Everything You Need to Know About Trike Bikes

1 / 1

A type of motorcycle that seems to turn heads wherever it goes, trike bikes get a lot of attention as a new way to ride on the road. They stand out for their three-wheeled designs, and prove to be accessible to a number of bikers that want to get their thrills yet without sacrificing comfort on the ride. Cycle Trader is sharing everything you need to know about trike bikes, including how to ride them and top makers on the marketplace.

Start shopping today for all the trike bikes for sale from dealers and private sellers nationwide.

What Are Trike Bikes?

Simply put, standard model trike bikes are built on a three-wheel chassis, with one wheel up front, and two in the back, but you’ll also see reverse trikes with two wheels up front and one wheel in the back. This allows riders to lean more into the bike as they ride. Commonly you’ll find extra cargo space for your gear in between the two wheels, and some have an additional seat to bring along a passenger that would otherwise be more difficult on a regular motorcycle.

Trikes got their start when bikers began customizing their motorcycles, and the popularity grew for a variety of reasons. For some bikers, for whom riding a two-wheel motorcycle might be more difficult or dangerous, including senior or disabled riders, they can still feel the freedom of the road with a stable trike bike, without having to make many adjustments to riding posture. They can also be a safer and more comfortable ride for any kind of biker, with larger seats to lean back, less endurance to control, durable shocks, protective seat belts, and less likelihood of tipping or rolling over.

For these same reasons, trike bikes can be great for road trips and long journeys, especially when you factor in the extra room for lugging cargo. They always seem to make a statement on the road, too, catching attention of fellow bikers and motorists wherever you show up for their innovative design and tech features.

How to Drive a Trike Motorcycle

Driving a trike bike might be different from your standard motorcycle, but it’s not complicated. Just like when you’re riding with a sidecar, you’ll have to make adjustments based on weight and size of the bike, and practice to familiarize yourself with the difference in riding. While driving instructions can change based on specific makes and models, here’s a general overview.

Start the Engine

To start your trike engine, engage the brakes, followed by the clutch, and then shift into first gear. Carefully release the brake and the clutch, and give it some throttle to get moving.

Shift Gears

There’s some similarity here with your standard motorcycles. Lower on the throttle, engage the clutch, and shift into your next gear prior to releasing on the clutch, trying to keep in a straight line as you do so for a smooth transition between gears.

Braking

Just like any other motorcycle, go easy on the brakes. With the weight of your trike, give yourself greater braking room and distance to come to a full stop.

Turning

Tilt the handlebars of the trike in the direction you’re headed, gradually steering your way as you turn, without any sudden jerks on the handlebars. Corner correctly by slowing down, then maintain your speed, then straighten out the trike on the road as you leave the corner.

5 Popular Trike Makers

Now that you know the basics about trike bikes and how to drive them, we’re giving you five of the most popular trike makers on the market by number of listings. This can help you slim down your selection when shopping to find the perfect motorcycle for you.

1. Can-Am

A company well known for its off-road vehicles, Can-Am trike motorcycles have taken off with motorcycle riders for their traction control, stability, and comfort. It’s clear these three-wheelers have a devoted fanbase, as they’re also among the best motorcycles for women riders.

2. Harley-Davidson

Harley isn’t just cool for their cruisers, sport or street bikes, they’re also putting out an impressive lineup on three wheels. Harley-Davidson trike motorcycles fit in with the rest of their models, and give riders comfort, stability, power, and noise you’d expect from this name brand.

3. Honda

Honda trike motorcycles are big bikes with a stylish look, demonstrating they’re reliable and comfortable. Terrific for touring or even a simple ride around town, these trikes are easy to drive, with superior suspension for a smooth cruise, and with models offering extra seating capacity or cargo space.

4. Polaris Slingshot

Slingshot trike motorcycles have an unforgettable appearance, and stand out on this list for their striking design with a cab. Resembling more of a car than a motorcycle, with a lower center of gravity you’ll have control and power moving on the road as you handle the controls from the cockpit.

5. Vanderhall

What has to be some of the most classy trikes you’ll find anywhere on the market, Vanderhall trike motorcycles again look more like a convertible automobile than motorcycle. However, they still give you some of the same thrills riding low on the road, putting speed and comfort first for riders.

Transport your bike with these motorcycle trailers for sale.

Many riders like trike bikes for their comfort, stability, and power on the road. When you get a chance, take a test spin and find out for yourself how fun these motorcycles are to drive. Start shopping from the nation’s largest selection of new and pre-owned motorcycles at CycleTrader.com.