Tricycles
Created | Updated Apr 30, 2003
What are they?
Tricycles are three wheeled instruments of transportation used in substitute for the more difficult to ride and less stable bicycle. On children's "trikes" as the word is abreviated, they commonly sport frilly, shiny tassels protruding from the handles. The most common material these days for children's trikes is plastic, but the steel-framed tricycles of the past last longer and are more common in the larger adult tricycles. On children's models the front wheel is larger than the back two, and is propelled by pedals. Sometimes they have a stand on the back for a second child to stand on and ride behind the propultion child. The adult versions have a range of wheel sizes and can be peddal powered or powered by an electric or gasoline motor. They are suitable for children and adults because the tripod is the most stable form of geometric strut configuration.
Designs of Children's Tricycles
There are many styles of tricycles. Some are in the design of motorcycles or all terrain vehicles. Others are the more plain and classic styles of the fifties. These have one large wheel and two small wheels in the back connected by a metal frame and two pedals. Newer, more flashy tricycles have a more reclined seat and a back rest on the seat. They have also lost the brace along the back for a second child to stand on.
Designs of Adult Tricycles
The adult tricycles are more sturdy in construction and much larger. They are typically more comfortable to ride in than the childrens' counterpart, and can have anywhere from one to five or six seats depending on the use. They may be powered kineticaly or mechanically by gas or electricity, and now even fuel cells may be used to power them.
How Are They Used?
Childrens' "trikes" are used as entertainment more than anything. Adult tricycles are used for excersise, transportion, delivery, and business. They are comfortable and affordable and economically sound. All in all they provide easy transportation and fun for the kids.
