The Gekko are HPVelotechnik’s other trike range, and they’re interesting beasts – thanks to a simple but clever hinge, the back wheel folds under and twists flat, and the seat folds flat – the whole trike turns into a 82x52x83 cm package in less than 10 seconds. So it’s faster to fold than a Brompton!
To fold, you don’t need to unscrew or remove any parts – a first for a tadpole recumbent trike. Everything stays attached, including the optional electric motor system. Some recumbent trikes are a nightmare in traffic, but with a relatively upright seating position and manouverable steering, the Gekko makes a very good commuting trike.
There are four models of Gekko:
- Gekko fx 20: The fx 20 has a 20″ back wheel, it’s compact and with three equal-sized wheels you only need to carry one inner tube!
- Gekko fx 26: With a larger 26″ back wheel, the fx 26 rolls faster especially over rougher surfaces, and the rear derailleur is further from the ground.
- Gekko fxs: Built smaller and more adjustable, the fxs is great for kids and smaller adults, and can also have loads of mobility options.
- Gekko 26 – the most basic model in the Gekko family, and it’s super simple – no folding, a slightly higher seating position, and a more limited choice of options for a super bargain price.
Gekko or Scorpion? So, yes, HPVelotechnik now make two different folding recumbent trikes – which is the right one to go for? As always, it depends on what you want to do.
The Gekko is quick to fold (10 seconds vs. 30 seconds) and more compact, but it loses out in that it has no suspension, and only has the mesh seat – it can also only carry one pair of panniers.
So, for quick folding city use or if you need to fold often, the Gekko is probably the one to go for. If the folding will be more occasional, and you want to be able to go further and in more comfort, the Scorpion is the way to go.
To order, you can specify all the options on the HPVelotechnik Configurator – then enter the configuration number on our Configurator Order Form, and I’ll get things under way. The build time is usually around 4-5 weeks.
Good morning , currently trying to decide the best model to order Gekko or Scorpion ? I am disabled following a motorcycle accident and have poor balance, therefore I am looking at the recumbent option ?
The big difference is that the Scorpion has suspension (back at least, front too on some), whereas the Gekko folds more compactly.
I can only assume I couldn’t purchase one of these bikes with a cyclescheme/cycle-to-work-scheme?
That depends if your employer has lifted the £1000 limit or not – if they have, then no problem.
Good morning , could you pls inform me if there is a rear view mirror available for a Gekko Fx ?
I recommend the Mirrycle mirror. I have them left and right on my Gekko. Easy to fold out of the way when folding the trike. The only problem I’ve had is trying to tighten the mirror mounting and splitting the mount. This has happened after riding through the winter, but not every winter! Spares are readily available direct from the USA at a reasonable cost.