THE EVOLUTION OF CHILDREN'S TRICYCLES: 1800s- ...

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THE EVOLUTION OF CHILDREN'S TRICYCLES

s-s

The Great Exhibition of , had on show a cart wheel shod with rubber, and a contempory report states 'it was allowed to roll over the hands and feet of the bystanders without causing the slightest sensation of pain', adding optimistically 'running over a living being would cause no injury to life or limb.'

The first velocipede tricycles with driving treadles and tiller steering appear to have been made around . (See the example below at the Science Museum in London). Only one rear wheel was driven, with the other having a brass-bushed hub revolving freely on the driving axle. The wheels were wooden with iron tyres. The one illustrated below has a 24' front wheel and 35' rear wheels.

After the invention of the front-wheel driven Velocipede captured the public imagination in , the cycle industry was created. Design evolved and, by , the Ordinary ('penny farthing') and the high wheel tricycle ruled the roads.

Treadle-controlled velocipede tricycles for children were made by a variety of manufacturers. They were expensive items in their day, purchased by rich families for their children. The earliest examples used wooden hubs and parts but, by the s, wheels were made of steel, with cast iron fittings.

Although rubber tyres were already available, the earliest models had metal wheel rims that did not take a tyre; by the s, steel wheels with solid rubber tyres were offered as an option.

Smaller manufacturers of velocipede tricycles were less likely to fit a head badge. Some were made in the same style as those from better known manufacturers, so their maker's name would have been a disadvantage; others were supplied wholesale. Department stores, catalogue companies and local shops often fitted their own badges and sometimes gave the tricycles new model names. This meant that the same tricycle could have a different name at various outlets.

Larger manufacturers also supplied these retail outlets, as well as using their own distribution networks and agents. They were more likely to add their own company or model names, particularly to those sold they sold direct to the public. Popular larger American manufacturers included Gendron, Fay, and Kirk.

 

LEVER DRIVE FAIRY v CHAIN DRIVE FAIRY

Clarification regarding terminology will help the following research. At the time, there was no universal description beyond the name 'velocipede tricycle' to define children's tricycles. But various styles emerged, and I will refer to each as follows:

THE TILLER & TREADLE TRICYCLE: The tiller was developed from farm equipment. A small wheel at the front was controlled by a long steering handle (tiller) that stretched back to the seat. The tiller could be reversed so the tricycle could be pulled along. Peter Gendron was an early patentee in the USA (). The cycle companies marketed the tiller & treadle style of tricycle at girls. This design was still in use at the end of the s (though outdated by then). Some early variations had the treadle connected to a sprocket with chain to one rear hub.

THE MANUMOTIVE TRICYCLE: The steering of manumotive tricycle was controlled by a handle on one side of the seat, with the brake on the other side. Tiller steering was the cheapest design, but some makers created juvenile versions of the adult manumotive tricycles that were popular with fashionable ladies in the s and s.

THE HORSE TRICYCLE (HAND-LEVER CHAINDRIVE): These were particularly popular in France in the late s and s. 99% of those available today are recent 'aged' replicas made in Eastern Europe.

 

THE VELOCIPEDE TRICYCLE: Boys were encouraged to buy velocipede tricycles with pedals in the front wheels. The first boy's tricycles were scaled down versions of the / style adult velocipede with a rear axle added, plus smaller versions of the velocipede hub, spoke and wheel rim (the technology for such already in existence for wheels for horse carts). They had wood frames to start with, followed by metal frames. By the s, most had metal wheels too. With added styling features, the velocipede tricycle became very popular in the s (and were now marketed at both boys and girls), and was the most common kid's tricycle until the s.

CHAIN DRIVEN 'DIRECT STEERING' TRICYCLE (Large Rear Wheels): Referred to in a French catalogue as a 'Criper' tricycle (after the Humber Cripper), and described in as 'Direct Steering,' adult versions with large rear wheel became very fashionable among women in the late s. Many juvenile versions were also made.

CHAIN DRIVEN TRICYCLE (Equal Size Wheels): By the late s, children's tricycles with pedal and chain and equal size wheels were being made too, though they were more popular to start with in Europe than in North America. Chain-driven tricycle design took a major step forward during WW1 as a result of invalid-carriages made for wounded soldiers in the war.

It's not easy to describe the age of children's tricycles accurately, as many continued to be made in the older styles for longer than you might suppose. So I've started this page as a database, to observe the changing styles of tricycle in close-up views. I'll add to it over the coming months to help our understanding of how the children's tricycle evolved.

Various modifications to the basic tricycle design were necessary for children's tricycles to evolve. One example is adjustable seat height:

G.E WHITMORE TRICYCLE: ADDITIONAL PATENT FOR ADJUSTABLE SEAT

This invention relates to an improvement in tricycles for which Letters Patent No. 226,578 were granted to me ApriL, . The said ' By making the seat adjustable the tricycle can adapt itself to any child, thereby overcoming the difficulty experienced in tricycles having a stationary seat.

s MANUMOTIVE JUVENILE TRICYCLE

An alternative form of steering was offered in the Manumotive tricycle seen above (sold a few years ago to a museum abroad). Similar examples include the Centaur 'School' tricycle.

THE CHAIN DRIVEN 'DIRECT STEERING' TRICYCLE (Large Rear Wheels)

Centaur's 'Juvenile Automatic' in the catalogue above was one of many offered in this style after . Singer offered similar'

You can see similar described as a 'Criper' in the Spanish catalogue below. Humber introduced the 'Cripper' in , the year after chain-driven bicycles were introduced.

 THE HORSE TRICYCLE

TO SEE AN ORIGINAL

 FRENCH HORSE TRICYCLE

PLEASE CLICK HERE

TILLER & TREADLE CHAIN-DRIVEN TRICYCLE (aka CRIPPER)

Spalding's 'Petite' tricycle was offered in wood and steel, with rubber tyres optional. This version has the treadle system connected by sprocket and chain to one rear hub.

THE JUVENILE TILLER & TREADLE TRICYCLE

These were scaled down versions of adult tiller and treadle tricycles which had gone out of fashion due to the popularity of adult manumotive tricycles and pedal tricycles in the s.

: WROUGHT IRON BOY'S & LITTLE BEAUTY GIRL'S

METAL WHEEL & RUBBER TYRE

WORTHINGTON MFG CO 'FAIRY'

ChiSure contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.

TO SEE THE WORTHINGTON MFG CO 'FAIRY'

BADGED AS A RH MACY 'TRIUMPH'

PLEASE CLICK HERE

: EDWARD K. TRYON Co 'KEYSTONE' TRICYCLES

 

: KIRK-LATTY MFG CO

: FAIRY

: SEARS & ROEBUCK

THE VELOCIPEDE TRICYCLE

TO SEE AN

s VELOCIPEDE TRICYCLE 

PLEASE CLICK HERE

THE CHAIN DRIVEN TRICYCLE (Equal Size Wheels)

TO SEE A

LINES BROS FAIRY TRICYCLE 

PLEASE CLICK HERE

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The children tricycle market size is estimated to be valued at US$ 5.33 Bn in and is projected to reach US$ 7.71 Bn by , exhibiting a compound annual growth rate  (CAGR) of 5.4% during the forecast period.

The growth of the kids tricycle market is driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly modes of transportation and rising awareness regarding child safety. Tricycles are a popular choice for parents as they are safe and convenient way for children to learn how to ride a bike. They are also a great way for children to get exercise and fresh air.

Growing popularity of tricycles in emerging markets, such as China and India, is also expected to drive the market growth. These markets are witnessing a rapid increase in the number of births, which is leading to an increase in the demand for children's products.

Kids Tricycles Market Regional Insights

• North America is the largest market for kids tricycles, accounting for a market share of 30% in . The growth of the market in North America is due to increasing disposable incomes of parents, the rising demand for tricycles from daycare centers and preschools, and the growing popularity of outdoor activities among children.
• Europe is the second largest market for kids tricycles, accounting for a market share of 25% in . The growth of the market in Europe is due to the increasing demand for tricycles from daycare centers and preschools, the rising popularity of outdoor activities among children, and the increasing awareness of the benefits of tricycle riding for children's development.
• Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market for kids tricycles, accounting for a market share of 20% in . The growth of the market in Asia Pacific is due to the increasing disposable incomes of parents, the rising demand for tricycles from daycare centers and preschools, and the growing popularity of outdoor activities among children.

Figure 1. Global Kids Tricycles Market Share (%), By Region,

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Kids Tricycles Market Drivers

• Rising disposable income: Increasing disposable income among parents enables them to spend more on their children's toys and recreational activities. As families have more financial resources, they are more likely to invest in kids tricycles which drive the market demand.
• Growing awareness about early childhood development: Parents and caregivers are increasingly recognizing the importance of early childhood development and physical activity. Kid's tricycles offer an engaging way for young children to develop motor skills, balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. The market benefits from the growing emphasis on promoting active play and development in early childhood.
• Shift towards outdoor activities: In recent years, there has been a shift in focus from sedentary indoor activities to outdoor play. Parents are encouraging their children to spend more time outdoors to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce screen time. Kid's tricycles provide a fun and safe outdoor activity for children, which drive the demand for these products.
• Product innovation and safety features: Manufacturers are continually innovating and improving kid's tricycles to meet consumer demands. These innovations include features like adjustable seats, safety harnesses, sturdy frames, and ergonomic designs. Parents are increasingly conscious of safety when choosing products for their children and the availability of advanced safety features boosts the market for kid's tricycles.

Kids Tricycles Market Opportunities

• Emerging markets: The demand for kid's tricycles is increasing rapidly in emerging markets due to factors such as urbanization, rising middle-class population, and increasing disposable income. These markets, including countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, offer significant opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to expand their presence and tap into a new customer base.
• Online retail and e-commerce: Rise of e-commerce has transformed the retail landscape, including the kids tricycles market. Online platforms provide a convenient and accessible way for consumers to purchase tricycles. Manufacturers and retailers can leverage this opportunity by establishing their online presence, thereby partnering with e-commerce platforms, and implementing effective digital marketing strategies to reach a wider audience.
• Customization and personalization: Offering customizable and personalized kids tricycles can be a unique selling proposition. Parents often seek products that reflect their child's personality, preferences, and interests. Manufacturers can explore options like customizable colors, patterns, accessories, and even personalized engravings, thus allowing parents to create a personalized tricycle for their child. This approach can enhance brand loyalty and differentiate products in the market.
• Product diversification: In addition to traditional tricycles, there is an opportunity to diversify the product range and offer variations that cater to specific needs and preferences. This includes tricycles with additional features such as detachable push handles for parental assistance, foldable designs for easy storage and transportation, and adjustable frames to accommodate children of different ages and sizes. Expanding the product line can attract a broader customer base and cater to specific niche markets.

Kids Tricycles Market Trends

• Focus on safety features: Safety is a paramount concern for parents when it comes to choosing kids tricycles. As a result, there is a growing trend towards incorporating advanced safety features in tricycle designs. This includes features like safety harnesses, enclosed chains, non-slip pedals, and sturdy frames. Manufacturers are continuously improving safety standards and investing in technologies that enhance the overall safety of tricycles.
• Eco-friendly materials and sustainability: Increasing environmental consciousness has led to a rising demand for eco-friendly kids tricycles. Manufacturers are exploring sustainable materials such as recycled plastics, bamboo, and responsibly sourced wood. By offering environmentally friendly options, companies can appeal to eco-conscious parents who prioritize sustainable and low-impact products for their children.
• Adjustable and convertible designs: Tricycles with adjustable and convertible features are gaining popularity. These designs allow parents to adapt the tricycles as their child grows, thus providing a longer lifespan and better value for money. Adjustable seat positions, handlebars, and frame extensions enable the tricycle to accommodate children of different ages and sizes, thereby prolonging its usability.
• Technological advancements: Technology integration is becoming increasingly prevalent in kids tricycles. Some tricycles feature electronic components such as lights, sound effects, interactive displays, and even Bluetooth connectivity. These technological additions enhance the overall play experience, thus making tricycles more engaging and appealing to tech-savvy children.

Kids Tricycles Market Report Coverage

Report Coverage Details Base Year: Market Size in : US$ 5.33 Bn Historical Data for: to Forecast Period: - Forecast Period to CAGR: 5.4% Value Projection: US$ 7.71 Bn Geographies covered:

• North America: U.S. and Canada
• Latin America: Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and Rest of Latin America
• Europe: Germany, U.K., Spain, France, Italy, Russia, and Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific: China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, ASEAN, and Rest of Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Africa: GCC Countries, Israel, South Africa, North Africa, and Central Africa and Rest of Middle East

Segments covered:

• By Age Group: Toddler Tricycles, Preschool Tricycles, and School-age Tricycles
• By Type of Tricycle: Push Tricycles and Pedal Tricycles
• By Wheel Configuration: Classic Tricycles and  Delta Tricycles
• By Design and Features: Basic Tricycles, Themed Tricycles, Foldable Tricycles, and Electric Tricycles
• By Distribution Channel: Online Retail and Offline Retail
• By Price Range: Budget Tricycles and Mid-range Tricycles

Companies covered:

Radio Flyer, Fisher-Price, Schwinn, smarTrike, Joovy, Little Tikes, Razor, Hape, Kettler, and Strider Sports International

Growth Drivers:

• Rising disposable income
• Growing awareness about early childhood development
• Shift towards outdoor activities
• Product innovation and safety features

Restraints & Challenges:

• High competition
• Changing consumer preferences
• Seasonal demand
• Cost considerations

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Kids Tricycles Market Restraints

• High competition: The market for kid's tricycles is highly competitive, with numerous manufacturers and brands vying for market share. The presence of established market players and the entry of new competitors can create pricing pressures and reduce profit margins. This intense competition requires companies to continually innovate, differentiate their products, and invest in marketing efforts to stand out in the market.

Counterbalance: The key market player needs to innovate their products on continuous basis, in order to stand out in the competitive market.

• Changing consumer preferences: Consumer preferences and trends are constantly evolving, and manufacturers need to stay updated to meet shifting demands. Preferences for different designs, features, colors, and materials can quickly change, thereby making it challenging for companies to accurately anticipate and meet consumer expectations. Failure to adapt to changing preferences can result in a decline in market demand.

Counterbalance: The market players should upgrade their standard as per the needs and preference of the customers, thus meeting their expectations and driving the market demand.

• Seasonal demand: The demand for kids tricycles is often seasonal, with peak sales occurring during specific times of the year, such as the holiday season or summer months. During off-peak seasons, sales may decline, thus posing challenges for manufacturers in terms of production planning, inventory management, and maintaining consistent revenue streams throughout the year.
• Cost considerations: Price sensitivity among consumers can be a significant restraint in the kid's tricycles market. Parents may be hesitant to spend a substantial amount on a product that their child will outgrow relatively quickly. The price of kid's tricycles can influence purchasing decisions, and manufacturers need to find a balance between offering affordable options and maintaining profitability.

Analyst View of the Global Kids Tricycles Market:

The kids tricycles market has strong growth potential over the next five years. North America dominates the market due to high parental spending on children toys. However, Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth fueled by rising middle class population and their increasing expendable income in the region.

Safety is the key driver of the market as parents are willing to pay more for tricycles that are made of lightweight aluminum and polycarbonate with enhanced safety features like bigger wheels, rear-wheel brakes, and safety flags. Manufacturers are innovating their designs to attract more customers. Product pricing along with rising raw material costs can pose a threat to market growth.

Online sales of tricycles are gaining traction and offer an opportunity for market expansion. Key market players should focus on building strong D2C websites and partnering with major e-retailers. Customization based on character and superhero themes is another area to explore.

International market players need to customize their offerings for local markets by modifying design elements, thus adding regional language instruction manuals. Offering assembly services can boost demand from time-constrained parents.

Entry of private label brands from mass merchants increases competition. However, emphasis on safety and ease of use and stylish designs will help established brands hold their ground. Collaborations with preschools and daycare centers for promotional activities can attract new customers at an early age.

Recent Developments

New product launches

• Disney Princess Tricycle: This tricycle is perfect for little princesses of all ages. It features a pink frame with a Disney princess design, a canopy to protect them from the sun, and a basket to store their toys.
• Hot Wheels Tricycle: This tricycle is sure to be a hit with any little boy who loves hot wheels cars. It features a red frame with a hot wheels design, a canopy to protect them from the sun and a basket to store their toys.
• Barbie Tricycle: This tricycle is perfect for little girls who love Barbie. It features a pink frame with a Barbie design, a canopy to protect them from the sun, and a basket to store their toys.

Acquisition and partnerships

• In , Dorel Industries acquired Bentley Trikes, a leading manufacturer of high-quality tricycles for children. This acquisition expands Dorel Industries' portfolio of tricycles and strengthens its position in the premium tricycle market.
• In , Radio Flyer acquired Joovy, a leading manufacturer of baby and toddler products. This acquisition gives Radio Flyer a strong foothold in the tricycle market for children under 5 years old.
• In , Little Tikes acquired SmarTrike, a leading manufacturer of tricycles for children. This acquisition combines two of the most popular brands in the tricycle market and creates a stronger competitor for Dorel Industries.

Figure 2. Kids Tricycles Market Share (%), By Design and Features,

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Top Companies in the Kids Tricycles Market

• Radio Flyer
• Fisher-Price
• Schwinn
• smarTrike
• Joovy
• Little Tikes
• Razor
• Hape
• Kettler
• Strider Sports International

Definition: The kids tricycles market refers to the industry that involves the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of tricycles specifically designed for children. These tricycles typically have three wheels, a sturdy frame, and are intended for children in the age range of 1 to 5 years. The market encompasses various types, designs, and features of tricycles tailored to promote physical activity, co-ordination, and balance skills among young children.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit children tricycle manufacturer.