Water Bikes Buying Guide

Innovative, fun, and a little weird

The next step toward the post-apocalyptic dystopia seen in "Water World" is right here. However, you are very likely to enjoy these. Self propelled, paddle bicycles for the water are a newfound craze in recreational lake activities. They are perfect for all ages, very safe, and perfect for cooperative play and games.

The water bike cruiser Perhaps the most commonly used device that can be classified as a water bike is the one or two-seater with three giant wheels with paddles as the 'treads.' The seating is typically bench style with backs, to facilitate a casual stroll around the lake. These water bikes are steered in much the same way you would steer a tricycle, with a front wheel serving as the rudder and providing no propulsion. Those resembling 'bikes' Much more akin to its namesake, these water bikes are mounted on two floats for a pontoon-style design. The seat resembles a traditional bike seat, as does the gear and pedaling mechanism. Manufacturers of these bikes contest that theirs are the fastest and most efficient, and, after having tried, we tend to agree. These are great for exercise and easy transportation over water, but because many accommodate only one rider and have no seat backs, they aren't ideal for relaxing on the water.

The novelty variety

Investigating means of human transportation, whether by land, sea or air, is amusing because you realize that scores of novel designs are out there, but only the 'best' make it to widespread success. Well, some of these water bikes may prove not to be 'best' in terms of practicality, but like the penny-farthing bicycle, they sure make for a good time. Check out the Pumpabike, Trampofoil and AquaSkipper to see what we mean. The Trampofoil is a human powered hydrofoil that is operated by hopping up and down as if on a pogo stick. The AquaSkipper is also operated with a hopping motion, but more closely resembles surface skimming waterbugs. Explanations, here, do not serve quite as well as an image.

Some things to remember

All water bikes are generally a little bit faster than traditional paddle boats, because they displace less water and therefore have less drag. Pontoon paddle boats may compete in speed because of their design, but the important thing to remember with either product is that, thankfully, you're not going anywhere in a hurry. Shop PaddleBoatStore.com today!