip shifter. The bar-end shifter has a lever that toggles up and down to switch gears. The twist-grip rotates in either direction to shift gears.

    • 5

      Begin turning the pedals of the Catrike forward with your feet. Pedal slowly and evenly until you feel comfortable with the machine.

    • 6

      Steer the Catrike by moving the left or right hand control gradually forward. Moving the left hand control forward turns the Catrike to the right. Moving the right hand control forward turns the Catrike to the left. Use gradual motion when steering.

    • 7

      Toggle or turn the left hand gear shifter to change gears at the front of the Catrike. Operate the right hand gear shifter similarly to change gears at the rear of the Catrike.

    • 8

      Pull the left brake lever, just below the gear shifter, to operate the front brake. Alternatively, squeeze the right hand brake lever to activate the rear brake. Use the two brakes in conjunction for maximum braking power.