The best 3 wheel bikes for seniors
Bicycling is a great low-impact activity that is easy on aging joints, improves heart health, helps with weight loss, fights depression, and can even strengthen the brain. However, as we age, trusting ourselves on a two-wheel bike can be tricky. Bikes with three wheels are great Father’s Day and retirement gifts as well as an alternative for seniors to feel safe, in control, and confident while enjoying the many benefits of bike riding.
While technically, a three-wheel bike is called a “tricycle” or a “trike,” what differentiates them from a traditional bicycle is the extra wheel in the back in addition to the front wheel. This design makes it easier for riders to balance and the rear wheel prevents the bike from tipping when you stop. Additionally, three-wheel bikes can accommodate more weight, and allow heavier cyclists an easier time balancing.
Exercise is a vital part of keeping you healthy, both mentally and physically, and bike riding is a great way to achieve those goals. Following our review of top picks, we include a buying guide with tips on how to find the right, high-quality three-wheel bike for you.
The best 3 wheel bikes for seniors
Mobo Cruiser Triton Pro Adult Tricycle (for men and women)
This 3-wheel recumbent bike is designed for cruising on flat paved surfaces. It is perfect for exercising on slopes and won’t put stress on your back or knees. Older adults will enjoy this bike as an alternative to a traditional model, because it is more comfortable and stable to ride.
The low-gravity center of this product and dual-joystick function assists with smooth movements. The Mobo Cruiser adult tricycle comes in four sleek colors and has a rigid suspension with a steel frame. Unlike most bicycles, this tricycle comes with a cushioned seat and it even reclines.
Pros
- low-gravity center
- dual-joystick function
- cushioned seat
- reclines
Cons
- this model does not have reverse
Key Features
- low-impact
- no balance required
- large and small riders
- durable design, steel frame
- 16-inch wheels
- single gear with breaks
Specifications
- Brand: Mobo Cruiser
- Suggested rider height: 4’2 – 6’3
- Recommended weight limit: Up to 250 pounds
- Overall Dimensions – 28″W x 29″H x 48″L (61” extended); Wheels: 20” front, 16” rear; Weight 44 pounds.
Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike
The Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike is a stylish three-wheeled design that offers comfortable cruises around town or in your neighborhood. The aluminum frame has a low standover height, making it especially easy to get on and off. The design comes in multiple colors and allows users to sit upright with adjustable handlebars that can be moved closer to the rider.
We love the rear folding cargo basket that provides plenty of room for bags, groceries and more. This model also comes with a wider saddle, making the seat extra comfortable.
The Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle is not made to navigate through routes with hills and lots of elevation, as it is only a single speed. However, it is a great option for those looking to get outside for a comfortable ride down boardwalks, through flat bike paths or around the neighborhood.
Pros
- Fairly simple to assemble
- Good sized basket
- Stable and smooth ride
Cons
- Heavy
- Single-speed
Key Features
- Super low stand-over aluminum frame
- Alloy 24-inch wheels
- Large springer cruiser seat with quick release adjustment
- Large fold-down rear basket for storage
- Wide, upright handlebars adjust from 37″ to 40″
Specifications
- Brand: Schwinn
- Suggested rider height: 5’4″-6’2″
- Recommended weight limit: 300 pounds
- Rear basket is 18. 5″ (H), 22. 5″ (W), and 11. 5″ (L), with a 50 lb weight limit
- Front and rear linear-pull hand brakes
- Ships ready to be assembled and comes with a 5-year limited warranty
Slsy Adult Tricycle
This choice from Slsy offers both comfort and style from front spokes to fenders, thanks to the wide range of color choices available. The sturdy steel frame can support up to 350 pounds and offers plenty of stability while riding. The bike offers 7 speed options and is suitable for riding on a variety of surfaces.
The bike is also available with two different tire sizes, with the larger tire size model adjusting to accommodate larger heights. We especially like the large capacity basket in the back, perfect for toting around groceries, personal items, and anything else you may need while out on a ride!
Pros
- Accommodates more weight than other models
- One-year warranty
- 30-day return and money back guarantee
- Comfortable, padded backrest
Cons
- Some users mention this model is hard to install
Key Features
- 24″ or 26″ models available
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Supports up to 350 pounds
- Sturdy steel frame construction
- Large rear basket
Specifications
- Brand: Slsy
- Recommended weight limit: 350 pounds
Our guide to the best 3 wheel bikes for seniors
A three-wheeled bike or recumbent trike is a great option for seniors who may not be comfortable on a traditional bike, but want to enjoy the freedom and benefits from bike riding.
Here are just a few things to consider before making a purchase to find the best adult tricycle for you.
Type of use
Depending on where you will be riding, and the type of riding you intend to do, consider if you need a bike with shifting gears, or if a single shift will suffice. For cyclists that plan on cruising along mostly flat roads and trails, a single shift is likely all you need. However, if you plan on biking along hilly terrain with steep elevation, you may want to consider a shifting gear bike to make those hills more manageable. Unlike many standard bicycles, three-wheel bikes can be quite heavy, making steep hills seem extra difficult.
Consider also, three-wheel bikes and tricycles are not made to be speed machines. Their size and design make them great for casual commutes and bike rides, but you shouldn’t be trying to break a record with them. Recumbent bikes are better for fast rides because of their low step-through profile.
Size
Be sure to review the size and weight capacity for each bike. In general bikes with a bigger wheel size will be better for larger riders. Consider also if the frame and/or seat of the bike is adjustable to your needs. Some types of bikes can be disassembled and a folding tricycle made flat, so if you are limited on storage space or need to put the bike into a car for transport, the best bike for you may have these features.
Assembly
Review how complicated assembly will be, and if you will need assistance. Most manufacturers will provide instruction manuals but if the assembly is not your thing, consider taking the bike into a specialty store for assistance.
Accessories
Consider whether you would like to have optional accessories for your bike. Many three-wheel bikes come with a large storage basket which is nice to hauling around personal items or even groceries. Some models also come with a bell, comfort grips, comfortable seats, and other add ons that can make riding safer and more comfortable.
