SIX ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR YOUR ADULT TRICYCLE TOOLKIT

Every tricycle owner knows and understands that there will be some instances when their tricycle suffers some significant problem, leaving them with no option but to take it to a professional mechanic. But that can’t be all the time. Not only can professional adult tricycle services be surprisingly expensive, but the service can also be quite time-consuming. The good news is that a surprisingly large number of tricycle problems can be avoided or solved with the use of some common tools. This blog will inform you about some essential inexpensive tools that will save you stress and financial expenditure the long term, and help you build your capabilities as the owner of an adult tricycle. Here is a list of six must-have tools to have in your tricycle toolkit.

1. A TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE

One of the most important aspects of tricycle maintenance is ensuring the tire remains properly inflated. This isn't just about performance and longevity, it's also about safety. Properly inflated tires are essential for safe handling and energy efficiency. But what does it mean for a tire to be “properly inflated”? It simply means that the air pressure within the tire is at the level recommended by the manufacturer. A tire with low or extremely high air pressure is at risk of damage. 

A tire pressure gauge is a device used to measure the air pressure in a tire, enabling you to be informed about the “health condition” of your tire. With this information, you can make an informed judgement, and proceed to take the necessary steps to increase or decrease the air pressure in the tire, bringing it back to optimal levels of pressure.

In this way, owning a tire pressure gauge allows you to access information vital to increasing tire lifespan: saving you from bigger and more expensive tire problems in the long run while keeping performance at maximum and easing your rides.

2. A BICYCLE PUMP

Though made for bicycles, it is essential for all tricycle owners to invest in a bike pump. Tires can sometimes be complicated to handle, and one who owns a 3-wheel bike should at least be capable of handling basic tire issues. Fortunately, like in the case of an underinflated tire, most issues related to tires have to do with air pressure, and as a bicycle pump is an air pump which inflates the tires on your tricycle, it may be sufficient to deal with many tire problems. 

Note that not all air pumps are suitable for use on your tricycle tires. Make sure to check the air pressure and air volume on any pump before use. Putting too much air in the tire may result in high air pressure, which has been known to cause tires to blow off the rim, completely destroying them.

In a bicycle pump, you have a great device which will let you take control of the air pressure on your tricycle tire, enabling you to adjust it accordingly without risk of extra damage.

3. TIRE LEVER

Tires look tough and rough on the outside but are actually soft and delicate on the inside. In cases where repair or replacement is warranted, it is essential to be able to remove, repair, and re-install the tire without damaging it. A tire lever is a device made especially for this purpose: to remove and install tires in a careful manner without causing any damage.

Though some tire levers are made from metal and other harder substances, it is preferable to use one made of rubber. Typically, such a tire lever would have a curved end to be slipped under the tire’s lip and a hook at the other end that can be pushed on for leverage as you ease the tire off the rim.

Here are some essential tips for using a tire lever:

1. Deflate the tire first
2. Before inserting the tire lever, pick a spot along the rim that aligns directly with a spoke.
3. As you insert, work your way under the edge of the tire, and raise it over the rim.
4. Always work with more than one tire lever. One does not suffice.

4. CHAIN TOOL

Yes, chains do malfunction. Bike riders have reported their chains jumping, breaking, slipping, and getting jammed behind the gear wheel. Though such occurrences are rarer on a tricycle, it is not wise to assume that adult tricycles are not susceptible to chain damage. Hence, it would be wise to know how to replace your chain, repair it, or adjust tension along the chain if the need arises.

A chain tool is remarkable for its versatility, allowing you to split old chains, shorten new ones, join chains together, and remove or install chains. Hence, a chain tool would help you attain all these in a variety of instances where repairing, replacing, or adjusting the tension on your tricycle chain is necessary. With a chain tool in your toolkit, you’ve got all potential chain troubles covered. Just for its versatility, it is obvious why the chain tool would be an incredible addition to your toolkit.

5. CHAIN BRUSH AND LUBRICANT

One of the major advantages of tricycles for adults is their low frames, which makes it easy for riders to mount and unmount without additional physical effort. However, this low frame also means the tricycle chain sits nearer to the surface, easily picking up dirt and grime. Given that the accumulation of dirt and grime eventually causes even the chains on traditional bikes to become clogged and wear out quicker, adult tricycles are particularly susceptible to chain damage.

A chain brush is a cleaning equipment designed to enable you to keep your tricycle chain clean, spotless, and smooth. Though modern chain brushes are ergonomically designed to simultaneously target all sides of the chain as you clean, make additional efforts to ensure the bristles of the brush penetrate deep into the links, kinks, and rollers of the chain, removing the dirt and debris that may be trapped there. 

Cleaning a tricycle chain is not complete until a good amount of lubricant is applied. Chain lubricant is not just about cleaning the chain, but also preserving it by slowing down the rate of wear and tear. Cleaning and applying lubricant give the chain a “brand new” look and feel, and your rides will be smoother than you ever had.

6. ALLEN KEYS, SCREW DRIVERS AND WRENCHES

The frame of your tricycle is held in place by various knots and bolts firmly keyed into it in key positions. As you ride continuously, the increased friction could cause the knots holding the tricycle frame to become loose. For your safety and convenience, it is important to pay attention to knots and bolts, especially when you have been riding for a long time.

A good piece of practical advice is to check the knots and bolts every time you clean your tricycle. Pay specific attention to delicate parts such as brakes, derailleurs, and other components on the tricycle. It is not unlikely that you will spot some loose knots and bolts. Allen keys, screwdrivers, and wrenches are all equipment with which you can easily tighten such loose bolts into place, keeping your tricycle solid, safe, and functional.

 AND NOW, VIRIBUS

All above tools are fundamental for your toolkit. However, a good toolkit can only take you so far: one must first be in possession of a solid, well-functioning tricycle. And for formidable adult tricycles, there is only one place to go: Viribus. Customers all agree that Viribus has a collection of the best tricycles in the market, and the company has established itself as the number seller of tricycles for adults. Check out Viribus electric tricycles to see why they earn such high praise!