A trishaw is a three-wheeled pedal-powered machine with a pilot behind and a passenger seat up front for views of the community and nature.
Trishaws can go just about anywhere. In Wisconsin, they are legal vehicles and allowed on all roads just like bicycles. But the best routes are low-traffic neighborhood side streets and trails through parks. These trishaws help people experience the beautiful community trails they may never have been on and ride through old neighborhoods that spark fond memories.
Dealers
35197 Gensee Lake Rd, Oconomowoc WI 53066
Gnargo Bike Co.
Bentonville, Arkansas
Made in the USA
Rentemestervej 80, 2400 Copenhagen NV
Maintenance
Staying on top of maintenance is very important. Many of the parts and pieces are not standard to other bicycles, therefore not inventoried here in the US, and the process of repair/replace can be more complicated.
Pre-Ride Checklist
All pilots should do an ABC Quick Check before they ride, even taking over a shift from another pilot, to ensure that the trishaw is in proper working condition. Access the ABC Quick Checklist
Seasonal tune-ups
Be sure to have your trishaw checked over in the spring before your pilot training and in the late fall before you store it for the winter.
Assistance
Refer to the bike shop where you purchased the trishaw to assist with the maintenance. Some repairs will impact the warranty if not performed by a mechanic certified on that brand.
Transporting
Ideally, everyone would be able to pedal the trishaws to all of our appointments and destinations, although that is not common. Here are some popular options for transporting your trishaw:
Enclosed Trailers & Vans
This option doubles as storage space and protects the trishaws from the elements and being banged around in a garage. Special concern should be given to the battery in extreme temperatures.
Open Trailers
Light-weight and easy to pull with even small vehicles. Not good for speeds over 35.
Pick-up Trucks
There is concern when loading and unloading but a decent option in a pinch!
- Secure the wheels to the floor, paying attention not to transport with pressure on spokes
- Drop the footrest
- Engage standard parking brakes, but not hydraulic brakes
- Strap to the frame only, with no cables under the strap
Storage
Storing the trishaw in plain view within the location is a great reminder that rides are available. When storing in an accessible location, drop footrests and put signs on the seats to discourage climbing on the unattended trishaws. Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your equipment remains accessible and safe:
Garages
Dust blowing in a garage gets on the brakes and chain may accelerate the maintenance needed.
Local businesses
Park your trishaw in the lobby of a sponsor, or a local business where you ride often.
Bike shops, municipal garages, places of worship, and other community facilities
Sometimes storage is available in these locations to get you through the winter.
Hot tip
Be aware to protect your trishaw from rodents who may damage cables and make nests in other parts of the trishaw when not in use.