6 tips for cycling on the Chat rickshaw bike

1. Check the rickshaw bike before you start cycling

Before you start cycling with the Chat rickshaw bike, check the following points:

• The functioning of the brakes
• The lighting
• The tires (is there enough air in them?)
• The battery status (is the battery fully charged?)

In addition, it is also important to adjust the bike properly to the rider. Make sure the handlebars and saddle are adjusted to the right height. You set the saddle height correctly by sitting on the bike and putting one foot on the pedal in the lowest position. In this situation, the leg should be stretched out, but still relaxed. The correct handlebar height is determined by the rider; this is the height that feels most comfortable.

2. Practice before you go out

The Chat rickshaw bike is a tricycle with a seat on the front of the bike. Logically, a rickshaw bike rides differently than a regular two-wheeler. Therefore, it is important to practice with the bike before you set off. Note that a rickshaw bicycle without persons in the seat cycles different than a rickshaw bicycle with persons in the seat. This is because the weight distribution is different. We therefore recommend to practice cycling with and without passengers.

3. Try the bike first without pedal assistance

The Chat rickshaw bike is standard equipped with the pedal assistance system of Van Raam. We recommend that you first ride the bike with the pedal assistance turned off. Once you are familiar with the bike, you can switch on the electric motor and practice using the pedal assistance. Try out the start assist and the reverse function at the same time.

5. Make use of the seat belts

There are 2 hip belts attached in the seat for the passengers. Use these belts on every bike ride for added safety.

6. Plan the route in advance

We recommend using the rickshaw bike on a solid and flat surface, such as a bike path. Therefore, try to plan your route in advance. Be aware that the Chat has a larger turning radius than regular bikes, due to the two front wheels. Take this into account when taking turns. If you come across a threshold while cycling, ride as straight as possible. In this way you firmly cross the threshold with both front wheels at the same time.