Riding Instructions.mov

PEDICAB RIDING TIPS
Maintenance for a Pedicab shouldn't be an overwhelming, time
consuming task, but should be practiced regularly for a well running pedicab. By
following a systematic maintenance schedule, the pedicabs will not only run better it
will be more enjoyable for both the rider and the passengers. This maintenance
routine will also provide a safer ride.
So, to keep your pedicab running in top form, plan on spending at least 15 to 30
minutes per week (15 hours of use) per bike. This time may vary week to week with
one week requiring only 15 minutes to check over bolts and brakes while another
week may require more time (if the rear brakes need to be bled for instance). The
goal of this outline is to help you develop your own preventative maintenance
program which will minimize the surprises which can immobilize a pedicab at a time
when you really want to use it.
1. RIDING A PEDICAB IS DIFFERENT THAN RIDING A BICYCLE. Pedicabs do
not bank into turns; consequently, a pedicab may feel very awkward at first. In time,
you will find that you may enjoy riding a pedicab more than riding a bicycle, it just
takes some time getting used to it.
2. Getting on the pedicab the first time. Hold onto both brake levers, put one foot in
the pedal and swing the other leg over the rear of the seat. Once seated on the
bicycle, get accustomed to just sitting there. THERE IS NO NEED TO TAKE YOUR
FEET OUT OF THE PEDALS TO KEEP YOUR BALANCE! Many people are so
used to riding a bicycle that they think that they have to have their feet on the
pavement when stopped. The pedicab will not tip over; keep your feet on the
pedals. There is so much mass in a pedicab compared with a bicycle, that you will
never slow it down or stop it by putting your feet down. The safest place for your
feet is in the pedals.
3. Next, pedal forward slowly and test the brakes, make sure they bring the pedicab
to a stop. Both front and rear brakes should be used together, never should you
apply just one. The front brake stops the pedicab very effectively on its own;
however, doing so repeatedly can weaken the fork. Never try to lock up the wheels
and leave some rubber. It is very hard on the pedicab (Imagine slamming the brakes
on in your car every time you wanted to stop!). PRACTICE BRAKING until you are
comfortable stopping without feeling the urge to put your feet on the pavement.
4. VERY IMPORTANT! THE PEDICAB GOES WHERE YOU POINT THE FRONT
WHEEL. In many cases, you can steer a bicycle by banking the bicycle and turning
the front wheel slightly. Pedicabs don't bank. Practice turning the front wheel to
almost 90 degrees with respect to the frame. Practice going in as tight of circle as
you can. Pedicabs are very maneuverable, and have a much smaller turning radius
than a bicycle. Become very comfortable with the feeling of shifting your weight
during turns. This will compensate for the fact that pedicabs do not bank.
5. When riding down a street that is slanted to one side, the pedicab will try to pull
you over to that side. This is normal, and again due to the fact that the pedicab does
not bank, but is always perpendicular to the road surface. This can be compensated
for by steering the pedicab slightly in the opposite (uphill) direction. The fact that a
pedicab does not bank is what makes it feel different than a bicycle when steering.
ONE SHOULD NEVER RIDE THE PEDICAB WITHOUT HAVING BOTH HANDS
ON THE HANDLEBARS.
6. Lights. Connect the terminals from the battery to the corresponding terminals
going to the light system. This is all located under the passenger seat. This is the
power system for all the lights on the pedicab. The turn signals and brake lights will
work all the time without the main light switch being turned on. The headlights and
running lights will only work if the main light switch is turned on. This switch is
located behind the drivers seat under the yellow, triangular chain guard. The switch
is located just opposite the chrome-colored, circular bolt head. The headlights also
have a switch which enables the headlights to have both high and low beams on,
just the low beam on, or both off.
7. NEVER HAVE MORE THAN TWO ADULTS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER
AREA, AND NEVER CARRY MORE THAN 400 LBS. OF PASSENGER WEIGHT.
8. REGULARLY MAINTAIN THE VEHICLE AND BRAKES.
Maintenance Outline for Pedicabs

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Howto & Style

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• Pedicab
• Riding
• Instructions