Utah Trikes Article - Trikes and PVC

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There is just something about plastic pipe that trikers seem to like. Maybe it's because it's readily available and easy to work with. Maybe it's because a 1-1/2" coupler will snap right onto the trike's frame.

PVC and ABS are both popular materials to build accessories with. PVC tends to be a heavier, stronger material, while ABS is cooler looking (it's usually black). Take a look at some of the things that can be done with your favorite plastic pipe.

PVC Computer Mount
One of our friends in Nevada made a mount for his cycle computer that connects to the cross arm next to the kingpin. The computer stays in a stationary position making it easy to view. This mount looks solid enough that the computer is not going anywhere either.

PVC Computer Mount
This stand is made from PVC which was spray painted black ABS tubing. The black color definitely looks better on the trike. Using a hose clamp to secure the mount and a reducer to keep the mount from twisting.

Flying Catz Stand
Making trike stands from PVC has been popular for a while. While there are free plans floating around on the internet, this one here gets rid of the guesswork. The Flying Catz Stand is available for $99.

PVC GPS Mount
GPS units make the perfect speedometer for a trike. Because they grab their signals from satellites there is no need to run any wires. Lee says, "The GPS shows our speed ,distance covered, average speed , max speed, ect. in much a much larger readout.It allows us to preprogram routes on the computer and then transfer them to the GPS. We use Google earth to view the route. Any route we run can be saved and edited. Yes it can give us turn by turn directions. Very useful if we are going to a new area. (there are a lot of bike paths in Vegas)."

Headrest/Seat Extension
One of the modifications I made to my Race was modify the seat to recline further than the stock position would allow for. After I did this I found I needed some more support for my shoulders, so I cut up some ABS pipe and built this extension. I've put a lot of miles on this seat and have been very happy with it. We have instructions on building your own seat extension.

Ultimate PVC Trike Stand
This stand was taken to the extreme. With a large base and integrated shelf this stand could be the perfect way to maintain your trike. Lee has provided us with the details of the stand so you can build one just like it.

Vertical PVC Camera Mount
This is one of the first camera mounts we made. The base uses a "T" coupler that is drilled to screw into the water bottle cage mount on the Cruiser. We took the tripod head off a $30 tripod and secured it to the PVC. We found that we needed the extra straps to keep the mount stiff.

Horizontal PVC Camera Mount
Getting the low angle shots we like so much requires getting the camera as close to the ground as possible. We needed more stability than what a hand-held camera would allow for and wanted smooth panning movements. This mount attaches to the trike via a "T" coupler under the seat. The tripod mount flips out horizontally and allows for pretty smooth moving pan shots.

Articulated Horizontal PVC Camera Mount
Building on our low-angle horizontal mount, this articulated mount allows the camera to be smoothly rotated and rolled. The main joint uses spring-loaded and greased PVC pieces for smooth action. The main pole is filled solid to add weight. We found the weight really adds to the stability. The "T" coupler just snaps onto the frame and will actually pivot on the frame for crane type camera moves.

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Share your comments below:
I was always wondering how you mounted the camera to get those neat shots. Think you atarted something here. What did you fill the main pole with to add weight? Lead shot?
Posted by Lee in Vegas
12/31/2007 06:47:16 PM

We filled the main pole with two other PVC pipes wrapped with a layer of electrical tape and pressed into each other. The middle pipe we filled with spray foam.
Posted by Ashley
12/31/2007 07:46:35 PM

Here is another idea. Use a 3/4" to 1/2" T to cap the post that has the front derailer mounted to it. You have to grind out a little of the base but it will fit there. Then add caps to the other parts and you have a nice mount for a computer or light.
Posted by Anonymous
03/25/2008 05:18:17 PM

Can someone please post just basic mounting directions for a cycle computer on a wizwheels path? I'm not clear on where to put the sensor, and I bought the knob but am not sure where to put it either. thanks!
Posted by Suzanne in Jersey
06/07/2008 04:47:02 PM

The sensor can be mounted to the rear wheel or the front. If you mount it to the rear wheel you'll need an extra-long cable and a spacer to put the sensor closer t the spokes. If you mount it to the front, we recommend putting the sensor on a bracket on the front left brake caliper bolt.
To actually mount the computer, use the Nob mount on the top of the handlebar grip.
Posted by Ashley
06/11/2008 06:11:17 AM

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