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Tricycles

Best Adult Tricycle: Reviews and Top Picks (2024)

Many adults are actually scared to get back on a bike for the fear of falling. Or perhaps they never learned how to ride a bicycle in their childhood. The good news is there are different types of adult tricycles that are a safe way to start riding again.

But how do you find the best adult tricycle? What type do you want? Delta or tadpole? Upright or recumbent? Upright trikes are a little top-heavy and may have problems on the hard corners while recumbent trikes have better stability due to their low center of gravity with a cushy seat.

We thoroughly reviewed today’s most popular lightweight adult trikes and shared how well they fared. This is your golden opportunity to find your best match whatever the purpose you need it for!

Our Top 10 Best Adult Tricycle Reviews

01 Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle (Best Upright Tricycle)

Schwinn Meridian S4002 Adult Tricycle

Why it Stands Out To Us

The name “Schwinn” is enough to be convinced that this is going to be a really good tricycle for adults. Based on our experience, we vouch for that. The Meridian has everything to make your triking experience real easy and fun. Whether you use your trike for cruising around, shopping, or exercising, this will give you a memorable ride every time!

Our Experience with the Schwinn Meridian

  • Assembly isn’t so easy and may require several hours. The “too technical” instruction manual is not very helpful either. Better visit a nearby bike shop if you’re not the mechanical type. But once assembled, this is a beautiful bike ready to serve you for years.
  • The front frame is aluminum while the rear is steel. The wheels feature aluminum single wall rims and galvanized spokes. You might expect plastic brakes but they’re actually steel with aluminum levers.
  • Nice look, fun to ride, and easy to handle. Comfortable riding is one of the main reasons people try out these tricycles. The Meridian makes sure that you’ll enjoy your ride all year round. Just be careful when cornering because you won’t be able to lean
  • Although most parts are aluminum, it’s still a bit heavy
  • This is a single-speed trike but 3-speed and 7-speed versions are also available. The single speed is perfect for cruising around the neighborhood and won’t be an issue until there are some hills in your area
  • You’re sure to love the roomy basket as well that comes with a highly functional design. Instead of groceries or other essentials, we’ve seen people using the baskjet to ride with their kids or pets. Some complained it rattled a lot though that didn’t happen in our case

What We Didn’t Like

  • Low quality metal fenders that bend easily. Many even had dented fenders in their package
  • The seat was not up to par. It was so small and hard that we had to replace it. Some also complained that the seat rocked back and forth although they tightened it well

Who Is It Great for

  • All adults, including seniors can ride this amazing tricycle for some fun time and exercise

What Could Be Improved and Why

  • Schwinn really needs to focus on their packaging quality. So many users complained about getting dented parts that it’s hard to believe that they have not taken any steps yet

Our Recommendations

  • You may need some time to get used to it, so don’t start riding this tricycle in crowded or heavily trafficked areas right after your assembly

Specifications

  • Material: Aluminum
  • Wheel Size: 26
  • Gear: Single, 3 & 7 Speed
  • Rider Height: 5’4″ to 6’2″

Pros

  • Eye-catching design
  • Nice ride
  • Easy to handle
  • Durable
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Hard to assemble, may require professional help
  • Poor packaging results in dented fenders and other parts

02 Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle (Best Recumbent Tricycle)

Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle

Why it stands out to us

Mobo Cruisers have a solid fan base because of their amazing adult and kid’s trikes. The Triton Pro is one of their top-sellers that combines comfortability and hassle-free rides the best way possible. There’s no basket which means you can’t take it for shopping. But for exercise or casual rides in the neighborhood, this can be your best companion!

Our experience with the Triton Pro

  • This tricycle looks so cool. No matter how old you are, you will perhaps look younger just because you are riding this stunning trike. Also, get ready for some compliments wherever you hit the road!
  • Fairly straightforward assembly and anyone can get it done in an hour with the instruction manual. The package has all the tools needed for assembly, which is great if you’re not the handy type of person
  • The extendable frame is really appreciable. It helps adjust to the rider’s size for comfortable sitting so your riding experience is not compromised. Also, if your teens are riding this trike, it will grow with them over the years
  • The unique joysticks for steering are directly linked to the rear wheels. You will need some time to get used to the hand brake and the joysticks but they are really easy to use, even for elderly and physically or mentally challenged riders
  • Always fun to ride as an entry-level bike. The Triton Pro handles rough, bumpy roads and sidewalks nicely.
  • Be careful when cornering because the trike may trip if you’re too fast

What we didn’t like

  • The tires don’t last long, especially the rear ones because they make the turns. However, this is an inexpensive and easy fix. You just have to get a solid tube.

What could be improved

  • A front or rear basket could be a nice addition for shoppers
  • Gears could be added for those living in hilly areas

Our recommendation

  • Don’t expect high speed from this single-speed bike
  • Not for off road trails or steep hills
  • Since you will be very close to the ground, better add an extra red flag so cars can see you from far away

Specifications

  • Material: Hi-Ten steel
  • Wheel Size: 16″ rear, 20″ front
  • Gear: None
  • Rider Height: 4’2” to 6’3”
  • Weight Limit: 250 lbs

Pros

  • Smooth ride
  • Little or no maintenance
  • Inexpensive
  • Easy to handle
  • Extendable frame

Cons

  • Cheap tires wear out soon

03 sixthreezero Body Ease Adult Tricycle

sixthreezero Body Ease Adult Tricycle

Why it stands out to us

This tricycle was designed keeping comfort in mind. Aside from comfort, you will have loads of fun with Sixthreezero’s Body Ease.

Our experience with the sixthreezero Body Ease

  • The Body Ease looks so cute that it always attracts people’s attention around you. Trikes are getting popular day by day and many are not used to these types of vehicles yet. So riders often get comments (both positive and negative) but in this case, you will mostly get compliments because of its gorgeous design
  • The packing is great and all parts come well organized. There is even an extra bag of nuts and bolts. The directions for assembly are crystal-clear that makes the process hassle-free. There are also videos and support teams to help you if you get stuck somewhere in between.
  • The sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame has a specially designed geometry to help absorb bumps. This results in less or no tension off your major joints and pain during and after your rides
  • The 7 speed gears come preassembled and work fine for gentle hills and for speeding up. Don’t consider this if you live in an area full of steep hills.
  • Everything you expect from your trike – from security to safety to quality to style – is delivered by the Body Ease.
  • The basket is very useful to accommodate your pets and groceries. For pets, put a blanket or a foam on the basket for comfort. What’s more, you can even put a small dog carrier on the spacious basket.

What we didn’t like

  • The seat height cannot be adjusted

What could be improved

  • Of course the seat height should be adjustable. It’s hard to think of a bike or trike whose seat cannot be adjusted

Specifications

  • Material: Aluminum
  • Wheel Size: 26”
  • Gear: 7 speed
  • Rider Height: 5’ to 6’2”
  • Weight Limit: 300 lbs

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • Optimum comfort
  • Easy assembly
  • Smooth performance
  • Great customer support

Cons

  • Seat height can’t be adjusted

04 DWMEIGI Adult Electric Tricycle

DWMEIGI Adult Electric Tricycle

Why it stands out to us

DWMEIGI may not be an established name in the industry yet, but they are a rising star committed to innovation, quality, and reliability. This commitment is reflected in this adult e-trike – in its design, features, performance, and reliability.

Our experience with the

  • Just like other shortlisted choices, installation isn’t an easy task as well unless you’re really handy. You will get a “useless” manual with a video that will miss some of the most technical aspects of the installation process. You have to check out other detailed YouTube videos anyway
  • The steel frame material and aluminum alloy rim, saddle post, stem, and handle are sturdy enough to last a long time
  • The 350-watt motor may not sound much when compared to other electric tricycles with more powerful 500-watt or 700-watt motors. But in reality, this is enough to ride at 15 to 25 mph. You won’t need more than that unless you’ve steep slopes in your area.
  • You can expect 1.30 to 2 hours of riding session out of every full charge (based on your weight, road condition, and riding style)
  • The upright sitting arrangement is very comfy but you may have a sense of tipping over, especially when making turns at a fast speed. This is common with any tricycle and you will get used to it after a few rides
  • The low step-through frame is a great addition for easy on and off accessibility
  • The placement of the battery right in the middle helps keep its weight centered and evenly distributed. We love trikes that have their batteries positioned this way
  • The front and back disc brake levers have a locking mechanism that keeps the trike from rolling away

What we didn’t like

  • Difficult to install for DIYers
  • Only two color choices – blue and red

What could be improved

  • The user manual needs to be updated with detailed instructions

Our recommendations

  • Since you’re already investing good money on this vehicle, we highly recommend that you spend a little more and ask for professional help to get the best out of your purchase
  • The bike is fast even at a low setting. Don’t choose top speed when trying it out for the first few times

Specifications

  • Material: Steel
  • Wheel Size: 24”
  • Gear: 7 Speed
  • Rider Height: 4’11” to 6’2″

Pros

  • Comfortable ride
  • Good battery life
  • Quality build
  • Great customer support
  • Great for casual and short rides

Cons

  • Difficult to install

05 Worksman WTX Wide Tracking Adult Trike

Worksman WTX Wide Tracking Adult Trike

If you’re looking for the right tool for physical therapy for riders with special needs, this Worksman WTX is the option for you. It has its pedals on the front wheel, making it similar to kid’s tricycles, allowing the rider to have complete control of the speed. Like our third choice, it features a freewheel hub, meaning that the pedal always turns, and you can stop the ride by pedaling backward.

It’s equipped with solid wheels and large air tires that makes it pretty stable for all categories of riders. Besides, it can support persons weighing up to 250 pounds, and with the padded seat, you can always enjoy a comfortable ride.

Besides, it’s low-speed design makes it safer for riding around the neighborhood and in particular environments like the hospital. With this design, it’s comfortable for children aged around ten and seniors to ride.

Its only drawback is the lack of brakes that make riding downhill challenging. This won’t bother you if you’ll be riding only on flat surfaces.

Pros

  • Sturdy tires
  • Steel frames
  • Solid-wheelbarrow style wheels
  • Supports weights up to 250 pounds
  • Direct drive system

Cons

  • Without brakes

06 Razor DXT Drift Trike

Razor DXT Drift Trike

Founded in 2000, Razor has become a household name when it comes to adult tricycles and high-end scooters. This new Razor DXT trike has the right features for a fulfilling ride. Like the name, the design is a little drift from the traditional looks of tricycles, making it a must-have for any pro and amateur rider.

It measures at 55.6 x 35.7 x 30.4 inches and weighs 19.4 pounds, meaning it’s among the lightest on this list. So, it won’t take much storage space, and you can carry it with ease.

This product has an all-steel construction, so you’ll not think of a replacement for many years.

The design of the seat is outstanding, featuring a bucket style for better comfort and can be adjusted to suit your perfect position. Unlike our previous models, this one comes with a flat handlebar, which allows you to have a firm grip and control of the ride.

There is a 20-inch tire that wraps around the pneumatic front wheel while the rear has two 10-inch blow-molded tires for the perfect balance and ease of navigation. Fortunately, this machine can ride on both smooth and off-road terrains.

Like other chainless models, it comes with a freewheel hub that enables you to ride downhill without pedaling. However, riding uphill was an extra workout for our legs and arm muscles because we had to pedal hard to maintain our speed.

Pros

  • Moto-style handlebars
  • Adjustable bucket-style seat
  • Steel frame
  • Front freewheel
  • Soft rubber grips
  • Wider rear tires

Cons

  • Difficulty when riding uphill

Our Verdict

This tricycle comes with wider tires, making it excellent for handling all situations. It is easy to assemble, affordable, and high for almost everyone. It offers a good value for the money. It’s also a popular model for sale and we highly recommend it.

07 Viribus 3 Wheel Electric Bike for Adults

Viribus 3 Wheel Electric Bike for Adults

Why it stands out to us

The best part about this Viribus e-trike is that it comes with a lower price tag while being armed with exclusive features commonly found in other higher-end models. This is a highly reliable electric tricycle that you can ride all year round and have the same amazing experience every time you hop on it!

Our experience with the

  • About assembly, the level of easiness or difficulty depends on how much mechanical knowledge you have and your previous installation experience
  • The beautiful look is a conversation-starter for sure
  • Very stable and comfortable to ride.  In fact, it’s easier to turn corners on this bike compared to other models we tested so far
  • Only the pedal assist is difficult to maintain because the speed is either high or zero. This is a design flaw that needs to be fixed for a better user experience
  • The battery lasts a long time but the one our team used died after a few years of regular use. The problem is the replacement battery is really hard to find
  • Some found their brakes screechy after a few days of use though that didn’t happen in our case
  • The customer service is up to par. They will listen to your queries and take immediate steps so you can hit the road as soon as you get your order

What we didn’t like

  • The seat is not comfy enough
  • The brakes may be squeaky

What could be improved

  • As said before, the pedal assist feature needs improvement because it’s actually more of an accelerator to reach the highest power level

Specifications

  • Material: Carbon steel
  • Wheel Size: 24”
  • Gear: 1 Speed
  • Rider Height: 5’7″ – 6’9″

Pros

  • Nice look
  • Robust build
  • Comfortable ride
  • Powerful trike
  • Highly affordable

Cons

  • The pedal assist mode needs improvement
  • Subpar saddle

08 Raleigh Bikes Tristar 3-Speed Trike

Raleigh Bikes Tristar 3-Speed Trike

By all indications, this product should’ve been among our top 3 trikes but costs about $600, which is quite expensive for most persons. Raleigh has a reputation for its role in flooding our markets with high-quality and dependable machines.

This Raleigh Torker Tristar features a Sturmey Archer 3-Speed drivetrain, which is designed with fewer parts to reduce the cost of maintenance. However, it wasn’t as fast as the Happybuy tricycle but performed better than our first choice when climbing hills. Also, it was pretty easy to assemble in comparison with other models on this review.

The Raleigh Tristar is equipped with a front V brake, which combines with the 24-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels to keep you stable when riding around town. Also, it comes with a lifetime frame warranty, which separates it from other items on this list.

While you’ll enjoy the large rear basket, front fender, and chain cover, its lack of rear fenders would limit its use in the rain.

Pros

  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Front V brake
  • High-quality build
  • Easy to assemble
  • Three-speed gear hub
  • Spring-loaded saddle

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Came without a rear fender

Our Verdict

The Raleigh Tristar is packed with lots of features to enhance your overall performance and comfort. We appreciate its ease of assembly and lifetime warranty that shows that the manufacturers want the best for the users. Though a little expensive, its outstanding build makes it a worthy investment for those who can afford it.

09 Ridgeyard 6 Speed Adult Tricycle

Ridgeyard 6 Speed Adult Tricycle

Ridgeyard cycle is designed to offer superb convenience and fun. The seat is large and padded to prevent shocks from reaching the back muscles that’s a concern for many. It has a step-through frame and adjustable handlebars for smooth riding for both men and women irrespective of their heights.

The frame and spoke material is high tensile steel, which is durable and sturdy enough to support a maximum load of 290 pounds. The multiple gears for this trike become very handy and supportive when a senior is ascending a steep terrain.

Unlike our Raleigh option that had only the front fender, this item comes with fenders for the three wheels, so you can ride it anywhere without spilling dirt on your clothes. Also, there are reflectors to provide you with better security when racing along the road around dusk.

Like most of the items on this list, we noticed that many DIYs were unable to assemble it, which contributed to the aftermarket cost. However, if you’re bent on installing it yourself, there are a few YouTube videos to guide you.

Pros

  • Full matching fenders
  • Reflectors
  • Adjustable seat with backrest
  • Folding basket
  • Upright handlebar
  • High-tensile steel frame

Cons

  • Not easy to assemble

Our Verdict

This tricycle is designed to meet your needs from many angles. It’s an excellent choice for elders to cruise the neighborhood because of its low profile construction and stability. It’s well-made with a soft seat to enhance the rider’s comfort. Like other products we’ve tested, it has its flaws, but you’ll never regret buying.

10 Northwoods Rock Point Adult Trike

Northwoods Rock Point Adult Trike

North Woods has come up with another solidly built tricycle for its loyal customers. This one is called Rock Point for a good reason. The build quality of the vehicle is ensured by its tensile steel body that gives the rider the much-needed confidence.

It sports 7 speed Shimano twist shifters from the Revo lineup for smooth speed changes in different road conditions. We found the huge rear basket really useful as it was big enough to hold a medium-sized carrying package.

Made from metal mesh, it’s able to withstand a decent amount of weight. The placement of the basket ensures easy access. As a matter of fact, the basket is the main reason these bikes exist, carrying necessities within a short distance super fast. This bike has got a nice one installed.

The bike has both front and back braking systems for secure stoppings. We took a long ride with this bike and its seat and waist rest, if not much, did a good job in supporting waist recline. We didn’t have much problem riding for a distance of 10 kilos at a stretch. The 24-inch wheels felt really solid and lightweight.

Pros

  • Solid and durable build quality
  • Ergonomic design
  • Spacious and durable rear basket

Cons

  • The stock seat is not that comfortable

Our Verdict

If you are looking for a solidly built trike with a spacious and sturdy basket, the Rock Point by Northwoods is a cool option. All you need to do is assemble it properly. Remember, if the assembling is not done properly, the wheels might wobble. Once lubed properly, it should run as smoothly as any other lightweight road bike.

Are Tricycles or Trikes Really for Adults?

Both children and adults favor tricycles because of their superior stability over conventional bicycles. With this, parents prefer starting their wards with tricycles (also known as triwheel bikes) before they switch to bikes, but trikes give a fair opportunity to adults with no fear of falling. However, children’s trikes are lightweight, having a more straightforward build, with pedals on the front wheels, such that you can brake using the front-drives. Also, they feature solid rubber tires to reduce the possibilities of punctures.

Tricycles for adults are a little different from children’s, with almost the same features of the two-wheeled bikes. They have standard gearing systems and brakes, allowing you to ride on all terrains. Other accessories include baskets, reflectors, fenders, etc.

But How Is Tricycling Different From Bicycling?

The main issue with bicycling is maintaining balance, which requires specific skills and muscle coordination. So, seniors and children under 5 with balance issues will instead opt for a tricycle.

Ideally, tricycles feel different since tricycling involves diverse body and muscular movements.

Most 3 wheeled bikes for seniors are slower that make them perfect for recreation, shopping, and exercise. However, tricycles are larger than bicycles and take much space when stored in the garage. So, they are not suitable for riding on most bike pavements.

Best Adult Tricycle Buying Guide

Best Adult Tricycle Buying Guide

1. Type

Adult trike bikes have different configurations, build, and clearance, so they fall under upright, recumbent, tandem, folding, and adaptive models.

  • Upright tricycles – As the name implies, upright trikes offer the best riding positions, making it ideal for leisure and errand rides. They usually feature baskets for shopping items and often have a maximum of three to four gears.
  • Recumbent tricycles –These types have the advantage of ultra-low clearance, stretched frames, and low wind drag, providing better balance and comfort. You have the chance to straighten your legs towards the front giving you more excellent back support for better positioning and speed control. However, the low seats make the rider less visible to oncoming vehicles on the road, so you’ll need to buy those with reflectors.
  • Tandem tricycles – They have sturdy frames, allowing two persons to ride from a reclining position. They are generally two seaters (also known as 2 seater or dual seater). The brackets enable you to decouple them for easy transportation and storage. On another note, if you want to carry a child, you can install a child seat on these particular bikes for convenient commuting just like a commuter bike.
  • Folding tricycles – Lightweight, compact, and portable; collapsible trikes are easy to carry or transport from one location to another.
  • Adaptive tricycles – Children and adults with special needs can find a way to boost their daily activity with an adaptive bike. They come with the necessary features for maneuverability, ease of use, and speed. If your problem is leg coordination, you can opt for those with hand drives, and if you need support, there are ones with unique back straps as well as head pulleys to satisfy your needs.
  • Electric —Electric tricycles have also been developed just like the electric bikes for people with disabilities. These battery powered trikes can be excellent for enhancing mobility of a disabled or handicapped. Some rare models use gas powered motors replacing the battery.

2. Frame Material & Color

  • Aluminum – As the most popular biking frame, it is durable, lightweight, affordable, and resistant to corrosion. Its drawback is the stiffness, making it less ideal for comfort and leisure rides.
  • Steel – It is sturdy and durable but more massive than other frame materials.
  • Titanium –Having similar characteristics as steel, but lighter and more expensive. It’s more flexible and has better shock absorption ratio. Titanium frames are commonly used in comfort bikes.
  • Carbon Fiber –It’s one of the most common materials on road and mountain bikes because of its extreme stiffness and lightweight. It does a great job of absorbing road shocks, making the rider comfortable. Most manufacturers allow you to adjust the frames to suit your size and position.
  • Color– In terms of color, it depends on your personal preference. However, most popular colors for the trikes are yellow, white, green, black, pink, purple, blue and red.

3. Seat

Most high-quality trikes are equipped with full and well-cushioned seats. Reading other buyers’ reviews will help you to know if the saddle can withstand your weight, especially when taking long-distant rides.

4. Gear

You can opt for a tricycle with a single or multiple speeds e.g. 6-speed and 10-speed. However, your style of riding, location, and intending purpose will determine the gearing arrangement to buy. If you’ll take hilly routes more often, it’s ideal to choose a multi-gear bike.

5. Storage Space

Three-wheeled bikes are more extensive than traditional bicycles and would need extra space for storage. So, if you’re having a small garage, a foldable tricycle should come to mind.

6. Ease of Use

As mentioned earlier, one of the primary reasons many people choose trikes is the ease of handling. Besides, they’re more comfortable to ride compared to two-wheeled bikes.

7. Ease of Maintenance

Adult tricycles are easier to maintain since they’ve almost the same components as bicycles, meaning they’re easy to find in the parts stores. However, trikes with multiple gear, disc brakes, and cables are a little tougher to keep.

8. Price

Three wheeled bikes don’t come cheap. They’re often more expensive than bicycles because of their larger frame and accessories. However, the best adult trikes cost around $200 to $600 depending on the brand and build quality. If you go for second hand or used and discounted models, you may get them at a significantly lower price.

Tricycle Riding Tips for Adults

Here are a few tips to help you get the best from your tricycles.

  • Mounting – There are no standard rules on stepping on the trike, however, if you’re on a steep surface, hold the brake levers firmly to prevent it from moving until you position yourself on the seat.
  • Seat Positioning – Adjusting to recumbents is tough for many and they’re ideal for seniors with knee pains. But if you’re not having leg pain, then you can opt for upright seats.
  • Slow Pedaling – Tricycles allow you to sit and relax until you’re ready to rotate the pedals. Take it slowly and gradually increase the speed. Then navigate your path by turning the handlebars.
  • Plan your turns – Since trikes are larger than bikes, you should apply more caution when turning. Avoid leaning to the direction of a turn to reduce the possibility of tripping and falling. So, keep the three wheels balanced by maintaining the lowest center gravity.
  • Ride slowly when taking unknown routes – It takes a little time for tricycles to maneuver against obstacles on their path when riding fast successfully. So, whenever you’re on a new road, ride slow, and always anticipate potential dangers by looking ahead.

Final Words

With this guide, the Gearbikesreview team tried to help you find the best adult tricycle from a myriad of options. We even prepared a guide to help you build your own adult trike if you can’t afford a brand-new one.

While you can’t go wrong with the Meridian model for all-time purposes, if you’re interested in comfort, then you should opt for the Tri-Rad Folding Tricycle since it has a low-cut steel frame for easy mounting. Also, the front suspension fork absorbs road shocks to prevent the vibrations from reaching your muscles.

To cater for persons with special needs, the Worksman WTX is the perfect choice for therapeutic purposes. But if you’re planning on taking hilly routes more often, you should look for a multi-gear trike like the Happybuy model.

If you’re having aching muscles or worried about falling from a bicycle, then you can’t afford to make the wrong choice when buying a tricycle. Since our products are well-researched, feel free to choose any that suits your preference.

About the author

James Jordan

As a kid I inherited the love for mountain bikes from my father who used to ride for weeks through the Colorado trail in the city of Denver. He had his gang, and I followed pretty much the same track.

Later on, my interest in biking grew more after joining the Enduro race back in 2013. My buddies and I also participated in the Downhill racing for the third consecutive year, and it’s been an amazing experience.

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