How Does a Handcycle Work for Mobility?

For many people with mobility limitations, the joy of cycling may feel out of reach. The truth is—cycling hasn’t left you behind. It’s just evolved. That evolution is called a handcycle.

Maybe you’ve seen one out on the road: low to the ground, fast-moving, with the rider using their arms to crank the pedals. But how does a handcycle really work? Why does it matter? And what makes some handcycles more efficient and fun than others?

Here at Freedom Ryder, we’ve been answering those questions since 1984. Whether you’re exploring adaptive cycling for the first time or digging deeper into how these incredible machines transform mobility into independence, this guide is for you.

What Is a Handcycle?

At its core, a handcycle is a type of adaptive bicycle powered by the rider’s arms instead of their legs. It’s specifically designed for people with lower limb impairments, spinal cord injuries, or other mobility challenges that make traditional cycling difficult or impossible.

Unlike a wheelchair or walker that focuses on passive, short-distance travel, a handcycle is about active mobility. It gives riders the power to move, explore, race, and train using upper body strength.

Handcycles typically come in either recreational, touring, or racing models, with variations in frame style, steering systems, and accessibility features.

The Basics: How a Handcycle Works

Let’s break down the components of a handcycle to understand how each part contributes to the rider’s mobility.

1. Hand Crank System

This is the heart of the handcycle. Instead of using foot pedals, handcycles feature a hand-powered crank. The rider turns the crank using their arms and shoulders in a rhythmic motion, which powers the bike forward.

Depending on the design, the crank is connected to gearing systems just like in a traditional bike. These gears help riders adjust their resistance and speed based on terrain—whether they’re climbing hills, coasting, or sprinting.

2. Seating Position

Most handcycles are recumbent, meaning the rider sits in a reclined position with legs extended forward. This position offers comfort, stability, and better aerodynamics, especially during long rides.

At Freedom Ryder, we’ve refined this design over decades. Our low-seated handcycles create a low center of gravity, giving riders better control, balance, and faster response through turns.

3. Steering Mechanism

Here’s where design seriously matters. Most handcycles use either:

• Fork-steer design, where steering happens via a handheld joystick, or
• Lean-to-steer design, where the rider shifts their body to steer—just like skiing or riding a motorcycle.

Freedom Ryder pioneered the lean-to-steer system, offering a more natural, intuitive ride that’s both thrilling and efficient. By using slight body movements, riders can lean into corners, maintain momentum, and navigate with confidence—something that fork-steered models can make more difficult.

4. Gear and Brake Controls

Just like traditional bicycles, handcycles offer:

• – Multi-speed gearing to manage hills and flat terrain.
• – Hand-operated braking systems for speed control and safety.

These controls are integrated around the crank assembly, making it easy for riders to shift and brake without repositioning their hands.

5. Wheel Configuration

Most handcycles have three wheels:

• – One in the front (driven by the crank)
• – Two in the rear (providing stability)

Some racing models flip that layout for performance, but the three-wheel setup offers maximum stability for most riders, especially those new to adaptive cycling.

Who Can Benefit From Riding a Handcycle?

Handcycles are built for anyone with limited or no use of their legs—but the range of people who benefit is much wider. Riders may include:

• – Paraplegics
• – People with spinal cord injuries
• – Amputees
• – Riders with multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy

Whether it’s for daily exercise, competitive racing, or simply connecting with nature, a handcycle reopens the world of mobility.

Freedom Ryder’s Advantage: More Than Just a Handcycle

At Freedom Ryder, we saw early on that not all handcycles are created equal. From the beginning, our mission has been to create cycles that are not just functional—but fun. That means:

• – Innovative Design: Our lean-to-steer system mimics skiing dynamics, giving riders more body control and excitement with every ride.
• – Adjustable Fit: With multiple frame configurations, riders with or without trunk control can ride safely and comfortably.
• – Performance Tested: From world records to cross-country treks, Freedom Ryder bikes have proven their durability, speed, and customizability time and again.

One of our standout innovations? The E1 Electric Handcycle, which combines traditional handcycling with a powerful electric-assist motor. It’s the perfect solution when you want to go further, climb steeper, or reduce fatigue on longer journeys.

Handcycling and Physical Health

Riding a handcycle does more than get you from A to B. It’s a fantastic source of cardiovascular exercise, core engagement, and upper-body strengthening.

Here are some well-known benefits of handcycling:

• – Improves heart health and circulation
• – Builds upper body and shoulder strength
• – Enhances endurance and lung capacity
• – Reduces stress and boosts mental clarity

Don’t just take our word for it—this article from the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability explains more about handcycling for fitness and recreation.

How to Choose the Right Handcycle

A common question we hear: “How do I know which handcycle is right for me?”

It depends on your mobility level, riding goals, and physical capabilities. Here are a few key considerations:

• – Level of Trunk Control: Riders with limited core balance may need additional back or arm support, or opt for models designed with stability in mind.
• – Terrain and Use: Are you riding around the neighborhood, racing, or taking on trails? Each goal calls for specific frame designs and gear setups.
• – Electric Assist: If you want help on hills or longer journeys, an electric-assist model like the E1 is worth exploring.
• – Adjustability: A comfortable, ergonomic fit enhances every ride. We engineer our bikes with high levels of customization to match your specific needs.

Still unsure? Check out our handcycle frequently asked questions section for detailed answers on specs, fit guides, and usage.

What Makes Freedom Ryder Different?

We’re not a faceless company cranking out generic equipment. Freedom Ryder was built by cyclists, for cyclists—with the specific goal of making adaptive riding about more than mobility. We want it to be fun. Fast. Freeing.

What sets us apart?

• – 40+ years of innovation in adaptive cycling
• – Industry-first designs like our lean-to-steer frames
• – Record-setting performance, including distance and speed achievements by real riders
• – One-on-one support to make sure your handcycle works the way your body moves

Our family-run operation takes pride in handcrafting each cycle with precision, care, and a deep understanding of what makes adaptive riding empowering.

Ready to Get Rolling?

Mobility isn’t just about movement—it’s about freedom, independence, and quality of life. 

Handcycles bring those benefits within reach for riders of all abilities.

If you’re curious to learn more, browse our adaptive handcycle shop to see available models and customizable options. Or reach out to us if you have any questions. Whether you’re an athlete, adventurer, or just someone who misses the open road, there’s a Freedom Ryder with your name on it.

From urban commutes to mountain climbs, the right handcycle can transform how you move through the world.