Remember the simple joy of riding a tricycle as a child? Now, imagine that same feeling of freedom and stability, but with an electric boost designed for adults. Three Wheeler Electric Bikes, often called electric trikes, are revolutionizing personal transportation for adults of all ages, especially seniors and those seeking enhanced stability and comfort. Whether you’re looking to cruise around your neighborhood, tackle errands, or simply enjoy the outdoors with less strain, a three wheeler electric bike might be the perfect solution. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about these versatile vehicles, helping you make an informed decision and discover the best three wheeler electric bike for your needs.
Why Choose a Three Wheeler Electric Bike?
Electric tricycles offer a unique blend of benefits that set them apart from traditional bicycles and even two-wheeled electric bikes. The most significant advantage is stability. The three-wheel design eliminates the balance challenges associated with two-wheelers, making them exceptionally safe and confidence-inspiring, particularly for senior riders or individuals with balance concerns. This added stability gets more people back on bikes after years away, opening up a world of outdoor activity and independent mobility.
Beyond stability, three wheeler electric bikes provide enhanced comfort. Many models feature comfortable, upright riding positions and cushioned seats, reducing strain on the back, wrists, and joints. The electric assist motor further minimizes physical exertion, allowing you to travel longer distances and tackle hills with ease, without breaking a sweat. This makes them ideal for leisurely rides, commuting, and even carrying cargo.
Key Features of Three Wheeler Electric Bikes
When considering a three wheeler electric bike, several features are crucial to understand to ensure you choose the right model for your needs.
Motor Power and Size for Electric Trikes
The motor is the heart of any electric bike, and three wheelers are no exception. Electric trikes typically come with motor sizes ranging from 250 watts to 750 watts. The appropriate motor size depends largely on your intended use and riding conditions.
- 250 Watts: Ideal for flat terrain, leisurely rides, and riders who primarily want gentle assistance for neighborhood cruising and paths. These motors offer sufficient power for casual riding and are energy-efficient.
- 500 Watts: A versatile mid-range option, 500-watt motors provide a good balance of power and efficiency. They are suitable for everyday riding, handling moderate hills, and carrying light cargo. This size is excellent for riders who want assistance but still want to engage in pedaling.
- 750 Watts: For riders needing extra power, especially for tackling steep hills, carrying heavier loads, or riding frequently in varied terrain, a 750-watt motor is the best choice. These motors offer robust performance and can reach higher speeds with throttle and pedal assist. Note that in the US, 750 watts is often the legal limit for street-legal electric bikes.
Motor placement also varies on three wheel electric bikes, influencing performance and handling:
- Front Hub Motors: Located in the front wheel hub, these motors are a common and cost-effective option. They offer good power and are relatively easy to replace if maintenance is needed.
- Mid-Drive Motors: Positioned in the center of the frame, near the pedals, mid-drive motors provide superior torque and efficiency, particularly for hill climbing. They utilize the trike’s gears, maximizing power output. However, trikes with mid-drive motors tend to be more expensive.
- Rear Hub Motors: Similar in performance to front hub motors, rear hub motors offer good power. While replacement might be slightly more complex than front hub motors, they are a reliable option, often positioned as a mid-price point between front hub and mid-drive systems.
Battery and Range of Electric Trikes
The battery is another critical component, directly impacting the range and price of a three wheeler electric bike. Lithium-ion batteries are the standard, known for their energy density and relatively long lifespan. Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh) or amp-hours (Ah), with higher numbers indicating greater range.
The range you can expect from a battery charge varies based on factors like motor size, battery capacity, rider weight, terrain, and assist level used. Generally, you can anticipate ranges from 20 to 50 miles per charge, or even more on some higher-capacity models.
Larger batteries increase the price of the electric trike but provide extended range, which is crucial for riders planning longer excursions or those who prefer to charge less frequently. Consider your typical riding distance and terrain when selecting battery size. For hilly areas or heavier riders, a larger battery is recommended. Fat tire electric trikes, due to increased rolling resistance, also tend to consume battery power more quickly.
Removable batteries are a highly convenient feature, allowing you to charge the battery indoors, away from the trike, and also offering the option to reduce the trike’s weight for manual pedaling. Many e-trike batteries come with a locking mechanism for security.
Throttle and Pedal Assist on Three Wheel Electric Bikes
Three wheeler electric bikes typically offer two primary ways to engage the electric motor: throttle and pedal assist.
- Throttle: A throttle provides on-demand power from the motor, independent of pedaling. Thumb throttles, activated by pressing with your thumb, and twist throttles, operated by twisting the handlebar grip, are common types. Throttles are excellent for quick starts, navigating tricky spots, or when you simply want a break from pedaling.
- Pedal Assist: Pedal assist mode engages the motor when you pedal, amplifying your pedaling effort. Most e-trikes offer multiple levels of pedal assist, allowing you to adjust the amount of motor assistance you receive. Lower levels provide gentle assistance for flatter terrain, while higher levels offer maximum support for hills or headwinds. Pedal assist enhances your riding range and makes cycling less strenuous.
The combination of throttle and pedal assist offers great flexibility, allowing riders to choose the level of effort and assistance they desire for different riding situations.
LCD Displays on Electric Trikes
Many electric trikes are equipped with LCD displays that provide important riding information. These displays vary in size and style, from large, centrally mounted screens to smaller, more streamlined designs.
Regardless of size, LCD displays typically show:
- Battery Level: Indicates the remaining battery charge.
- Pedal Assist Level: Displays the current level of pedal assistance engaged.
- Speed: Shows your current speed.
- Distance Traveled: Tracks your trip distance and sometimes odometer readings.
Some advanced displays may also include features like power output readings, ambient temperature, and even light indicators. While the display doesn’t directly impact performance, it provides valuable real-time data to manage your ride and battery usage effectively.
Choosing the Right Three Wheeler Electric Bike for You
Selecting the best three wheeler electric bike involves considering several factors to match your specific needs and preferences.
Pricing Considerations for Electric Trikes
The price of adult electric tricycles can vary considerably, ranging from around $1,000 to upwards of $5,000 or more. The primary factors influencing price are:
- Battery Size and Brand: Larger capacity batteries and batteries from reputable brands like Samsung or LG increase cost.
- Motor Size and Type: More powerful motors, especially mid-drive motors, contribute to a higher price.
- Frame Design and Materials: Unique frame designs, folding mechanisms, and higher-grade materials can increase the price.
- Features and Components: Features like fat tires, advanced LCD displays, hydraulic brakes, and passenger-carrying capabilities (rickshaws) add to the cost.
When shopping, prioritize features that are essential for your riding style and needs to avoid overspending on unnecessary extras. Brands like Sixthreezero offer a range of affordable and well-equipped electric trikes.
Tire Types and Sizes for Three Wheel Electric Bikes
Tire size and type significantly affect the ride quality and handling of a three wheel electric bike. Common tire diameters include 16″, 20″, 24″, and 26″.
- Larger Diameter Tires (26″): Roll more efficiently, maintain momentum better, and are generally preferred for longer rides and riders who pedal frequently.
- Smaller Diameter Tires (16″, 20″): Offer a lower step-over height, making mounting and dismounting easier, which is particularly beneficial for seniors or those with mobility limitations. They also contribute to a more compact trike, especially in folding models.
Tire width also plays a role:
- Narrower Tires (2″): Provide a good balance of rolling efficiency and stability for paved surfaces.
- Wider Tires (4″ – Fat Tires): Offer enhanced traction and cushioning, ideal for off-road riding, uneven surfaces, and increased stability. Fat tires provide a smoother ride but may require more effort to pedal manually and can reduce battery range.
Consider your typical riding surfaces and desired level of pedaling effort when choosing tire size and width.
Brake Systems on Adult Electric Trikes
Effective brakes are paramount for safety on any bicycle, especially electric trikes, which can reach higher speeds. Common brake types include:
- Mechanical Disc Brakes: A popular choice, offering reliable stopping power and ease of maintenance. They use a cable-actuated system to clamp brake pads on a rotor.
- Mechanical Rim Brakes: Suitable for lower-powered e-trikes (250W or less), rim brakes are simpler and more budget-friendly. They apply brake pads directly to the wheel rim.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The most powerful and responsive brake type, hydraulic disc brakes use fluid pressure for braking force. They offer superior modulation and stopping power, particularly beneficial for hilly terrain and higher speeds, but are generally more expensive and may require more specialized maintenance.
For most adult electric trike riders, mechanical disc brakes provide an excellent balance of performance, reliability, and cost.
Folding vs. Non-Folding Electric Tricycles
Folding electric trikes offer the advantage of portability and easier storage. They typically fold in half, with folding pedals and handlebars, making them compact enough to fit in car trunks, RVs, or smaller storage spaces.
Folding trikes are ideal for those who:
- Need to transport their trike frequently.
- Have limited storage space at home.
- Prefer smaller wheels for maneuverability and compactness when folded.
Non-folding trikes generally offer greater robustness and may come with features like fat tires that are less common in folding models. If portability isn’t a primary concern, a non-folding model might offer more features and stability for the price.
Seat Comfort and Ergonomics on Three Wheeler Electric Bikes
Comfort is a key consideration for many three wheeler electric bike riders, especially seniors. Many adult trikes come with large, cushioned seats, often with backrests for added support.
Seat adjustability is also important. Look for trikes with adjustable seat height and fore/aft positioning to find the optimal riding posture. For riders with specific needs or preferences, seats are typically interchangeable, allowing you to upgrade to a more customized option.
Ergonomics extends beyond the seat. Consider the overall riding position. Upright postures are common and comfortable for leisurely riding, while recumbent trikes offer a laid-back, reclined position that can be exceptionally comfortable for riders with back issues.
Cargo and Storage on 3 Wheel Electric Bikes
One of the practical advantages of three wheel electric bikes is their cargo-carrying capacity. Many models come equipped with a rear basket, often significantly larger than bicycle baskets, perfect for groceries, bags, or personal items.
Some trikes also offer front basket options, and various accessories like frame-mounted bags can further expand storage. The stability of a three-wheeler makes carrying cargo much easier and safer than on a two-wheeled bike. This cargo capacity makes them excellent for errands, shopping trips, and even carrying pets.
Rider Ergonomics and Adjustability of Electric Trikes
Ergonomics is crucial for comfortable and pain-free riding, especially for seniors or those with joint concerns. Look for three wheel electric bikes with multiple adjustment points, typically on the handlebars and seat.
Adjustable handlebars allow you to customize reach and height, ensuring a comfortable arm and wrist position. Seat adjustments (height and fore/aft) optimize leg extension and overall posture. These adjustments are vital for finding the ideal riding position that minimizes strain and maximizes comfort and efficiency. Brands like Sixthreezero emphasize ergonomic design with multiple adjustment points on their trikes.
Riding and Maintaining Your Three Wheeler Electric Bike
Steering Tips for Electric Trikes
Steering a three wheel electric bike differs from a two-wheeled bicycle. Unlike bikes where you lean into turns, on a trike, you should shift your weight opposite to the direction of the turn to maintain stability and keep all three wheels grounded.
Steering is primarily done through the handlebars. Turning the handlebars is essential for initiating turns; leaning alone won’t steer a trike. Practice in a safe, open area to get accustomed to the steering dynamics. Patience and practice are key to mastering trike steering.
Pre-Ride Checks for Your Electric Trike
Before each ride, perform a quick safety check:
- Tire Pressure: Ensure tires are properly inflated. Low pressure increases rolling resistance and can damage tires. Use a tire pressure gauge to check and inflate as needed.
- Brakes: Test both front and rear brakes to ensure they are responsive and effectively stop the trike. Adjust or seek professional service if brakes feel loose or ineffective.
- Wheels, Seat, and Handlebars: Check that wheels are securely attached and undamaged. Confirm the seat and handlebars are properly adjusted and tightened.
- Battery Charge: Verify the battery is sufficiently charged for your planned ride, especially for longer distances.
- LCD Display: Ensure the display is functioning and showing key information like battery level, speed, and assist level.
These simple checks ensure a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
Top Advantages of Riding a Three Wheeler Electric Bike
Beyond stability and comfort, three wheel electric bikes offer numerous benefits:
- Gentle on Joints: Cycling is a low-impact exercise that is kinder to knees and joints compared to high-impact activities like running. Electric assist further reduces strain, making it ideal for individuals with joint pain or arthritis.
- Weight Management: Riding an e-trike is an enjoyable way to burn calories and contribute to weight loss or maintenance.
- Cardiovascular Health: Cycling improves heart health, strengthens the cardiovascular system, and boosts energy levels.
- Increased Mobility and Independence: Electric trikes provide a means of transportation and recreation for individuals who may have difficulty with traditional bicycles, enhancing their independence and access to outdoor activities.
- Practical for Errands and Cargo: With ample storage capacity, e-trikes are practical for shopping, errands, and carrying various items, making them a versatile alternative to cars for local trips.
Sixthreezero Electric Trike Models: Designed for Comfort and Enjoyment
Sixthreezero offers a diverse range of three wheel electric bikes, each designed with rider comfort and specific needs in mind. Their frames are ergonomically engineered to promote a relaxed riding posture, minimizing strain on joints. Features like step-through frames, shock-absorbing tires, and ample storage are thoughtfully integrated.
Sixthreezero’s electric trike models include:
-
EVRYjourney 250W Electric Tricycle: A versatile cruiser with 26″ wheels, ideal for smooth pavement riding and neighborhood explorations. Features a large rear cargo basket. Great for adults and seniors seeking comfortable, assisted cruising.
EVRYjourney 250 watt electric tricycle -
EZ Transit 750W Foldable E-Trike: A powerful and portable folding trike with a 750W front hub motor. Folds compactly for transport and storage. Suitable for riders up to 300lbs and various terrains.
EZ Transit 750 watt Foldable E Trike -
EVRYjourney Electric Rickshaw: Designed for carrying passengers, with a rear bench seat for up to 300lbs. Features a 750W front hub motor. Ideal for riders who want to share their rides with others, including those with disabilities.
EVRYjourney E Bike Rickshaw -
Two Front Wheel Electric Trike: A reverse trike with two front wheels and one rear wheel, offering nimble steering and balance. Equipped with a powerful 750W rear hub motor. A unique option for riders seeking a blend of bike-like handling and trike stability.
Two Front Wheel Electric Trike -
Simple Step-Thru Fat Tire Electric Tricycle: Features 4″ wide fat tires for all-terrain capability and a low step-through frame for easy access. Includes a large cargo basket. Great for riders seeking stability and off-road versatility.
Simple Step Thru Fat Tire Electric Tricycle -
Simple Glide 500W Recumbent E-Trike: The ultimate comfort trike with a recumbent seat, backrest, and armrests. Features a 500W front hub motor and long battery range. Exceptional comfort for riders with physical limitations or those seeking maximum relaxation.
Simple Glide 500 watt Recumbent E Trike
Sixthreezero stands behind the quality of their trikes with a “forever warranty,” demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction and product durability.
Explore the full range of electric trikes for sale at Sixthreezero.com and discover the perfect three wheeler electric bike to enhance your mobility, comfort, and enjoyment of the outdoors.
Learn More About Electric Trikes:
Learn More About Electric Bikes:
Popular Electric Bike Types:
Electric Bikes To Match Your Lifestyle:
