Purchasing a Schwinn 3 Wheel Bike for an elderly friend seemed like a thoughtful solution for comfortable and stable riding. However, the experience quickly turned into disappointment, revealing significant quality issues that potential buyers should be aware of, especially considering the price point. This review delves into the shortcomings of this Schwinn trike, highlighting why it may not be the reliable and safe option one might expect.
Questionable Build Quality and Components
Right from the start, the Schwinn 3 wheel bike raised concerns about its build quality. For the price paid, the thin and seemingly cheap parts were immediately noticeable. The rims and spokes appeared to be made as thin as possible, suggesting a lack of durability and potential for bending or damage under regular use. The initial impression was far from reassuring, hinting at potential problems down the road.
Ineffective and Unsafe Braking System
One of the most critical flaws of this Schwinn trike is its rear braking system. Equipped with an old-school band brake, it proves to be almost entirely ineffective. Stopping power is severely lacking, requiring excessive force on the lever even for gentle deceleration. Continued hard braking quickly leads to stretching and loosening of the brake mechanism, causing the lever to reach the handlebar without providing adequate stopping force. This rapid deterioration makes the rear brake unreliable and potentially dangerous.
Adding to the braking woes, the band brake exhibits a critical failure in reverse. When backing up, the brake band unwraps itself, rendering the rear brake completely useless. This poses a significant safety hazard, particularly for elderly riders who might instinctively rely on the rear brake in reverse on inclines. The inability to brake while reversing could lead to accidents and serious injuries.
Drivetrain and Gear Assembly Issues
Further compounding the quality issues, the gear/clutch/rear brake assembly began exhibiting crunching and grinding noises. Even when coasting, a noticeable crunching sensation could be felt through the pedals, accompanied by loud noises. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the entire unit suffered from notchy bearings, regardless of which part was turned. This indicates widespread poor quality in the drivetrain components, even with minimal pedaling use.
To mitigate these issues, and because pedaling was not a necessity for the user due to an electric motor conversion, the front chain was disconnected, effectively removing the problematic gear unit from the equation. While this addressed the immediate crunching and grinding, it highlights the fundamental flaws in the original components and the compromises made to achieve a functional, albeit modified, trike.
Value Proposition and Conclusion
Considering the price of the Schwinn 3 wheel bike, the observed quality is significantly underwhelming. For the same amount of money, one could acquire a mountain bike with front suspension, decent disc brakes, and superior components throughout. The comparison underscores the poor value offered by this Schwinn trike, where the addition of a third wheel seems to come at the expense of overall quality and reliability.
In conclusion, this Schwinn 3 wheel bike falls far short of expectations in terms of quality and performance. The weak brakes, questionable build, and problematic drivetrain make it a less than ideal choice, especially for riders who prioritize safety and reliability. Potential buyers seeking a durable and dependable three-wheel option may need to explore alternatives that offer better components and overall construction for their investment.
