handcycle

American  

[hand-sahy-kuhl] / ˈhændˌsaɪ kəl /

Also hand bike, or hand cycle

noun

1. a cycle, usually having three wheels, propelled by pushing pedals with the arms rather than the legs, especially one used by people who have impaired mobility.

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verb (used without object)

1. to travel or race using a handcycle.

Etymology

Origin of handcycle

First recorded in 1880–85; hand ( def. ) + cycle ( def. )

Example Sentences

A handcycle has three wheels and riders use the strength of their upper limbs to operate the chainset.

From BBC • Aug. 25, 2024

So, his thoughts have turned to an epic 1,000-mile handcycle ride through the Peruvian Andes.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2024

He’s had friends injured by moose in Kincaid, and he was badly bruised when he encountered a moose while using his handcycle in the park, he said.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 31, 2023

As a House member campaigning for the Senate, she was the only woman to finish the 2016 Chicago Marathon in a hand-cranked wheelchair called a handcycle.

From Washington Post • May 13, 2019

Later this month, Wieland, 65, plans to stop in Washington, halfway through Dream Ride 3, a solo ride across the United States and back on a handcycle.

From New York Times • Nov. 5, 2011