Kate spent upwards of 25 hours researching and testing a dozen tricycles, and she interviewed two pediatric physical therapists, among other experts. This trike is slightly sturdier than our top pick, and it’s a bit easier to steer. It has the same four configurations as our top pick, but the harness isn’t as simple to use.
Before riding, always make sure your tires are inflated and that your brakes are working properly. Read the quick start guide below and your Schwinn bicycle owner’s manual. The 26- model can take up to a 300 lbs rider with 50 lbs for the cargo basket.
She’s the author of our guides to the best jogging strollers and the best kids hiking backpacks, and she’s a mom to two children. As Jenni was writing the current version of this guide, her kids were 15 months and 3½ years old—perfect trike-testing age. Install Rear WheelsLocate the side of the wheel with a flat section that matches the flat section on the rear drive axle. Align the flat sections on the hub and axle, then slide the wheel onto the axle until it stops. Slide one washer over the axle end, then thread the locknut on and tighten it with a wrench. Repeat for the second rear wheel, then turn the tricycle right side up.
Tricycles also teach important skills like steering and pedaling, which lay the foundation for a child to eventually become a confident big-kid-bike rider. The world of tricycles is wild and weird, with hundreds of options ranging from convertible 4-in-1s to fancy drifters to trikes that become balance bikes. Designed with a low center of gravity for superior stability, the Roadster makes it easy for young kids to ride and operate the pedals with confidence. That’s the bit that lets you coast along without pedalling, and the rear chain will keep moving with the rear wheels. Check TiresInflate the tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which is marked on the tire sidewall. You’re one step closer to hittin’ the pavement on your Schwinn tricycle!
Align the slots on the basket with the threaded holes in the tricycle frame. Place a washer over each of the four screws, then install and tighten the screws. Unfold the basket cover and place it into the middle of the basket. Fold the side pockets out over each side wall of the basket. schwinn bicycles The Schwinn Meridian Tricycle for adults makes an excellent commuter bike with its large cargo basket. The Schwinn Meridian is making its mark in the bike industry as a perfect alternative for adult riders who want to lose weight or need some extra stability provided by a tricycle.
But all of these materials are fine as long as the trike is stable. The SmarTrike 3-in-1 Breeze S Toddler Tricycle felt flimsy, with plastic wheels and screws that are tough to tighten. And the harness didn’t tighten well; Jenni’s 15-month-old daughter kept nearly falling out. When an adult pushes this convertible schwinn tricycle trike, the handle (rather than the kid steering) directs the front wheel, which is ideal for younger kids. But our top pick and runner-up pick simply felt safer and more durable, and they were easier to build. As a child grows, these little-kid extras are stripped away, leaving a trike they can ride independently.
Both models of the Schwinn Meridian have a low sweeping step-thru frame. Riders who struggle with balance can easily step on and off the tricycle. The Schwinn Roadster comes in seven shiny colors, including red, black, blue, and pink.