Four-wheeled bicycles: what are there and how to choose the right one?

Bicycles with four wheels are most often found for children. However, this type of transport is also convenient for adults, especially in family models. On such a four-wheeled bike, you can make pleasant walks and even small trips.

The four-wheeled bicycle was invented immediately after the appearance of the conventional two-wheeled bicycle. Already in the middle of the 19th century, it was possible to find drawings in which carriages were combined with a pedal drive. It is worth noting that the first machines also had bicycle pedals and the same principle of operation. However, in Soviet times, all non-standard bike bikes turned into children's toys.

Nowadays, 3- and 4-wheel variants are gaining popularity again. Cycling with 4 wheels is often called a velomobile. These original bikes are perfect for older people or not too strong physically.

Even among athletes and travelers, four-wheeled velomobiles have become in demand. Especially for trial or cross country. For long journeys, 4-wheel bikes are more than convenient, since they can carry impressive amounts of cargo. Moreover, some options even allow the driver to be placed in a reclining position. Recently, more and more original homemade models have begun to appear.

It is worth emphasizing that some of the components on a velomobile are the same as on regular 2-wheel bikes. For example, the brakes and wheels are completely identical.Changes in the braking system are rare. The pedals with a chain also make no difference. Although sometimes there are two speed switches.

The difference from conventional bicycles is that the force is not just on the rear wheel, but on the shaft. Major changes are visible in the design of the frame and handlebars. As a rule, frames are created taking into account the characteristics of a particular model. Among the homemade options, there are frames from two-wheeled bikes that are welded together.

Quite often, four-wheeled models are made two-seater. The intersecting tubes are so wide that they can freely accommodate two seating chairs at once. As for the drive, it is performed in different ways. For example, it can be a common shaft and two pedal blocks that are connected by a common chain. And also there are separate drive mechanisms.

The popularity of four-wheel bikes is not yet that extensive. However, it is already possible to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of such a transport. Several points are highlighted among the main advantages.

• Good stability compared to even the toughest 2-wheel bikes.
• Comfortable seat and riding position.
• The ability to carry cargo with a large weight and significant volume.
• Original design.
• Easy to repair, as the parts fit from regular bicycles.
• Low weight of the velomobile due to the use of lightweight components.
• You can ride at low speed, and there are no problems with maintaining balance. It is convenient to place your feet on the ground if necessary.

The obvious disadvantages include a number of factors.

• The complex design sometimes creates problems with self-assembly.
• Reliability is inferior to two-wheeled. This is due to a complex drive, additional elements in the rudder structure, and a multitude of units with increased load. As a result, the 4-wheel bike can break more often.
• The dimensions can be a problem if you have to drag the velomobile into the apartment. Better to choose a place for him in the garage or parking lot.
• The high cost and the small number of models scare away many people. Making a DIY 4-wheel bike will also be a costly task.

To better understand what a 4-wheel bike is, it is worth getting to know its different types. They differ in several ways.

• Semi-recumbent bike with four wheels allows you to move around comfortably. By itself, it is actually an intermediate option between a recumbent bike and an upright bike. This option is convenient for older people who are not suitable for a horizontal landing.
• Recumbent 4-wheel bike suitable for comfortable walking in a horizontal position. Often, this option becomes the only travel option for people with disabilities or people who are contraindicated in strong physical activity. And also there are models with 24 speeds, which easily overcome both descents and ascents.
• 4 wheel electric bike will become an irreplaceable means of transportation. After all, the pedals on it can be turned only when you want it. And so during the walk everyone will do the motor-wheels.
• Foldable lightweight option is a novelty in the bicycle market. Such models are suitable for those who store a bicycle in an apartment. It is convenient when the oversized transport can be folded, and it will take up a minimum of space.
• Velomobile with a low frame and small wheels of 18 inches - ideal for the elderly or people with short stature. Conventional bicycles can be a problem for them, but with this option, you can enjoy pleasant cycling, also with great convenience.
• Four-wheel tandem allows two to find pleasure in such movement at once.By better maintaining balance, you can develop significant speed. Often among these models there are sports options.
• Choppers have a stylish look that will be a great opportunity to stand out from the crowd.
• Two-seater four-wheeled bike allows you to travel in adjacent seats by pedaling. Moreover, this can be done both together and in turn. Such models are ideal for pleasant communication and walking. Often, such models are called family models, since they can also be supplemented with a child seat.
• Children's bicycles with four wheels quite often become the first bicycle transport. It is convenient to learn to ride on them, and most importantly, to do without injuries. There are options for different ages - from 4 to 15 years old.

Among bicycle manufacturers, many companies produce models with three or more wheels. The best companies are trying to create comfortable bike designs, and the first place among them is deservedly taken by the Berg company. The models of this company are distinguished by their robust construction. It should be noted that all brand variants show stability even at high speeds. Moreover, the variety of designs allows them to be used by both sports people and the rather elderly.

Chinese firm Puky creates stylish, lightweight and safe four-wheel bikes. Among the advantages of the models of this brand, it is worth noting the excellent equipment, which includes large wheels, a protective bumper, and a convenient braking system. When creating each model, human anatomical features are taken into account.

TVL brand presents a wide variety of models both in design and in price. Among the options are singles, childrens, doubles, sports. All the company's products are characterized by high quality and original design. Another Chinese company Professional manufactures velomobiles for everyone, including children over 11 and seniors over 60. Design features include die-cast bodies, small wheels, and a comfortable seat. Affordable prices should be noted among the advantages of the brand.

Company Smart focuses on durability, strength and convenience. Among the brand's models, you can find excellent urban options, spacious family and comfortable tourist options. The sturdy frames are complemented by textile roofs that protect from the sun and rain. Among the Russian manufacturers, the young company IP Kurilekh IK, which produces non-standard velomobiles, distinguished itself. For example, their assortment includes electric options, bikes for large people, family bikes for walking, for children with cerebral palsy, for hunting. The company offers both ready-made four-wheeled bikes and makes them to order.

Choosing a specific 4-wheel bike model is a snap. It is enough to take into account a number of points. First of all, it is important to adequately assess the budget. Knowing it, you can quickly reduce your search to models in an affordable price range.

Before buying, it is important to decide in advance why you need a velomobile: for out-of-town walks, trips to work or for traveling with the whole family. For example, for a city per person, an inexpensive one-speed model would be appropriate. For trips in terrain with numerous ups and downs, it is better to choose options with gearshift systems.

Another important point when choosing is to decide who will ride the four-wheel bike. If you need to choose an option for a child or an elderly person, then it is better to choose models with a low frame and small wheels. For larger people, sturdy bicycles with large wheels are suitable. For use by all family members, you can choose a model with adjustable length.

The choice of design and color should be based on your own convenience. Some people will like the reclining option in yellow and black, while others will prefer pink with a vertical fit. Brand models are suitable for professionals Forward, and amateurs should pay attention to the company Schwinn. But for beginners it is better to take a closer look at the models of the company. Ghost. Interesting family options offer Giant.

In the next video, you will find complete instructions for assembling the BMW Street Racer velomobile.