the companion bike lets wheelchair users ride in tandem

a tricycle style bicycle with a removable front seat lets wheelchair users ride in tandem. originally designed for those with mobility challenges, the bike features a removable front seat and footrest that can accommodate riders who can’t cycle themselves.

images courtesy of companion bike

the seat mount frame, which can take up to 300 pounds in weight, is held in place by a set of quick release clamps. meanwhile, the footrest hooks over the unfolded axle of the bicycle frame, a lightweight carbon fiber that folds and disassembles for easy storage and transport.

the frame closes like a clamshell into the expanded bike frame and two latches in the back secure the seat mount to the bike frame. the top roller is designed to move up when the seat mount frame is attached and to lock it into place so that it cannot come apart.

when deployed, the footrest support bar braces on the bar across the bottom of the seat and allows the two footrests to be deployed in position. when folded, the whole assembly can be carried by the integral handle in the top of the chair.

changes were made to the design to reduce the minimum height of the seat by about 3.75 inches to suit an average user height of 5 foot 4 inches to 6 foot 2 inches. the seat support and footrest area were developed to reduce complexity and make the folding functionality easier to accomplish.

the companion bike is currently seeking funding via kickstarter, with the campaign ending on april 2nd, 2020.

project info

name: companion bike