Whether you have stability issues keeping you off two wheels or simply want more exercise, the best three wheel electric bikes offer a fun, easy way to get moving. They’re a cinch to ride, have great safety features, and can making zipping up hills a breeze. Maybe you’ve already seen one on the road, but if you haven’t, you’re in for a real treat.
I like three wheel electric bikes because they allow me to multitask. Most come with storage, so you can use them for trips to the laundry mat or store. However, they’re also great for long leisurely excursions. Some can go up to 55 miles per charge and have recumbent seating, so you can just lean back and steer.
They’re definitely attention getters, which also doesn’t hurt. They come in fun colors, and often can be decked out with fun accessories to make them truly your own. Whatever your reason for being trike-curious, you’re sure to find one that gets you where you want to go. Ready to roll? Keep reading to see our favorites.
Oh, yes. In fact, there are many three wheel bikes! Trikes or ‘adult tricycles’ are unbeatable when it comes to offering a stable ride. Because of their structure, they require minimal, if any, effort to balance. This single feature makes them very attractive to older adults and those with limited mobility.
Similar to the best electric bikes for women, three wheel electric bikes are extra special because they offer a kick of power. They’re equipped with battery operated motors that make it easier to go up hills.
Again, if you have foot pain or bad knees, opting for a trike with some juice can help you get back out on the road. You can still bike manually, but also have the option of pedaling with the motor (referred to as pedal assist), or going fully electric.
The higher the motor watt (350 and up) the easier you’ll move up steeper inclines. However, this isn’t to say that these bikes are good for just hills. They’re also great for cruising through town and getting your errands done. The best three wheel electric bikes include rear baskets, headlights, and button-based throttles that make an already fun experience exhilarating.
A great example of this is the EVRYjourney Electric Hybrid Tricycle. I’m obsessed with its color options, the accessible step-thru frame, and that is has a thumb throttle to control the motor’s power. It’s made by Sixthreezero, which has a super user-friendly site. If going through specs and bike heights overwhelms you, I highly recommend starting your shopping with them. They make the process easy,
When shopping for your three wheel electric bike, pay attention to how far it can go between charges. If you want to take long rides, something like the 3SCORE Electric Fat Trike, which can zoom up to 45 miles, may be a good option. In contrast, if you’re more interested in something just to take you to the corner store and back, the Viribus Adult Electric Tricycle can go 22 miles between charges, and is under $1,000.
If you’ve avoided electric bikes because you’re afraid they have too much pep, an electric tricycle is a great option. For one thing, they’re easier to balance and control, which greatly cuts down your risk of injury. E-bike users also tend to ride conservatively.
According to Portland State University, those with electric bicycles only went 3 miles per hour faster than conventional bikers. In some settings, traditional cyclists actually out-pedaled them. Although a reason wasn’t given for this, it could be that electric bike owners are more cautious since they know how fast they can go. This might lead to them being safer bikers.
Three wheel electric bikes can make you feel like a kid — in a good way — but have the type of safety features grownups love. For example, the CozyTrike Adult Electric Tricycle, has an advanced breaking system, and front suspension to help tires maintain surface contact. It also comes with an extra-large rear basket, which technically has nothing to do with safety, but makes the trike superb at carting groceries home.
You’re not required to have a special license or insurance to operate an electric bike. However, you still need to remain alert to your environment. Some of the best three wheel electric bikes, like the M-340 Electric Fat Trike, have thick puncture-resistant tires that are excellent at gripping the road. You can also step through the frame, which is great if you don’t have full range of motion.
Like all bikes, three wheel electric bikes offer many health benefits. According to Geriatric Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, cycling can help reduce muscle loss in seniors. And according to Harvard Medical School, getting outside for just 20 minutes daily is enough to improve your mood, lower anxiety, and reduce blood pressure.
Operating an electric bike can take some time getting used to. It may be helpful to practice on a flat, non-busy area, where you can become accustomed to the throttle, and the bike’s overall operation. Go slow, and then once you’re familiar with all the settings, you can speed things up.
It goes without saying that you should always wear a bike helmet. Although most of the best three wheel electric bikes will include an electric horn and lights, the rules of the road still apply!
Three wheel electric bikes average between $1,500 and $3,000. If that sounds pricey, you may be glad to know that these bikes last a long time. According to Sixthreezero, bike motors last up to five years. Interestingly, motors tend to be extra durable, lasting 10,000 miles or longer. Tires, chains, and brakes should be checked out for wear and tear every 3,000 miles or so.
Considering that traditional bikes need their break pads changed every 1,000 miles, it’s not hard to see that electric trikes are actually affordable. They’re safer than two-wheelers, awesome for those with balance issues, and make transporting things super easy. It not a surprise that so many want them.
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