OWNER’S MANUAL PAGE 7
We strongly recommend the use of the mirror that comes standard with every Catrike. You can
also order dual mirrors (one on each side). However, don't rely entirely on your mirrors. Turn
and look before changing lanes or turning across the line of traffic.
Riding along a line of parked cars can be particularly dangerous for those on low-slung bikes
and trikes. Motorists have a habit of opening their doors suddenly without looking behind
them…and even if they do look, they're concentrating on looking for oncoming cars, not a low
trike. When riding along a line of parked cars, look for occupants inside as you approach. If you
see someone sitting in the car, give them a bit of extra room.
Pedestrians, too, often aren't looking where you are. Use caution when approaching crosswalks
and use your bell, horn or your voice to alert those who may be stepping into the street.
If you carry loaded panniers, avoid putting the weight too high and too far aft, or it can cause
poor, even unsafe, handling.
Riding tips
If you don't have experience with recumbent tricycles, you may find that for the first few rides
you experience noticeable pedal steer (pushing hard on the pedals makes the trike swerve) and
brake steer (grabbing one brake harder than the other causes the trike to swerve). These two
phenomena become much less noticeable as you gain experience. Pedal steer is minimized or
eliminated by pedaling smoothly at a fairly high cadence, rather than mashing hard. Brake steer
is minimized by braking smoothly and evenly…if the trike lurches under braking you're
overdoing it (it's like driving your car…you don't stand on the brakes every time you slow the
car; rather, you learn to modulate the pressure so that the car does not lurch).
The smoothest, most enjoyable ride comes when you learn not to over control the trike. The
steering is very responsive, and does not require much input at all to make the trike change
direction. The less you try to steer, the smoother the ride will be.
It's possible to get the trike up onto two wheels, but this should be avoided. It puts a lot of
stress on the components and can cause loss of control. Bicycle wheels, hubs and tires are not
designed for heavy lateral loads, and if you go up on two wheels you're asking them to do
something they were never meant for. Your Catrike is wonderfully responsive and handles very
To Next Page
Loading...
