Adult Electric Tricycles in Australia & NZ: Everything You Need to Know

Why Adult Electric Tricycles Are Changing Lives Across Australia and NZ

Adult electric tricycles are becoming a popular choice across Australia and New Zealand for a stable, comfortable, and fun way to stay active. They offer a practical solution for anyone looking to regain independence, enjoy the outdoors, or simply make daily errands easier.

Key features to consider include the motor power (250W is standard for road use), battery range (typically 60-120km), and a low step-through frame for easy mounting. With prices starting around $3,500 and no license required for standard models, e-trikes are an accessible option for many.

The electric assist makes hills manageable and the three-wheel design removes any worry about balancing, making cycling possible again for those who thought their riding days were over.

I'm Andrea Herklots of EveryBody eBikes. I've spent years helping people find the right adult electric tricycle to transform their confidence and quality of life. I'm here to help you find yours.

Your Guide to Choosing and Riding an Adult Electric Tricycle

What are the Main Benefits of an Adult Electric Tricycle?

The popularity of the adult electric tricycle is growing because these three-wheeled wonders genuinely change lives. They help people refind the joy of cycling, often after years away from it.

• Unparalleled Stability: An e-trike stands confidently on its own, removing the need to balance. This builds confidence and makes every ride a relaxed, enjoyable experience.
• Safety for Seniors: The stability is a huge safety benefit for seniors or anyone with balance concerns, especially when starting, stopping, or moving at low speeds. Learn more about how balance support can enhance your riding experience.
• Low-Impact Exercise: Riding an e-trike is a brilliant way to get gentle, low-impact exercise, improving health and wellbeing while having fun outdoors.
• Practicality and Cargo: With generous cargo capacity (often 136kg to 204kg), e-trikes are perfect for running errands, carrying groceries, or packing for a picnic. Discover more reasons why three-wheel electric trikes are a great choice.
• Independence: Most importantly, an e-trike offers the freedom to explore your neighbourhood, connect with friends, and enjoy the outdoors on your own terms.

What are the Different Types of E-Trikes?

Adult electric tricycles come in various styles to suit different needs and preferences.

• Upright Trikes: These have a traditional, upright riding position. Our Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike is a great example, offering a comfortable and familiar riding posture. Its fat tyres provide excellent stability on all terrains, making it a versatile choice for paths and trails.
• Semi-Recumbent Trikes: These offer maximum comfort with a reclined seat that reduces strain on the back and joints. Our Trident semi-recumbent electric tricycle features a comfortable full seat, hydraulic disc brakes, and an adjustable frame to suit riders of all heights.
• Cargo and Utility Trikes: Designed with large baskets or platforms, these are perfect for carrying groceries, tools, or other gear.
• Tandem and Passenger Trikes: Specific models like the Huka Orthros allow two riders to pedal side-by-side, sharing the journey. Other designs, such as the Trojan Family, are built for one active rider to transport a passenger, making it possible to share the cycling experience with a loved one who may not be able to pedal independently.

Key Features to Look For When Buying

When choosing an adult electric tricycle, consider these key features:

• Motor: A 250W or 500W motor is great for general riding, while a 750W motor offers more power for steep hills or heavy cargo. Mid-drive motors provide a natural pedalling feel, while hub motors are simpler and more affordable. Unsure which e-bike motor suits you best? We can help.
• Battery: Range typically varies from 40km to over 100km. Consider your average journey length when choosing.
• Brakes: Disc brakes are essential for safety. Hydraulic disc brakes offer the best performance with less hand effort.
• Frame: A low step-through frame (around 44-46cm) makes getting on and off safe and effortless.
• Payload Capacity: Ensure the trike can safely support your weight plus any cargo you plan to carry. Capacities typically range from 136kg to over 227kg. Find out more if you're a heavy rider.
• Tyres: Fat tyres (around 10cm or 4 inches wide) provide superior stability, cushioning, and grip on varied terrain.

Essential Information for E-Trike Riders in Australia & NZ

How Do Electric Tricycles Handle and What Maintenance is Needed?

Getting comfortable with your adult electric tricycle is key to enjoying every ride.

• Handling: Fat tyres provide excellent grip on gravel and dirt paths, while standard tyres are great for paved roads. The electric motor helps you maintain a steady pace over different surfaces and makes climbing hills feel effortless.
• Cornering: The key to cornering is to slow down before the turn, steer smoothly, and avoid leaning the trike itself. A slight body lean to the outside of the turn can improve stability. Understanding your own agility and balance can also help.
• Maintenance: With proper care, an e-trike can last for many years. Before each ride, check your tyre pressure and brakes. For battery health, avoid letting it drain completely and store it in a cool, dry place.
• Professional Servicing: Regular professional servicing is essential for long-term reliability. Our Brisbane workshop offers expert care, including checkups, standard services, and premium packages to keep your trike in top condition. Our essential servicing tips can guide you through basic checks.

Understanding the Cost and Regulations of an Adult Electric Tricycle

An adult electric tricycle is an investment in your freedom. Here’s what you need to know about the costs and rules in Australia and New Zealand.

• Cost: Prices typically range from $2,500 for entry-level models to $25,000 for high-end, specialised trikes. The price is affected by motor type, battery size, and the quality of components like brakes and gears. Understanding how to budget for an electric bike can help you decide.
• Regulations: In Australia and NZ, an e-trike is classified as a bicycle if its motor is 250 watts or less and the assistance cuts off at 25 km/h. The motor should only assist while you are pedalling.
• Where to Ride: You can ride a standard e-trike anywhere a conventional bicycle is permitted, including bike paths, shared paths, and roadways.
• No License Required: For a standard e-trike, you do not need a driver's license, registration, or compulsory insurance. This makes them an incredibly accessible transport option for everyone.

Funding Your E-Trike: NDIS, Aged Care, and Private Purchase

While funding for an e-trike may be available through schemes like the NDIS, it is important to be aware that these processes can involve significant delays, often lasting many months or even years. We can provide general guidance and documentation to support you and your occupational therapist as you navigate these options.

However, every day spent waiting on paperwork is a missed opportunity for freedom, connection, and joy. For many, choosing to purchase privately is the fastest way to start living more fully and enjoying the ride sooner.

Find Your Perfect Ride with a Trusted Partner

Choosing an adult electric tricycle is an investment in your independence, health, and happiness. It is a path to regaining freedom, staying active, and enjoying the outdoors.

Navigating the options can be overwhelming, which is why a trusted partner is so valuable. At EveryBody eBikes, our unique approach is built around you. We offer expert advice and custom fitting services to ensure your e-trike is perfectly suited to your body and riding style.

Our mission is to make cycling accessible for every age, every ability, and every body. We focus on e-trikes built with high-quality components and expert design, featuring name-brand parts from Shimano and Tektro. Our models undergo full quality assurance testing to guarantee you receive a product that is safe, reliable, and built to last.

Discover more about our commitment to inclusive cycling in Australia.

Don't wait to experience the freedom an adult electric tricycle can offer. Explore our full range of electric tricycles today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are adult electric tricycles safe?

A: Yes, they are very safe. Their three-wheel design provides excellent stability, virtually eliminating the risk of falling when stopping or riding at low speeds. Features like low step-through frames and effective brakes further improve rider security.

Q: How fast can an adult e-trike go?

A: In Australia and New Zealand, the motor assistance on a road-legal adult electric tricycle is limited to 25 km/h. You can pedal faster under your own power, but the motor will stop assisting at that speed.

Q: Do you need a licence for an electric tricycle in Australia?

A: No. If your adult electric tricycle meets the standard of a 250-watt motor with assistance cutting off at 25 km/h, it is legally classified as a bicycle. This means no driver's licence, registration, or compulsory insurance is required.