Hand Cycles

Most manual wheelchairs are operated by the rider pushing the wheels forward or a second person pushing the chair along from behind. There are also chairs available that can be operated by turning a crank by hand. These chairs work in the same way a bicycle would, with a pedaling motion, but the pedaling is done by hand instead of by the feet.

Tricycles

Wheelchair tricycles are a form of manual chair that feature two wheels in the back, and a single wheel at the front. They are powered exclusively by a hand crank inside the chair. The operator works the crank to control the speed of the chair.

These chairs are commonly used for various sporting events, and most often for high-speed racing. The layout of the chair allows it to go over rough terrain with ease, making it an excellent choice for outdoor track races. They also allow the rider to cover far greater distances. Their speed and agility gives riders the ability to move rapidly.even over coarse surfaces such as rocks, gravel, and grass.

One-hand method

Many of these chairs are operated with just one hand, unlike other chairs which require both hands for proper use. In most hand cycle chairs, the rider would be in a kneeling position, as opposed to seated. Many athletes find that they prefer this method and claim that it is beneficial for them to be situated that way during athletic competitions. Aside from the hand crank, these chairs come equipped with a hand brake in case the chair must be brought to a quick stop. This brake also acts as a gear shift, so the athlete can easily shift up or down depending on the terrain they are crossing, steepness of the ground they are covering, and desired speed. Some models include up to 27 different speeds to give the user a wide range of control.

Customizable

Hand cycle wheelchairs come in a variety of three-wheel styles, but manufacturers are able to customize them based on the person who will be operating it. Every hand cycle has many options that can be included and can be built specifically according to the size and weight of the user.

Wheelchairs that are operated by hand cranks are rather expensive. In return, however, they offer a whole new world of freedom for the users that cannot be found any other way. Athletes who wish to compete, or simply operate a sports chair for their own pleasure, find the extra cost to be worth the value it adds to their lives.