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Abstract Purpose Athletes with hand function impairment are eligible to compete in handcycling using assistive technology designed to compensate for their reduced grip strength. However, there is no evidence suggesting that these athletes perform similarly to their peers without such impairments. This study examined the impact of three simulated hand function impairments on handcycling performance in non-disabled novices. Materials and Methods Fourteen non-disabled individuals voluntarily participated in four measurement sessions using a standard handbike. Different hand function levels were simulated in the four sessions (no impairment and three simulated conditions: asymmetry, finger, and wrist impairments) using strapping and gloves to enable cyclic motion. Each session included two 4-minute submaximal handcycling tests (at 30 W and 45 W) and one 20-second isokinetic sprint. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze differences among the hand function conditions in oxygen uptake (VO2sub) during submaximal tests and peak and mean power output (PO (W)) during the sprints. Results No significant differences in VO2sub were observed across the four conditions. During the sprint, participants achieved higher peak PO without impairments compared to the simulated impairments, with values 14–17% higher (p < 0.01). However, no significant differences were found in mean PO, which was 5–9% higher without impairments but did not reach statistical significance (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusion The results suggest that individuals without hand function impairments may have an advantage over their peers with impairments during maximal efforts but not during submaximal efforts. However, these findings need to be validated in handcycling athletes. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Paralympic sports classification systems are required to adhere to International Paralympic Committee guidelines, which mandate a foundation in scientific evidence. Athletes with hand function impairments are eligible to compete in handcycling using assistive technology designed to compensate for reduced grip strength. Hand cyclists without hand function impairments may have an advantage over their peers with impairments during sprinting efforts, though not during submaximal efforts.