Adult Electric Tricycles Better for Arthritic Knees?

If you have arthritic knees, you want a measure of exercise that strengthens the joints but also does not cause additional pain.  

There is no doubt that cycling is great for arthritic knees. However, several arthritic patients have taken to the internet, sharing stories of how they continued to experience pain after taking up cycling, especially if they rode for long periods.

If your knees still hurt from riding a regular bicycle, an adult tricycle is a better alternative. Riding an adult tricycle is inherently lower impact than riding a regular tricycle, and it involves all the benefits of riding a regular bike for arthritic knees, minus the extra pain and stress.

1. It has a lower impact than riding a regular bike

Riding an adult tricycle is a lower-impact exercise than riding a regular bike, which makes it a better form of exercise for elderly riders with arthritic knees.

 A low-impact activity or exercise puts minimal stress on your joints, especially the knees, hips, and ankles. 

Riding an adult tricycle (especially an electric tricycle) can be considered a more low-impact activity than riding a regular bike. Here are three main reasons why: 

• The three-wheel design of a tricycle provides better stability than the two-wheel design of a regular bike, which reduces the need for balance and lowers the risk of sudden movements that might stress the joints
• Unlike a bike, where the rider has to sit in a forward-leaning position, the upright sitting position of an adult tricycle allows for more relaxed pedalling, which eases the pressure on arthritic knees.
• With an electric tricycle, there is no need to pedal hard. The pedal assist system makes it easier to pedal the trike and reduces the pressure on your muscles and joints. 

If you are a rider with arthritic knees, consider an electric tricycle . They offer more stability, require less effort (in the case of electric tricycles), and are easier on the joints. 

2. Electric tricycles are also better for reducing pain and Stiffness in the joints

Another reason why riding is great for arthritic knees is that it reduces pain and stiffness in the knees and joints. However, an adult tricycle does this better as well.

Riding an adult tricycle, especially an electric tricycle, is often better for relieving joint pain and stiffness in arthritic riders compared to a regular bike. 

Here's why:

• While regular bikes are made of lighter aluminum frames, tricycles are made of steel frames. They ensure there is less jarring motion, which makes them more comfortable for riders with arthritic joints
• Unlike a regular bike, there is no need to move your body to balance an electric tricycle: the three wheels ensure the tricycle is already balanced. 
• There is no need to place extra stress on your wrists, shoulders, core, and any other area that could flare up with arthritis.
• The upright seating and lower step-through frames reduce stress on the knees and hips when getting on, off, or pedaling.

Tricycles often have wider seats and a more relaxed riding geometry. They are designed to encourage a smoother, more fluid pedaling motion that gently lubricates joints, important for arthritis.

3. They are Better for Range of Motion

Riders with arthritic knees require a healthy range of motion to help relax the stiffened joints, and the more varied the range of motion, the better. 

Electric tricycles are also beneficial for riders with arthritic knees and joints, as they encourage a wider range of motion in a gentle and effective manner.

Here’s how:

• The pedals of an adult tricycle are larger, which ensures a wider circular pedaling movement, promoting natural joint movement in the hips, knees, and ankles without high-impact force.
• With a stable seat and a well-balanced frame, a rider with arthritic knees can go further without getting tired on a tricycle than on a bicycle.
• Most tricycles have a lower step-through frame and wider handlebars than bicycles. In other words, they are more comfortable and ergonomic to ride. 
• Riders with stiff arthritic knees can get more exercise over more extended periods, which translates to quicker recovery.

Compared to regular bikes, which might be harder to mount, balance on, or pedal smoothly, adult tricycles make it easier and more comfortable to stay active, which is key to maintaining and improving the range of motion in stiff or arthritic joints.

4. Strengthening Arthritic Joints

For individuals with arthritic knees, an adult electric tricycle is often a safer and more joint-friendly option than a traditional three-wheel bike. They reduce the risk of strain or injury while still offering effective, low-impact exercise to strengthen the knees.

Best Electric Tricycles for Arthritic Knees

When choosing an adult tricycle for arthritic knees, opt for a solid, low-step-through frame, a variety of pedal-assist options, sufficient gears for stability on different terrains, a strong motor, and batteries with a long-distance range.

Here are the top electric tricycles for arthritic knees:

1. Viribus TG1 Electric Tricycle – $699 (Sale from $899)

Currently at $699, the TG1 Electric tricycle is one of the most affordable electric tricycles with a capable 250W motor and both throttle and pedal assist. With a 36V SGS-certified battery, you can reach a top speed of 15mph on this trike, which is considerable at that price point. 

• Pedal Assist range: 44 miles
• Throttle assist range: 33 miles
• Motor: 250V rear hub with pedal assist & throttle
• Cargo Capacity: 330lbs, large rear basket

Consider the TG1 Electric Tricycle if:

You are a daily commuter, errand runner, or hobbyist seeking easy electric assistance without investing in a complex setup. It is suitable for riders who need a boost on flat or mild slopes.

2. Viribus TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle – $849 (Sale from $1,199)

The TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle from Viribus gives you the perfect mix of the power and convenience of an electric tricycle with the space-saving design of a folding tricycle. 

With a 36V 13Ah battery and a 350W brushless motor, you can travel up to 31 miles on a single charge without breaking a sweat. 

Plus, its foldable design makes it easy to store in tight spaces or take with you wherever you go.

• Frame: Folding step-through
• Frame Size: 24″
• Electric Drive: Same system as TG1 (motor, battery, throttle + PAS)
• Cargo Basket: 110 lbs, with standard large basket
• Weight: 87 lbs, with folding hardware

Consider the TG1 Folding if:

• You are an apartment-dweller with limited space
• You are a traveler who needs power plus portability.

 You Might Also Be Interested In:

• How to ride your electric tricycle across the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Affordable adult tricycles with baskets.