E-tricycles: The definitive guide

Key takeaways

• Electric tricycles stand up by themselves, making them easy to load and unload and very stable at sensible speeds.

• This stability makes e-trikes a great option for carrying cargo or family.

• Riders with balance or mobility issues will often find electric trikes much more manageable than bikes.

• E-trikes can either have a delta layout (one wheel at the front, two at the back) or a tadpole layout (one wheel at the back, two at the front).

• Electric tricycles are inevitably large and heavy, so storage can be an issue.

Table of contents

Electric tricycle overview

Electric tricycles, with their three-wheel design, offer excellent traction on various terrains, providing stability and ease of control for riders. The electric motor integrated into these trikes enhances the riding experience by assisting in uphill climbs and navigating challenging landscapes. This makes e-trikes a popular choice for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities while minimising their carbon footprint.

If e-trikes don't sound right for you, explore our guide to e-bike types to find something to suit your needs.

Benefits of electric tricycles

The key advantage of an electric trike is low-speed stability. Two-wheeled bicycles are pretty stable when moving at a decent pace but the slower you go the tricker it is to stay upright. If you have balance or mobility issues a regular bicycle may simply be too hard to ride, which is where a trike could be the answer. With three wheels you can ride as slowly as you like without falling over.

That includes right down to zero speed. A three-wheeler will stand up on its own when stopped, which is a massive boon for loading cargo or kids. Two-wheelers rely on kickstands (or leaning on things) to stay upright when parked, but a trike has staying upright built-in.

Downsides of electric tricycles

While trikes are super-stable at low speed, they can be a handful at higher speeds. They can't lean like bicycles, so riding them at pace demands a rather different technique. This really isn't a big deal for most applications for which you might be considering an e-trike - if you're carting a load of shopping then pace probably isn't top of your list of priorities.

The other main disadvantage of a three-wheeler is that they are by their nature bigger (and especially wider) than bikes. You can also expect a trike to be significantly heavier than an equivalent bike - it's got 50% more wheels, for one thing. Add in a motor and battery and you can end up with something fairly massive. You'll need to think about where you're going to store a trike - it's probably not going to fit in your hallway.

There are two basic layouts for a tricycle. Most people will be familiar with the traditional layout of one wheel at the front and two at the back, known as a "delta" layout. This is the easiest kind of trike to build as it has the most in common with a bicycle. The whole front end is the same, the transmission is the same, there's just a wider rear end with a wheel at each side. Deltas have the usual trike benefits of low-speed stability and you can usually carry a decent amount of stuff in the space between the rear wheels.

A downside of the delta is that they're widest behind you where you can't see - expect to bounce the inside wheel off kerbs (or either wheel off bollards) a few times before you get the hang of it.

The other layout is to have a conventional single wheel at the back but two wheels up front, known as a "tadpole" layout. This makes engineering the transmission and drive more straightforward and allows designers to make easier-handling trikes. A tadpole will also typically have its load platform up front, which means you can see your cargo - very useful if you're ferrying children.

Having the twin wheels in front of you also makes it easier to navigate a tadpole trike through tight spaces, as you can see the widest part of it and judge your path accordingly. Tadpoles do tend to be more complex, though, as the steering can't generally be as easy as a front fork and some bars. The simplest tadpole trikes are nearly that simple, with the whole front end (both wheels) swinging on a pivot somewhere in the middle of the frame. This is fine at low speeds, but a more predictable design uses pivots and control rods for each front wheel - like a car, but linked to handlebars rather than a wheel.

One of the challenges of a trike is that the paired wheels need to roll at different speeds in corners - the outside wheel has to travel further than the inner one as it's following a larger radius. This isn't a problem for tadpole trikes as the front wheels aren't connected in any way. But on a delta a solid axle linking both rear wheels would lead to scrubbing tyres in corners. The simplest way around this is to just have one driven rear wheel and let the other one freewheel, which works fine for most purposes especially if paired with a front hub motor.

Most manufacturers prefer to drive both rear wheels of their delta electric tricycles, though. You could in theory have two rear hub motors but that's likely to be prohibitively expensive, so a mid-drive motor is usually favoured. To solve the problem of wheels having to run at different speeds, there'll either be a car-style differential gear in the middle of the rear axle, or a separate freewheel mechanism on each side.

When selecting an electric tricycle, it's crucial to consider factors such as size, comfort, and unique features, as these can significantly influence your riding experience. The type of riding you intend to do—whether it's commuting, road cycling, or off-road adventures—should guide your choice of trike. For instance, if you're planning to navigate through tight spaces or urban environments, a compact, folding frame might be ideal. On the other hand, if you're looking to enjoy long rides on varied terrains, a trike with a robust suspension system and powerful hub motor is essential.

Comfort is another vital aspect; look for adjustable seats and handlebars that ensure a comfortable ride, especially on long journeys. While most e-trikes have a conventional upright riding position, there are also plenty on offer with a recumbent position - sat low and reclined, with your feet out in front. This position is less efficient for pedalling, but more aerodynamic. More importantly, it's often a much better option for riders with mobility issues.

Safety and stability are paramount, so features like a low centre of gravity and wide wheelbase can offer greater stability, reducing the risk of tipping over. Electric components such as the battery and motor should be high-quality to ensure reliability and performance. Also, evaluate the trike's range and speed capabilities to match your commuting needs.

Lastly, consider the overall weight of the tricycle, as a lighter model can be easier to handle and store, while a heavier trike might offer more stability and better performance under heavy loads. By carefully evaluating these features, you can find an electric tricycle that not only meets your practical needs but also enhances your riding experience, making every journey enjoyable and efficient.

Electric trike vs. electric bike

While electric tricycles offer greater stability and balance with their three-wheel design, electric bicycles are known for their manoeuvrability and lighter weight. Depending on your preferences and riding style, choosing between an e-trike and an e-bike involves considering factors like comfort, stability, and ease of use. If a stable ride and enhanced balance are your priorities, an electric trike might be the perfect choice for you.

Raleigh's Stride 3 takes full advantage of the stability and load-carrying benefits of a three-wheeled platform. It's a tadpole trike, with two wheels up front and one at the back. A mid-mounted Bosch Cargo Line motor drives the rear wheel through a stepless transmission. With a steel frame, the Stride is no lightweight at a claimed 70kg - upper floor flat dwellers need not apply. However, it's robust enough to carry loads up to 100kg - a lot of groceries or a couple of small children! With all that mass, Raleigh's choice of hydraulic disc brakes on all three wheels is sound. The Stride 3 comes with a 500Wh battery delivering a claimed range of 40 miles (although this will obviously depend on loads and hills). It's not cheap, but it's a very plausible replacement for a car.

Raleigh Stride 3 family cargo trike (£4,499)

Jorvik's JET-E16 is a traditional delta layout packed with useful design touches. It's designed to be easy to ride and store, with a step-through frame and small 16in wheels. Despite its compact size, the Jorvik has decent carrying capacity thanks to a sizable basket slung between the rear wheels. It's low to the ground and easy to load.

With 16in wheels the JET-E16 already has a fairly small footprint for a trike, but it also has a folding frame and handlebars to take up even less space. You won't find may e-trikes more compact and easy to store than this.

There's a 576Wh battery powering the Bafang 250W mid-mounted motor. The JET-E16 benefits from a differential system in the rear axle, so both rear wheels can be powered without any handling weirdness in corners.

It's also available in a choice of six colours!

Jorvik Elite Electric Folding Trike JET-E16 (£2,999)

Spanish manufacturer Etnnic specialises in electric tricycles for adult riders. It's got a broad range including folding and cargo models. Most Etnnic trikes are the tadpole configuration but they also have more traditional delta trikes on offer. While Etnnic has something to offer in most parts of the market, its FST EVO stands out from the crowd as something very different from the norm. It's a full-suspension, pedal assist e-trike with fat (choose from 2.35in or huge 4in treads) knobbly tyres, ready for off-road adventure.

Power is from a mid-mounted Bafang 250W motor and a hefty 768Wh battery, giving a claimed range of 120km (75 miles). The front wheels have dual-wishbone suspension, like a car, with a single swingarm at the back. You even get a mountain-bike style dropper seatpost for greater freedom of movement on descents.

With prices starting at €5,995, the FST EVO certainly isn't cheap, but there's very little (if anything) like it!

https://etnnic.com/en/product/triciclo-de-doble-suspension-fst-evo/ (€5,995)

Choosing the right electric tricycle brand

Selecting a reputable electric tricycle brand involves evaluating factors like quality, customer service, and warranty offerings. Researching reviews and exploring the range of trikes offered by different brands can help you find the ideal match for your riding needs. Look for brands that prioritise customer satisfaction and provide opportunities for test rides to ensure you make an informed purchase decision. Our guide to electric bike brands will help you to narrow down the options.

Maintenance and safety tips

Ensuring the longevity and safety of your electric tricycle requires regular maintenance checks, including monitoring tyre pressure, brakes, and electric components. Regularly inspecting the tyres for wear and maintaining the correct pressure not only improves the trike's performance but also enhances traction and reduces the risk of accidents. Brakes should be checked frequently to ensure they are responsive and effective, providing you with the confidence to handle various road conditions safely.

The electric components, such as the battery and motor, are crucial for the tricycle's performance. It's essential to keep the battery charged and store it properly to extend its lifespan. Regularly clean and inspect the motor to ensure it operates smoothly without any unusual noises or performance issues. Lubricating moving parts and checking the trike's suspension system can also contribute to a comfortable ride, especially on uneven terrains.

Additionally, consider the trike's frame and handle alignment to ensure stability and comfort during rides. Tightening any loose bolts and ensuring the seat is adjusted to your size can make a significant difference in your riding experience. By dedicating time to these maintenance tasks, you not only prolong the life of your electric tricycle but also ensure a safe and enjoyable experience every time you hit the road.

Safety precautions such as wearing a helmet and adhering to local regulations while riding are imperative for a secure and enjoyable experience. Investing in security features like locks can safeguard your trike from theft and unauthorised use.

In conclusion, the world of electric tricycles in 2025 presents a diverse and exciting landscape for eco-conscious riders seeking a reliable and enjoyable mode of transportation. With a focus on sustainability, comfort, and innovation, electric tricycles continue to redefine the cycling experience, offering a blend of power, stability, and environmental friendliness for riders of all ages and abilities. Ride on, and embrace the future of electric trikes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are e-trikes road legal?

In the UK, Europe and several other territories, electric tricycles must follow the same regulations as e-bikes. If the continuous power output is less than 250W, the trike is pedal-assisted only and the power cuts out at 25kph (15.5mph) then it's an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) and is considered to be a normal bike for legal purposes.

How much should I expect to spend?

Tricycles are more expensive than bicycles and electrically assisted trikes are more expensive than pure pedal trikes, so e-trikes do tend to be costly. Look around and you'll find a handful of sub-£1,000 e-trikes but given the cost of motors and batteries that doesn't leave much budget for the manufacturer to put into fundamentals like the frame and components. We'd recommend £2,000 as a sensible entry-level price.

At the top end the sky is pretty much the limit, but it's worth remembering that a good cargo/family trike is often a perfect car replacement and even a £5-6k electric trike is still a lot cheaper than a new car!

Are e-trikes easy to ride?

Yes, with caveats. Trikes are inherently stable, so starting and stopping is a doddle - just keep your feet on the pedals all the time. At moderate speeds steering and manouvring is easy. You do need to watch out for the width of the trike, especially on a delta trike where the widest part is behind you where you can't see it.

The exception to this is if you're already a keen cyclist and used to going fast. Trikes don't lean, so hard cornering needs a very different technique than on a bicycle - you may need to unlearn some habits. However, most e-trikes are aimed at a more relaxed market!

Summary

In the dynamic world of cycling, electric tricycles stand out as a beacon of innovation, offering a unique blend of stability, power, and environmental consciousness. As we move into 2025, these three-wheeled wonders continue to revolutionise the way we think about personal transport, providing an enjoyable and sustainable alternative for riders of all ages and abilities. With their ability to handle diverse terrains, carry heavy loads, and offer a comfortable ride, e-trikes are the perfect choice for anyone looking to enhance their cycling experience.

Whether you're commuting through urban landscapes, exploring scenic routes, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, electric tricycles offer unmatched versatility and convenience. The advancements in electric components, such as powerful motors and long-lasting batteries, ensure that you can ride with confidence and ease.

Now is the time to embrace the future of eco-friendly transportation. Discover the joy and freedom that comes with riding an electric tricycle. Visit our recommended brands, take a test ride, and experience firsthand the benefits of this innovative mode of transport. Make your next purchase an investment in a cleaner, greener future. Ride into 2025 with confidence and style on an electric tricycle that suits your needs and aspirations. Join the movement towards sustainable commuting and be a part of the change you wish to see on the roads. Let's pedal forward together!