A Detailed Guide To Three Wheel Bicycles for Seniors

A Detailed Guide To Three Wheel Bicycles for Seniors

From the lower step-through design, 3 wheels, extended support, to the improved handlebars, three wheel bicycles for seniors are specially built to help elders to continue enjoying cycling well into the golden years.

But that’s not the sole reasoning behind their existence…

3 wheel bikes for seniors also make movement easier for elders with balance issues or disabilities in addition to being one of the few fun and senior friendly recreational and exercise tools.

With the right bike, you can travel with your cargo and do some shopping.

Now, I will be taking you to the interesting world of three wheel bikes for seniors and show you how you can use them to improve the quality of life for you and your loved ones.

Check out the hottest three wheel bicycles for older adults below.

In a Rush? Here are Our Top Picks

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Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike, 1-Speed, 26-Inch Wheels, Cargo Basket, Black
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Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike, 1-Speed, 26-Inch Wheels, Cargo Basket, Black
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What are 3 Wheel Bikes for Seniors?

3 wheel bicycles for seniors are bikes with a triangle construction or simply three wheels. This design is intended to enhance their stability and make them safer for the aged population.

Today, three wheeled bikes are considered one of the best mobility aiding accessories.

Why Do You Need a Three Wheel Bikes for Seniors – Advantages

Three wheels bicycles for seniors offer a lot:

  •  Safety Advantage

As we said earlier on, three wheel bikes for adults are more stable and far safer than 2-wheeled bikes allowing seniors to always maintain their balance.

This reduced incidents such as falls drastically.

Ergonomic handlebars, cozy backrest, soft grips, and better pedaling design all help keep issues such as back pain and discomfort away.

  • Promotes Healthy and Fitter Living

On a related note, most of the leading three wheel bicycles for seniors  are not as heavy as conventional bicycles so they’re much easier to ride.

This motivates you to exercise by cycling, an action which can go a long way in strengthening your bones.

There are many other health boosts associated with cycling for seniors such as better sleep, weight loss, improved joints, and better heart rate.

  • Makes Old Age Less Stressing

Bikes for seniors are a cool rewinding activity at the end of a tiring day. Going out there, enjoying the scenery, and the evening breeze will bring a fresh, exciting feeling and can help beat stress.

Cycling also triggers the release of happiness bringing endorphins helping to reduce anxieties and depression.

  • Makes You Social

Cycling also brings you out of the home where you can meet old friends and overcome the loneliness often associated with old age.

There are a ton of senior’s oriented cycling club nowadays where you can create new friendships around a common hobby.

  • Carry Essential Cargo Conveniently

The best tricycles for adults have a wider rear wheel base giving you the ability to carry significant cargo.

A senior can thus go shopping for groceries and other personal items independently.

Are There Some Disadvantages of Using a Tricycle for Adults?

Nothing is perfect in this world so your three wheel bicycle does come with some disadvantages.

  •  Challenges Of Handling

A 3 wheel bike’s wider standing can make it tougher to handle when turning because of the bigger turning radius. The problem is more pronounced at slower speeds.

  • Possible Poor Visibility

Recumbent trikes and such extremely low lying models may not be visible to other drivers in traffic and can expose the elder to potential accidents.

To mitigate this, you can increase visibility by attaching a flag perched atop a tall fiberglass rod.

  •   Size

The best 3 wheel bikes for adults are broader than conventional bicycles and can stick out in traffic particularly when cycling in narrow lanes or sidewalks.

This can be both inconvenient and dangerous during rush hour. Additionally, this makes them harder to store in general, unless you get a folding 3 wheel bike which easily folds for storage.

Here are Reputable 3 Wheel Bikes for Adults Brands

Now, trikes were not invented yesterday. ..their history goes back to the 1800s and so the market has seen many players come and go over the years. A few brands have however managed to withstand the test of time.

Here are today’s most trusted brands for three wheel bicycles for seniors:

1.   Schwinn Bikes

Schwinn has been in this business since 1895 and has produced some of the most iconic models to ever grace the market.

And you can always bet on them to pioneer the next most innovative three-wheel bike like this popular Schwinn Meridian Full Size Adult Tricycle.

Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle
  • Designed with 26-inch wheels, this bike provides a comfortable ride for those...
  • Single speed drivetrain is easy to use and maintain
  • Linear-pull brakes deliver smooth and intuitive stopping, and both front and...
  • Wide upright handlebars provide a stable, balanced ride, and the adjustable,...
  • Super low, stand-over, step-through aluminum frame allows easy step-through...

2.   Komodo Cycling

Another superstar, Komodo Cycling designs some of the easiest to assemble units.

They put simplicity and performance first and have also been excelling in making tricycles with very advanced gear systems.

3.   Raleigh Bikes

Raleigh’ s 3-speed Tristar Trike
  • Steel step through frame makes for easy on/off
  • Stormy Archer 3 speed internal geared hub for low maintenance
  • Front V brake with parking lock; rear coaster brake
  • Rear rack holds up to 45 lbs.
  • Pedals included; limited lifetime warranty on the frame for as long as the...

The history of three wheel bicycles is never complete without Raleigh Bikes. The company goes for perfection and if you look at their products, they are not doing badly.

One of their best selling models is the classy Raleigh’ s 3-speed Tristar Trike.

4.   Mobo Cruiser Bikes

Another giant, Mobo has so many bikes and caters for the needs of the entire biking community, not just senior cyclists.

In the senior category, their recumbent trikes are rated up there with the best.

5.   Ridgeyard Bikes

Ridgeyard Adult Tricycle Bike
  • High Quality: The 3-wheeled bike made of high tensile steel TIG welded frame, it...
  • Adjustable: The trike with adjustable seat and handlebars,suitable for man and...
  • Comfortable: With a comfortable, padded spring cruiser saddle absorbs bumps &...
  • Folding Basket: The tricycle with a large rear folding basket and it's...
  • Notes:The tricycle is unassembled, professional assembly is recommended....

Ridgeyard also impresses with its knack to manufacture highly customizable three wheel bicycles for seniors. They are also one of the most favored brands by seniors who prefer bicycles with collapsing baskets.

Their continued innovation has seen them continually make top-quality tricycles led by the Ridgeyard Adult Tricycle Bike.

 What are Different Types of Three Wheel Bikes for Adults?

There are so many types and sub-types that you can easily feel overwhelmed.

From hybrids, uprights, the older brands, here is a highlight of the most common types…

1. Motorized Tricycle or Electric Tricycle for Seniors

Electric tricycles for adults are hybrids and have both pedals and electric motors.

You can hence pedal and exercise whenever you feel like or sit back and have it do the work.

This three wheel bicycle could be the way to go for seniors who need a bit of help when climbing as their gears help conquer challenging uphill without much struggle.

The Emojo Electric Fat Tire Tricycle best captures this design.

About the Emojo Electric Fat Tire Tricycle

As a senior cyclist, you need all the push you can get. You also require a cycle that is extra stable.

Well, both objectives are attainable with the Emojo Electric Fat Tire Tricycle.

With this tricycle coming with a reliable 500W motor and a 48V lithium battery, it enjoys a likely top speed of 35 mph on one charge.

The Emojo Electric Tricycle comes feature-loaded, and it’s not just the powerful motor and battery that I’m talking about.

For one, it features a 7-speed transmission system that enables you to conquer the harsh terrain. Pulling up this trike is easy thanks to its hydraulic brake.

Comfort-wise, Emojo Electric Tricycle comes with a large seat with a backrest to support your back. Interestingly, you can carry your massive load on the rear basket and your pet on the small front basket.

Overall, this three wheel bike has a 320-lb capacity, which is impressive for a three-wheel that weighs only 70 pounds.

Emojo Electric Tricycle comes with fat tires that allow you to ride both on-road and off-road. Whether it’s the paved streets or the unpredictable trails, you can explore them all with the Emojo Electric Tricycle.

Highlight Features

  • 500w motor
  • 48v battery
  • Front and rear basket
  • Fat tire
  • 7-speed transmission
  • Hydraulic brakes
  • 35 mph top speed
  • 320-lb capacity

2. 3-Wheel Recumbent Bike for Seniors

Recumbent tricycles are simply magnificent and a dream for many an elder.

They are very low to the ground and have an amazing stretched-out frame that allows the rider to recline with his/her legs relaxing in front.

They also come in diverse styles and have foremost aerodynamics, are very easy on your back, and are so comfortable.

The common larger front wheel eases steering while the two rear wheels improve stability.

For long rides, recumbent trikes like the exalted Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle offer improved speed control and posture.

The only complaint I have is their expensive pricing.

About the Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle

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Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle
1,318 Reviews
Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle
  • 3-Wheel Recumbent Bike – Enjoy the outdoors with this adult tricycle for women...
  • Low Impact Exercise – Get a cardiovascular workout with minimal stress on your...
  • No Balance Required – Low centre of gravity provides maximum stability....
  • Large & Small Riders – Easily adjusts to fit adult and youth riders from...
  • Durable Design – Hi-Ten steel frame. No-maintenance chainless design....

Whether you are looking for an exercising or cruising trike, nothing does it better than the Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle.

This three-wheel recumbent bike for seniors moves gently on flatter grounds and sloppy roads. It allows you to perform low-impact back and knee exercises as you move from one point to another.

Its reclining seat offers you maximum back comfort. The saddle lies low, thus very stable.

Plus, the bike features a dual joystick steering for smooth maneuver.

It comes in a hi-ten steel frame that gives it a lasting touch.

Besides, its frame is readily adjustable to suit both tall and short seniors. In general, it accommodates riders who are 4’2”-6’3” and weigh no more than 250 pounds.

Mobo Triton Pro features a single-gear hub that promotes easy cycling, plus a safety flag and a powerful caliper brake to keep you safe on the roads.

So, even if you decide to ride to the streets, you can do it safely with this 3 wheel bicycle for seniors.

Mobo Triton Pro only weighs 44 pounds, a weight that significantly enhances its maneuverability.

It comes with 20-inch front wheels and 16-inch rear wheels with rubber tires that move smoothly.

Given its ergonomic design, Mobo Triton Pro is perfect for seniors and kids, and adults with special needs.

Highlight Features

  • Reclining seat
  • Adjustable steel frame
  • Low profile design
  • Dual joystick steering
  • Single gear hub
  • Caliper brakes
  • Safety flag

3. Semi-Recumbent Tricycles for Seniors

A semi-recumbent fuses the best of full recumbent and traditional trikes. It uses a lower resistance “pedal forward” design and is a bit raised from the ground.

It’s thus best suited for seniors who may find recumbent tricycles too low and standard models difficult to pedal.

A semi-recumbent trike delivers one of the comfiest rides.

4. Folding Tricycle For Adults

These can be folded for storage and can hence fit in very tight spaces.

The collapsible design makes them fantastic for the frequently traveling senior as they’re easy to pack into a car trunk.

Moreover, this category of tricycles takes up less room space at home making it great for a senior citizens living in a small apartment or shared spaces.

The Mantis Tri-rad Folding Seniors Tricycle is one of the most advanced and comes with a handy parking brake to ensure it doesn’t move as you mount/dismount.

About the Mantis Tri-Rad Folding Adult Tricycle

The Mantis Tri-Rad Folding Adult Tricycle is a fantastic trike for seniors who want a worry-free outdoor ride. It comes in a low-cut foldable hi-ten steel frame that allows you to ride it with ease.

Folding this three wheel bicycle for seniors is a no-brainer as it requires you to pull a quick-release lever.

The frame, together with the parking brake, allows you to mount and dismount this trike quickly.

Mantis Tri-Rad comes with a large spring seat that absorbs bumps to offer you optimal comfort. It’s not just the spring seat that absorbs bumps but also the steel suspension fork.

On its rear side is a storage basket for carrying a few things on the go.

Its wheels feature aluminum rims and Kenda tires, and the two enable you to ride on challenging terrains more confidently.

Its single-speed drivetrain makes the trike effortless to ride. It comes with a front v-brake assembly plus a parking brake.

Since the frame folds easily, you can store and transport this tricycle almost effortlessly. So, it’s the type to bring to your road trips and travels.

Highlight Features

  • Foldable hi-ten steel frame
  • Large spring saddle
  • Rear storage basket
  • Steel suspension fork
  • Kenda tires and aluminum wheels
  • Front v-brake (plus parking brake)

5. Upright Tricycle for Seniors

These are traditionally upright-positioned 3-wheelers that come with a rear cargo basket and a couple of gear options (mostly not exceeding three speeds).

They are the bike of choice if your elderly friend mainly rides around the vicinity running errands or bikes for pleasure or just fitness.

Popular upright models like Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike are also economically-priced and ideal even for those on a low budget.

About the Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike

Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike
  • Designed with 26-inch wheels, this bike provides a comfortable ride for those...
  • Single speed drivetrain is easy to use and maintain
  • Linear-pull brakes deliver smooth and intuitive stopping, and both front and...
  • Wide upright handlebars provide a stable, balanced ride, and the adjustable,...
  • Super low, stand-over, step-through aluminum frame allows easy step-through...

There is a reason why the Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike is a number-one best-seller. This three wheel bike for older adults has so many exciting features that benefit older adults.

It comes with 1-speed, 3-speed, and 7-speed options to suit seniors with different cycling needs, for starters.

Its 26-inch wheels enable you to move smoothly and swiftly on varying terrains while having access to powerful linear-pull brakes.

Its aluminum frame makes it lightweight. This trike only weighs 73 pounds and generally suits riders who are 5’4”-6’2” tall.

It features full fenders on the front and rear wheels that keep you and the bike clean. So, even though the three-wheel bicycle has a low profile, you get to commute without worrying about mud splashes.

Its frame has a lo-lying step-thru design that hugely improves its accessibility.

The trike comes with a wide-upright handlebar that offers you a more stable ride. You also get to cycle upright, and that’s good for your weak back.

Extra comfort comes from the trike’s padded cruiser saddle that soaks up the bumps. What’s more, Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike features a large rear basket for carrying your groceries and gear.

And more, it comes in so many color choices to suit seniors with different tastes.

Highlight Features

  • Low-lying step-thru frame
  • Wide-upright handlebar
  • Rear and front fenders
  • Rear cargo basket
  • Cruiser saddle
  • 26-inch wheels
  • Linear pull brakes
  • Multiple speed

6. Tandem Tricycle for Seniors

A tandem tricycle comes with 2 seats (front and at the back) meaning the elder can ride in the company of the spouse or caregiver.

They also provide pedals for the second person so the senior can call on his company to help pedal when he wants to catch some breath.

7. Sociable Tricycle for Seniors

Also called sociable, buddy trikes, or side-by-side tricycles, these bikes support  two riders, and unlike, in tandems where one sit on the fore and the other after, the elder and his/her co-rider here sit close ,side by side.

Though they were for many years used as courting bikes, they help the rider to bring his favorite buddy along and can uplift the experience and further kill loneliness. So, they are an amazing three wheel bicycles for seniors who are a couple.

8. 3 Wheel Bikes For Adults With Gears

Some three wheel Bicycles for adults have multiple gears to make easier to go up hills and go faster on level lanes.

Gears are like speeds. For example, a 3 gears tricycle will have 3 speeds with the first gear being a low gear.

Still, like in other bikes, you can go a gear higher (upshifting) or down (downshifting).

The difference with two-wheeled bicycles is in that these gears are easier to shift plus that trikes have reassuring super-responsive brakes.

As I had indicated earlier, Komodo makes a variety of models including gear types. A good example from them is the EY Adult Tricycle.

About the EY Adult Tricycle

If you are looking for more power output and better pedaling efficiency, the EY Adult Tricycle is the bike for you.

This 3 wheel bike for seniors provides you with an ever-reliable 7-speed drivetrain that saves you energy when cycling. Its seat post suspension smoothens out the bumps as you get to ride more gently.

Its 24-inch and 26-inch wheels make it perfect for riders who are 5’4”-6’2 tall.

EY Adult Tricycle has a step-thru steel frame for easy access. Its handlebars are adjustable to match your height and generally boost your stability.

Its seat has an ergonomic backrest to relieve your back from exhaustion. The backrest saddle also comes with some shock-absorbing capability to smoothen your ride.

Its linear-pull brakes offer you more intuitive stopping while its rear and front fenders keep the mud off you.

EY Adult Tricycle is easy to assemble. Besides, it comes with an assembly manual and installation video to help you.

It features a water bottle cage for your drinking water and a rear basket for your cargo. Furthermore, it comes in multiple colors and enjoys a 350-lb weight capacity.

Highlight Features

  • Step-thru steel frame
  • Backrest saddle
  • Linear pull brake
  • Adjustable handlebar
  • 7-speed drivetrain
  • Front and rear fenders
  • Seat post suspension

Factors To Consider Before Investing in a Three Wheel Bicycle

To avoid getting lost in the avalanche of trikes that are all claiming to be the best adult 3 wheel bike, you’ll need to check out the potential deal makers/breakers…

  • Capability and Condition

One of the best 3 wheel bicycle for a disabled person or seniors with serious mobility problems is a recumbent model because it’s easier to use and balance.

A recumbent trike also puts less pressure on the back than the upright tricycle bike adults. The elaborate design recumbent tricycles makes it excellent for longer rides.

  • Accessories

Three wheel bikes can offer unlimited options when it comes to accessories.

You can get mirrors, security locks, GPS technology, safety flags, headlights, and more.

  • Handlebars

Riders with conditions such as arthritis or weaker muscles will find joy in loop handlebars than traditional handlebars or chopper handlebars.

This is because loop handlebars are easier and work even with people having a poor range of motion and weak hands.

  • Bike Seat

Upright 3 wheeled bikes come with the popular saddle-style seats which aid in comfort and avoiding numbness.

The biggest news in the sling-style nylon seats that come with recumbent trikes is the enhanced back support.

An adjusting and movable bike saddle is even better.

More Consideration for Three Wheel Bicycles for Seniors

  • Overall Construction

As you check other factors, don’t forget that lightweight tricycle for adults are easier to ride so the frame design should be lighter but sturdy, whether folding or otherwise.

At the same time, a plus-size senior may also need 3-wheel bicycles that can support their extra pounds so the weight rating question comes up.

Also, consider the fitted basket and whether you prefer a folding basket and if it will serve as needed.

  • Brakes

As part of ensuring he/she is safe on busy roads, a trike requires a good braking system.

Higher-end three wheel bicycles for seniors use the strongest hydraulic or disc braking but are costlier.

For typical adult tricycles, the braking is normally rim-activated, like on two-wheeled bikes.

All in all, what matters is that he/she can stop it as soon as a danger arises.

  • The Gearing

For seniors in love with geared three wheel bikes, the most suitable gear ratio largely depends on his/her preferred riding style, ability, and experience.

That being said, elders who live in areas with steep inclines will require bikes with appropriate gearing to enhance performance.

Consulting a friend or someone who has owned a geared three wheel bike in the same region can help you get clues on the best type of gearing.

FAQs

What’s the Best Three-Wheel Bike for Adults?

In terms of ease of riding, comfort, build quality, and affordability, here are the best three wheel bicycles for adults:

  1. Emojo Electric Tricycle: Best Motorized Tricycle
  2. Mobo Triton Pro: Best 3-Wheel Recumbent Bike
  3. Mantis Tri-rad Folding Seniors Tricycle: Best Folding Tricycle
  4. Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike: Best Upright Tricycle
  5. EY Adult Tricycle: Best Three Wheel Bike with Gears

Is Riding a Three Wheel Bicycle Good Exercise?

Riding a three-wheel cycle is similar to riding a regular bicycle more frequently. It works out your legs, muscles, and even brain.

So, yes, it is good exercise for your body. It helps to improve your physical fitness and mental well-being.

Is It Difficult To Ride a Trike?

Compared to riding a bicycle, tricycles are less challenging to ride. They are more stable, owing to the extra wheel. As a result, they are perfect for beginner cyclists, kids, and seniors.

You only need to master how to steer the three wheel bike correctly.

Are Tricycles Safer Than Bicycles?

While it’s easy to fall from a bicycle, it’s less likely to happen on a tricycle. That’s because the extra wheel on a tricycle boosts its overall stability and safety.

That explains why tricycles are a safer pick for seniors and kids.

Can You Fall Off a Tricycle?

A tricycle (trike) is more stable than a bicycle. That means you are less likely to fall off it. The extra wheel provides you with additional stability.

However, there is always a small risk of falling if you ride on the wrong terrain, especially a steep slope.

How Much Weight Can a Trike Hold?

Different trikes come with varying load capacities. However, a majority of three wheel bikes for seniors have a 275-pound capacity. That’s enough to carry most adults and a few of their belongings.

Conclusion on Three Wheel Bikes for Seniors

Three wheel bicycles made especially for seniors allow you to comfortably stay active and healthy.

Additionally, the best three wheel bicycles for seniors help you overcome balance issues as well as various mobility handicaps.

In the end, you will enjoy a better lifestyle and reclaim your independence with the right bike.

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Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike, 1-Speed, 26-Inch Wheels, Cargo Basket, Black
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Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike, Three Wheel Cruiser Bike, 1-Speed, 26-Inch Wheels, Cargo Basket, Black
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