Trike Life
March 2008

Trike Passengers 

We have not seen much written for the Trike passenger, so since I am not a passenger I thought I would get Sandy to write this article for the co-riders.  So here is the word from my better half --

What is it like being a passenger on a trike?  If you and your #1 are considering triking, here are some tips for you.

On the back you are going to get more wind than on a two-wheeler due to the fenders deflecting the air upward.  This is fine in the summer, however, winter can be an issue.  I sometimes even take a small lap blanket on particularly cold days, as the upper legs seem to receive the bulk of the air.  You might want to check into Baker Trike Wings (this is not an official endorsement, just my personal experience) as they do help.  That is the only down-side to being a passenger on a trike, and it is not that much of a downer.

Can you have as much fun in the twisties as a two-wheeler?  Oh, yeah!  You won’t have to worry about that dreaded sound of the foot peg scraping the asphalt.  You will learn quickly that you won’t lean into the curve, because you will slide in your seat, but you will strengthen your leg muscles by pushing down with your left foot going into a right curve, and pushing with your right going into a left curve.  See the benefit?

You can point out scenery, great looking houses, points of interest, signs, etc., and your driver can actually look where you point since the trike does not go where the driver looks, quite as readily as a two-wheeler. 

I can move around, shift positions, stand up and stretch without worrying about incurring the wrath of my driver!  And...you are not going to fall over or drop the bike.  As a result I can travel much longer without having to take a break, much to the joy of my driver.

The driver is also much more relaxed with the ability to take in some of the otherwise missed views without the additional worries of gravel and rough roads and other two-wheel hazards.  In fact, he/she may be so relaxed that when you reach your destination, your #1 may even want to take you dancing!

Ride Safe,

Bill & Sandy