Beyond Two Wheels: Everything You Need to Know About Adult Trikes

Refind the Joy of Riding with Stability and Confidence

A tricycle for adults offers a stable and comfortable way to ride without needing to balance on two wheels. They are changing the story for retirees, people with balance issues, and commuters by providing a safe, practical, and fun way to stay active and carry cargo. The stability of three wheels removes the fear of tipping over, while electric-assist options make hills and headwinds feel effortless.

Quick Answer: What is a Tricycle for Adults?

• Stability: Three wheels mean no balancing required, even when stationary.
• Comfort: Upright or semi-recumbent seating reduces strain on your back, wrists, and joints.
• Cargo Capacity: Front and rear baskets let you carry groceries or personal items with ease.
• Electric Assist: Modern e-trikes offer pedal-assist motors for hills and longer distances.
• Accessibility: Ideal for seniors, individuals with mobility challenges, or anyone wanting a safer ride.

I'm Andrea Herklots, owner-operator of EveryBody eBikes, and I've spent years helping Australians find the right tricycle for adults to suit their lifestyle and mobility needs. Whether you're considering your first trike or looking to upgrade, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a confident choice.

Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Tricycle for Adults

The world of tricycles for adults has expanded, offering more options than ever. Let's explore what you need to know to find your perfect three-wheeled companion.

Who Can Benefit from an Adult Tricycle?

A tricycle for adults can benefit a wide range of people. Here’s who we often help at our Brisbane showroom:

• Seniors Embracing Active Aging: As balance can shift with age, traditional bikes may feel risky. A trike eliminates wobbling and the fear of tipping, giving back the simple pleasure of riding for errands or fitness.
• Individuals with Balance Concerns or Physical Limitations: Conditions like arthritis, joint pain, or recovery from injury don't have to mean giving up cycling. The stability of three wheels makes riding accessible and can be life-changing for people with various physical challenges. While funding through programs like the NDIS or My Aged Care is an option for some, the application and approval process can often take months, or even years. For many, life is too short to spend waiting for paperwork to clear. Every day spent waiting is a missed opportunity for freedom, sunshine, and connection. Choosing to purchase privately means you can start reclaiming your independence and enjoying the benefits of riding right away, without delay. For more, see our guides on A Practical Guide to Adaptive Trikes and The Joy of Adaptive Trikes.
• Commuters and Shoppers: Electric trikes offer a stable, practical way to get around town. With generous cargo capacity, you can carry work bags or groceries, avoid traffic, and enjoy an eco-friendly commute.
• Families and Recreational Riders: Trikes are perfect for weekend adventures and enjoying the outdoors. The added stability lets you relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about balance.

Upright vs. Semi-Recumbent: Finding Your Comfort Zone

Adult tricycles come in two main styles: upright and semi-recumbent. Both are stable, but they offer very different riding experiences.

• Upright Tricycles: These resemble traditional bikes with an extra rear wheel. You sit upright, which provides good visibility in traffic and feels familiar to most riders. They are generally intuitive to ride and can be more manoeuvrable in tight spaces.

• Semi-Recumbent Tricycles: Here, you sit in a reclined position with your legs forward, supported by a full seat with a backrest. This design is exceptionally comfortable, as it distributes your weight evenly and eliminates pressure on your wrists, neck, and back. The lower centre of gravity adds to the feeling of stability, which is reassuring for riders with balance concerns. Learn more in our Ultimate Guide to Semi-Recumbent Trikes.

The best choice depends on your comfort needs and riding style. For many seniors or those with mobility challenges, the superior comfort of a semi-recumbent design is transformative.

Key Features to Look For in a Tricycle for Adults

When choosing a tricycle for adults, focus on the features that will improve your comfort, safety, and riding experience.

• Frame Design: Look for a robust but lightweight frame, ideally with a low step-through design for easy mounting and dismounting. Our expert-designed frames prioritise both strength and accessibility.
• Motor and Battery (for E-Trikes): The motor (typically 250W for Australian roads) provides pedal assistance, while the battery range (measured in Ah or Wh) determines how far you can go. Models like our Trojan offer powerful motors with excellent torque for hills.
• Brakes: Reliable braking is non-negotiable. While V-brakes are common, hydraulic disc brakes (found on our premium models) offer superior stopping power in all weather. A parking brake is also a crucial safety feature for securing the trike when stopped.
• Gearing: A multi-speed system (e.g., 7-speed Shimano) provides flexibility for tackling hills and maintaining a comfortable pace, whereas single-speed is best for flat terrain.
• Tyres: Standard tyres are fine for paved roads, but fat tyres provide extra stability, comfort, and traction on varied surfaces like gravel or dirt paths.
• Cargo Capacity: A key advantage of trikes is their ability to carry items. Look for models with generous front and/or rear baskets for groceries and personal belongings.
• Comfort and Safety: A supportive seat, adjustable handlebars, and integrated lights are essential. For e-trikes, a clear display for speed and battery life is also important.

We offer only the highest-quality models that undergo full quality assurance testing. For more guidance, see our articles on Choosing the Best Electric Trike for You and our Adaptive Tricycle Buying Guide.

Exploring Top-Rated Electric Tricycle Models

Electric-assist makes a tricycle for adults even more versatile, helping with hills, extending your range, and making it easier to carry heavy loads. At EveryBody eBikes, we offer expert-designed, high-quality models that deliver superior performance. Here are two of our top-rated options.

Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike

Built for adventure and versatility, the Trojan is a tricycle for adults that handles varied terrain with ease. Its chunky fat tyres provide exceptional stability and a smooth ride, whether you are on a paved path or a gravel trail. The powerful motor helps you tackle hills and headwinds confidently, making it a reliable companion for longer journeys.

The Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike is built for everyday practicality, featuring a low step-over frame for effortless mounting and dismounting. Enjoy easy access with a low step-over frame that makes mounting and dismounting simple. Carry more with large front and rear baskets that offer generous cargo capacity. From errands and grocery runs to packing for a full day out, it’s built for versatile use.

• Best For: All-terrain stability, carrying heavy loads, and powerful assistance.
• Tyres: Fat tyres for comfort and traction.
• Motor: Powerful motor with high torque for hills.
• Battery: Long-range battery (up to 120km).
• Frame: Low 44cm step-over height for accessibility.
• Cargo: Large front and rear baskets.

Learn more in our guide, Meet the Trojan Fat Tyre Electric Trike.

Trident Semi-Recumbent Electric Tricycle

For those who prioritise comfort above all, the Trident is an excellent choice. Its semi-recumbent design features a supportive chair-like seat with a full backrest, which removes pressure from your back, wrists, and joints. This makes it ideal for longer rides or for anyone with mobility challenges.

The low centre of gravity creates a secure and confident ride, while premium components ensure a smooth and controlled experience. The Trident is designed to break down barriers to cycling, making it a popular choice for older adults or anyone seeking a relaxed, stable, and supremely comfortable ride.

• Best For: Ultimate comfort, long-distance riding, and riders with back or joint pain.
• Seating: Semi-recumbent with full back support.
• Centre of Gravity: Low for enhanced stability.
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes for superior stopping power.
• Gearing: Shimano multi-speed gearing for versatile control.

Find more about the Trident Range.

These expert-designed models are built with high-quality components and undergo full quality assurance testing, reflecting our commitment to state-of-the-art design for Australian riders.

Your Journey Starts Here: Finding and Maintaining Your Perfect Trike

Once you've identified the features that matter most, the next steps are finding the right fit and keeping your trike in top condition.

The Importance of a Professional Fitting and Test Ride

Choosing a tricycle for adults is a personal journey, and nothing replaces a professional fitting and test ride. A trike must fit you perfectly to ensure comfort, safety, and performance.

At EveryBody eBikes, our expert-designed trikes are made to fit. A proper fitting prevents strain and ensures you can comfortably reach all controls, building your confidence on the road. A test ride is your chance to experience the stability, handling, and feel of the electric assist firsthand. It’s the best way to know if a trike is right for you.

We welcome you to book a test ride at our Brisbane showroom or visit one of our nationwide partners to try our products near you. Our team offers pressure-free test rides and expert advice.

Long-Term Care for Your Tricycle for Adults

Regular maintenance will keep your tricycle for adults in top condition for years. Here are a few key tips:

• Professional Servicing: We recommend a professional check-up every 6-12 months at our Brisbane workshop to keep your trike rolling smoothly.
• Battery Care: For e-trikes, store your battery in a cool, dry place and charge it regularly to ensure its longevity.
• Tyre Pressure: Regularly check your tyre pressure to improve efficiency and comfort.
• DIY Checks: Between services, keep your trike clean and visually inspect it for any loose parts or worn brake pads.
• Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet and use lights for visibility. Many organisations, like Cycling Australia, offer great resources on ride safety.

Our commitment extends beyond the sale with reliable after-sales support and expert advice. For more detailed information, read our guide on Essential Servicing Tips.

Ready to find your perfect three-wheeled companion? Explore our full range of tricycles today and start a new journey of freedom and confidence.