What is a handcycle?
I · Intermediate · Classes and machines · 1 of 6A handcycle has three wheels and is driven by hand grips through a chain, using the arms and upper body. H1 to H4 riders lie back; H5 riders kneel or sit. It may be at most 250 cm long and 75 cm wide. Recumbent riders' eyes must be above the crank; road racers need a mirror.
How it works
- Drive: handgrips, chain and gears.
- Positions: arm powered, arm-trunk powered or kneeling.
- H1 to H4: recumbent.
- H5: kneeling or sitting, which they must use.
- Size: 250 cm long, 75 cm wide at most.
- Eyeline: above the crank housing.
- Mirror: recumbent handcycles in the road race.
- No changes: adjustments only before the race.
The glossary has the handcycle, the H1, the H2, the H3, the H4 and the H5.
Tricky cases
Can a rider adjust the handcycle mid-race?
No.
Is a front disc wheel allowed?
Only in the time trial.
Can an H4 rider kneel?
No. Kneeling is for H5.
Can a rider use a quick-release harness?
Yes.
Why the rule exists
The position matches what the rider's trunk can do. The eyeline rule makes sure low riders can see the road.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| H1 to H4 | Recumbent | 16.5.005 |
| H5 | Kneeling or sitting | 16.5.005.5 |
| Road race | Mirror needed | 16.17.003 |
From the rule book
UCI, Cycling Regulations, Part 16 Cycling for Riders with Disabilities (JCF edition 2025, amendments to 1 January 2026), articles 16.5.005 and 16.17.001 to 16.17.009. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: UCI Cycling Regulations, Part 16.