Buying guide for best adult tricycles
Tricycles are generally associated with children, but there's no reason why kids should have all the fun! Adult tricycles are fun to ride, stable, and generally offer a lot of storage space. If you’re looking for a vehicle you can use to ride around town or perform errands, an adult tricycle might be perfect for you.
No doubt you'll look cool and confident riding around on your new trike, but how do you sort the quality choices from those that must try harder?
Read on for our full guide to adult tricycles, and you'll soon be pedalling off into the sunset. If you’re eager to buy a new trike, scoot on up to our top suggestions in the grid. We’re proud to endorse each one.
Types of adult tricycles
Upright tricycles
An upright tricycle is similar to a standard bicycle in many ways, although there is an extra wheel at the back. These trikes are ideal for running errands and leisure riding but not so great for intense sporting activity. Most feature large storage baskets, so they're handy for grocery shopping trips and similar errands.
Recumbent tricycles
Recumbent tricycles are quite different from upright trikes. They're low to the ground, and the rider assumes a reclined position. You control them with two levers, one on either side of the seat, rather than a single handlebar at the front.
Recumbent trikes may have the standard configuration of one wheel at the front and two at the back, or they may have two wheels at the front and one at the back. Recumbent tricycles tend to be more comfortable for people with back problems due to the reclined seating position. They're great for long rides and exercise purposes (they work your hamstrings and core muscles especially well), but they're not so practical for casual use or running errands.
Tandem tricycles
Tandem trikes are tricycles made for two. Most models are set up like a tandem bike with one rider sitting behind the other, but you can find some models where riders sit side by side. While they're large and not the most practical or maneuverable option, they're great for romantic trike rides or for pairs of users where one person is less confident at cycling than the other.
Folding tricycles
Folding tricycles are much like standard upright trikes, but they have a folding mechanism that allows them to be packed down when not in use. Since folding trikes don't fold anywhere near as small as folding bikes, they're not suitable for taking on public transport. However, if you’re short on space, a folding tricycle may be easier to store at home and transport in the back of a car.
Adaptive tricycles
Adaptive tricycles are designed for adults with special needs who, for whatever reason, are not able to ride a bicycle or a standard tricycle. Adaptive features include more secure seats and height-adjustable handlebars.
We note the type of material each tricycle is made of, keeping in mind the pros and cons of each. The most common materials are aluminum and steel, but high-end models may be made of titanium or carbon fiber.
In our research, we look at all types of tricycles. There are five common types: upright (similar to a standard bike), recumbent (low to the ground), tandem (built for two), folding (similar to an upright, but it can be folded), and adaptive tricycles (built for adults with special needs).
When researching adult tricycles, we find out how many speeds each one has. Since tricycles are typically meant for casual use, it’s common for only one or two speeds to be offered. However, there are some highly adaptable trikes that have more than this.
We note the maximum weight capacity of each adult trike we research. Consumers should factor in the weight of any groceries or other items they intend to take with them on their rides.
Some adult tricycles are recumbent models, meaning you can sit back as you pedal. These tend to cost a lot more than basic adult tricycles, but for some consumers, it’s worth it. In our research, we look at a variety of trikes, from basic to high-end.
An adult tricycle with a storage basket is a handy feature. In our research, we keep an eye out for trikes with sturdy storage baskets.
Size and padding affect a tricycle seat’s comfort. Some even come with a backrest. When scrutinizing adult tricycles for riding quality, we keep this in mind.
Adjustability in a tricycle matters, especially if you will be sharing it with someone else. When researching trikes, we take time to learn about each model’s adjustability.
Large wheels promote a smooth ride. Small wheels allow the rider to accelerate at greater speed. We research a balance of large-wheeled and small-wheeled trikes in order to represent all options.
Safety features matter to us. When researching adult tricycles, we find out about the quality of the brake system, the grip of the handlebars, and the overall sturdiness of the trike.
Considerations
Frame material
Most adult tricycles feature a frame of either aluminum or steel, but there are some high-end models with titanium or carbon fiber frames. Each types of material has its pros and cons.
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Aluminum tricycle frames are inexpensive and fairly lightweight, but they aren't the most durable option out there, and some cyclists don't like the way the ride feels.
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Steel tricycle frames are strong and comfortable to ride, as steel has natural shock-absorbing properties. However, they are heavier than other options.
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Titanium tricycle frames are lightweight, durable, and comfortable to ride, but they tend to be expensive.
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Carbon fiber tricycle frames are extremely lightweight and can be molded into non-standard shapes to make them extra aerodynamic. However, they may be more prone to damage after a crash or heavy knock.
Gears
A tricycle's gears, or "speeds,” enable you to pedal in non-standard conditions, such as up hills or off road. Since trikes are often used for casual riding on flat pavement or other smooth paths, many trikes have a single speed. Others have just three or four gears. For most riders seeking fun and recreation, this should suffice. However, if you live somewhere that is hilly, we recommend searching for a tricycle with a larger number of gears.
Storage space
Many people choose adult tricycles because of their ample storage space; they’re useful for riding to the store or moving items from place to place. If storage space is important to you, be sure to select a trike with a large basket. Many trike baskets can easily hold four full grocery bags, which means you could even do your weekly shopping with your tricycle.
Seat
Because adult tricycles are generally used for casual pleasure riding, the seats tend to be wider and more comfortable than those found on many performance-focused bicycles. Look for a large, well-padded seat that keeps you comfortable from point A to point B. Some trikes even feature a backrest for added core support and stability.
Did you know?
Trikes with one wheel at the front and two at the back are known as delta tricycles. Trikes with two wheels at the front and one at the back are known as tadpole tricycles.
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Adult tricycle prices
How much should you expect pay for an adult tricycle? Here we take a closer look at tricycle prices.
These adult tricycles start around $200 and cost up to $400. These are generally basic upright trikes with few extra features.
These adult tricycles cost roughly $500 to $1,000. These include trikes with a greater number of gears, more advanced brakes, and more durable overall construction.
These adult tricycles cost between $1,000 and $2,000. Trikes in this price range include recumbent and tandem models.
For your safety
Since tricycles are heavier than bicycles, having effective brakes is extremely important. Dual front and rear brakes are ideal.
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Tips
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Check that your chosen adult tricycle is easy to adjust. You should be able to position the seat so you're a comfortable distance from the pedals. Some models also let you adjust the handlebars.
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Think about whether you'll ever want to transport your trike. If you want to take it anywhere in a vehicle, you'll need to make sure it's not too large to fit. In this case, a folding model may be preferable.
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Decide what color tricycle you want. While it might not be the most important factor to consider, if you have a choice of colors, you might as well pick a shade that makes you happy.
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Find out the maximum weight capacity. All adult tricycles have a maximum weight capacity. Make sure you don't exceed this, as it could be dangerous.
- Keep your tricycle safe. You’ll want a suitable bike lock so you can secure your trike while you go into stores or if you park it outside your home.
FAQ
Q. Why should I choose a tricycle over a bicycle?
A. You'll find a range of reasons why people choose tricycles over bicycles. Here are just a handful.
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If you're not confident riding a bike, you may feel better riding a trike. Tricycles are stable and very hard to tip over.
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Tricycles are eco-friendly vehicles for running errands that might be harder to complete with a bicycle, such as grocery shopping.
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Most tricycles are extremely comfortable and easy to ride.
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Tricycles are great for people with balance issues, seniors, or anyone else who might be worried about falling off a bike.
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Since you don't have to worry so much about balance or tipping over when you slow or stop, a trike makes for a fun and carefree ride.
Q. What size wheels do I need on my tricycle?
A. Standard tricycles tend to have wheels with a diameter of anywhere between 20 and 26 inches. Tricycles with larger wheels tend to feel smoother, especially when riding on rough surfaces. Tricycles with smaller wheels are slightly quicker and easier to maneuver, and they accelerate faster.
Q. How should I store my adult tricycle when I'm not using it?
A. Ideally, you should store your tricycle in a sheltered area when you’re not using it, such as a storage shed or garage. Wet weather and extremely hot and cold temperatures can damage a trike over time, so it’s preferable to keep it somewhere that is protected from the elements. If you don’t have any inside space where you can keep it, consider investing in some kind of cover or tarp to keep it dry.
