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Best Adult Tricycles - Reviews and Buying Guide

LivingYourSeniorLife is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Adult tricycles have garnered popularity as a reliable and fun mode of transportation for those looking for a leisurely ride, stability, or have balance issues. Unlike a traditional bicycle, these three-wheeled bikes offer a low center of gravity and a more comfortable ride, making them a great option for a variety of individuals. 3 Best Adult Tricycles: Top Picks Comfort & Stability compares the features and looks at the pros and cons of three different adult tricycle models; Barbella, Slsy, and Schwinn Merdian.

An adult tricycle bike is a great option for someone who may not have the balance needed for a two-wheeled bike, or maybe likes the added security that three-wheel bikes provide, or even someone who has never learned to ride a bike. I hope in reading this post, you will have an easier time deciding what adult tricycle is the right one for you.

A comparison chart at the bottom of this post gives you an easy side-by-side look at the tricycles reviewed. If I have done an individual review on the trike, a link is provided to that post.  

At A Glance: 3 Best Adult Tricycles

#PreviewProductRating
1Barbella Adult TricyclesBarbellaBest With Higher Weight Capacity
24 Best Adult Tricycles - SlsySlsyBest Variety of Sizes
3Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle ReviewSchwinn MeridianBest Brand Name

Adult Tricycle Product Reviews

Barbella

Barbella Adult Tricycles

You’ll find the Barbella Adult Trikes to be a solid investment, combining style and functionality to enhance your leisurely rides or errand runs.

Key Features:

  • 20” Wheel Size
  • Colors: Claret Red
  • 7 speeds
  • Hand Brakes
  • Steel Frame
  • Folding Basket
  • Some Models have a Backrest on the Seat
  • 350 lb Combined Weight Limit
    • Rider
    • Cargo

Strengths

  • Ample storage with a large rear basket
  • Customizable with adjustable seat
  • High-quality design for a durable and stable ride

Areas For Improvement

  • Assembly may require additional mechanical skill
  • Speed shifting might be challenging for some users

Review

The Barbella Adult Trikes radiates that confidence you gain from a purchase well-made. Its robust high carbon steel frame ensures a reliable structure supporting up to 350 lbs – perfect for combining a leisurely ride with a quick stop at the grocery store. Stability is at its heart, evident from the low center of gravity and the added balance provided by the rear wheels.

What’s distinctive about this tricycle is the generous storage space. The large rear basket is a game-changer, enabling you to tote along personal belongings or a picnic for the park. The comfort doesn’t end there; the padded seat welcomes you to a comfortable riding experience, crucial for longer distances or if leisure is your pursuit.

Now, if you’re accustomed to a traditional bicycle, you might notice the difference in maneuverability with three-wheeled bikes. This trike enlists a smooth ride through its 7-speed options, yet novices might initially find gear shifting a little tricky. But once mastered, you are set for a smoother ride even through hilly areas or longer stretches of road.

Gone are concerns about balance issues with two wheels. The Barbella Trikes’ design means a safer, upright position for you without the strain of maintaining perfect balance. Should traffic warrant a halt, the rear brakes are there to facilitate a secure stop. While some might yearn for the wind-in-hair sensation of racing down steeps, the Barbella’s stable, confidence-inspiring pace ensures you can soak in the views without the wobbles.

When purchasing make sure to check the wheel size and frame dimensions – you’ll want this trike to be just the right size for a comfortable fit. And once you do, get ready for those enjoyable rides ahead; this trike is eager to go whenever you are.

For my more in-depth review, see Barbella Adult Tricycle Review


Slsy

3 Best Adult Tricycles: Top Picks Comfort & Stability - Slsy

If you’re searching for a three-wheel bike that promises stability and ample storage, this is a solid option to consider.

Key Attributes:

  • 20, 24″ and 26″ Wheel Size Available – Depending on Color
  • Variety of Colors
  • 7 Speed
  • Seat – Adjustable
  • Handbrakes
  • Steel Construction
  • Rear Basket
  • Some Models Have a Backrest on the Seat
  • Low Step-Through
  • 350 lb Limit Combined Weight
    • Rider
    • Cargo
  • 1-Year Warranty: On Defective or Damaged Parts
  • Returns: 30-Day Money Back Guarantee

When Choosing Your Bike, Be Sure To Pay Attention To The Color, Speed, and Wheel Size

Strengths

  • Offers a large rear basket for shopping or personal belongings.
  • Features a high carbon steel frame for enhanced durability.
  • Comes with seven speed options, allowing for a tailored riding experience.
  • Warranty

Areas For Improvement

  • Assembly can be challenging for those not mechanically inclined.
  • Some users have reported damage or wear upon delivery.

Review

Navigating through the busy city streets or enjoying a leisurely ride along park paths, the Slsy Adult Tricycle makes for a comfortable and practical journey. The low center of gravity coupled with the sturdy three-wheeled design ensures that you can better maintain a perfect balance without the risk associated with a traditional bicycle, especially in hilly areas where balance issues can be accentuated.

The large rear basket is a godsend for those quick grocery store runs or when you need to carry along essentials for a day’s outing. You’ll feel the ease with which the tricycle accommodates your belongings, offering not just a ride, but a utility companion.

The Slsy Adult Tricycle features a steel construction frame that provides sturdy and stable support up to 350 lbs. This tricycle features an adjustable seat making it suitable for people of different heights. When setting off for a longer distance, the seven-speed feature of this best adult tricycle comes into play, letting you adjust for the most comfortable riding experience.

Be ready to devote some time for assembly or consider professional help, as it can be tricky. A limiting factor for some, and recent reviews suggest inspecting the parts meticulously upon arrival for any signs of transit damage.

For my more in-depth review, see Slsy Adult Tricycle Review


Schwinn Meridian

3 Best Adult Tricycles: Top Picks Comfort & Stability - Schwinn Meridian

With the Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle, you’ll glide through your neighborhood with a grin from ear to ear, thanks to its comfortable ride and convenient storage space.

Key Attributes

  • 24 and 26″ Wheels
  • Various Colors
  • 1, 3 and 7 Speeds depending on color
  • Aluminum Frame
  • Handbrakes
  • Low Step-Through
  • Large Seat
  • Rear Basket

Strengths

  • Enhanced stability with three wheels for a smooth ride
  • Large rear basket perfect for hauling groceries or personal belongings
  • Low step-through frame for easy access and a comfortable upright position

Areas for Improvement

  • Some users may prefer a model with speed options for hilly areas
  • Single-speed drivetrain may not be ideal for longer distances
  • Noisy if not maintained properly, based on user experiences

Review

Schwinn is a company is a well-known brand in the biking world and has been around since 1895.

Gliding down the street on the Schwinn Meridian, you’ll immediately notice its solid feel and smooth ride. Its 24 or 26-inch wheels roll effortlessly over the pavement, giving you the sense of glide and efficiency you crave. The frame supports you in an upright position, which can be a great way to enjoy your environment fully without straining your back.

Whether you’re heading out to the grocery store or just taking a leisurely ride, the large basket gives you plenty of space to store your finds or gear. Even when loaded, the bike maintains its perfect balance, making your ride worry-free. If you’ve ever had balance issues on a traditional bicycle, you’ll appreciate the confidence the third wheel adds to your journey.

Unlike a recumbent trike, you sit in a more elevated, commanding position on the Meridian, giving you a better view of your surroundings. The adjustable handlebars mean you can fine-tune the fit to your liking. And when it’s time to stop, the rear brakes provide consistent, reliable stopping power. While this is a single-speed model – making it an excellent choice for flat terrain – those residing in hilly areas might crave an electric tricycle with more speed options.

In today’s bustling world, a three-wheeled bike like the Schwinn Meridian makes for an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their commute with a blend of safety features, comfort, and practical functionality. It stands out as a top choice for enjoying the best experience on three wheels.

The biggest drawback to this bike is the difficulty in assembling it. However, Schwinn does have a video that shows the steps needed to assemble. If you are not a handy type of person, who is good at assembling products, I would suggest, if feasible, paying the extra money to have a bike shop assemble it for you and bypassing the frustration of doing it yourself.

For my more in-depth review, see Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle Review


Comparison Table

FeatureBarbellaSlsySchwinn
Barbella Adult Tricycles4 Best Adult Tricycles - SlsyScreenshot 2023 02 25 at 5.06.14 AM
Wheel Size20, 24″ or 26″20″, 24″ or 26″24″ or 26″
Gears771, 3, or 7 Speeds options
Low Step-ThroughYesYesYes
ConstructionSteelSteel Aluminum
ColorVariety AvailableVariety AvailableVariety Available
HandbrakesYesYesYes
BasketYes and FoldingYesYes
Adjustable HandlebarsNot StatedNot StatedYes
Adjustable SeatYesYesYes
Type of SeatLarge Soft SeatX-Large Padded with Back RestLarge Seat
Weight Limit350 lbs350 lbs300 lbs
WarrantyNot Stated1-YearLimited
PriceCurrent PriceCurrent PriceCurrent Price

Video: Introduction to Riding An Adult Tricycle

YouTube player

Buying Guide

The good news is that there are many adult tricycles out in the market today, each with different features and designs. However, there are several factors to consider before purchasing the right adult tricycle for you.

Features to Look For

  • Wheel Size: Typically, adult trikes come with 20-inch, 24-inch or 26-inch wheels. Larger wheels offer a smoother ride, but smaller wheels contribute to a lower step-through frame for ease of access.
  • Weight Capacity: Ensure the trike can comfortably support your weight. A high-carbon steel frame offers durability and a higher weight capacity.
  • Electric Option: An electric tricycle comes with an electric motor that can assist you on longer distances or hilly areas.
  • Comfort: Look for comfortable seats with an adjustable seat and handlebars to maintain an upright position or a leisurely ride in a recumbent position.

Safety and Convenience

  • Storage Space: A large rear basket is great for carrying grocery items or personal belongings.
  • Safety Features: Look for rear brakes or disc brakes, and a parking brake for additional safety.
  • Speed Options: A single-speed option is a good choice for an easy ride on flat terrains, while multiple-speed options offer a wide gear range for varied terrains.

Choosing the Right Size

Ensure the adult tricycle bikes you consider are the right size, with adjustable handlebars and seats to fit your body comfortably for the best riding experience.

FAQs for Adult Tricycles

What is meant by a step-through bike/trike?

Step-through bikes offer riders the most upright riding position and the easiest to get on and off by simply stepping through the curved frame. Step-through trikes don’t have a crossbar between the two wheels, making it easy to get on and off the bike.

They are an excellent option for riders who don’t have a limited range of motion and older riders who have difficulty lifting their leg over a traditional bike frame.

What wheel size is suggested for bikes/trikes?

The typical answer to this is that the larger the wheel size, the taller the person that the bike/trike will accommodate. For general purposes:

4’8″ to 5’4″ – 20″ Bike/Trike
4’11” to 5’9″ – 24″ Bike/Trike
5’3″ to 6’2″ – 26″ Bike/Trike


Final Thoughts

Adult trikes are not a new invention, but they may be something you’ve never heard of. If you’re looking for an easy way to get around like those without mobility issues, give one of these products a try!

Like many bikes, the assembly can be difficult. If you’re not familiar with assembling items, it might be better to hire someone experienced. 

With all products, features can change, so before purchasing, be sure the features that attracted you to the product are still the same.

I hope in your reading, 3 Best Adult Tricycles – Reviews and Buying Guide that you gained some insight that will make it easier for you to decide which trike is the best fit for you.

If you’re still not sure if an upright trike is for you, another option is a recumbent trike. Recumbents are lower to the ground and have a reclined seat that allows your legs to be out in front of you. Read more at Best Adult Recumbent Trikes Buying Guide – Ride In Comfort

I would love to hear about the experiences you have had with purchasing or riding an adult tricycle. Please comment below.


Additional Reading

6 Comments

  1. I like that you shared the different types of bikes but also included the pros and cons. when researching for items such as this one, I always want to look for what is good in the product and what’s not. Thank you for sharing!:)

    1. Hi Kaitlyn,

      Thank you for reading and commenting on this post. I agree it’s always good to know the good and the bad with a product before purchasing. If you end up purchasing a bike I would love to hear of your experience.

  2. What tricycle seems to be the safest, overall…re: tipping over when turning sharp corners?

    1. Hi Sue,

      Thank you for stopping by and asking your question. Tricycles, like all bikes, have the ability to tip. I would suggest watching the following video to get an idea how to ride a trike and make tipping less likely. https://youtu.be/zSBaoOQv9A0 If you purchase a trike I hope you enjoy it and be sure to come back and let us know your experience.
      Thanks again,
      Debbie

    1. Hi Janet,

      Thank you for stopping by and leaving your comment. You’re correct; I don’t have a review for folding tricycles. I appreciate you bringing that to my attention. I’ll have to do some research and get busy on getting one done.

      Thank you again,
      Debbie

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