Recently, there has been a growing development of advanced technology. Interestingly, part of the advancements which have contributed to changing our lifestyles are electric tricycles, also known as electric trikes or e-trikes.
Electric tricycles are three-wheeled vehicles with an electric motor powering them. They are a stable, user-friendly, and comfortable option for people looking for an alternative to scooters or traditional bikes. Electric tricycles are characterized by an electric motor that helps with propulsion, thereby making pedaling less stressful by supplying the required electric power for easy rides.
E-trikes are perfect for leisure adventures, running errands, and commuting. However, as a result of the high demand and fame of electric trikes, the market is now full of various options with attractive features. This may make choosing the right one quite challenging. Hence, this article is a complete guide to selecting the right type of electric tricycle.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing an Electric Tricycle
Design and Frame
The design and frame of your electric tricycle are crucial parts that determine your comfort and convenience while riding your electric trike. Electric tricycles can have step-through or step-over frames in various models. However, they often feature step-through frames, which makes dismounting and mounting comfortable for riders.
Regarding design of the frame, electric trikes may be semi-recumbent, recumbent, or upright, based on the selected model. The upright frame is similar to an electric bike’s but has an additional third wheel. On the other hand, the recumbent frame is built for maximum comfort, just like you sitting on the sofa in your lounge.
Thus, you should understand your needs before you select a frame for your electric trike. If you are an elderly person or you are just recovering from a sustained injury with your main focus being convenience, a semi-recumbent or recumbent bike frame should be your choice.
In the same way, if you would like to remain fit in a more upright way, then the upright frame would be a better one for you.
Motor Specifications
Like electric bikes, the motor power of electric tricycles is from 250W to 1000W. However, as electric trikes are heavier in size and built to be robust so that they can bear the weight of more cargo, they are often equipped with powerful motors.
Pertaining to types, the motors on e-trikes can either be hub motors or mid-drive. Mid-drive motors generate more torque power and hitch-free acceleration. However, they are more expensive. Although hub motors, on the flip side, lack torque, they are light on the battery and more efficient.
Hence, before you select your ride, you should know that a more powerful battery implies more battery drainage. Therefore, if speed is not your primary concern and your main task is just to have a personal mode of transportation to move around the block, a hub motor between 500 to 750W electric tricycle would be perfect.
On the other hand, if you need a more durable tricycle that will help you have a pleasant off-road experience which easily climbs hills, a mid-drive motor between 750-1000W would be a preferable option.
Range and Battery
The battery is, perhaps, the most essential component of your electric tricycle. It powers all the electrical components of your tricycle. That means in the absence of a durable battery, you can not experience the joy and excitement attached to riding an electric trike. Thus, the battery is of utmost importance when choosing your electric tricycle.
The capacity of the battery is often expressed in Watt-hours. Capacity describes the maximum level of charge that your battery can save. Therefore, it determines the riding range. E-trikes often have range between 25 and 60 miles for every charge, which is regarded to be quite efficient due to their heaviness and ability to haul cargo.
Before you select a battery for your e-trike, you should find more charge cycles and more capacity, in order to optimally enjoy your purchase. In addition, you should go for batteries that are third-party certified. This is because batteries are liable to fire and can damage your tricycle. But with certified batteries, it is possible to minimize risk possibilities and improve your e-trike’s safety.
Cargo-Carrying Capacity
Of the reasons people choose electric tricycles over electric bikes, one of them is the improved cargo-carrying capacity of e-trikes. Electric tricycles have a robust design frame with bigger motors to easily bear the weight of more cargo while moving. A lot of e-trikes are equipped with storage bags and cargo racks behind. With them, you will be able to easily carry all you need.
Moreover, an electric tricycle can be used to efficiently deliver goods since there are cost-effective, convenient, eco-friendly, and fast means of transportation. Furthermore, through the replacement of conventional delivery vans on roads, traffic congestion can as well be greatly reduced.
Tires, Stability, and Comfort
Although electric bicycles are comfortable rides, electric tricycles are unparalleled, which is one of the main reasons elderly people and those with mobility problems prefer them over e-bikes. If you are particular about comfort, you should go for an e-trike that has a comfortable backrest and padded saddle.
You can also seek additional features, such as adjustable handlebars, suspension system, and footrest which will further improve the comfort and stability level of your e-trike.
Likewise, you should select the appropriate tires that can completely turn around your riding experience for good. Fat tires are advisable since they provide stability, high shock absorption, and better grip on uneven and rough terrains. Apart from suitability for any adventure, an e-trike with fat tires can easily deal with any terrain.
Make the Right Choice
Before you purchase your electric tricycle, it is essential that you consider your precise needs and preferences. Meanwhile, through the critical evaluation of the factors described in this article, you will be able to make an informed decision and purchase an electric tricycle that meets your needs, thereby making you have a pleasant and memorable riding experience.
