Seat and weight distribution on Ice Trike

[Tilley]

I have an Ice Trice T and have on a few occasions when climbing steep gradients experienced wheel spin.
Whilst looking at the Ice accessories page I noted that the bracket they manufacture to reposition the seat for long legged riders, they also recommend for off road use, as it distributes more weight to the rear wheel.
Has anyone used the bracket to achieve this effect and if so how effective was it, is it really worth the money?

[[XAP]Bob]

Never used that bracket, but there are two other options...

- Put panniers to the rear
- Use the front wheels as per a wheelchair to get three wheel drive (only works at low speed)

I honestly can't imagine it makes a huge difference, it's a couple of inches IIRC.
If you are regularly getting wheelspin then on what surface and with what tyre at what pressure?

[hoarder]

I have inherited one of these brackets, and being a short-leggedy-beastie, don't need it. I was planning to sell it on.
Before I do, do you want to borrow it to try out, and see if it makes a difference to you ?

[Tilley]

Yes please, If it works we can then discuss price. I will PM you my details.

[Tilley]

Hoarder I have sent my details twice can you just confirm that the message has been sent successfully. Cheers

[hoarder]

Yes, I now have your details, but a bit strange - you say you sent two PMs, but only one was eventually received ???
I will send a parcel out tomorrow, so you should have it to try by the middle of next week. It'll be good to hear if you reckon it makes a difference.

[Tilley]

Hi Hoarder thanks for that I thought there had been a problem with the first Pm. I look forward to receiving the package and will contact you once I've given it a try.

Yes, I now have your details, but a bit strange - you say you sent two PMs, but only one was eventually received ???
I will send a parcel out tomorrow, so you should have it to try by the middle of next week. It'll be good to hear if you reckon it makes a difference.

[hoarder]

OK, it's on its way - should be with you later this week.

[Tilley]

All arrived safely, unfortunately no time to attempt fitting today.

[Tilley]

All fitted and tested I have sent a private message to ask if you would sell.

[hoarder]

Payment now received - thank you Tilley.

[Tilley]

No problem a good result for both of us.

[[XAP]Bob]

Can a I ask my original questions again?

What surfaces were you slipping on?
Sounds like I was completely wrong and that the bracket has made a significant difference.

[Tilley]

Hi Bob,
Initially I found that the rear wheel would spin on steep inclines where the surface was wet, loose gravel or dirt, no surprise there.
I then thought that changing to a knobbly tire, Schwalbe mad mike, may improve the situation. However whilst the Knobbly tire may help on grass or mud it made matters worse on the road. Whilst attempting to climb a very steep section of road in the Mendips, Draycott Steep, I realised that I lost traction unless the paved surface was completely smooth. I haven't yet attempted Draycott steep, but on the hill where I first encountered the problem the adjusted weight distribution certainly seemed to have effect. I hope this helps.

[Tigerbiten]

I found it the other way, a rougher surface gives better grip.
That is as long as the road is dry and gravel free.
But I'm running BA's (50-406) on the back, so I've the maximum amount of rubber on the road