Tricycles: an inclusive cycling guide for disabled riders

Adaptive trikes are a type of adapted cycle that provide a safe, stable and confidence-building way for disabled people to enjoy the freedom of cycling.

With two wheels at the back (or sometimes at the front), they offer enhanced balance, greater control and a far lower risk of tipping over, making cycling accessible to riders with a wide range of physical, sensory and neurological conditions.

Why tricycles are a great option for disabled cyclists

For many disabled riders, the biggest barrier to cycling isn’t motivation, it’s stability, confidence, comfort or the physical demands of starting, stopping and balancing. A trike can help by:

• Improving stability at low speeds and when stationary (for example at junctions), reducing the fear of wobbling or falling.
• Making starts and stops feel simpler, especially if balance, coordination, strength or reaction time are affected.
• Offering supportive seating and riding positions (particularly on recumbent designs), which can be helpful for pain, fatigue, joint conditions or limited mobility.
• Allowing adaptations and accessories such as foot straps, specialist pedals, supportive seats, steering aids or trunk support.
• Increasing independence for riders who may not be able to use a standard bike or who are returning to cycling after illness or injury.
• Making cycling more enjoyable by reducing anxiety and physical strain – which often means people ride more often and for longer.

Trikes can also be a brilliant option for riding with family or a support worker, especially where a rider benefits from shared control, side-by-side communication or a companion setup.

Types of tricycles for disabled adults

Different trike designs suit different bodies, needs and riding environments. If you’re searching for trikes for disabled adults or trikes for adults with disabilities, these are the main categories you’ll come across.

Upright tricycles

Upright trikes look most similar to a traditional bike, usually with one wheel at the front and two at the back.

Why they can work well

• Familiar riding position and steering feel for many people
• Often easier to mount than you might expect (especially with step-through frames)
• Useful for local trips, cycle paths and gentler routes

Things to consider

• Some upright trikes can feel less stable on tight corners if taken quickly (it’s about learning the handling)
• Gearing and braking setup matters, especially if you have limited hand strength or dexterity
• Storage and transport can be trickier than with a standard bike because of width

Recumbent trikes

Recumbent trikes have a reclined seat with back support, and the pedals positioned forward.

Why they can work well

• Supportive seating can reduce strain on wrists, shoulders, back and neck
• Low centre of gravity can feel very stable and secure
• Comfortable for longer rides, or where fatigue/pain management is important

Things to consider

• Being lower to the ground can affect visibility in traffic (a flag and good lights help)
• They can be longer than upright trikes, which may affect storage
• Entry/exit varies by design – worth trying in person

Electric-assist tricycles (e-trikes)

E-trikes add motor assistance to help with hills, headwinds or longer distances, useful for riders managing fatigue, strength limitations, pain or fluctuating conditions.

Why they can work well

• Makes cycling feel more achievable and less physically demanding
• Supports independence for everyday journeys (shopping, appointments, school runs)
• Can help people build confidence and routine, not just fitness

Things to consider

• Battery weight and placement (affects handling and lifting)
• Controls and display: look for simple, accessible interfaces
• Insurance and security: e-trikes are valuable, so strong locks/storage matter

Hand-powered trikes

Handcycles (hand-powered trikes) are propelled using the arms, typically with a crank system.

Why they can work well

• Great option if leg power is limited or not available
• Can support fitness and independence, including for wheelchair users
• Often used for sport, leisure and longer-distance riding

Things to consider

• Fit and seating support are crucial (shoulders, wrists, posture)
• Terrain matters: motor-assist can be a big help depending on route
• Turning circle and width vary widely

Tandem trikes

Tandem trikes allow two riders to pedal (or contribute differently) on the same cycle, with added stability from three wheels.

Why they can work well

• Shared riding experience for couples, friends or families
• Can support riders who benefit from pacing, communication or riding with someone they trust
• Helpful where a rider wants to participate but prefers extra reassurance

Things to consider

• Weight and storage
• Matching pedalling styles and gearing can make a big difference
• Clear roles and communication help (especially when starting/stopping)

Companion trikes/side-by-side trikes

Companion trikes let two people ride next to each other, often with one rider able to steer and/or brake. They’re often used in inclusive cycling centres and supported sessions.

Why they can work well

• Side-by-side conversation can reduce anxiety and increase enjoyment
• Great for riders with sensory impairments, learning disabilities or where reassurance and shared control help
• Support can be built in without feeling ‘separate’ from the experience

Things to consider

• Usually wider than other trikes (route choice and storage matter)
• Different models offer different control options (steering, braking, pedalling)

Who can benefit from inclusive tricycles?

A trike can suit many riders who find a standard bike uncomfortable, unstable or inaccessible, including people searching for trikes for disabled riders.

People who may benefit include:

• Disabled people with physical impairments affecting balance, strength, coordination, mobility or fatigue.
• People with sensory impairments, including riders who benefit from companion/paired riding or predictable handling.
• Neurodivergent riders, who may feel safer with a stable platform and consistent control.
• People with long-term health conditions (for example arthritis, chronic pain, MS, Parkinson’s, heart or lung conditions) where pacing and confidence are key.
• People recovering from injury or surgery, where stability and lower strain support a return to activity.
• Older riders who want to keep cycling but prefer something that feels more secure.
• Children and young people where the right size, support and adjustability can make cycling possible and enjoyable.

Every rider is different – and the ‘right’ trike is the one that fits your body, your needs and the riding you want to do.

Key features to look for

When comparing adaptive trikes, focus on the features that will make riding comfortable, safe and sustainable long-term:

• Fit and support
  • Seat style (standard saddle vs supportive seat with backrest)
  • Step-through access, seat height and ease of mounting/dismounting
  • Adjustability for posture and reach (especially important for fatigue and pain)
• Stability and handling
  • Wheel configuration and turning behaviour
  • Frame geometry and centre of gravity (recumbents often feel very secure)
  • Tyre width and grip for the surfaces you’ll ride on
• Controls and braking
  • Brake type and lever accessibility (important for limited grip strength)
  • Parking brake (useful for transfers and stopping on slopes)
  • Simple, intuitive controls, especially for riders with cognitive or dexterity challenges
• Pedals and foot retention
  • Specialist pedals, straps, heel support, or orthotics compatibility
  • Crank length options (comfort and joint protection)
• Motor assist (if relevant)
  • Battery range and ease of charging
  • Control placement and display readability
  • Smoothness of assistance and hill performance
• Everyday practicality
  • Storage space at home (width matters!)
  • Transport options (car racks/trailers are sometimes needed)
  • Accessories like baskets, panniers, mirrors, lights, flags and weather protection
• Budget, servicing and parts
  • Warranty and availability of spares
  • Local servicing capability (ask the supplier what support is realistic near you)

You might also come across brands aimed at clinical or specialist settings. If you’re considering a niche or medical-focused product, it’s especially important to try before you buy and to check suitability for independent outdoor riding, servicing and long-term maintenance.

Where to try or buy adaptive trikes

Because fit and confidence are so personal, many people find it most helpful to try a few options before committing.

Here are good routes to explore:

• Inclusive cycling centres and community organisations
  These often have a range of adapted cycles (including trikes) and trained staff who can help you find what works. It’s also a supportive way to build confidence.
• Specialist retailers and adapted cycle suppliers
  Look for suppliers who offer assessments, test rides, and ongoing support – and who understand access needs, not just sales.
• Try-before-you-buy programmes and short-term loans
  A loan period can be invaluable for finding out what works on your local routes, with your body, over time.