Trikke T8

Author's product rating:   

Value for money	OK
Durability	Good
How does it compare to similar products?	Excellent

Advantages:	Great workout, good fun, easy to maintain, looks cool
Disadvantages:	can be hard to learn, expensive, uphill is hard work

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Trikke T8
This is a totally different way of getting around and keeping fit. A cross between biking, skating and skiing, this is a unique vehicle that will appeal to anyone looking for something different. With no more maintenance required than an average bike and a very portable frame, once you find a rhythm you can reach speeds of over 15kph.

Durability
This is a very solid feeling vehicle which copes well with gravel and kerbs but is still light enough to fold up quickly and put in the car. It requires less maintenance than a bike and is easier to store.

Use
I used this as an alternative to inline skating as it had air filled tires which would cover more surfaces and not get stuck in potholes. Learning to ride it is straightforward and once you get the technique, it's great! Smooth, flowing and very exhausting… On the other hand, it did take me about a week to really get it going. As there are very few about in the West of Scotland, lots of the learning took place by trial and error and internet video clips (there are plenty of these to choose from and they are very instructional). I found the best places to use it were along seafront promenades, tarmac pavements and large (empty) car parks. I had hoped to be able to get it going on mountain bike tracks but was exhausted within 10 minutes and moved about 20 yards. There is definitely a technique to be built on!!! Initially, any uphill movement was completely beyond me and only small inclines are achievable at present. I have become much more aware of the camber in the road though.

Other Points
• There is the option of polyurethane wheels which apparently are easier for beginners and smoother on tarmac.
• Plenty of free resources on how to use and maintain
• This model is aimed at adults or large teenagers - there are other sizes for children
• There are very few distributors for this so it's hard to see it in a shop before you decide to buy. I would recommend borrowing or hiring before buying because it is different to cycling or skating.
• The pictures are not really justification for this vehicle - it is quite large and you will be surprised when you see it in the 'flesh'
• Safety equipment IS required

Cost
Online from £220

My Opinion
This is a great fun vehicle and also gives a serious whole body workout! It is no more expensive than a reasonable bike but probably cannot go as many places. Because you build a rhythm up when you get going it is quite mentally relaxing as well as physically demanding. Brilliant if you stay somewhere fairly flat and smooth.