Several reviewers who have a balance or weight issues rave about the Schwinn Meridian. It provides them a means to get some heart-healthy movement into their lives while they enjoy the outdoors or run errands.
There’s also a folding rear cargo basket that’s extremely useful. It’s one of the larger cargo baskets that we’ve found on adult tricycles, and can easily hold groceries or a backpack. The cargo basket also folds down so you can strap down a larger item if you choose to. Cruise around town in style and remain comfortable throughout your ride in the easy-to-use Schwinn Meridian. This is a single-speed model, so there aren’t any gears you have to keep straight.
We think most people can put this together using the provided instructions and a little help from the internet. The only difficulties are getting everything lined up properly since the fenders on the wheels can be off. It’s up to you if you want to take it to a bike shop and have them do it. It’ll certainly save time and ensure the job is done properly, but it’ll probably cost a bit extra.
In addition to the features for comfort, there are several safety features that are worth noting. There are both rear and front breaks to help stop the trike more quickly. This is somewhat of a concern on most trikes since the added weight of the tricycle makes stopping less responsive than you on a two-wheel bicycle.
Meridian rides really nice and can be used by anybody – seniors, people with balance, back or some other problems or children (8+ years) for example. Great for riding to the grocery store, exercising or just cruising for fun in the neighborhood. The rider and cargo combined should be up to 300 lbs for the 24- model and up to 350 lbs for the 26- model. Both models are suitable for riders between 5’4- and 6’2- tall.
In overall – decent construction, completely sufficient for this type of bike. The high handlebars and step-through frame are better for riders who experience back pain. Sitting in an upright position puts less stress on the lower back. The rider has less risk of strain when getting on and off the Meridian. The cargo basket is fantastic for groceries or other cargo. The manufacturer warns riders that the cargo area is not for pets, children, or other passengers.
The high handlebars allow the rider to remain upright while riding. This reduces stress on your wrists and keeps the handlebars from bearing too much weight. Both models of the Schwinn Meridian have a low sweeping step-thru frame.
With a trike, this doesn’t work since the rear wheels will run into your foot. You do have to get used to coming to a complete stop while still sitting on the tricycle. You’ll find a couple of main parts when you first unpack the tricycle. There is the main part of the frame which has the handlebars, brakes, chains, and drive. Also, there is a rear part of the frame that you need to attach. This is the part of the frame that goes between the two rear wheels of the tricycle.
There is a bit of a pulling sensation when trying to break a trike that you need to familiarize yourself with. We’d recommend you take the first couple of rides in the driveway or on the sidewalk. You will have more control and can adjust to the feel of breaking with the tricycle. The 26- model can take up to a 300 lbs rider with 50 lbs for the cargo basket.