THE VIRIBU'S SC5 FAT TIRE VS MOONCOOL'S TK1 FAT TIRE: COMPARED!

The 2020s are becoming the decade of electric tricycles: it just keeps getting better. Bigger, stronger, and faster models of adult tricycles are hitting the market with specs and abilities that redefine the limit for what is possible for adult tricycles. Lately, the buzz has been around Viribus’s SC5 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle and the TK1 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle released by Mooncool. Okay, they are both “fat tire”, but which one is better? You get to decide! Let's do a side-by-side review of bike specs and help you reach your decision.

MOTOR POWER: HOW FAR CAN IT GO?

We all know that the motor assists riders to go long distances and overcome steep inclines. Motor power is measured in Wattage, and before examining the motor power on these two models, it is important to understand what different levels of wattage mean:

 The deciding factor between the SC5 and TK1 Mooncoolwill not be motor power. Both are equipped with formidable motors capable of providing 500W of continuous power and 750W at peak power. At the normal continuous rate, 500W is enough power to overcome moderate hills and bumpy roads without overheating or risking damage. In most scenarios, this should suffice, and you should be able to use your tricycle for a multitude of daily tasks.

When peak power is turned on, both motors reach a maximum of 750W. If you wish to use your tricycle for more adventurous purposes, peak power enables you to accelerate faster from a standstill or when you need more speed. At peak power, you can carry more loads and overcome hills with steeper inclines. In Pedal Assist 5 mode, for example, the SC5 Fat Tire can tackle a 250 slope.

So, the two might be evenly matched as far as motor power is concerned, but what about the battery?

BATTERY POWER AND TOP SPEED

How fast and how far can you go when the battery is fully charged? This depends largely on the battery power. The battery power also determines the overall longevity of the battery. So, which of the two models has a better battery?

Mooncool’s TK1 boasts a 48V*14.5AH Lithium battery and can reach a total range of 35-45 miles. The SC5, on the other hand,  is equipped with a Tri-cell Lithium 48V*15Ah Battery, which can reach a total range of 35-65 miles on a single charge. Here, Viribus’ SC5 has an obvious advantage, but let's explore what exactly that means.

Battery capacity is measured in Voltage (V) and Amp-Hours (Ah). Higher voltage typically means more power, which improves acceleration and enables the trike to handle steeper terrains. Amp-hours (Ah) indicates how much current the battery can supply over time. Higher Ah means a more extended range.

Both batteries are certainly on the upper end, making them suitable for longer trips or multiple days of use between charging. However, the SC5's Tri-cell Lithium automotive-grade battery gives it an edge over the TK1. Where the TK1 has a range of 35-45 miles, the Viribus SC5 reaches a continuous riding range of 35-65 miles. The gap is huge, and that is all thanks to the Viribus's superior lithium-ion battery.

TOP SPEED

Now that battery power has been factored in, let's examine the top speed on these e-trikes. Here again, the Viribus SC5 has the edge. Reaching a maximum speed of 20MPH, the SC5 is faster than the TK1, which reaches a top speed of 16MPH. The difference of 4 MPH is a very attractive feature, especially if you are more adventurous in riding. In urgent scenarios as well, it would be more advantageous to have an SC5.

COMFORT AND RIDING POSITION

The key word here is “ergonomic design.” The goal of an ergonomic design is to reduce strain, enhance comfort, and improve the overall riding experience by ensuring that the tricycle fits the rider’s body and natural movements. Let’s compare the ergonomic design features of both tricycles:

SEATS: HOW COMFORTABLE ARE THEY?

Both tricycles provide wider, well-padded seats and a backrest to promote good posture and reduce fatigue during long rides. The fact that both seats have a hole in the middle is noteworthy as it means enhanced airflow, ensuring a more comfortable riding experience.

The deciding factor here is the backrest. Both tricycles provide a backrest for back support and comfortable riding, but the SC5’s backrest is adjustable, larger, and more stable, thus capable of providing the required level of support to a wide variety of riders. 

If you are uncomfortable with the original design, you can shift, lift, or push it to suit the position of your back. The Mooncool TK1 does have a large seat, but the backrest is smaller.

 DESIGN AND FRAME: HOW IS THE SITTING POSITION

The distance between the front and rear wheelbases is a crucial feature that enhances or hinders rider experience. The Viribus SC5 is designed to have a longer distance between the front and rear wheelbases. This is more comfortable and ergonomic, as it enables the rider to sit in a more upright position while riding. In an upright position, you can ride longer with no risk to your back.

PACKAGING AND DELIVERY

If you were to make your purchase right now, which of these trikes would require the least preparation before you can finally ride? This factor has less to do with the specs of the trike and more to do with customer service, delivery, and packaging.

The TK1 comes 60% pre-assembled, implying that the essential items have already been assembled, and all you need to do is put the rest of the trike together. If you enjoy this type of task, this will surely be fun.

However, if, like most people, you want to start using your items as soon as possible after delivery, the SC5 will be a preferable choice. It comes 90% prepackaged, implying that all its components, essential and non-essential, have already been assembled, and you can start riding almost immediately.

Though some necessary specifications and features have been touched on, this blog does not cover everything there is to know about each trike. These are only the major points.  As with all purchasing decisions, it is still crucial for you to thoroughly check out each of these bikes for yourself.

However, this blog gives you a reference from which you can make a more comprehensive assessment. To learn more about the Viribus SC Fat tire, check out Viribus. Also, when you get your trike, don't forget to check our website for safety tips for adult tricycle riders and more information about the SC5 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle.