Transporting an electric trike can be more difficult than transporting an electric bike due to its size, weight, and unique three-wheel design, but with the right approach, the process is easier than you think. Whether it’s for a road trip, repairs, or relocation, knowing the best shipping methods can save time and energy, and prevent potential damage.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical options for safely transporting an electric trike, from choosing the right vehicle and equipment type to effectively securing the trike for future journeys.
What Is an Electric Tricycle?
An electric tricycle is a 3-wheeled vehicle equipped with an electric drive system, powered by batteries and using an electric motor as the main power source. Unlike traditional human-powered tricycles, electric tricycles can reduce the rider's physical exertion while driving and improve endurance.
Its typical architecture includes a three-wheel design with one front and two rear wheels or two front and one rear wheels, which ensures the stability and easy maneuverability of the vehicle. Electric tricycles are widely used for short-distance commuting, cargo transportation, and leisure riding, and are popular for their environmental protection, efficiency, and convenience.
Understanding Electric Trikes and Their Transport Challenges
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Increased Weight: Electric trikes can weigh anywhere from 70 to 120 pounds, depending on their size, design, and motor capacity. This weight requires sturdier, safer transport equipment.
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Three-wheeled Design: Unlike electric bikes, trikes are wider due to their three wheels, which makes it difficult to fit onto standard bike racks or car racks.
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Battery Management: The lithium-ion batteries in electric trikes require special care. When transporting them long distances, especially in hot weather, it’s best to remove the batteries and store them separately to prevent overheating or accidental damage.
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Limited Folding Ability: While some electric trikes come with foldable frames, many do not, making storage and transport more difficult.
How to Transport an Electric Tricycle?
There are many ways to transport an electric tricycle, and you need to consider the size, weight, and peculiarities of the tricycle design before transporting it. Here are some common methods of transport:
1. Transport Using a Trailer
Using a trailer is the best choice for transporting large electric tricycles, especially those that are large or cannot be folded. First, choose a trailer that fits the size of the tricycle and make sure it is equipped with tire fixings to prevent the vehicle from sliding on the trailer.
When pushing the tricycle onto the trailer, you can use a mobile ramp, which is more convenient and reduces wear and tear on the tricycle. Then, use straps or professional fixing ropes to firmly connect the tricycle frame and trailer to ensure it will not loosen during driving.
If the trailer is equipped with non-slip floor or side guardrails, it can provide additional protection to prevent the tricycle from sliding on sharp turns or bumpy roads. During transportation, ensure a steady driving speed and avoid sudden braking to ensure the tricycle's safety.
2. Roof Rack Transportation
For lighter and smaller electric tricycles, roof rack transportation can be considered, but this method has requirements for vehicle height, tricycle weight, and installation process. First, make sure the roof rack has sufficient load-bearing capacity and stability to support the weight of the tricycle.
During installation, it is best to have two people cooperate to lift the tricycle onto the roof to avoid damage to the body or frame. When fixing the tricycle, use high-strength straps or locks to tie the tricycle firmly to the roof rack.
Make sure the tires of the tricycle do not directly touch the roof to prevent friction and damage to the body during driving. Pay attention to the height limit when driving and avoid low-altitude obstacles such as bridges, tunnels, or parking lots.
3. Transport by Truck or Large SUV
For users who have large SUVs or trucks, you can choose to place the tricycle directly in the car compartment for transportation. This method is suitable for folding or smaller tricycles and can save more space. Before transportation, it is recommended to lay anti-skid mats or blankets on the floor of the car compartment to protect the space inside the car and reduce the sliding of the tricycle.
After pushing the tricycle into the car compartment, use straps or ropes to fix the tricycle to the hooks on the inner wall of the car compartment to avoid collision with the structure inside the car due to vehicle shaking during driving. In addition, turn off or remove the battery for separate transportation to reduce the weight of the car body and avoid safety hazards caused by battery touching or accidental start-up.
4. Use Professional Transport Services
If the tricycle is large, heavy, or needs to be transported over long distances, professional transport services are the best choice. Many logistics companies offer specialized electric and tricycle transport services, equipped with professional loading and unloading equipment and technicians to complete the transport safely and efficiently.
You only need to make an appointment and provide the size and weight information of the tricycle. The transport company will do a detailed job in loading, strapping, and protecting it during the journey to ensure that the tricycle is delivered safely and intact to the destination. Professional transport services are especially suitable for more expensive or delicate electric tricycles, which can save the tedious process and worries of transportation.
5. Use a Mobile Board to Assist with Transportation
When transporting a heavy or large electric tricycle, you can use a mobile board or a wheeled trolley to push the tricycle into the transport vehicle. First, place the mobile board between the ground and the entrance of the trailer or truck to ensure that the ramp is stable and firm.
Push the tricycle onto the mobile board and slowly move it forward into the vehicle, using the pulley function of the mobile board to effectively reduce the difficulty of transportation. This method is suitable for scenarios where frequent movement is required, such as short-distance transportation or movement between different areas. By using a mobile board or a trolley, the burden of manual handling is reduced and the tricycle can be effectively protected from bumps and damage.
When transporting an electric tricycle, be sure to turn off the battery power to avoid accidental start-up or short circuit. If the battery is easy to disassemble, it is recommended to transport the battery separately, which can not only reduce the weight of the vehicle body but also reduce the loss and risk of the battery in long-distance transportation.
Tips for Transporting Electric Tricycles
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Turn off or remove the battery: Make sure the battery is turned off. If it can be removed, it is recommended to transport it separately to reduce weight.
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Choose the right mode of transport: Choose a trailer, roof rack, or large SUV according to the size of the tricycle.
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Secure it firmly: Use high-strength straps or ropes to secure the tricycle to prevent sliding or damage.
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Protect the surface: Place blankets or foam pads on the frame and easily impacted parts to prevent scratches.
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Drive smoothly and pay attention to height restrictions: Choose flat roads, control speed, and be careful of height restrictions.
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On-board tool kit: Carry straps and simple tools to adjust and check the fixing status at any time.
Summary
In conclusion, transporting an electric trike is easy as long as you are well-prepared and have the tools in place. By choosing the right method (whether it is a trailer, roof rack, or the back of a spacious SUV), securing it properly, and following the necessary safety tips, you can ensure that your trike arrives at its destination intact.
Remember to turn off the power or remove the battery for added safety, protect the frame with padding, and drive carefully, especially on bumpy roads or when driving in low-clearance areas. Paying attention to these things will complete the transportation of your electric bike.