3 Best Adult Tricycles – Reviews and Buying Guide compares the features and looks at the pros and cons of four 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, maybe likes the added security that three wheel bikes provide or 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.
In two previous posts, “Bicycles and Seniors – I Bet You Haven’t Forgotten How” and the “Best Exercise Equipment for Seniors,” there was mention of bicycles, and one of those options is the adult tricycle. If you haven’t read those two posts, you can click on them, and you will be taken to those articles.
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.
3 Best Adult Tricycles
| # | Preview | Product | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Barbella | Best With Higher Weight Capacity |
| 2 |  | Slsy | Best Variety of Sizes |
| 4 |  | Schwinn Meridian | Best Brand Name |
Why You Should Get An Adult Trike
It’s important for everyone to keep their body active and healthy. One way to do that is by using an adult tricycle. Adult trikes are perfect for seniors and others that find balance difficult because they provide a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints.
Adult Trikes also help improve balance and coordination, which can be beneficial for daily activities. So if you’re looking for a fun way to stay active, consider getting an adult tricycle.
What to Look for When Buying An Adult Tricycle
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. Here are three factors to consider when buying an adult trike:
Frame Material
One of the reasons adults can ride an adult tricycle is its sturdy frame. The frame is generally made out of steel alloys, aluminum, or Chromoly, which are very strong yet light in weight.
Wheel Size
Different adult tricycles have different wheel sizes depending on their intended function. A folding trike, for example, often has 16-inch wheels, while adult tricycles designed for recreation and transport can have 20-inch: 24-inch, or even 26-inch wheels.
See the FAQ section below for suggested general sizing.
Seating
You want to be comfortable when riding your trike. A padded seat can add to the comfort, especially for long rides. A padded seat will be more comfortable to sit on; it will also help absorb the road’s bumps.
Adult Tricycle Product Reviews
Barbella
Features of the Barbella Adult Tricycle:
- 20, 24″ or 26″ Wheel Size
- Colors: Variety
- 7 speeds (1 speed is also available)
- Dual Disc Brakes
- Steel Frame
- Folding Basket
- Some Models have a Backrest on the Seat
- Unisex
- 350 lb Combined Weight Limit
- Rider
- Cargo
- Product Weight – 64 lbs
Pros
- Low Step-Through
- Some Have Backrest Behind the Seat
- A Variety of Colors Available
Cons
- Customers Are Dissatisfied With the Instructions Provided for Assembly.
- No Mention of a Handlebar or Seat Adjustment.
- No Warranty was Mentioned. Also, I Searched the Internet, and I Was Unable To Find a Webpage With This Information
Review
The Barbella adult trike is a 3-wheel biking system that makes getting around town fun and easy. This adult tricycle offers an adjustable upright seat, the Barbella’s patented seatback, and an intuitive seating position to keep you comfortable while riding. The tricycle has a large basket so you can take the bags with you, and is easy to store.
The 3-wheeled bike is made of high-quality steel frame, and it can support rider and cargo combined weight up to 350 lbs.
For my more in-depth review, see Barbella Adult Tricycle Review
Slsy
Features of the SlsyAdult Tricycle :
- 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
- Unisex
When Choosing Your Bike, Be Sure To Pay Attention To The Color, Speed, and Wheel Size
Pros
- Low Step-Through Making It Easier To Get On
- Variety of Colors
- 1-Year Warranty
Cons
- Assembly Can Be Difficult
Review
The Slsy Adult Tricycle features a steel construction frame that provides sturdy and stable support up to 350 lbs. It is equipped with a rear basket that you can use to carry your groceries during short trips to the market or small personal items. This tricycle features an adjustable seat making it suitable for people of different heights.
The Slsy Trike comes with an instruction manual and all the necessary tools for assembly.
For my more in-depth review, see Slsy Adult Tricycle Review
Schwinn Meridian
Features of the Schwinn Meridian:
- 24 and 26″ Wheels
- Various Colors
- 1, 3 and 7 Speeds
- Aluminum Frame
- Handbrakes
- Low Step-Through
- Large Seat
- Rear Basket
- Unisex
Pros
- Good Customer Service
- Name brand
- Basket
- Limited Warranty
Cons
- Some reports of Bikes Damaged During Shipment
- Assembly Can Be Difficult
Review
Schwinn is a company is a well-known brand in the biking world and has been around since 1895.
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.
The pros of the Schwinn Meridian far outweigh its cons. With an aluminum frame, comfortable seat, and adjustable handlebars, it allows for personalizing a fit for your own body.
The handlebars allow for a relaxed upright riding position putting less stress on your back than on other bikes.
The low step-through makes it relatively easy to get on and off.
For my more in-depth review, see Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle Review
Comparison Table
| Feature | Barbella | Slsy | Schwinn |
| | | |
| Wheel Size | 20, 24″ or 26″ | 20″, 24″ or 26″ | 24″ or 26″ |
| Gears | Single Speed or 7 | 7 | 1, 3, or 7 Speeds |
| Low Step-Through | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Construction | Steel | Steel | Aluminum |
| Color | Variety Available | Variety Available | Variety Available |
| Handbrakes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Basket | Yes and Folding | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Handlebars | Not Stated | Not Stated | Yes |
| Adjustable Seat | Not Stated | Yes | Yes |
| Type of Seat | Large Soft Seat | X-Large Padded with Back Rest | Large Seat |
| Weight Limit | 300 lbs | 350 lbs | Not Stated |
| Warranty | Not Stated | 1-Year | Limited |
| Price | Current Price | Current Price | Current Price |
Video: Introduction to Riding An Adult Tricycle
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
Related Posts
Other Posts Bike Related
Best Electric Trikes for Adults
5 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes – Buying Guide.
Jeekee Recumbent Exercise Bike
Final Words
Still not sure if an upright trike is for you? Another option is a recumbent trike. Recumbents are lower to the grown, and it has 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
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 to decide which trike is the best fit for you.
I would love to hear about the experiences you have had with purchasing or riding an adult tricycle. Or if you have any questions, please comment below.
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!:)
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.
What tricycle seems to be the safest, overall…re: tipping over when turning sharp corners?
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
Thanks for the advice. I am thinking about a folding tricycle for my husband though and you do not include reviews of these.
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