What Is Handcycling?

Handcycling is a form of para-cycling in which athletes power the bike with their arms rather than their legs. Riders sit or lie in a low, three-wheeled machine and turn a crank with both hands, steering and braking through the same system. It is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in para-sport and features at the Paralympic Games, the UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships and the UCI Para-cycling Road World Cup series.

Classes and Equipment

Handcycling is divided into classes from H1 to H5 based on an athlete's functional ability. Lower classes generally race in a reclined position, while higher classes may race in a kneeling position that lets them use their trunk to generate more power. Modern race handcycles are built from carbon fibre and aluminium, with aerodynamic disc wheels, precise gearing and a body position tuned to each rider. Small changes in fit and aerodynamics can decide a race.

Road Race and Time Trial

Elite handcyclists compete in two main events. The road race is a mass-start event over a circuit, where tactics, drafting in the peloton and a strong sprint matter as much as raw power. The time trial is a solo race against the clock, rewarding steady pacing, aerodynamics and the ability to hold a high power output for the full distance. Courses in Belgium, such as Ostend, Gistel and Bruges, and in Italy, such as Maniago, are regular stops on the international calendar.

Training and Performance

Racing at the top level demands year-round training: long endurance rides, interval sessions, strength work for the shoulders and core, and careful recovery to protect the upper body. Athletes like Matt Faucher combine this with equipment testing and race travel across Europe, making support from sponsors and partners a vital part of competing at the highest level.