Electric Bike vs. Electric Trike: Which is Better?

If you are reading this blog, you are likely familiar with electric bikes (e-bikes). You may even own a Himiway electric bike or similar e-bike. But did you know there are electric trikes as well? That’s right. Three-wheeled electric bikes (often referred to as trikes) are also available on the market. 

All modes of electric transportation are gaining popularity no matter the number of wheels. People around the world are quickly discovering the myriad benefits that come with electric bikes. Not only are electric bikes and electric trikes a great exercise alternative to traditional bikes, but they are great for the environment, less expensive than cars and gasoline, and can be used in more situations than a car or walking.

The next natural question you might be asking is “what are the differences between electric bikes and electric trikes?” or “Is one better than the other?” Well don’t worry – we’ve got you covered for those questions too. We will explore the benefits of each choice to help you understand the differences as well as the tradeoffs between electric passenger bikes and electric passenger trikes. 

Electric Bike Benefits

We have written extensively about the many benefits inherent to electric bikes. We believe electric bikes represent one of the best and most affordable modes of alternate transportation out there. Our Himiway e-bikes have been a great alternative or supplement to thousands of customers in search of a greener method of getting around. Let’s drill down into each of those benefits a little more before we talk about the benefits of electric trikes:

1. Electric bikes are more flexible and agile than a tricycle. Because there are only two wheels, you can turn quicker, dodge obstacles more easily, and fit through narrower openings such as when riding in traffic or bike lanes. The turning radius of two wheels is tighter than a three-wheeled trike. 

2. Electric bikes are more capable of handling different types of terrain than trikes. For example, with a fat tire bike like the All-Terrain Cruiser Bike, you easily ride in the snow, sand, and gravel. This diverse functionality allows for more possible areas for your adventure.

3. E-bikes are often much faster than trikes. This is especially relevant when you are commuting to work and speed is of the essence. Young people typically delight in the quick acceleration and top speeds of an e-bike.

4. Many e-bikes have a longer battery life than a similarly priced e-trike. Longer battery life means you can ride longer and charge your bike less often. Himiway batteries, for example, can last up to 60 miles using the natural pedal-assist technology.

5. Another great e-bike benefit is the ability to take the bike on public transportation using bus racks equipped for such purposes. They are usually lightweight compared to a heavier trike. You can also store them easily because they do not take up much floor space and can easily be hung on a wall bike rack or bike hooks in a ceiling. The compact nature of a bike makes it generally more portable than its three-wheeled counterpart.

6. The final benefit to highlight is that e-bikes are typically much less expensive than electric trikes. If you are looking to cut down on costs and save some money, the initial purchase price of an e-bike will be more affordable.

Electric Trike Benefits

Electric trikes have a few different benefits than electric bikes. You will need to consider the benefits of each as well as your most common scenarios and ideal use cases to know which option is right for you. The benefits of an electric trike include: 

1. The stability and ease of riding a three-wheeled trike are hard to match. Because of 3 contact surfaces with the ground, the trike can stand on its own with almost no balance needed from the rider. If you have poor balance or do not want to pay attention to balancing, a trike is a good choice. Trikes naturally have a lower center of gravity and will allow you to sit in a natural position without tipping over. If you need your hands for anything, a trike will allow you the freedom to use both hands while still riding slowly or in a stopped position. 

2. Because a trike takes up more space, it can accommodate more storage space as well. Bags and extra racks or baskets can be equipped to a trike to increase the storage capacity. With more capacity, you can carry more items and potentially go for longer trips.

3. Electric trikes do not have as many height restrictions. Therefore, if you are short, an electric trike can be customized to fit your body type. You do not need to worry much about the height of the frame.

4. As opposed to electric bicycles which demand a bit more physical labor to operate, trikes may be more comfortable and easier to use for people with joint pain, back pain, or spine issues. If you find it difficult to sit straight up or forward for long periods, a trike may be best for you. 

No matter which option you choose, electric bikes and trikes both will allow you to save money compared to a traditional vehicle. You do not need to buy gasoline, you don’t need car insurance, and you won’t need to pay all the maintenance fees that come from driving a car. You may also find that you can park a bike or a trike for free. Combined with all the health benefits of riding outdoors, e-bikes and e-trikes represent an attractive option for anyone looking to change up their habits. 

Remember, electric bikes excel in the areas of flexibility, multi-terrain use, speed, battery life, portability, and price. By contrast, electric trikes are more stable, may provide more storage space, do not have as many height restrictions, and might be more comfortable for those with chronic back or joint pain. Your only decision now is to figure out which e-bike or e-trike is right for you. Whichever you choose, we hope you enjoy your ride!