Trike motorcycles combine the love of the road and the thrill of traditional motorcycles. Trikes have gone from a unique niche to a fast-growing riding community with their added stability and comfort. Despite their growing popularity, misconceptions about trike motorcycles persist, deterring riders from giving trikes a chance. However, trikes have much to offer riders of all ages and ability levels. Knowing the facts about trikes can help you make informed decisions about what bike is best for you.
Misconception One: Motorcycles Are Safer
This myth seems to stem from experienced riders trying trike motorcycles for the first time. Adjusting to the slightly different handling of a trike takes a few drives to get a feel for it. For example, the first time you ride a trike, it might feel like it’s leaning outward into a corner. But with a few posture adjustments and experience, the leaning feeling disappears.
In addition, trike motorcycles are more stable, more visible to traffic, and less fatiguing than a traditional motorbike. They are extremely comfortable and easily handle different terrains, like grates. The driving position allows you to see further ahead, and the more ergonomic body posture doesn’t drain your energy, allowing you to drive safely for longer distances.
Misconception Two: Trike Motorcycles Easily Tip Over
This persistent myth is wrong! Any vehicle of any size can roll over if improperly handled, especially when clipping around sharp corners at excess speed. Rollover risk increases as a vehicle gets taller in relation to its wheelbase. This is not a problem with trikes. They have a lower center of gravity than traditional motorcycles, and their weight is low to the ground and distributed over a wider wheelbase. Trike motorcycles can also have advantageous safety features like ABS brakes that help with traction control on wet roads. As with any vehicle, driving according to the road conditions, keeping your ride smooth, and learning how your bike responds to different situations are the keys to safety.
Misconception Three: Trike Motorbikes Are Uncool
This myth might be rooted in a bit of ageism. Many older motorbike riders are indeed switching to trikes and with good reason. Trikes are more stable and less fatiguing, meaning bike lovers can get back on the road for longer periods of time. After all, why should you let age or mobility issues keep you from doing what you love? Trike clubs are popping up all over the country and have a variety of members from different backgrounds, ability levels, and age groups. They exist for the love of riding, which is exactly what owning a trike motorcycle should be about!
At Roadsmith Trikes, we’ve seen the explosion in trike motorcycle popularity firsthand. We are the industry leaders in motorcycle-to-trike conversion kits, and we’re here to ensure you get the handling and performance you expect from your ride. Contact us today to discuss how a motorcycle-to-trike conversion can work for you.