The rise of 3-wheel electric bike has transformed the daily commute for adults, especially the elderly and those with mobility impairments. Compared to traditional two-wheeled e-bikes, electric tricycles offer greater stability, comfort, and ease of use.
This article will explore some of the best three-wheeled electric bikes for adults, comparing features such as motor power, battery range, weight capacity, and overall comfort to help you find the best bike for your needs.
This article will recommend three popular electric tricycles:
- NAKTO S02
- Lectric XP Tricycle
- Addmotor M-340
NAKTO S02 Electric Tricycle
The NAKTO S02 electric three-wheeled bike features a 750W front hub motor and a 48V removable battery. It can travel up to 60 miles per charge and has a top speed of 12 mph, making it suitable for short commutes and urban environments.
The lightweight design and durable steel frame, along with the compact wheels, ensure a smooth and fluid ride. Currently priced at $1,999.
Pros
Motor and Battery: features a 750W peak front hub motor that delivers 50Nm of torque and a 48V 16Ah battery that provides up to 60 miles of range.
Comfort and Ergonomics: features ergonomic handlebars, a spacious cargo area, and a comfortable saddle to enhance the overall riding experience.
Safety Features: Includes dual disc brakes and a front suspension system that helps provide a safe and smooth ride over a variety of terrain.
Cargo Capacity: Designed with a focus on efficiently transporting cargo, it comes with a spacious cargo area and a high-level basket.
Compact and lightweight: The compact frame and manageable dimensions make it ideal for urban use and daily commuting.
Removable Battery: The battery can be removed for easy charging.
STABLE RIDE: The three-wheel design and moderate speed limit (12 mph) make it a safe choice for seniors or beginners.
Cons
Weight and size: due to its weight and size, transportation or storage in smaller spaces may be difficult.
Lectric XP Trike
The Lectric XP Trike is an affordable and versatile option for adults who want a practical three-wheeled electric bike. It features a 500W rear hub motor, a 48V battery, and a range of up to 50 miles, making it ideal for short to medium trips.
Its collapsible frame is a standout feature for easy storage and transportation, perfect for urban environments or small living spaces. The current MSRP is approximately $1,500.
Pros
Safety features: include front and rear hydraulic brakes with parking brakes, LED lights for visibility, and a sturdy frame for all terrains.
Convenience: Fully collapsible and arrives fully assembled for easy transportation and storage. Differential axle improves maneuverability and safety when turning.
Foldable frame: easy to store and transport in tight spaces.
User-friendly for beginners: The trike offers a slow-speed mode for novice riders, making it safer to start.
High Payload Capacity: It can withstand heavy loads, including a maximum riding weight of 325 pounds and additional cargo capacity in the front and rear baskets.
Cons
Limited Legroom for Taller Passengers: passengers taller than 6 feet may find the leg extension insufficient.
Lack of a speedometer: the trike lacks an on-board speedometer, but this can be compensated for by using a mobile app or stand.
Addmotor M-340
The Addmotor M-340 is a powerful and rugged electric tricycle designed for people who need extra load capacity and range. Featuring a 750W motor and 48V, 20Ah battery, it has a top speed of 20 mph and can travel up to 55 miles on a single charge.
The trike's wide tires and 450-pound payload capacity make it suitable for rough terrain and heavier riders. The current MSRP is $2,900.
Pros
Versatile performance: 750W motor with 90 Nm torque supports a wide range of terrain and heavy loads for increased efficiency.
Useful accessories: includes a variety of accessories such as a waterproof storage bag, basket, and LCD for ease of use.
Heavy-duty construction: Maximum load capacity up to 450 lbs.
Wide Tires for Stability: Large tires provide better balance and can handle rougher terrain.
Comfort: A semi-recumbent seat provides a more relaxed riding position and reduces stress on the rider.
Cons
Price: at around $2,900, this model is much more expensive than others on the market.
Heavier frame: its sturdy construction makes it heavier and harder to transport, and it doesn't come with a folding feature
Assembly required: some assembly is required for delivery and may not be suitable for all users.
How to pick the best electric tricycle
Choosing the right electric tricycle for you requires several factors to be considered to ensure that it meets your needs and usage scenarios. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:
Power and Battery
Check the motor power and battery capacity of your electric tricycle. A higher wattage (W) number indicates a more powerful motor, while a larger amp-hour (Ah) number indicates a better battery range. For example, a 750W motor and a 20Ah battery will provide better performance and a longer range.
Stability and comfort
The stability of an electric tricycle ensures safe driving. Choose an electric tricycle like the NAKTO S02 electric tricycle which has a wide wheelbase and a low center of gravity, which helps improve stability. Also, check that the seat and suspension are designed for comfortable driving.
Load and storage capacity
Depending on your needs, choose a tricycle with sufficient load capacity and storage space. A load capacity of 300 lbs (about 136 kg) or more is generally ideal.
Alternatively, you can choose an electric tricycle like the NAKTO S02 that offers front and rear baskets or racks for transporting everyday items or for larger shipments.
Safety Features
Ensure that your chosen tricycle has the necessary safety features, such as an effective braking system, front and rear lights, and reflectors, all of which are important factors in improving safety when driving at night or in foggy weather.
Adjustability and ease of use
Check if the handlebars and seat are adjustable to accommodate drivers of different heights. Also, consider the total weight of the trike and how easy it is to handle, especially if you need to move it on and off frequently.
Price
Comparing the prices of different brands and models, the Addmotor Grandtan M-340 costs about $2,999; the Lectric XP tricycle costs $1,499 for the base model; and the NAKTOr S02 costs $1,999. Purchase the right electric trike with the right price and features for your budget and needs.
By considering all these factors, you can find a reliable, safe, comfortable, and cost-effective electric tricycle that will enhance your riding experience.
Summary
The best three-wheeled electric bike for you is the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and riding preferences. Whether you're commuting, running errands, or exploring trails, there's a model that will suit your needs.
If you're looking for an electric three-wheeler that combines practicality and comfort, the NAKTO S02 is a very good choice. Praised for its sturdy construction, excellent load capacity, and large storage space, this electric three-wheeler is particularly suitable for daily use and shopping.
Related reading: How much is an electric trike