It is an amazing time to be a tricycle lover! In recent years, the industry is witnessing rapid and constant technological evolution. New tools and technologies are being introduced and incorporated, and electric trikes are growing more and more sophisticated. These changes are happening so quickly that it is almost impossible to keep track of them. This blog will bring you up to date on the most important current technological trends in the tricycle industry. If you are in the market for a trike, or need an upgrade, here is where to begin.
#1. BATTERY TECHNOLOGY
Nickel-metal hydride (NiHM) batteries were quite decent: affordable with decent enough energy density. But now, looking back, we all realize that they were not great. The adult tricycle industry has moved on quickly, and lithium-ion batteries have become the gold standard. The reason is quite simple: improved efficiency and higher capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are superior almost in every regard: energy density is higher, they charge faster, and they hold charge for much longer. In the long-run, they last longer and are easy to maintain. As a result, they have become a favorite amongst users and manufacturers alike.
The viribus TriGo Plus for example, is powered by a formidable lithium-ion battery. The battery will not run down until about 40 miles. Even then, it can conveniently be removed, cleaned, re-charged to full-charge in just about four hours.
It doesn’t end there! In the case of the Viribus Trigo Plus, the lithium-ion battery is UL certified, meaning in simple terms, that it has been tested and proven to be a safe, reliable and durable battery.
#2. HIGH-STRENGTH, BUT LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS
The phrase “High-strength, but lightweight” appears to be paradoxical. For a long time in the industry, “high-strength” was associated with heavy materials, and “lightweight” with weaker and more fragile materials. With recent technology, there is not need to pick between the two. Aluminum foils and carbon fiber components share the unique characteristics of being both high-strength and lightweight. Recent 3 wheel bike frames and components made out of these materials are noticeably less bulky and heavy, but are at the same time firmer, more durable and more stable than the older models.
Viribus tricycles exemplify how the use of advanced materials has led to improved efficiency and performance. The frames and components are made of carbon steel, which industry experts agree has an impressive strength to weight per ply. With a solid, but lightweight frame, Viribus tricycles have gained a reputation for being safe and secure to ride, but not too heavy as to limit maneuverability.
#3. ADVANCED MOTORS
Electric motors are not exactly a new development as far as tricycles are concerned. However, recent advancements seem to be focusing on greater efficiency, superior power output and better torque characteristics. Brushless DC motors and hub motors have emerged as the big winners. Brushless motors are praised for their smoother and more precise control of torque, and hub motors for their increased operation efficiency.
For customers, their choice of motor depends on what aspect of triking they consider to be more appealing. Riders of the Viribus Trio Plus have expressed satisfaction at its 250W hub motor, with some even stating that it turns out to be much more formidable than they expected.
However, for younger and more active users, recent technologies have provided a multitude of stronger motors for their needs and desires.
#4. SMART AND CONNECTED FEATURES
Telephone integration, GPS navigation, real-time data monitoring, wireless connectivity…these are examples of new smart technologies making waves in the tricycle industry. Modern tricycles are designed to optimize user experience, and just like in many other industries and products, smart technology is achieving that objective with aplomb. These new technologies are not just about user experience, but also making useful information available to riders in order to facilitate easy maintenance and forestall safety risks.
Viribus, for example, has ensured that all its models of electric tricycle for adults are equipped with a 1.5'' Backlit LCD display which allows the rider to monitor speed, trip, battery, assist level and more.
#5. PEDAL ASSIST TECHNOLOGY
A substantial part of the global appeal for tricycles comes from the fact that they are accessible to a wide range of people across all age groups. This universal accessibility, for the most part, has to do with pedal-assist features.
Riders of modern tricycles have the option to choose from several modes, depending on their needs and their specific situation. A fast rider, for example, could switch between several modes: going progressively faster. If they eventually grow weary, they could just switch to a slower mode, enjoying a slower and more refreshing ride.
The viribus TriGo Plus offers riders the option to easily switch between three modes: a standard single-speed cruiser, a throttle-powered e-trike, and a PAS-enabled electric tricycle with five assistance levels. This variety ensures that the rider is guaranteed to find a suitable blend of speed convenience and comfort.
#6. ADVANCED LIGHTING AND SAFETY SYSTEMS
Once upon a time, you had to press to turn the lights on. Sometimes, they would not even turn on at all! Or flicker, and then go off! However, lighting systems on electric tricycles are becoming more advanced and reliable. Automatic activation, turn signals, and brake lights are now commonplace. For these extra functions, engineers agree that LED lights are more favorable. LED lights are more efficient, last longer, and are more environmentally friendly than other options. This makes them ideal option for improved stability and safety when it comes to electric tricycle lights.
Viribus bikes are equipped with high output integrated LED lighting system. The system is well integrated, long-lasting, reliable and durable in all weather conditions.
This list covers just the more prominent advancements in the tricycle industry. There are many more fascinating developments yet unexplored, with still more yet to come in the near future. Trike providers and manufacturers are quickly adopting and incorporating these changes, producing ever more exotic and advanced models. Check out Viribus to take a look at some trike models! They are guaranteed to impress you!
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