Trike Specific Brochure Pg. 1

Here is Page 1 of our Trike Specific Brochure:

A picture sparked His Wheels International’s Global Trikes Division...“We need hand-pedaled trikes throughout Africa,” an international leader stated in 2005.

Throughout the world many people have been affected by polio, landmines, and have other physical disabilities. Without transportation, these individuals are left to an animal existence, crawling along on their hands, pulling their paralyzed limbs through the dirt and sewer.

Construction

HWI Dual Offset Tube Trike (DOTT) is most easily built from round or square steel tubing, welded together. It uses relatively common, rugged bicycle parts for the drive train; and equally rugged sealed ball bearings and flat-free wheelbarrow wheels to avoid the spoke breakage and flat tire issues common on rough roads and paths. HWI uses plywood for seat surfaces, but thin steel, woven surfaces, or other seat surface options can be employed. This design can be modified to use different types of wheels, and suit local needs.

Ergonomics

The DOTT design has adjustability in the seat back angle, seat depth, leg length, knee angle and ankle position to properly fit the user. Crank arm length and gearing have been selected to help prevent elbow & shoulder joint strain. The offset frame tube design makes transfer from a chair or wheelchair easier.

Performance

The DOTT is highly maneuverable; it can nearly pivot around the rear wheels. The “direct drive” front wheel allows the trike to be pedaled in reverse for added maneuverability in tight situations. No active brake is provided for this reason as the hand pedals are used as the brake. However there are parking and active brake options available if terrain could be cause for braking needs.

Cost

Costs will vary depending upon the availability of local parts, logistics and location. HWI estimates that the basic material costs will range from a low of $100 per trike or less; to a high of $270 per trike if most or all parts must be imported from the US, and all options are included. Cost estimates do not include shipping. HWI has developed and tested a manufac- turing process that can make it possible for local organiza- tions to build these trikes.

Friday I heard that "Two women severely crippled by polio were fitted with a trike in Sierra Leone this week. One is essentially homeless and has 3 children that hang out on the streets with her all day begging with her....They will return weekly to give us feedback and so we can check on them. So far, the women LOVE their new mobility!" Wow!