The Pros and Cons Of A Recumbent Trike

March 17, 2022

When looking for an ebike, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with all the variety. From step-through frames to cargo ebikes, how do you decide which style is right for you? The first things you notice in a recumbent trike are the three wheels and a reclined seating position. The handlebars and pedals may be in an unusual spot, and you might wonder who and when would one use this type of invention? Here, we’ll break down the pros and cons of a recumbent trike to help you determine whether or not this ride is suitable for you.

Pros Of A Recumbent Trike

Let’s start with the positives first. Electric recumbent trikes are easily the most comfortable and easy to pedal bikes. The relaxed seating allows riders to operate their trike in a semi-seated position. Compared to its two-wheeled cousin, the aerodynamic advantage is also a plus, and the reduced drag means quicker acceleration and longer battery range.

Recumbent trike riders also report having more fun on their trike, but this, of course, is subjective. Some people compare ebikes to that of a motorcycle, where riders lean around corners head-on, trike riders feel theirs is closely comparable to that of a rear-wheel-drive sports car with its low center of gravity making it more stable around corners.

Accessibility is also a massive bonus for those who live with varying physical abilities. Recumbent trikes offer more support for the operator. If you experience lower back, shoulder, hip, or pelvis limitations or injuries, you’ll prefer the trike over a bicycle. While the recumbent trike won’t cure the aforementioned physical ales, the added accessibility and ease of getting on and off the trike are definite benefits.

Safety is also a feature of the recumbent trike. In the event of an accident, the rider will take the brunt of the impact feet first instead of going headfirst over the handlebars like they would on a standard bike. And as mentioned before, the trike’s low center of gravity provides more stability while travelling at higher speeds or around corners.

Cons Of A Recumbent Trike

While there aren’t many, let’s look at the downsides of the recumbent trike. Buying a recumbent etrike isn’t as easy as going to your local authorized ENVO dealer and getting one off the shelf. Instead, customers will have to choose a recumbent trike and add on a conversion kit. Two brands that work well are the Sunseeker and Catrikes recumbent trikes. The geometry of the trike means some parts work differently than a bicycle. For example, the long-train transmission has more elasticity making it more susceptible to wear and tear. A rear hub motor system is recommended as it is more reliable than a crank motor. Transporting your recumbent trike adds more difficulty than an ebike, as there aren’t as many bike racks for trikes. You are also a little more limited in where you can ride your trike, considering its wider wheelbase. With an ebike, single-track trail riding is limited to rider ability, whereas, with the trike, the trail will have to be wide enough.

For additional knowledge on recumbent trikes and conversion kits for your recumbent trike, hit the link or drop us a line by clicking on the Help & Ticketing Center tab at the bottom of the webpage and fill out a support form.