The frame is of a semi-recumbent design which provides a comfortable riding position while ensuring that the vehicle's overall height is minimized.
For optimal strength, the frame is entirely triangulated, with double rear forks and stays to endure the stress of the greater loads common in regular use.
The frame's symmetrical design is not only aesthetic but also ensures that loads are distributed equally and allows for the innovative central belt-drive system.
The design of the TREECYCLE frame and fork comes from a clean-sheet approach to tricycle design, not a bicycle with a third wheel! The frame and fork are fully symmetrical, strongly triangulated and braced throughout, to resist the high loads imposed. The passenger load is transferred direct to the rear wheels, with shock absorbent rubber mounts between the body parts and frame location.
The front fork is mounted in the frame on oversize industrial bearings. A standard 11/8 inch threadless stem is fitted. A semi-recumbent rider position was chosen, to optimize comfort, without excessive overall height and to ensure maximum pedaling efficiency, without having to ride in a standing position.
The standard width of the TREECYCLE is almost exactly 1 metre, which ensures that access can be gained to all cycle paths. Unlike wider pedicabs that can seat 3 and so become almost as wide as a car, the TREECYCLE remains compact and agile in traffic, not hindering other road users.
The frame material is 6061 Aluminium, which provides the optimum combination of corrosion resistance and lightness. Tubes are generally 2.5 mm thick, all welds continuous T.I.G. The welded frame assembly is fully heat treated in a 2 stage process to T6 standard. Welding deformation is corrected at the intermediate T4 heat treatment stage.
