# FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Stricker handbikes and traction devices - answers at a glance.

Adresse: https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/faq
Sprache: en
Typ: page
Übersetzung (de): https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/de/hilfe-und-media/faq
Zuletzt geändert: 2026-08-28

---
## Questions and Answers

General questions

Manual handbikes

Electric handbikes

Hybrid handbikes

WHAT IS A STRICKER HANDBIKE?

A handbike is basically a third wheel for wheelchairs. It usually has a handlebar and wheelchair users can move around by turning the cranks manually or using an electric engine. The bike is clamped to the wheelchair and lifts the wheelchair front wheels off the ground thanks to the automatic locking mechanism. This creates a 3-wheel setup within a few seconds. All Stricker Handbikes are ready to ride without any adapters or other brackets on the wheelchair. Besides, a Stricker handbike stands for quality, stability and safety.

WHERE IS THE PRODUCTION?

We manufacture our handbikes where it all began: Bühl (Baden), located in the magnificent Black Forest. The very first Stricker handbike was developed by the brothers Reiner and Edgar Stricker in 1989. With the help of many handbike users and advancing technology, the Stricker handbikes transformed from simple bicycles to complex electronic aids that enable participation and freedom. The continuous development over 30 years makes our original innovation a convincing and modern handbike, that has a life-changing impact on the lives of people with limited mobility.

WHERE CAN I BUY A STRICKER HANDBIKE ?

In Germany, we sell our handbikes through our sales representatives. [Here](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/dealer/external-sales-team) you can find an overview of our [sales representatives](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/dealer/external-sales-team) in your area. Your trusted sanitary house can help you further and moreover we are of course also there to assit you.

If you live outside Germany you can find our [international dealer](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/dealer/dealer-worldwide) network [here](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/dealer/dealer-worldwide).

CAN I TEST RIDE A HANDBIKE BEFORE BUYING IT?

Yes, the best opportunity to test ride a handbike is at [trade shows](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/about-us/trade-shows-and-events). We are represented at many large [rehabilitation exhibitions](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/about-us/trade-shows-and-events) in Germany and are happy to advise you at our stand. Alternatively one of our [sales representatives](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/dealer/external-sales-team) can introduce you to our products too, please contact us via our [contact form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/contact) to arrange for a meeting.

Through our international partners we are also represented at [international trade shows abroad](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/about-us/trade-shows-and-events). You can find the current [trade show dates here](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/about-us/trade-shows-and-events).

WHAT ARE THE COSTS OF A HANDBIKE?

Our range of products is diverse and is geared to individual needs. In addition, our handbikes are available in different product lines from manual, hybrid and electric to complete systems. The price depends on the individual model and on the optional special equipment. Please do not hesitate to [contact us](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/contact), we will be happy to quote you a customised, non-binding offer.

You can also find a price overview in our [price list](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).

WHAT WARRANTY DO I HAVE ON MY HANDBIKE?

When purchasing a handbike, your handbike comes with a two-year warranty. The batteries for our [Lipo Lomo](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products?filter_catid=50) and [Neodrives](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) models also have a two-year guarantee. Defects due to wear and tear or improper use are not covered by the warranty. Wear and tear parts include parts like tyres, brake pads, bowden cables and bulbs. Spare parts are not included in the warranty.

DO I NEED A SPECIAL WHEELCHAIR IN ORDER TO ADAPT A STRICKER HANDBIKE?

No, thanks to our flexibly adjustable frame and specially developed clamp system, our handbikes are compatible with almost every wheelchair. For your own safety and robust stability, we recommend a static wheelchair for handbikes. Removable footrests are too unstable for attaching a handbike. In this case, however, an adapter can be used.

DO I NEED ANY EXTRA ACCESSORY TO MOUNT A HANDBIKE ON MY WHEELCHAIR?

No, because thanks to the Stricker clamp system, our handbikes can be very flexibly adapted to your wheelchair. No adjustment and generally also no adapter is necessary on the wheelchair. Only if your wheelchair has a removable footrest, then you might need an adapter which we can certainly provide.

HOW DO I LIFT THE FRONT WHEELS OF MY WHEELCHAIR?

The front wheels of your wheelchair are lifted off the ground through the automatic locking mechanism. After the handbike has been attached to the wheelchair with the Stricker clamp system, you can slightly push the handlebar upwards which automatically locks the handbike into place. This consequently gently lifts the front wheels of your wheelchair off the ground.

WHAT IS A KICK STAND?

The kick stand ensures that your handbike stops safely after cranking off. There are three different attachment stands: without wheels (standard), with freely movable wheels (360°) or with wheels that move in only one direction.

WHAT ARE STEERING DAMPER?

The steering dampers keep the handbike on track while riding even when you let go of the cranks and handlebars. In addition, the track straightens out again after cornering.

WHAT IS TETRA/QUADRIPLEGIC EQUIPMENT?

With special quadriplegic/tetra equipment you can adjust your handbike to your individual needs. It is essential that our handbikes are easy to use, as your safety is our top priority. Examples of quadriplegic equipment include a chin shift, back pedal, starting aid, chin control, ergonomic handlebars, a large brake lever and star grip nuts for the hand cranks. Discover the features of quadriplegic/tetra equipment in our [price list here](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).

ARE THERE HANDBIKES FOR CHILDREN?

The inclusion of all people is a matter of course for us in our work. Little ones are not left out. We have developed the model [City Kid](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-kid) especially for children. In addition, all [City models](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products?filter_catid=46) can be equipped with a [youth kit](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-youth) that can be expanded to fit the growth of the child thanks to a smaller and adjustable frame.

CAN I CARRY A HANDBIKE ON A PLANE?

When traveling with your handcycle or power assist device, there are some important points to consider. We will help you understand the necessary steps and requirements to make your trip as smooth as possible.

First things first, transportation of your adaptive device must be registered with the airline prior to your trip. We strongly recommend that you obtain written confirmation and carry a copy with you during your trip.

If you have a device with a rechargeable battery, be sure to mention this. In the case of Stricker power assist devices and handbikes, these can be disconnected from the device itself. Carrying rechargeable batteries on an airplane is subject to strict rules. Within the scope of a mobility aid, up to two rechargeable batteries may be transported as additional hand luggage. It should be noted that the capacity of each battery may not exceed 300 Wh. Often you need a confirmation of the manufacturer in which the capacity of the battery and the battery variant is described. You will receive this confirmation from us upon request.

Your adaptation device will be checked in as bulky luggage and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Make sure that you adequately protect your handbike or power assist device.

During transport, it may occasionally happen that the frame becomes misaligned. Carry appropriate tools for this eventuality. A ratchet with a 6mm nut is sufficient in most cases. Instructions on how to align the frame can be found on our website or in the user manual of your adaptation device.

If you need the power assist device or handbike immediately after disembarking from the aircraft, you will also need to discuss this with the airline. In these cases, some airlines are willing to bring the adaptive device to the exit of the aircraft. Otherwise, you will receive your handcycle or power assist device at the restricted baggage counter at your destination airport.

It is important that you immediately report any damage that occurred during transport to the airline and then make a claim. In this case, get more detailed information from your airline or travel company.

You will find batteries suitable for travel in our assortment. We wish you a good journey.

HOW MANY MODELS OF MANUAL HANDBIKES ARE THERE?

Our range offers eight different [manual handbikes](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products?filter_catid=46). The product line includes [City handbikes](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products?filter_catid=46) such as [City](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-7), [City Tetra](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-7), [City Max](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-max), [City Compact](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-compact), [City Kid](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-kid) and [City Youth](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/city-youth) and is perfectly complemented by the [Ultra](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/ultra) and [Sport](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) handbikes.

WHY ARE THE TWO CRANKS PARALLEL TO EACH OTHER?

The hand cranks are not only used for moving, but also for steering. The cranks are parallel to each other for several reasons:

- it allows precise and safe steering
- it ensures easy cranking from any crank position
- the upper body can support the transmission of power
- when braking, the user can better lean on the cranks

HOW MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF CRANKS CAN I CHOOSE FROM?

Through the choice of different hand cranks you can easily customize your handbike to your needs. The length of the cranks, their distance to your body and other dimensions play an important role, therefore we offer the following hand cranks:

- Stricker standard cranks
- Stricker standard cranks short with two positions
- Stricker Bullhorn cranks

WHAT'S THE CORRECT POSITION OF HANDS, ARMS AND BODY?

A comfortable and safe handling with your handbike is very important. The Stricker frame consists of several adjustable parts, hence the frame can be adjusted longer, shorter, higher, steeper or flatter on different angles. In this way you can optimally adapt your handbike to your requirements.

Please take the following into account when positioning yourself: Always keep your back straight and avoid bending your back even when riding. You can test the ideal distance between your body and the handbike by moving the cranks backwards to the point furthest away from your body. You should be able to reach this point with outstretched arms without any problem and much movement of your upper body.

If the handbike is adjusted incorrectly, there is a risk of injury. In addition, you may not be able to transfer your physical power sufficiently to the hand cranks. Therefore make sure that the handbike is positioned carefully. For further information, please refer to our general manual. Feel free to [contact us](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/contact) if you require assistance.

Please watch our [installation video](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media) for details.

CAN I CHOOSE BETWEEN DIFFERENT WHEEL SIZES?

To meet different needs, we offer the wheel sizes 16", 20" or 24" for manual handbikes. You will find all details in the [individual order form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).

HOW MANY GEARS DOES A MANUAL HANDBIKE HAVE?

The number of gears varies according to the product line between 5, 8, 11, 16, 24, 33 and 72 gears. You will find all details in the [individual order form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).

DO YOU OFFER COMPLETE SYSTEMS SUCH AS TRIKES AND RECUMBENT BIKES?

Yes, you can also find complete systems and trikes in our range. Discover our recumbent bike [Lupo](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) and our all-rounder trikes from the [Puma](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) and [Jaguar](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) product lines.

WHAT IS THE RANGE/DISTANCE AN ELECTRIC HANDBIKE CAN TRAVEL?

The range of our electric handbikes depends on the number of batteries installed, the amperage (8.3/14 Ah) and the engine power (250/350 Watt). Thus a range between approx. 20-70km can be achieved on flat terrain.

HOW MANY DIFFERENT MODELS OF ELECTRIC HANDBIKES ARE THERE?

WWe offer different models of electric handbikes. Our [Lipo Lomo](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) is among the most popular models due to its greater range and a large selection of features. Very popular are also the smaller versions [Lipo Lomo Micro](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) (12" wheel size) and [Lipo Lomo Pico](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/lipo-lomo-pico) (8" wheel size).

The [Lipo Lomo ELD](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) has an integrated engine brake and especially for quadriplegics there is the possibility to attach a WIG-WAG system. The WIG-WAG system is the most sensitive operating method for quadriplegics. For this you can watch the following video:

WHAT IS THE WEIGHT OF A ELECTRIC HANDBIKE ?

**Lipo Lomo 16" weight is**:

- With battery: 15.65 k.
- Without batteries for transport: 13,75 kg.
- Without batteries or easels: 13.30 kg.
- Battery: 1.9 kg.

**Lipo Lomo Micro (with wheel 12"), 14.95 kg with batteries.**

HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE TO CHARGE A BATTERY?

- Battery 14Ah with 1.35A charger need 10,3 hours
- Battery 14Ah with 2.20A charger needs 6,3 hours
- Battery 8,3Ah with 1.35A charger needs 6,5 hours
- Battery 8,3Ah with 2.20A charger need 4 hours

CAN I CHOOSE DIFFERENT WHEEL SIZES?

To meet different needs, we offer the wheel sizes 12", 16" or 20" for the product range [Lipo Lomo](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products?filter_catid=50). You will find all details in the**[individual order form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).**

HOW DOES THE MOTOR OPERATE?

The engine of our model [Lipo Smart Para](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) starts when you turn the the left-hand gas twist grip or operate the hand cranks (= accelerator on the left, limited to 6 km/h in Germany). When cranking, the accelerator is deactivated and at the same time the engine support is activated up to 25 km/h.

The [Lipo Smart Tetra](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products) has an accelerator which is activated by pressing the chin switch. The accelerator activates the engine for three seconds, during which time the cranks must be operated to activate the engine support.

WHAT'S THE RANGE OF THE LIPO SMART SERIES?

The range depends on various factors. On the one hand, on the physical strength contributed by the cranking with the arms. The support of the engine can be individually adjusted on the control unit. On the other hand, the number of backup batteries (max. 3 batteries possible) is also decisive. On level ground this results in a range of about 35km to 105km.

WHY ARE THE TWO CRANKS PARALLEL TO EACH OTHER?

The hand cranks are not only used for moving, but also for steering. The cranks are parallel to each other for several reasons:

- it allows precise and safe steering
- it ensures easy cranking from any crank position
- the upper body can support the transmission of power
- when braking, the user can better lean on the cranks

HOW MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF CRANKS CAN I CHOOSE FROM?

Through the choice of different hand cranks you can easily customize your handbike to your needs. The length of the cranks, their distance to your body and other dimensions play an important role, therefore we offer the following hand cranks:

- Stricker standard cranks
- Stricker standard cranks short with two positions
- Stricker Bullhorn cranks

WHAT'S THE CORRECT POSITION OF HANDS, ARMS AND BODY?

A comfortable and safe handling with your handbike is very important. The Stricker frame consists of several adjustable parts, hence the frame can be adjusted longer, shorter, higher, steeper or flatter on different angles. In this way you can optimally adapt your handbike to your requirements.

Please take the following into account when positioning yourself: Always keep your back straight and avoid bending your back even when riding. You can test the ideal distance between your body and the handbike by moving the cranks backwards to the point furthest away from your body. You should be able to reach this point with outstretched arms without any problem and much movement of your upper body.

If the handbike is adjusted incorrectly, there is a risk of injury. In addition, you may not be able to transfer your physical power sufficiently to the hand cranks. Therefore make sure that the handbike is positioned carefully. For further information, please refer to our general manual. Feel free to [contact us](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/contact) if you require assistance.

Please watch our [installation video](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media) for details.

CAN I CHOOSE BETWEEN DIFFERENT WHEEL SIZES?

To meet different needs, we offer the wheel sizes 16", 20" or 24" for manual handbikes. You will find all details in the [individual order form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).

HOW MANY GEARS DOES A HYBRID HANDBIKE HAVE?

The number of gears varies according to the product line between 8, 16 or 24 gears. You will find all details in the [individual order form](https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/service-media/downloads#section-id-1591178261512).
