Kettrike Freewheel Hub Feature

Use the freewheel hub feature to push the tricycle with the optional pushbar or stroller style handle, or to coast. Your trike will have one of two versions. If there is a black knob on the right side pedal hub, it is the switchable freewheel hub. When the knob is pulled out, the pedal crank will force the wheel only forward, but the spinning wheel will not force the pedals to follow, thus the trike can move while the legs remain at rest. Pedaling backwards has no effect in freewheel mode other than sounding faint clicks. When turned "off" (knob in) the pedal crank and wheel are rigidly connected just like simpler tricycles. Some Kettrikes have the automatic freewheel which switches between freewheel mode and rigid mode. When pedaled, it is driven from the pedals, but stop pedaling and the pedals disengage for coasting. Kettler trikes with the freewheeling feature also have a brake because back pedal pressure will not always stop the trike. A companion feature is the switchable steering stem lock to help assert parental omnipotence when using the pushbar.

Kettcar and X-Trac Freewheel Control Feature

Four wheel Kettcars have a lever control which lets the rider coast or pedal by an elegantly simple rear axle chainwheel mechanism. When the handle is forward, pedal force to drive wheel is connected by interlocking shapes on the axle and on the chainwheel hub. It is then rigid in both directions, so reverse riding is possible. When the rider pulls the handle back, a curved rod separates the cog shapes (against a spring) and thus rotationally disconnects the chainwheel from the axle so that the car is completely in neutral. The Kettcar can then coast and the pedals will turn freely either way with no effect- this is why freewheeling pedal cars are equipped with a hand operated rear wheel brake.

X-Trac pedal tractor has the freewheel plus a more complex transmission. There are two different gear ratios about 2:1 apart selected by a three position locking gate lever. X-Trac does not have a brake, we expect dragging the bucket or shoes will work if really needed.

Kettrike Stroller Style Pushbar Base Fitment

New hardware package includes adapters for different Kettrike frames. Now the Stroller Handle fits all current genuine Kettrikes (same p/n). See the tabular summary below. The mounting stub made to mount the Stroller handle is larger than the one for the regular pushbar and both bases won't fit together on the same tricycle frame tube. It is not designed to fit other brands of tricycles, clones, private brands made by Kettler, or some older Kettler tricycles.

Kettler Tricycle Sizing

Kettler tricycle models have transitioned over the years and now the names are not always indicative of the actual size range.  Each one is rated for at least 100 lb. We have a chart below with both features and seat to pedal size of Kettler Kettrikes. Note: Kettler uses more than one measuring standard, so we have presented the best approximation of height numbers and pedal crank center to seatback numbers.

Kettler Tricycle Size, Feature and Accessory Fitment Chart

Notes: Size, Feature and Fitment

(A) Sometimes Kettler promotes a tricycle model without an included pushbar with the temporay addition of a bonus pushbar.  Check for specials and deals.  Note: Older models up to about 2002 use a different pushbar, email (research required) with your model number for help.

(B) Note that either a Kettler Stroller Handle base OR a pushbar base will fit on one tricycle. Kettler Stroller Handle has hardware adapters included to fit all current genuine Kettrikes. We will verify correct options fitment when you buy the set from WagonTrainToys.com or if you ask by email (research required) about an fitment for your older model identifed by part number.

Your tricycle's enclosed papers will list Kettler's contact information.