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Why Buy From Trike Bike Instead of Importing Direct?

The Hidden Costs and Risks of Direct-Import Tricycles in Australia

At first glance, importing a tricycle directly from overseas can appear cheaper. Online listings often show attractive pricing and bold promises. However, what is rarely shown is the true cost, risk, and responsibility that falls entirely on the buyer once the tricycle arrives in Australia.

At Trike Bike, we specialise exclusively in adult tricycles and electric tricycles. We have been doing so for many years, supporting customers Australia-wide with real stock, real parts, and real after-sales support.

Below is a practical, honest comparison to help you make an informed decision based on our many years of answering the phone to the distressed owners of tricycles privately purchased overseas looking for as much help as they can get.

What You Actually Get When Buying From Trike Bike

When you purchase from Trike Bike, you are not just buying a tricycle — you are buying certainty, support, and long-term value.

✔ Local Australian Business

• Australian-owned and operated

• Physical showroom and workshop

• Established reputation and long-term presence – since 2007

✔ Test Ride & Product Matching

• Ability to test ride before purchase

• Expert advice on sizing, rider needs, and intended use

• Guidance tailored for seniors, mobility needs, and stability concerns

✔ Assembly & Setup Support

• Clear assembly instructions and videos

• Local assistance as required

• Correct setup before first ride (brakes, gears, steering, motor systems)

✔ Local Warranty You Can Actually Use

• Warranty backed in Australia

• Clear warranty terms

• No overseas shipping required for warranty claims

• No language barriers or time-zone delays

✔ Spare Parts Availability

• Spare parts stocked locally

• Fast turnaround for replacements

• No waiting months for international freight

✔ Australian Compliance Knowledge

• Understanding of Australian standards and regulations

• Honest explanations of where electric tricycles sit legally

• No misleading or vague compliance claims

The Reality of Importing a Tricycle Directly

Many customers contact us after importing directly, usually when something goes wrong or they are missing parts which should be there.

One customer looking for our assistance found a handwritten note in their box indicating it was a return from a customer in the US. The US customer could not assemble the tricycle because it was missing so many parts and it was returned to China where they didn’t even open the box they just shipped it out to a customer in Australia. The result was an Australian customer who had half a box of parts necessary to build a complete tricycle, he had no support, he had no way of contacting the factory and he lost all of the funds for what he perceived to be a bargain price.

❌ No Test Ride

• You buy based on photos and descriptions only

• Geometry, comfort, and stability may not suit you

• Returning the product is impossible

❌ Hidden Costs

• International shipping costs can change

• Port, customs, broker, and clearance fees are often unexpected and much higher than you think

• GST is payable on import, even if not shown upfront or if the seller declares the price as GST included

• Currency exchange differences and bank fees apply

❌ Warranty Is Often Theoretical

• “Return to factory” warranties are rarely practical

• You pay shipping both ways

• Long delays and uncertain outcomes

• Many sellers disappear or stop responding, most sellers seem to operate for about 8 weeks, close and then reopen

❌ No Local Parts Support

• Even small failures can completely immobilise the trike

• Weeks or months waiting for parts which are many times not available

• Risk of incompatible replacement components

❌ No Accountability

• No Australian consumer protections

• No local business reputation at stake

• No obligation to assist after the sale

Side-by-Side Checklist Comparison

Use this checklist to quickly compare the real differences:

Why Our Pricing Reflects Real Value

Trike Bike pricing reflects:

• Proper importation and compliance

• Local warranty obligations

• Spare parts inventory

• Australian staffing and support

• Workshop facilities

• Long-term business accountability

Direct-import pricing often excludes or ignores these realities.

Lower upfront pricing does not mean lower overall cost.

Who Should Consider Buying From Trike Bike?

Buying from Trike Bike is ideal if you:

• Value safety, stability, and reliability

• Want local support and real warranty coverage

• Prefer to deal with an Australian business

• Want parts and service available long after purchase

• Want peace of mind, not ongoing problems

Our Commitment to You

At Trike Bike, we stand behind every tricycle we sell.
We answer the phone.
We stock parts.
We support our customers long after the sale.

That is the difference.

Ready to Talk to a Real Specialist?

If you would like advice, a test ride, or help choosing the right tricycle, contact Trike Bike today.