Electric Tricycles: A Must-Read Guide on How to Ride One
Electric Tricycles are game-changers.
For people whose primary concern is health and safety, Electric Tricycles offer newfound freedom and a great way to get outside and recreate the joy that comes with riding a bicycle, while still remaining safe. Sturdy, dependable, and equipped with a motor, Electric Tricycles are great for seniors, those with limited mobility, and those who value dependability.
With that said, there are a few things prospective buyers need to know about when riding one.
This comprehensive guide on Electric Tricycles will cover:
- The basics of Electric Tricycles
- How to get on one
- How to turn
- Basics of the motor
- Safety tips for riding an Electric Tricycle
- The benefits of learning to ride an Electric Tricycle
- What situations they’re best suited for
- Commonly-asked questions
- The best models to ride
The Basics: What to Know Before Getting On
An Electric Tricycle is an electric bike with three wheels for added safety and comfort. Like a traditional tricycle, one wheel is in the front, while the other two are parallel to each other in the back. This makes balancing on them much easier than bikes and scooters, while their motor makes it much easier for people to go far without over-exerting themselves.
In short: Electric Tricycles are electric bikes, but safer. Their back two wheels add an extra layer of sturdiness, while their motors help folks with limited mobility.
Getting On an Electric Tricycle
When it comes to mounting an Electric Tricycle it is going to be much easier than mounting a normal two-wheeled bike, because it's stable. You don't have to worry about losing your balance; it's going to be almost like sitting in a chair.
Two things to make sure of before mounting an Electric Tricycle:
- Make sure the motor is off, or at power level 0.
- Make sure you're on level ground so the trike's not going to roll in any direction
Next, you’re going to want to grip the left brake and step through, then sit on the Electric Tricycle’s seat. Make sure you have a model that doesn’t have a bulky motor that might get in the way.
In short: Make sure the motor is off and you’re on level ground. Grip the left brake, step through, and mount the bike. Take your time.
Turning With an Electric Tricycle
Turning corners is easier on an Electric Tricycle, but there is something to keep in mind: Electric Tricycles are wider than two-wheel bikes. This means you’re going to need more room to turn.
Practice your turns in your neighborhood before going on a longer ride. Be aware that you’ll need more space to turn.
Also, do not “lean” into your turns as you would a normal bike: keep your weight centered over the middle of the trike. Electric Tricycles are not meant to be ridden on “edge,” and if one of the rear wheels comes off the ground, the rider is at risk of tipping over.
In short: Leave more room for turns, and practice in your neighborhood. Keep your weight centered over the middle of the Electric Tricycle.
Using the Motor
Electric Tricycles use motors in the front wheel, or rear wheels of the trike to power forward, which means an Electric Tricycle will track infinitely better when compared to a normal bike or trike. For instance: riding up a hill on a normal bike is hard. With an Electric Tricycle, it’s easy.
Simply turn on your pedal-assist or full-throttle feature, and your Electric Tricycle will have no problems with hills. Adjust the power levels and your level of pedaling in your neighborhood to get used to how fast you’d like to go before going out into the world.
In short: The motor on an Electric Tricycle makes life way easier. Take your time learning how the motor works in your neighborhood.
Safety Tips
Electric Tricycles are easier to learn how to ride than two-wheeled bikes. But when getting used to its wider base, we recommend riding down a quiet street or finding an empty parking lot to practice.
In terms of braking, you’re going to apply the same strategy used with a normal bike or trike: just grip the brakes. But because your Electric Tricycle is motorized, please give yourself more time to brake if you’re moving faster.
When you see obstacles, realize that you’re not as nimble on an Electric Tricycle as you are on a normal bike. You’re going to want to slow down and give yourself a wide berth when maneuvering.
Be aware of your larger footprint when riding. Your Electric Tricycle will take up more space when riding -- the rear wheels are likely wider than your shoulders -- so keep that in mind when riding around pedestrians or cars.
Finally: obey all cycling laws in your local jurisdiction, and wear a helmet.
In short: The motor on an Electric Tricycle makes life way easier. Take your time learning how the motor works in your neighborhood.
Electric Tricycle Benefits
Electric Tricycles are easy to learn and maintain, not requiring a license or formal training. They can be taken for rides on paved surfaces such as sidewalks, bike paths, golf courses, and parks, offering people a great way to get around and see their community.
Electric Tricycles offer freedom from traffic jams, and they’re eco-friendly because you don’t need gas. They make for a great hobby for folks who place a premium on feeling balanced, sturdy, and safe.
This is perhaps they’re greatest benefit: they're safe for people of all abilities. Electric Tricycles offer a lot of advantages to people with certain disabilities and are great for senior citizens. Riders have to worry much less about falling off or over-exerting themselves in the face of strong headwinds, due to the balance provided by the back wheels and the added help of the motor.
There are also health benefits to cycling with an Electric Tricycle. It’s a great way for folks to stay in shape and exercise, while also staying engaged in their community. Getting from point A to point B becomes much easier when you’re on such a sturdy bike, and the electric motor makes it easier to ride up hills or flat terrain. You’re also engaging with your environment in a way that simply feels different than riding in a car. In addition to the physical benefits, this also provides a boost to your mental health, which becomes increasingly important as you age.
Although providing a great way to exercise, Electric Tricycles reduce unwanted physical strain because they don’t require as much effort from the rider when using them over long periods of time.
In short: Electric Tricycles offer many advantages for people with disabilities and seniors who want to ride without pain. Electric tricycles provide the added advantage of being powered by an electric motor that makes it easier to climb hills and go farther than traditional bikes over long periods of time.These motors also reduce physical strain because pedaling with them doesn’t require as much effort from the rider.
What Situations are Electric Tricycles Best Suited For?
As mentioned, Electric Tricycles have three wheels: one in the front, two on the rear. This makes them significantly more stable than a bicycle.
Electric Tricycles are great for those whose ability to pedal is limited due to injuries or disabilities. It affords a great way to ride on bike paths, and if the Electric Tricycle has fat tires and the right motor, they can even be used to ride in conditions like snow or dirt paths. This means they’re perfect for people who are looking to get out more, but who want a safer ride than those provided by an electric bike or a standard bike.
A proper Electric Tricycle should have seats that can be adjusted so that you don't have to bend over while riding them. Ergonomics are key, and for this reason, Electric Tricycles are best suited for those who value comfort in their ride.
In short: Electric Tricycles are far sturdier than bikes, electric bikes, and scooters. They provide a great way to ride on bike paths, paved surfaces, and even hills. In the case of Electric Tricycles with fat tires, they can even be used on dirt paths, beaches, and snow.
Commonly Asked Questions About Riding an Electric Tricycle
Here are the most commonly-asked questions about riding an Electric Tricycle:
How safe is the Electric Tricycle?
First and foremost, you need an Electric Tricycle that you feel secure on. That means feeling balanced, getting on and off, and being able to customize it if you have special needs (while not losing any of the Electric Tricycle’s sturdiness). Next, you need front and rear lights for safety. Finally, check to see that the Electric Tricycle has disc brakes.
How comfortable is it to mount and dismount?
Find an Electric Tricycle that’s easy to mount and dismount. Ideally, it’s one with a well placed motor and battery that makes getting on and off more comfortable. Its frame should have the rider in mind; it should have a low step through so it's easy to step in and out.
How easy is it to set up?
From order to shipment to assembly, the process needs to be simple and safe. Look for companies that provide fast and free shipping, and that provide bikes that are mostly assembled already. If they have a white glove service option when the bike arrives, even better; someone can come help you make slight adjustments to customize the ride is key.
How easy is it to use once it’s set up?
It should take less than five minutes from the time you set up the bike to the time you’re riding. Anything more than that is too complicated.
Does the battery matter?
Yes, for a few reasons. Electric models can be powered by several types of batteries, but you want to look for one with a “smart charger” so you don’t have to worry about over-charging it. You also want to be able to travel a long distance on a single charge.
What modes should it have?
Both full throttle and pedal-assist, so you can choose how much physical exertion you want to use.
What if I have issues with the bike after I start using it?
Look for a company that can provide service anywhere. They should be able to send someone to you to help with any simple fixes. You should also look for a company that offers a strong warranty.
In short: Know the answers to the questions above when purchasing an Electric Tricycle.
The best Electric Tricycles to ride
With many options on the market, you need an Electric Tricycle that:
- Suits your specific needs.
- Is safe, dependable, and affords you freedom and joy when riding.
Based on the criteria outlined in the previous section, these are the best Electric Tricycles to buy if…
You’re going to be mostly on paved surfaces, and want the best all-around Electric Tricycle on the market.
Anywhere Trike - Electric Adult Tricycle – Breezy Edition
For those who want a fun and easy way to travel, but don't like the idea of riding a standard bike. The Anywhere Trike is also for those who value safety, but still want the freedom and joy that comes from cycling. Not only does it help with commuting, it also makes for great exercise and a way to get outdoors.
It sports a long-lasting battery that gives you 28 miles on a single charge, a full throttle mode, and a pedal-assist mode. This Adult Electric Tricycle comes 90% assembled, and will be delivered in a week. Once it’s assembled, it takes less than five minutes to learn to ride. It’s perfect for those who want to ride on paved bike paths, flat surfaces, and even hills.
Check it out Here: Anywhere Trike Breezy Edition - Electric Tricycle
For those who want a little more torque:
Anywhere Trike - Rugged Edition
A well-hidden front hub assembly motor and fat tires mean you’ll never have to worry about hills again with this Electric Tricycle. A 500W 48V motor has enough torque to get you uphill, while an oversized battery means you’ll be able to go 31 miles on a single charge.
Although this Electric Tricycle has more power, safety is not sacrificed. The fat tires provide balance and stability on bike paths, roads, dirt paths, beaches, and snow. An ergonomic design allows you to keep your back straight and remain comfortable. Finally, the best warranty in the industry helps buyers feel secure in their purchase.
Check it out here: Anywhere Trike Fat Tire Electric Tricycle