A handrail drive apparatus is provided comprising a first drive wheel assembly configured to drive a handrail and comprising a planetary gear train arranged to be driven by a first driving member. The handrail drive apparatus further comprises a second drive wheel assembly configured to drive the handrail, the second drive wheel assembly being coupled to the planetary gear train of the first handrail drive wheel assembly by a second driving member. The planetary gear train of the first handrail drive wheel assembly is configured to divide a torque imparted by the first driving member between the first and second drive wheel assemblies.