In my observation, the best tricycles for adults are designed with special features that elevate comfort, ease of use, maneuverability, and practicality, which are usually preferred by older riders.
If you are in the market for a folding tricycle for an elderly rider, understanding the features that all the best folding electric tricycles for adults share is a smart way to get a foundation from which you can make your final decision.
So, what are these features, and why are they necessary?
1. Choose Sufficient but Not Overbearing Motor Power
Motor power for the best electric folding tricycles typically ranges from 250W to 500W. Elderly riders prefer electric tricycles, but they tend to choose electric tricycles that are not too fast.
Ideally, the older the adult, the less motor power they prefer to have.
Elderly riders do not want a folding tricycle that is too fast as to compromise their safety, or too heavy as to require too much effort to move.
- For elderly riders above 70, consider an electric folding tricycle with 250W.
- For adults aged 50-60, consider an electric folding tricycle with 350-500W motor power.
The TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle provides smooth, predictable acceleration and doesn’t jerk or jump forward when starting, making it safer for those with balance or coordination concerns.
2. A Strong Yet Lightweight Folding Frame
The best folding electric tricycles for adults have frames that are sturdy and firm, but not bulky and cumbersome.
For elderly riders, safety is a major concern, and they derive a sense of safety from knowing their bike frames are solid and firm.
However, most adults want a folding tricycle that is manageable and does not require a lot of physical strain to fold, lift, or move.
The Viribus TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle has a carbon steel frame, aluminum alloy rims, carbon steel crankset, and carbon steel handlebars.
What Our Testing Revealed To Us
Folding electric tricycles that provide a blend of these two features are highly attractive to elderly buyers.
When we set up our initial driving tests for the Viribus Trigo Pro Electric Tricycle, we had six elderly riders come in and do a blind test involving two electric tricycles: one ( of a competing brand) with a lightweight aluminum frame, and our model with a sturdier carbon steel frame.
5 out of 6 chose our model over the other. They said it was more solid, more grounded, and they felt safer riding it.
By the way, the participant who chose the competing brand was the youngest of the group.
3. Go For A Low-Step-Through Design
The best folding electric tricycle for an adult must have a low step-through design. This design makes mounting and dismounting the trike much safer and more dignified, especially for older adults, those with limited mobility, or anyone who doesn’t want to swing a leg over a high bar.
- It avoids awkward body movements and potential falls.
- Gets rid of one of the biggest barriers to riding for many people.
- Welcomes a wider range of riders, including those recovering from injury.
4. Comfortable, Upright Seating
The best folding tricycles for adults have an upright, comfortable seat design. Elderly riders want to cruise and enjoy the view, and it tends to hurt their backs when they have to crouch like a Tour de France rider.
- An upright position prevents back, neck, and wrist pain during longer rides, all health discomforts that are rather prevalent amongst older people in general.
In addition to upright seating, the TG1 Folding Electric Trike has a wide seat and back support to provide extra back support and reduce pressure on the tailbone and spine.
5. A Reliable Braking System
The best folding electric tricycles for adults must have a steady and reliable braking system, preferably with a parking brake.
- First, elderly riders are more vulnerable in case of brake failure than regular adult riders.
- Second, adults tend to prefer safety and predictability over “performance.”
With a higher center of gravity and cargo, strong brakes become a safety must-have.
The TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle operates a dual mechanical disc brake system, which is safer and more stable than many other types of brakes.
It features front and rear disc brakes for precise, reliable stopping power in any condition. Its parking brake keeps the tricycle securely in place, even on inclines or uneven surfaces.
6. Get Enough Gearing for Variable Terrain
The best electric folding tricycle for adults must have a wide enough gearing system to allow an elderly rider to tackle small hills, carry groceries, or ride against the wind without overexerting themselves.
A 7-speed gearing system is common for adult tricycles, and it can help an elderly rider in the following ways:
- Reduces strain on knees and legs.
- Makes the trike more versatile for different routes and purposes.
- Adults value being able to "go their own pace" without exhaustion.
7. Sufficient Cargo Capacity
The best folding electric tricycle for adults should contain at least a rear basket, and ideally a front basket as well.
Elderly riders do not just view adult tricycles are fun and leisure-sometimes they depend on the adult tricycles to carry on their daily activities, many of which involve carrying groceries, tools, and even pets.
The TGI Folding Electric Tricycle has a sizeable and detachable rear basket capable of accommodating items up to 110 lb to effortlessly store groceries, carry essentials, or even bring your furry companions along
Why the Viribus TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle Is the Best Folding Electric Tricycle for Adults.
From a capable 350W motor to a stable and reliable parking brake, the Viribus TG1 Folding Electric Tricycle comes with all the necessary features for the comfort, safety, and smooth riding of an elderly rider.
In addition, its quick-release button allows it to be easily folded in half. This foldable design allows for easy transportation, space-saving storage, and convenient parking. Once folded, the 3-wheel bike will fit perfectly in your truck or SUV.
Explore more options on our list of the Top 5 folding tricycles for adults.
You might also be interested in our guide on how to ride an adult tricycle, which contains some personal anecdotes and experiences.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.