AmTryke AM-12S User manual

Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Contents
About AmTrykes®............................................................................................1
About This Manual ..........................................................................................1
Safety ..............................................................................................................2
Safe Riding Tips................................................................................................ 2
Brakes.......................................................................................................... 4
Shift Gears................................................................................................... 4
Assembly Instructions .....................................................................................5
Getting Started ................................................................................................ 5
Front Wheel..................................................................................................... 7
Adjusting Front End (AM-12 and AM-16).................................................... 8
Frames ............................................................................................................. 8
Back Wheels .................................................................................................... 9
Loading Brake .................................................................................................. 9
Seat ................................................................................................................ 10
Pedals and Hand Cranks ................................................................................ 12
Steering Pin.................................................................................................... 12
Fitting AmTryke for Rider ..............................................................................13
Optional Accessories .....................................................................................14
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................14
Maintenance .................................................................................................15
Wheels and Tires ........................................................................................... 15
Brakes ............................................................................................................ 15
Chain.............................................................................................................. 15
Maintenance Schedule .................................................................................. 16
Warranty.......................................................................................................17
Useful Information ........................................................................................17
AmTryke Therapeutic Tricycle Program ........................................................ 17
Donations ...................................................................................................... 18
Returns .......................................................................................................... 18
Refunds.......................................................................................................... 19
AmTryke Sizing Charts ...................................................................................20
Tools .............................................................................................................22

Revised 11/1/12 1
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
About AmTrykes®
AmTryke® therapeutic tricycles, owned and operated by National AMBUCS™
Inc., are designed for people with disabilities who are unable to operate a
traditional bicycle. AmTryke tricycles or “trykes,” can be operated by feet,
hands or both, and include a wide variety of models. The trykes can also be
adjusted to fit the needs of different riders, including frame size, type of seat,
trunk and leg supports.
AmTryke’s AM-12S, AM-12 and AM-16 therapeutic tricycles have been
designed to build strength and coordination for a wide range of children with
disabilities. These trykes feature a continuous chain mechanism for hand/foot
movement and adjustable seating (up/down and forward/back). Foot plates
feature a heel trap, with toe and instep strap, to secure rider’s feet to pedals. A
loading brake makes transfer of rider safe and easy. These trykes also have a
safety steering pin for parental control.
All AM models can also be converted to a hand cycle with the installation of a
permanent foot platform. Foot cups and pedal blocks can be added on the
platform for lower extremity support.
AM-12 and AM-16 also feature a hinged front end with three positions for
adjustable hand crank/foot crank seat alignment.
About This Manual
Read this manual carefully before assembling your tryke or using it for the first
time. This manual includes important information about safety, assembly and
maintenance. Keep this manual in a safe place for information and for ordering
accessories/parts.
AMBUCS/AmTryke reserves the right to make changes to the design and
technology of AmTrykes. The assembly instructions are accurate as of the date
of this manual’s printing.

2Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Safety
Safety is very important to us. AmTryke products are designed in accordance
with the latest safety standards and are constantly monitored for quality. We
use information from this quality control to develop our products.
We urge all riders to seek the opinion of their health-care provider(s) before
riding their tryke.
AmTrykes should be used for their intended purpose only.
Safe Riding Tips
Before riding, familiarize yourself how the tryke operates —it’s steering,
braking and shift gears (if applicable). Adjust the seat, handlebars and pedals to
fit the rider. See Fitting AmTryke for Rider section in this manual for more
information.
Here are some tips about riding safety:
•AmTrykes should be used with close adult supervision.
•Riders must wear helmets. All our trykes include a free safety-rated helmet.
The helmet must fit appropriately. A properly fitting helmet sits on the head
comfortably −a helmet that sits high on the head is too small. Some
movement is acceptable, but a helmet that moves a lot is too large. See the
illustration below for reference:
Correct Way to Wear Helmet
Wear the helmet flat atop your head,
not tilted back at an angle.
Make sure the helmet fits snugly and
doesn’t obstruct your vision. The chin
strap should fit securely and the buckle
stay fastened.
GRAPHIC COURTESY OF BUDDY BIKE LLC
For more information about
finding the correct size helmet,
see Helmet Sizing Chart on page
21.
NOTE: Be careful not to pinch the
skin when fastening helmet buckle.

Revised 11/1/12 3
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
•Riders must wear shoes. If shoes have laces, they must be tied properly.
•Most trykes are equipped with a steering pin and have three steering options
available:
oFull steering: No steering pin. This option allows riders to make sharp turns
and is appropriate for riders who ride at slow speeds or in close quarters.
Close adult supervision is required.
oLimited steering: This option allows riders to turn 20 degrees in either
direction, thus, reducing the risk of over-steering or tipping over.
oNo steering: This option allows for riding straight only. A supervising adult
is required to turn the tryke.
•To avoid tipping the tryke over, approach wheelchair ramps or thresholds at
a 90-degree angle.
•Use caution on sloped parking lots, driveways and sidewalks. Avoid excess
speed by having an adult restrain the tryke from behind on sloped surfaces.
The trykes have many options for control features. Consult AmTryke to find
out the best solution for your rider.
•Many riders do not have the motor skills required to be able to use the hand
brake effectively.
•Depending on trunk stability, behavioral compliance and body awareness,
some riders may need supports (e.g., lateral, head), belts (e.g. lap, shoulder),
hip abductors or other specialized equipment. A physical therapist/health
professional can assist you with any recommendations.
•Riders should only be allowed to ride trykes that are the appropriate size. If
you are uncertain, refer to AmTryke Sizing Chartsin this manual or contact a
physical therapist.
•Before riding, always check that all tires are inflated properly.
•If parts are broken or missing, the tryke should not be used until repaired.
WARNING: DO NOT RIDE IN OR NEAR TRAFFIC, OR WHERE THERE IS
A RISK OF FALLING OFF CURBS, STAIRS, POTHOLES OR OTHER HAZARDS.
WARNING: NEVER ALLOW MORE THAN ONE RIDER ON AMTRYKE.
WARNING: DO NOT RESTRAIN TRYKE BY GRABBING HANDLEBARS
OR HAND BRAKE — THIS MAY CAUSE IT TO TURN SHARPLY AND TIP
OVER.

4Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Brakes
If your tryke has brakes (front or coaster brakes) be careful when using the
brakes. Operate the brakes gradually. If your tryke has front brakes (front
caliper brake or both front caliper brake and rear disk brake) squeeze the brake
lever(s) gradually until you feel brake(s) working. The left brake lever operates
the front caliper brake and the right lever operates the rear brake. To stop your
tryke, use both brakes. It is advisable to start braking by operating the rear
brake slightly before the front brake.
Shift Gears
If your tryke has shift gears, use precaution when shifting gears. When shifting
gears keep pedaling but reduce pedaling pressure. Do not try to change gears
when pedals or wheels are not moving. Also, never change gears while back
pedaling and do not force the gear shifter when changing gears.
WARNING: BE CAREFUL WHEN OPERATING BRAKES. SUDDEN
BRAKING MAY CAUSE TRYKE TO TIP OVER.
CAUTION: USE CAUTION WHEN SHIFTING GEARS.

Revised 11/1/12 5
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Assembly Instructions
Refer to the following instructions on how to assemble your tryke. Study the
instructions carefully before beginning assembly and follow the sequence
shown in the instructions.
Be careful when assembling your tryke. Make sure that your working area is
free of possible sources of danger, such as tools lying around.
Always dispose of packaging material properly. Do not let children play with
plastic bags.
When assembling your tryke, bolt all parts together loosely at first and check
that they have been put together correctly. Tighten lock nuts by hand until
snug; then use proper tools to tighten nuts completely.
Getting Started
Your AmTryke is shipped in parts. Carefully remove and lay out all parts from
the carton so that you don’t scratch or lose any parts or pieces. Check that you
have all the necessary parts. If any parts are missing, please call us at 1-888-
AMTRYKE for assistance.
Remove packaging material and discard. See the following picture to identify
different parts (model AM-12S has a different seat):
NOTE: AmTryke must be assembled by an adult.
CAUTION: CHECK THAT ALL SCREWS HAVE BEEN
SECURELY TIGHTENED BEFORE USING YOUR TRYKE.
WARNING: THERE IS ALWAYS A DANGER OF INJURY
WHEN WORKING WITH TOOLS OR DOING MANUAL WORK.
WARNING: THERE IS A RISK OF SUFFOCATION WITH
PLASTIC BAGS. KEEP PLASTIC BAGS AWAY FROM CHILDREN.

6Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
AM-12S, AM-12 and AM-16 parts
Your AmTryke also includes the following small parts not shown in the photo
above:
Additional small parts
Front
wheel
Saddle
seat
Hand cranks
with grips
Back
wheel
Seat back
Chain
guard
Seat
securing
knob
Frame
knobs
Loading
brake
Hinge
wrap
Pedal
Nut
cover
Lap
strap
Pedal
Seat back
support
rod
Seat post
bracket
Quick release
levers
Main
frame
Front wheel
assembly
Rear
frame
Chest
straps
Steering
securing
spring
Spring cover

Revised 11/1/12 7
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
You need the following tools for assembly (too see a picture of different tools,
see page 22):
Front Wheel
Start assembling your tryke by first attaching the front wheel assembly to the
main frame. Choose which of the
three front wheel positions your rider
will best utilize (vertical or middle
position, or wheel fully extended).
To attach the front wheel assembly:
1. Install the lower quick release lever
to one of the holes and a thumb nut
on the opposite side.
2. Next, put one end of the steering
centering spring on the eyelet on the
main frame and slide a protective
cover over the spring.
3. Use a long screwdriver, pliers or
small pry bar to attach the other end
of the spring to the eyelet on the
front fork as shown.
4. Insert the upper quick release lever
and thumb nut on the opposite side.
Push levers down flat against the
frame.
NOTE: Chain guard is on the
right side of tryke.
Steps 1 and 2
Quick
release lever
Spring
cover
Spring
Eyelets
NOTE: This can be difficult and
requires some strength.
Step 3
Quick
release
levers
TOOLS REQUIRED:
•4 mm Allen wrench
•10 mm wrench/socket
•14 and 15 mm wrench (incl.)
•22 mm socket or adjustable wrench
•Quick release wrench (incl.)
•Screwdriver/pliers
Step 4
NOTE: AM-12S does not have a
hinged front end.

8Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
5. Install the protective hinge wrap
over the levers.
Adjusting Front End (AM-12 and AM-16)
If you need to adjust the angle of the hinged front end, follow these steps:
1. Put the left pedal to the lowest position.
2. Remove the steering pin if installed.
3. Turn the front wheel to the left so that the chain guard is pointing straight
ahead.
4. Remove the lower quick release lever and adjust the position.
Frames
To attach the main and rear frames together, follow these steps:
1. Slide the seat post bracket onto the
main frame.
2. Put the two frame knobs into the
holes.
3. Slide the rear frame onto the main
frame.
Seat post and main frame
Main and rear frames attached
NOTE: Do not completely tighten
the knobs until you adjust the
tryke for rider’s size.
NOTE: Loading brake is on the
right side of tryke.
Seat post
bracket
Holes
for
knobs
CAUTION: HINGE WRAP MUST
BE INSTALLED BEFORE RIDING.
Step 5
NOTE: Make sure that the
wrap is tightly closed to cover
the levers and nuts properly.
NOTE: Be sure that the holes for
the seat post knobs are on the
right side of the tryke.
Frame
knob
TIP: Use the quick release wrench to easily tighten quick release levers.

Revised 11/1/12 9
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
4. Attach two quick release levers with
black plastic washers in the two
holes on the rear frame. Add nuts to
the other side and tighten securely.
Back Wheels
To install the back wheels, slide them onto the axle. Install a washer and nut
and tighten securely with a 22 mm
socket or adjustable wrench.
Then, put white plastic nut caps over axel nuts.
Loading Brake
Loading brake is used to help transition
rider on/off the tryke safely and easily.
To install it, slide it onto the loading
brake rod on the rear frame (right side).
Quick release levers
CAUTION: MAKE SURE QUICK
RELEASE LEVERS ARE FULLY TIGHTENED
AND DO NOT WOBBLE. TIGHTEN NUT
UNTIL SNUG, THEN PUSH LEVERS DOWN
UNTIL FLAT AGAINST FRAME.
Back wheel with nut and washer
Back wheel with nut cover
NOTE: Air inflation valve faces the
inside of tryke.
CAUTION: MAKE SURE THAT BACK
WHEELS ARE FULLY TIGHTENED BEFORE
RIDING.
Loading brake (pictured from front)
NOTE: Top of the loading brake
should be flush with the top of tube.
CAUTION: DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN
WHEEL NUTS. BEARINGS MAY BE
DAMAGED.

10 Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Check that the lever does not touch the tire and that the handle is in line with
the tire and points toward the front of tryke. Tighten the nuts with a 10 mm
wrench.
Seat
Start seat assembly by installing the seat post:
1. Screw the seat securing knob into
hole until the spring loaded indent
pin is visible inside the tube.
2. Pull on the knob and drop in seat
post. Choose one of four seat height
positions. The indent pin will snap
into place. Tighten the knob.
Next, install the seat back support rod:
1. Install a 9 /16-inch bolt either from
bottom or top of bracket.
2. Slide the seat back rod onto the
bracket.
3. Place the black retainer plate onto
the bolt and add washer and nut.
Tighten with 14 mm wrench or
socket. Repeat with second bolt.
CAUTION: ALWAYS ENGAGE LOADING BRAKE
WHEN TRANSFERRING RIDER ON/OFF TRYKE.
WARNING: DO NOT USE LOADING BRAKE FOR BRAKING.
DOING SO MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
Seat post (for models AM-12 and AM-
16 pictured)
Seat
securing
knob
Seat post
CAUTION: SPRING LOADED KNOB MUST BE PROPERLY
PLACED AND TIGHTENED BEFORE RIDING.
Seat assembly (bolt installed from bottom
of bracket shown)
Bolt
Support
rod
Retainer
plate
Nut &
washer
WARNING: ADJUST AND FULLY TIGHTEN SEAT AND
SEAT BACK FOR RIDER BEFORE RIDING TO AVOID INJURY.
NOTE: Do not over tighten. Final
adjustments will be made when the
rider is on the bike.
TIP: It is not necessary to remove the
seat securing knob, just loosen and
pull to release the pin for adjustments.

Revised 11/1/12 11
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Models AM-12 and AM-16 feature a saddle seat (If
your model is AM-12S, see instructions after these):
1. Install the saddle seat onto the seat post.
2. Align the seat with the front of tryke and tilt to
preferred position. Tighten the seat clamp
equally on both sides with a 14 mm wrench.
3. Install the lap strap by threading it through slots
in the bracket at the back of seat post assembly.
To install snappy seat (AM-12S), place the seat on top of the seat post and align
the holes in the seat post with the holes
in the seat. Use a 4 mm Allen wrench to
tighten screws.
To install the seat back onto the seat
back support rod:
1. Remove the two knobs and washers
from the seat back.
2. Add the larger fender washer and
tighten the knob. Choose whichever
slots best fits the rider.
NOTE: Be sure the seat is fully seated onto the post.
Saddle seat and seat back
NOTE: Straps thread through
the back of seat back.
NOTE: The slot at the bottom of the
seat back fits over the support rod.
The screws fit through the seat back
and the slot between the rods.
Knobs
Screws
Seat back
Snappy seat pictured from bottom
Straps

12 Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Pedals and Hand Cranks
Hand thread until you are certain that
the pedals/hand cranks are threaded
properly. Use a 15 mm wrench to
tighten.
Steering Pin
If needed, install the steering pin with a loop strap into one of the two holes in
the front of fork. Three steering
positions are available:
•Top position: Locks steering
straight.
•Lower position: Limits steering to
20 degrees in either direction.
•No pin: Free steering.
Jiggle the front wheel assembly as you
push the pin into the hole and through
the other side of the fork tube. Pin should
insert all the way to the split ring to be correctly seated.
TIP: Pedals/hand cranks tighten
toward the front of tryke.
CAUTION: BE SURE PEDALS AND
HAND CRANKS ARE SECURELY
TIGHTENED BEFORE RIDING.
Foot pedal
Hand crank
TIP: Pedals and pedal/hand cranks are
labeled “R” (right) and “L” (left).
NOTE: You may find it desirable to limit steering so the rider
can concentrate on learning the pedal motion first.
Steering pin
CAUTION: BE CAREFUL WHEN
THREADING PEDALS. DO NOT FORCE.
PEDALS THREAD EASILY WHEN
INSTALLED PROPERLY.

Revised 11/1/12 13
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Fitting AmTryke for Rider
AM models have been designed for children of various sizes. See the
information below for quick reference on rider requirements:
For more information on how to measure rider’s size correctly, see Rider’s
measurements graphic on page 21.
Follow these instruction to fit your child properly:
1. Engage the loading brake.
2. To adjust the seat height, start with the seat post in the lowest position and
adjust upward if needed. Tighten the seat securing knob securely.
3. Adjust the seat back up or down for the best support of your child’s trunk.
Tighten the seat back knobs.
4. Slide the seat post assembly forward/back to suit your child’s needs. When
his/her feet are on the pedals, the knees should be slightly bent. Tighten the
seat post levers securely.
5. Adjust the front end (AM-12 and AM-16 have a hinged front end).
6. Adjust the lap, chest and pedal straps.
If you need to adjust the tryke more, see Optional Accessories on the next page
for different options.
NOTE: You may need assistance while fitting the tryke.
AM-12S
Rider’s height: Max. 40 inches
Arm length 12-14.5 inches
Leg length 16-20 inches
Maximum weight: 150 lbs
AM-12
Rider’s height: Max. 47 inches
Arm length 14-18 inches
Leg length 17-27 inches
Maximum weight: 150 lbs
AM-16
Rider’s height: Max. 66 inches
Arm length 18-26 inches
Leg length 24-32 inches
Maximum weight: 175 lbs

14 Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Optional Accessories
Most AmTryke models can be adapted with a variety of seating options and
accessories, so that most riders can feel safe and secure. See the table below
for accessories available for AM-12S, AM-12 and AM-16:
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
Snappy seat system (AM-12 and
AM12S only) Brachial plexus kit
Bench seat Foot cups
Tractor seat (AM-16 only) Pedal blocks
1400 seatback system Exercise pedals
1400 lumbar pad Expanding pedals
1400 head rest AM foot platform
1400 Full padded back Knee separator
Full padded back
Knee adductor positioning strap
Hand straps
Push bar
Wrist wraps
Safety flag
Wrist brace holding mitts
License plate
Vertical hand grips
H-harness
Troubleshooting
Here are some common troubleshooting issues with answers.
Pedals/handles will not thread into crank arms.
Check to make sure that the right pedal is used on the right side and the left
pedal is used on the left side.
Chain is loose or makes noise.
Chain tensioner needs to be adjusted.
Rear of bike is wobbly.
Spacers and quick release levers are not installed correctly.

Revised 11/1/12 15
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Maintenance
Maintenance is important to help keep your AmTryke in good working order
for years to come. This section includes some general maintenance tips.
Wheels and Tires
Wobbly wheels cut braking power, so keep all wheels running true. Wheels can
lose alignment over time when spokes stretch. Wheel alignment takes special
tools and know-how, so have this done by a professional/bike shop.
Proper tire pressure is also very important. If tire pressure is too low, it can
cause a flat and rolling resistance, and if tire pressure is too high, it can cause a
tube to blow out. Keep tires inflated to the pressure marked on the tire.
Correct pressure assures longest tire life. Repair tube punctures with a self-
adhesive patch, follow instructions that came with the repair kit.
Brakes
Brake shoes wear out so inspect them at least every six months. Make sure that
they are properly aligned on the wheel rim for maximum braking power. Make
adjustments if necessary.
It is best to let a professional to replace brake shoes. If you, however, decide to
replace them yourself, remove old brake shoes and install the new shoes in the
brake arm. Tighten the brake shoe clamp bolt.
Chain
Clean the chain at least every six months, more often if you have been riding
your tryke over sand and dirt, or through water and mud.
You do not have to remove the chain for cleaning. You may clean the chain
with an environmentally safe chain cleaning product and brush. If you use a
solvent (such as kerosene) then remove the chain (with a chain rivet tool) and
immerse it in the solvent to avoid spilling/staining, particularly on the tires or
brake shoes.
Before riding your tryke, always check that it is in proper working
order. Check that all quick release lock levers, nuts and bolts are
properly tightened, and that tires are properly inflated.

16 Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Maintenance Schedule
Follow this maintenance schedule to keep your AmTryke in safe operating
condition.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
PART TO DO LIST WHEN
All handlebar bolts Check tightness Every 4 months
Brake cables Check for slack, frayed cable Every 6 months
Brake arms Check mounting bolt tightness Every 6 months
Brake levers Check tightness on handlebars Every 6 months
Brake shoes Inspect for wear, alignment Every 6 months
Chain Check for wear, clean, relube or tension Every 6 months
Pedals Check tightness Every 9 months
Rear axle nuts Check tightness Every 4 months
Tires Check tire pressure Weekly
Wheel alignment Check wheels for out of trueness Every 6 months
Seat post Check tightness of levers Weekly
Seat Check tightness Monthly

Revised 11/1/12 17
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
Useful Information
AmTryke Therapeutic Tricycle Program
The AmTryke Therapeutic Tricycle Program is about abilities, not disabilities.
The program’s goal is to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to ride
bikes. AmTryke has designed a wide range of models suitable for many
diagnoses at low cost.
AmTryke builds foot and hand trykes, and combination hand/foot driven
trykes. To ensure a proper fit, AmTrykes can be adapted in many ways,
including frame size, type of seat, trunk and leg support. As a therapeutic
AmTryke LLC, owned and operated by National AMBUCS Inc., a national
nonprofit service organization, was established in 1994. It is dedicated to
creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
AMBUCS has provided over 16,000 AmTrykes to riders across the United States.
AMBUCS chapters fundraise and provide trykes for people with financial need.
Riders must be evaluated by a physical or occupational therapist to be eligible.

18 Revised 11/1/12
AM-12S, AM-12 & AM-16
tricycle, AmTrykes help children improve motor skills and provide strength
training. They are fun to ride and offer the opportunity for inclusive play. For
adults, AmTrykes provide a new form of mobility, exercise and freedom to
explore the community.
For therapists the trykes provide an age appropriate, safe, dynamic modality
for improving balance, coordination and strength. The trykes can build
endurance, self-confidence and provide another form of self-mobility aside
from the assistive device that the person may routinely use (i.e., wheelchair,
crutches, walker). The multiple adjustments and accessories of the trykes make
them a valuable addition to the medical therapy units’ repertoire of
therapeutic devices.
For parents and families the use of AmTryke fulfills the need of every child to
have a bike. All children deserve a chance to have a bike just like their siblings
and friends. Given a safe, stable platform, many riders, not previously
considered, can ride just like their peers. AmTrykes are designed to look like
bikes, not medical equipment, and to be age appropriate.
The AmTryke Road Trip brings the equipment to rehabs, clinics and therapy
centers. Training or in-services are offered to teach therapists about the
AmTryke program. These are often combined with bike days so families can
bring their riders and receive free evaluations for AmTrykes.