I've owned an old style T-8, with the polyurethane wheels, for almost a year. Though I liked it, it seemed too much like a "toy", and I wanted something more substantial. Everything that I read (Trikketalk, etc) led me to believe that the T-12 was the "Cadillac" of the Trikke line - smooth, easy, quiet and fast. This is NOT the case - in fact, it is vastly less efficient than my old t-8 ("less efficient" = requiring greater energy expense to cover the same distance). This makes it substantially harder to ride than the t-8. It is just plain exhausting!
I checked to make sure that there wasn't a problem with my particular T-12. I checked that the bushings were not too tight, OK, that the brakes weren't rubbing, OK, that I had the recommended 75psi front and 80psi rear, OK - everything checked out fine, so I posted my concerns on Trikketalk. The general thrust of the replies is that the T-12 really is bigger, slower and harder to get going than any Trikke in the line, and that I just need to get used to it. So, it is a Cadillac all right, but instead of driving it, it feels like I am behind it, pushing it. Uphill. With it in Park.
On other subjects, it is very well built - there is no flex or shimmy when I am on it, and I am 6'0 - 200 lbs. Putting it together was straightforward - however, you need to carefully study the instructions on brake adjustments if you are going to set them yourself.
The thing that keeps my rating from falling below a 3 is this: the T-12 IS - IN FACT - a good workout. I do intend on sticking with it, however, it will stay just that: "A Workout Device". For fun, and riding enjoyment, I wish I would have bought the T-8 air - which would have been the sweet spot between effort, comfort, ease of use, and speed. Not to mention, less expensive by more than $100.00.
FOLLOW UP -
I have now been riding the T-12 for over a year. I take it out three times a week, 10 miles each ride. I also rotate that same 10 mile path between roller-skates and a bicycle. The T-12 is STILL too big, too bulky, too cumbersome, too arduous, and too hard to move to be anything other than a "Workout Device". (And this is from someone who is (now) 6'0, 185 lb.) As a "Workout Device", it is very good, I still have no complaints about it's build, workmanship or sturdiness. But, because the T-12 is none-the-less limited in it's role, I find that I still use the T-8 Poly for general riding around. Now, more than a year down the road, I still feel that the T-8 would have been a better choice, one that hits the target of being a multipurpose Trikke - nimble enough to kick around town and heavy enough for working out.
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Trikke T12 Roadster Matte (EA)Product Description: The Trikke 12 Roadster with its customized, high-pressure pneumatic tires and disc brakes eats up bad road and pushes the edge of the T8 carving envelope times 10. Carve deeper and ride harder with confidence and control, and tackle hills like a giant slalom skier tackles the mountain. Perfect for athletes wanting to combine a fast and exhilarating ride with excellent cross-training for endurance, balance, agility and strength. If you want the ultimate cambering vehicle that you can take to the limit, this one's got the girth. Also, because of its larger wheels and heavier frame, you'll find that it takes less turns to keep your speed essential for anyone interested in long distance carving. It's the best ride we currently offer; not for the faint of heart. Suggested Weight Limit 250lbs Customized for longer rides Pneumatic tires Disc brakes Larger frame Heavier chassis carries more momentum, easier to keep moving For fun, short commutes, low-impact core exercise, and more Suggested Weight Limit: 250lbs Suggested Height Range: 5'4" to 6'10" Recommended Ages: 14+
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This is the ULTIMATE tricycle!We bought two of these for our little girls and they are so fun and so eye-catching.There is a real head-light, which is fun for the girls.They weren't too bad to put together either.One thing that I like about these trikes is that they are VERY heavy, so the girls don't tip over on the when they turn sharply.These are the coolest trikes and I highly recommend them!
