1O INTERESTING TRICYCLE FACTS TO BLOW YOUR MIND!!

What if I told you that adult tricycles are actually older than toilet paper, the cotton gin, electricity, and the flush toilet? And what if told you that tricycles are older than bicycles?

These, amongst many others, are some interesting facts about tricycles that have become lost in the annals of history. Well, today, we found them, and we will be exploring them carefully. These facts show will show you just how versatile and beneficial adult tricycles are, from their historical significance to modern uses for health, convenience, and sustainability. 

FACT #1: TRYCICLES HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR OVER 300 YEARS

In the early 1660s, Stephen Faffler, a disabled man who lived near Nuremberg, Germany, contemplated just how inconvenient his life had become just because he could not move from place to place. This same man would later go on to build a vehicle he called the three-wheel wheelchair in 1680. This machine is credited as being the first tricycle.

This was a whole decade before the first bike was made by Karl Von Drais, another German. So, tricycles are actually older than toilet paper, cotton gin, electricity, and flush toilets.

This fact underlines the earliest purpose of adult tricycles. They started out as a vehicle for the disabled and, to date, still remain a preferred mode of transport for people who are disabled or suffer from other types of mobility issues. But, as you will find out later, things soon changed!

THE FIRST OFFICIAL TRICYCLE 

For all intents and purposes, the device Stephen Faffler created was a tricycle. However, it was not completely identical to the version we see today. Faffler’s three-wheel wheelchair was powered by hand cranks.

The term “tricycle” was not officially in use until 1789 when two French inventors, Blanchard and Maguier created a three-wheel vehicle powered by pedals. This was the earliest version of the three-wheel bike we use today.

FACT#2: THE TRICYCLE CRAZE

By the 1880s, a “tricycle craze" broke out in England. Tricycles were in vogue, and everybody wanted to ride one. It is said that about 20 types of tricycles and multi-wheel vehicles were in circulation around Coventry, England. There were about 120 different models for the people to choose from, and about 20 manufacturers specialized in adult tricycles.

Tricycles had become a luxury item and only members of the upper class could afford them. Riding a trike was a symbol of status and authority. In 1881, Queen Victoria, the great Monarch purchased a pair of tricycles This was an action which cemented tricyles as a luxury item.

So, while tricycles might have been relegated to the background in today’s modern society, there is actually a history of prestige and class behind their use and understanding that changes the way you see your trike.

FACT #3: THE LADIES’ VEHICLE

The women of 19th-century England wore long dresses. While these dresses were often pretty and very costly, they did not feel comfortable on high-wheel bikes at the time. As a result, tricycles, with their lower frames, became a favorite for the women of 19th-century England. They would use them for shopping and running errands.

In more recent news, legendary British actress Helen Bonham Carter was seen taking her sons to school on an adult tricycle. The same goes for TV star Mariella Frostrup, who was also seen picking up her kids from school on a tricycle. 

 also highlights the usefulness of tricycles as suitable for the purposes for which women usually want to use them. 

FACT #4: THEY NOT JUST GOOD FOR CHILDREN AND DISABLED ANYMORE!

In the beginning, adult tricycles were made for people with balance issues or disabilities that prevented them from riding a traditional bicycle. 

However, that perception is quickly changing. Their three-wheel design offers enhanced stability and confidence, which makes them attractive to a broader range of riders, including seniors and, more strikingly, regular adults.

Prominent news outlets such as The Wall Street Journal have reported a surge in adult tricycle sales. Adults have taken them for recreation and adventure. Nowadays, off-road triking has even become a thing. So, there is no longer a stigma surrounding the use of tricycles.

FACT#5: TRICYCLES ARE A PREFERRED MODE OF TRANSPORT IN MANY CULTURES

In some countries, particularly in parts of Asia and Africa, adult tricycles are widely used for public transportation and goods delivery. In other words, they basically carry out a similar role to cars in American society.

In Kenya and other countries in East Africa, these cargo trikes, often referred to as “pedicabs” or “rickshaws,” have been modified to carry passengers or large loads, and they are actually an integral part of the local economy.

FACT #6: ELECTRIC OPTIONS FOR EXTRA ASSISTANCE

Just like modern bicycles, many modern adult tricycles come with electric motor assistance. These electric tricycles are equipped with batteries and a motor that can assist riders in pedaling uphill or over long distances.

 The Viribus’ SC5 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle for example, is powered by a formidable lithium-ion battery and a powerful engine. It can cover a distance of more than 38 miles when fully charged, and its pedal assist could enable a rider to overcome a 150 slope.

Some people assume that bikes, with their larger frames and heavier build, would be cumbersome and demanding to ride. In truth, it is quite easy to ride a tricycle, and with a battery and motor, it takes no effort at all.

This is a great feature for older riders or those who want a more leisurely, more relaxing ride.

FACT #7. TRICYCLES ARE ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE TO CARS

Adult tricycles offer a zero-emission mode of transport, making them completely safe and healthy for our planet. They also offer features like a back carriage, three-wheel stability, and a solid, sturdy frame that make them a substitute for cars. As awareness about environmental issues increases, more people are turning to tricycles for short commutes and daily errands, reducing their carbon footprint while staying active.

FACT# 8: TRICYCLES ARE BETTER FOR JOINT HEALTH 

Unlike bicycles, where you have to engage your body in order to maintain balance, tricycles allow riders to sit upright and distribute their weight more evenly. This is known as ergonomics, where a machine is designed to improve the health and comfort of the user.

Modern tricycles like Viribus’ Trigo with Suspension allow you to sit straighter and ride in a more comfortable position. This means less strain on the joints, particularly the knees and hips. For people with arthritis or other joint problems, trikes offer a low-impact exercise option.

FACT #9: TRICYCLES COME IN FOLDING VERSIONS. 

These are known as foldable adult tricycles, and they are designed for easy transport and storage. If you are a city dweller, you don't have to worry about where to store your bike or how to transport it from place to place.

These trikes can collapse into a compact size, making them easy to store in an apartment, car trunk, or garage. This feature is especially popular for city dwellers who need a convenient and space-efficient ride.

FACT #10 : THEY ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY POPULAR FOR RECREATIONAL USE

Adult tricycles aren't just for utility—they are also popular for leisurely rides. Some people use tricycles for touring, camping trips, or relaxing rides around the neighborhood. With a more relaxed riding style, tricycles are perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors at a slower, more comfortable pace.

BONUS FACT: VIRIBUS HAS THE BEST TRICYCLES IN THE MARKET

Viribus is a treasure chest for lovers of adult tricycles. With a company policy that prioritizes affordable pricing without sacrificing quality, Viribus has quickly positioned itself as one of the leading providers of electric bicycles in the market. 

Viribus’ collection of bikes and tricycles offers a variety of models for clients with different riding needs and preferences, all at an affordable price. Check out one of the favorites, the Viribus Electric Bicycle, to see what Viribus bikes are all about.