of the Best Electric Recumbent Trikes
Looking for a recumbent trike that’s electrically powered? In this article, I’ll be sharing 5 of the best electric recumbent trikes currently available. Whether you’re looking for something to help you tackle hilly terrain or just want a little boost while riding, having a recumbent trike with e-assist is a game-changer!
Recumbent Trike with Electric Assist
One of the great things about recumbent trikes is that it’s easy for manufacturers to spec an electric version. Unlike regular bicycles that often require a specific frame (for mid-drive motors), the only thing you need to change on a recumbent is the boom.
This opens up a whole world of possibilities for the manufacturer and owner alike. Some owners prefer to build their own electric recumbent trike and others prefer to buy one ready-built from the factory.
Benefits of Riding an Electric Recumbent Trike
There are many benefits to riding an electric recumbent trike. Some of the top benefits include:
Increased fitness – Riding an electric recumbent trike is a great way to increase your fitness level. The pedalling motion is a great workout for your cardiovascular health, leg strength, core strength and mental well-being. Plus, the added electric assist makes it easy to cover more ground and enables you to get a longer workout.
Increased independence – Riding an electric recumbent trike can help increase your independence. The low-impact motion is easy on your joints, and the e-assist makes it easier to explore new areas further from home.
fun – Riding an electric recumbent trike is a lot of fun. You no longer have to worry about getting exhausted, out of breath or dealing with muscle aches. Electric assist brings a whole new dimension of enjoyment to recumbent cycling!
Why Riding a Recumbent Trike Feels Different
I consider myself to be reasonably fit and ride between 100-150 miles a week on a road bike. The first thing I noticed when riding a recumbent trike is feeling that familiar lactic burn but in an unfamiliar way.
When riding a recumbent trike, you’re targeting the same muscles as you would on a regular bike, but due to the physical positioning on a recumbent, they’re being worked in a slightly different way.
Best Electric Motor for a Recumbent Trike
I’ve had the benefit of riding both a rear hub motor and crank drive-powered e-recumbent. Both types of motor work very well, but for me personally, I prefer the crank motor.
Crank-drive electric motor: Also known as a mid-drive, as on a regular bicycle it’s mounted where the bottom bracket would be, hence ‘mid-mounted’. On a recumbent, these motors are located at the end of the boom, where the crankset would usually be. Typically, Bosch or Shimano Steps electric motors are used.
These motors transfer power to the rear wheel through the drivetrain and are exceptionally good for climbing steep hills. Torque output on these motors is usually in the 60Nm – 85Nm range. Assistance is provided by measuring pedalling force from the rider (via a torque sensor).
Rear hub motor: These motors are much simpler and cheaper than crank motors. Although they’re not as refined and don’t produce the same amount of torque, they are, nonetheless a very effective form of electric assist. A hub motor won’t be quite as adept at hill climbing and won’t be as efficient, but they are generally very reliable and easy to fix if they go wrong.
Here are 5 of the Best Electric Recumbent Trikes
I’ve based the selection below on specification, brand and positive customer reviews. Recumbent trikes are generally quite expensive and adding e-assist increases this price substantially. My personal favourite would be the Ice Trike as they’re a company local to me, but all the other e-trikes are excellent.
Catrike Expedition / Trail eCat
The Catrike eCat is the perfect choice for those looking for a high-quality, efficient electric recumbent trike. With its reliable Bosch Active Line Plus drive unit powered by a 400Wh battery, and SRAM NX 1 x 11 drivetrain, the eCat provides a dynamic riding experience with minimal pedalling resistance.
Ice Trike
Ice Trikes are fully customizable and the option to add electric assist is a great bonus. Ice Trikes now offer the latest Shimano EP8 motor along with the excellent E6100 motor as e-assist options. The former is the more expensive of the two, but if you plan on riding steep hills or off-road, then the EP8 would be the one to go for. Batteries are available in 504Wh or 630Wh sizes.
TerraTrike E.V.O.
If you’re looking for a recumbent trike that’s electric, check out TerraTrike’s E.V.O. This recumbent trike is powered by the excellent Bosch Performance Line Cruise motor and the PowerPack 400Wh battery, so it’s great fun to ride. With a whisper-quiet motor capable of 65Nm of torque, this system will really help to make things easier on the climbs.
HP Velotechnik Scorpion Plus
If you are looking for a new riding experience, the HP Velotechnik Scorpion Plus electric recumbent trike might be just what you are looking for. This trike allows you to pedal and exercise, while a powerful motor gives you support up to three times your output, depending on the system. You can conquer the local climb with a smile on your face or ride to work fast and yet completely relaxed. Particularly convincing is the cycling feeling with your recumbent bike maintained – giving you an enjoyable experience each time you take it out for a spin.
Sunseeker eco-tad
If you are looking for a tadpole trike that is engineered with quality and affordability in mind, the E-Eco Tad Electric Assist Tadpole might be just what you are looking for. This trike offers a 350-watt pedal-assist rear drive motor as well as a 36-volt / 10.4AH LiOn Battery pack to help get you where you need to go quickly and easily. With its fully adjustable mesh-back saddle, this trike is perfect for anyone who wants an enjoyable ride without having to break the bank.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve found this article useful and it’s given you some food for thought when considering buying an electric recumbent trike. Riding a recumbent trike is an experience like no other. If you’ve never tried one, I highly recommend it – especially if you live in a hilly area. The electric assist makes conquering hills a breeze, and the reclined position takes all the pressure off your back and neck. Plus, there are some great health benefits to riding a recumbent trike.
Have you ridden an electric recumbent before? What did you think? Please feel free to leave a comment below.
Meet Tony, a passionate e-bike advocate and enthusiast who discovered the life-changing benefits of electric bikes back in 2016. Tony’s technical experience within the e-bike field was gained while running a successful electric bike conversion business for 5 years in his home county of Cornwall, UK.
Health Benefits When Using An Electric Recumbent Trike
DINExperts suggest that humans get an average of 30 minutes per day of physical activity. However, people have been quick to assume that means lifting weights or running. Luckily, there are more creative (and fun) ways to stay active. For some, this means riding an electric recumbent trike. Electric recumbent trikes have grown in popularity over the last few years. It’s a healthy way to enjoy the outdoors and get the blood pumping. We’re going to dive into the healthy benefits of these electric trikes! To learn why you should incorporate one into your exercise routine, keep reading.
Why You Should Use An Electric Recumbent Trike
It’s important to understand what one of these unique tricycles are exactly. After that, we will discuss health benefits. These trikes are 3-wheeled electric vehicles. They have been carefully engineered for a safe and reliable driving experience. One wheel can be found in the back of the product and two wheels are in the front. You can find an electric recumbent trike that has features that fit your preferences. Some trikes have full suspension and weather protection. You can even find options with passenger seating. The seats are usually very comfortable for a smooth ride. Many trikes feature lighting and mirrors. Electric recumbent trikes can be either stationary or outdoor.
What Muscles Does It Work?
This is to say that your quadriceps, shins, calf muscles, glutes, and hamstrings will all get a good workout. Your lower body will feel the burn from the pedaling.
Health Benefits
There are many benefits to using electric recumbent trikes. If you’re looking to get in shape or increase your health, using one of these trikes is an excellent option. You can purchase a stationary trike for winter use and use an outdoor one for summer adventures.
The gentle electric assistance will provide help and resistance as you power up. You can tailor the options to challenge your health as required. This means that your trike can assist in your fitness journey on many levels.
Some of the positive results include:
Cardiovascular
Cardiovascular health refers to the health of your heart and blood vessels. It can help ward off problems such as coronary heart disease, arrhythmias, and stroke. In order to work your cardiovascular health, it’s important to get your heart rate up. This can be done through aerobic exercise.
For the electric trike to work your heart, it’s important to keep the challenge going. You can take these trikes on a leisurely stroll. You can also increase resistance and pedal faster for a stronger workout. This is more effective and will keep your heart healthy.
Provides Lumbar Support
Your lumbar refers to your lower back. It accounts for five vertebrae near the bottom of your spine. To keep your lumbar healthy, it’s important to work it regularly and provide rest when needed. Many older adults complain of lumbar pain. This is an unfortunate and sometimes debilitating problem.
Electric recumbent trikes allow you to recline during use. Therefore, it eases pressure on the lower back. Many other exercises increase lumbar discomfort. For those who suffer from lower back pain, this is an excellent option to keep it strong and supported as you get a workout in.
These trikes are relatively low impact with high reward.
Builds Muscle
For those who struggle with traditional weight lifting, a trike is a good option. It helps to strengthen muscles without becoming overwhelmed. It’s low impact, but it will make you feel a healthy burn. As your muscles strengthen, you can increase resistance. This will continue to challenge you over time.
If you’re looking to tone or strengthen your body, an electric trike is a great option.
Fat Loss
Many Americans struggle with insecurity regarding weight. In order to shed pounds, you have to eat in a calorie deficit and burn calories. Not everyone wants to go for a run though. That’s why electric recumbent trikes are an excellent option for fat loss.
You can burn up to 300 calories in a 30-minute ride. Of course, this will depend on the intensity of the ride. This is an excellent way to feel confident and lose fat.
It’s important to implement other healthy habits with your trike routine. This will include limiting food intake with a healthy diet.
Abdominal Muscles
We all dream of having a strong core (and maybe a six pack). Having advanced core muscles will improve your balance and stamina. Simple daily tasks will feel easier by improving core strength. An electric recumbent trike allows you to engage your abdominal muscles.
By engaging your lower abdomen, you’ll begin to work those muscles and take some pressure off of your legs. This will help tone your stomach, improve balance, and burn calories.
Minimize Back Pain
Back pain is very uncomfortable, yet many people suffer from it. Because a trike provides lumbar support, it’ll limit lumbar pain. It will also help you improve flexibility and strengthen lower back muscles.
Conclusion
Get ready to have fun and enjoy your electric recumbent trike. Not only will this be exciting, but it features many health benefits. This way you can balance health with fun. Enjoy several health benefits such as improving your cardiovascular stamina and building muscles. For a unique, exciting way to exercise, a trike is an excellent option.
Looking for an electric trike? Checkout our complete selection of brand names at the best prices! https://www.ebikejoy.com/collections/recreational-electric-scooters
Recumbent Electric Trike 500W Electric Tricycle Ebike Snow Mountain Fat Tire NEW
Recumbent Electric Trike 500W Electric Tricycle Ebike Snow Mountain Fat Tire NEW
Quantity ( 0 in cart) Decrease quantity for Recumbent Electric Trike 500W Electric Tricycle Ebike Snow Mountain Fat Tire NEW
Increase quantity for Recumbent Electric Trike 500W Electric Tricycle Ebike Snow Mountain Fat Tire NEW
This Electric Recumbent Bike measures 76.8-82.7 (L) x 37 (W) x 36 (H) with Bafang 48v 500w mid-drive motor and 2 0x4.0 front / 26×4.0 rear tires.
Imagine having a recumbent bike that is great for off-road adventures, allows you to float over the trail, and offers you a more gentle ride over bumpy terrain. Our Recumbent E-Trike with fat tires is designed for relaxing at the beach, having fun in the snow, sand, mud and seeking excitement on rough tails. Image having on and off-road adventures with electric assist to take you a bit further.
Aerodynamic
The lower seat position and a recline angle as little as 30 degree minimizes frontal surface area and reduces aerodynamic drag.
Recumbent Trikes
The most popular trike in our range. You might ask how this differs from the JC20. It comes down to the back wheel. The JC70 will take a 700c wheel (vs the JC20 20″ rea wheel). The JC70, moreover, has a longer wheelbase at 116cm vs the JC20 with its 97cm wheelbase, and the seat angles are different.
For taking the edge off a bumpy ride on a long day. You’ll be sporting a recumbent grin no matter what … it’s just that your grin will be a little wider with the extra impact dampening effect. A bit more of a cushier ride— Why not?!
The Ultimate Folding Trike. No need to purchase expensive bike racks. Fold and stow in the back seat or the trunk and you’re good to fast-track your way to the trailhead.
Carbon Trike
Add lightweight carbon to a trike’s natural aerodynamic profile. What you get? A machine that is close to the ultimate FREEDOM machine. You really can “Ride Like The Wind” with this one!!
Recumbent Trike Range Overview
The 4 trikes in the Performer range have you covered. The JC20 is a sound choice for either your first trike or an upgrade. You’ll certainly not find better value for money trike-goodness anywhere else. You’ve got a range of options to choose from so you can dial in your budget according to your needs. The FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) seat with cushion mesh is standard. You can also install a full mesh seat if that’s a better fit for you. The JC20 27 speed sports a triple chainring with a 9s cassette. The gear ratios here are such that you can get up a very respectable head of steam on the flats as well as being able to power downhill. Plus you’ll be able to get up all but the steepest climbs on the lowest gear ratios. The mechanical disc brakes will give you exactly the level of control that you need when you need it. The 30 speed gives you that little bit of extra choice in gear selection along with exposure to more of Shimano’s super-awesome 10 speed Tiagra groupset. The JC-26X gives you rear suspension and a wide range of options across the 27 speed, 30 speed and XT choices. This is deluxe triking in, again, a great value-for-money package. The 27 Speed is characterized by the 9s Sunrace cassette and the Novela Mechanical Disc Brakes. The 30 Speed gives you the key components of Shimano’s fantastic Tiagra 10 speed groupset along with Avid’s powerful BB5 mechanical disc brakes. The X.9 gives you the choice of installing SRAM’s X.9 long cage 10 speed derailleur and TRP’s powerful SPYRE Disc Brakes. Or for the same price you can choose the XT package which basically swaps out the X.9 long cage with Shimano’s XT derailleur. The Performer Trike-F, or “folding” trike is convenience wrapped up in a neat package. If you live in an urban area which means a commute through traffic to get to the trail, this is what you need. No need for expensive, bulky, inconvenient trike racks on your car. Fold your trike, put it in the trunk, the backseat or the truck and off you go. The 27 speed model will give you all you need to get that triking recumbent grin. The 30 speed has more Tiagra 10 speed goodness included as well as TRP’s powerful SPYRE Disc Brakes.
The Pros and Cons Of a Recumbent Trike
When looking for an electric bike, 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?
Recumbent Trike. The Pros Cons
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.