Push rims
A hand rim (also: hand ring ) is the metal tire attached to the outside of the wheelchair wheel , which the wheelchair user grabs to move.
The push rim is attached to the actual rim by webs, whereby the distance to the wheel can be adjusted according to the needs and wishes of the user (closer or wider assembly). Before assembly, a short section of rubber hose is usually pulled over these bars in order to reduce the risk of finger injuries when driving. There are also versions on the market in which the rim and push rim form a unit. It is an aluminum profile that is drawn in one piece and later rounded and welded. The disadvantage of injuries caused by the push rim gap is eliminated here, as is the risk of tire damage from the screws in the rim, but rainwater is a bigger problem than with conventional push rims.
Nowadays, push rims are mostly made of stainless steel , titanium or aluminum . Stainless steel grips have the advantage that they do not get hot as quickly during use - for example when braking for a long time on inclines - and they do not leave black marks on the wheelchair user's hands like titanium grips. But they are much heavier. Painted or coated hand rims quickly become unsightly and roughened due to signs of use and are therefore relatively rare. Mainly intended for quadriplegics are rubber covers for the push rims, which enable a better grip and thus easier steering of the wheelchair even if the hand is not used.