What Size Adult Tricycle Should I Choose?
“What size tricycle should I buy?” is by far the most common question we are asked.
The answer depends on several factors including your height, weight, flexibility, confidence level, riding experience and, in some cases, mobility limitations or disabilities.
As a general guide, we recommend the following:
20″ Adult Tricycle – Ideal for riders approximately 150–175 cm tall and those wanting a compact, easy-to-manage tricycle.
24″ Adult Tricycle – Suitable for riders approximately 160–185 cm tall and our most popular all-round size.
26″ Adult Tricycle – Best suited to taller riders approximately 170 cm and above who prefer a larger riding position.
Nothing compares to a test ride before purchase, however we understand that Australia is a very large country and visiting our Gold Coast showroom is not always practical. If a test ride is not possible, the sizing guide above provides an excellent starting point when selecting the right Trike Bike for your needs.
How Heavy Is A Trike Bike?
Weight matters. A lighter tricycle requires less effort to pedal, is easier to manoeuvre and is simpler to transport when required.
Trike Bike Australia is proud to offer some of the lightest adult tricycles available in Australia. Lightweight construction does not mean compromising on strength. Our tricycles are engineered for long-term durability and every genuine Trike Bike aluminium frame is backed by a lifetime frame warranty.
Many adult tricycles sold in Australia exceed 30 kg once assembled and equipped with baskets and accessories. By comparison, our standard 24″ Trike Bike weighs approximately 22 kg ready to ride.
It is a common misconception that a heavier tricycle is more stable. In reality, additional weight simply requires more effort from the rider, particularly when starting, stopping and climbing hills.
Typical Ready-To-Ride Weights
- 24″ Standard Trike Bike – 22 kg
- 24″ Electric Trike Bike – 27 kg
- 20″ Folding Trike Bike – 22 kg
- 26″ Standard Trike Bike – 25 kg
Safety Comes First
Safety is one of the key reasons people choose an adult tricycle.
The added stability provided by three wheels makes a Trike Bike an excellent choice for seniors, riders with balance concerns, people recovering from injury, individuals with disabilities, parents carrying children and anyone wanting to transport shopping or cargo safely.
Unlike a conventional bicycle, a Trike Bike remains balanced when stationary. If you become uncomfortable or uncertain while riding, simply apply the brakes and the tricycle will come to a controlled stop while remaining upright on all three wheels.
Visibility is another important safety consideration. Trike Bikes are available in a range of highly visible colours and are fitted with numerous safety features including:
- Reflectors on all three wheels
- Front and rear pedal reflectors
- Front white reflector
- Dual rear red reflectors
- Battery-powered LED headlight
- Audible warning bell
- Protective chain guard
- Dual braking systems for excellent stopping performance
The LED headlight can also be operated in flashing mode, significantly improving daytime visibility to motorists and other road users.
Built To A Standard, Not A Price
At Trike Bike Australia, we focus on quality, reliability and long-term ownership.
We know there are cheaper tricycles available online. In some cases, competing models retail for less than our wholesale purchase price. While these products may appear similar in photographs, the differences in materials, engineering and component quality become obvious over time.
Every genuine Trike Bike features:
- Lifetime warranty aluminium frame
- Double-wall aluminium wheel rims
- Heavy-duty spokes designed specifically for tricycle side-loading forces
- Maintenance-free sealed bottom bracket bearings
- High-quality Shimano drivetrains and components
- Heavy-duty rear axle assemblies on electric models
- Premium wheel bearings for long service life
- Plastic-coated baskets for superior corrosion resistance
Many lower-cost tricycles use bicycle-grade components that simply are not designed for the unique loads experienced by a three-wheel vehicle. Our engineering approach is designed to provide years of reliable service.
Carrying Capacity
One of the greatest advantages of owning a Trike Bike is its impressive carrying capacity.
Whether you’re transporting groceries, tools, picnic supplies, mobility equipment or everyday items, a Trike Bike can quickly become one of the most useful vehicles you own.
- Maximum rider weight: up to 150 kg (model dependent)
- Rear basket capacity: up to 50 kg
- Front basket capacity: up to 10 kg
- Total combined load capacity: up to 200 kg
Unlike a conventional bicycle, a loaded Trike Bike remains stable when stopped, making it particularly practical for shopping and everyday transport.
Designed For Comfort
Comfort is critical when choosing any adult tricycle.
Our tricycles are designed to position the rider in a natural and relaxed posture. The ideal riding position places the upper body slightly forward of vertical, allowing your weight to be supported comfortably by the seat rather than your wrists and shoulders.
The handlebars are positioned to allow a relaxed bend in the arms, reducing fatigue and improving control. This riding position is particularly beneficial for older riders and those with limited upper-body strength.
Forward pedal positioning further improves comfort by allowing efficient pedalling and easier starts from a standstill.
Our latest comfort saddles incorporate both foam cushioning and spring suspension, along with additional support padding designed to provide many hours of enjoyable riding.
Quality Shimano Gearing
All Trike Bikes are equipped with genuine Shimano gearing systems, providing smooth shifting and efficient pedalling across a wide range of terrain.
While some adult tricycles are sold with only a single gear, this can be limiting when riding hills, carrying cargo or travelling longer distances.
Our gear ratios are specifically selected for tricycle use. Lower first and second gears make it easier to start moving and climb hills, while higher gears allow comfortable cruising speeds on flatter terrain.
Many current models also feature Shimano Smart Shift technology for simple, reliable gear changes.
Transporting Your Trike Bike
Transporting an adult tricycle can be challenging with conventional bicycle carriers. That is why we recommend the Trike Bike Hitch Rider Trike Rack.
Designed specifically for tricycles and recumbent trikes, the Hitch Rider system is fully adjustable and compatible with most trikes currently available in Australia.
Key features include:
- Loads in approximately one minute
- Tilting mechanism for rear vehicle access
- Removable in less than 30 seconds when not required
- Folds upward when empty
- Suitable for most SUV, 4WD and utility vehicles
- Designed to fit standard Hayman Reese style tow hitches
Manufactured in the USA by Hitch Rider, these racks typically retail for well over $1,000 AUD when imported into Australia. Trike Bike Australia frequently offers them at special pricing from approximately $850 plus freight.
Assembly takes approximately 15 minutes from the box, with first-time vehicle installation typically requiring less than 5 minutes.
*A light board may be required if the tricycle obscures vehicle indicators, brake lights or registration plates. Always ensure compliance with applicable Australian road regulations.
Adult Tricycle Dimensions & Specifications
To help you select the right adult tricycle, the dimensions below show the assembled size, minimum seat height, step-through height and overall weight of each model. If you have any questions regarding sizing or suitability, please contact Trike Bike Australia for personalised advice.
24″ Standard Adult Tricycle
 |
Our most popular adult tricycle size, suitable for a wide range of riders and everyday use.
|
26″ Standard Adult Tricycle
 |
Designed for taller riders who prefer a larger riding position and increased leg extension.
|
20″ Folding Adult Tricycle (Assembled)
 |
Compact, lightweight and ideal for transport, storage and caravan travel.
|
20″ Folding Adult Tricycle (Folded)
 |
Folded dimensions for storage, transport and caravan applications.
|
Cargo Adult Tricycle
 |
Designed for commercial use, deliveries, vending, promotions and carrying larger loads.
|
Need help choosing the right size? Contact Trike Bike Australia and our experienced team will help you select the best adult tricycle based on your height, mobility, confidence level and intended use.
Operating Instructions
Congratulations on your purchase of a genuine Trike Bike. We are sure you will receive many years of trouble-free enjoyment from your purchase. This operator’s manual will familiarise you with the correct setup, use and maintenance of your new Trike Bike.
Riding position: There are three settings which need to be adjusted to obtain the correct riding position. The seat height is critically important, matched to this is the handlebar height and the reach from your shoulders to the handlebars, each of these adjustments can be made individually to increase your comfort and enjoyment using your Trike Bike.
Seat height: the seat height needs to be adjusted to obtain the most comfortable riding position. If the seat is too low pedaling will be difficult because you cannot put all of your strength into a bent leg. The seat height needs to be set correctly in relation to the length of your leg. The position should not allow for over-extension as you do not want your hips moving (rocking side to side) when you are pedaling, this is very tiring and will quickly give you a sore bum. Sit on the trike with one pedal at its lowest point, place the ball of your foot on the pedal and have somebody standing alongside looking at your leg position. In this position the leg should be very slightly bent at the knee, if your leg is straight then lower the seat position, if your leg is bent too far then raise the seat position. A good double check is to sit on the seat with the pedal in the lowest position and place your heel on the pedal; in this position your knee should be almost completely straight. It is important to note that the seat travel up and down can be adjusted a long way but for safety a certain amount of the seat post must remain in the frame to secure it firmly. On our seat posts there is a mark shown which represents the maximum height/minimum insertion. Do not raise the seat beyond this mark.
Handlebar height: maximum comfort is usually obtained when the handlebar height is equal to the height of the seat, you may wish to try different heights to find the most comfortable position for your riding. The handlebars also have a mark for the maximum height/minimum insertion point; do not raise the handlebars beyond this mark.
Reach: for maximum comfort you should not be overextended or cramped when reaching for the handlebars. A Trike Bike is ridden primarily for leisure and you want the seating position and the reach to be comfortable. Adjust the handlebars forwards and backwards for the most comfortable position. They should not be any undue pressure on your hands, elbows or shoulders when seated and riding correctly.
Safety checklist before you ride
Before heading out on your ride there are several things which need to be checked to ensure the safety of both yourself and others.
Brakes: ensure the front and rear brakes are working correctly. If the brakes are not working correctly do not ride the Trike Bike until the problem is found and they are adjusted correctly.
Wheels and tires: ensure that the ties are inflated correctly. The minimum pressure is 40 psi, the maximum pressure is 55 psi. In our workshop we inflate the tires to around 45 psi, this gives the trike a nice solid feel making it easy to pedal whilst at the same time still providing a little bit of suspension from the tires themselves. Quickly check the tires to make sure there are no problems with the tread or bulges on the sides, quickly check the rims to make sure they have no buckles or kinks. Ensure that none of the spokes are broken and double check that the wheels are securely tightened by checking that the domed safety nut is still in place.
Seat: ensure that the seat is positioned correctly and that the clamp holding the seat in position is secure and cannot slip.
Steering: ensure that the front wheel can turn side to side freely by moving the handlebars. Gently pull the handlebars forwards and backwards to make sure they are secure and cannot slip during your ride. Check that the brake cables and gear change cable are not being pulled when you turn sharply.
Chain: make sure the chain is lubricated and runs smoothly; a damaged chain or one that has gone rusty must be replaced. If riding in the rain be sure to lubricate your chain after your trip with chain lube or a very light oil.
Cranks and pedals: make sure the pedals are in place and have not come undone, grab each pedal and give the crank a wiggle to make sure the crank is securely in place on the main crank axle. At the same time push your trike backwards and forwards about 1 m and listen for any grinding or rattling from any of the wheel bearings. Obviously, if something is sounding wrong then do not go riding but seek additional assistance.
Derailleur: the derailleur is a fancy name for the gearchange unit at the rear of the trike. Quickly check that nothing is bent and that the gearchange cable is securely attached. Do not change gear with the trike either stationary or rolling backwards. The gears can only be changed when the Trike is being pedaled forwards.
Front forks: stand back from the trike a couple of meters and have a look at the front forks, they should be vertical and not offset, nothing should be bent or broken.
Front and rear basket: again standing back from the trike quickly check the location of the front and rear baskets, make sure they are not damaged or falling off the trike.
Safety equipment: your trike is supplied with several reflectors, there are permanent reflectors on both of the pedals, there are reflectors on each wheel, there are reflectors on the rear mudguards and a reflector on the front of the bike basket. Make sure this safety equipment is attached to your Trike Bike before riding.
The most important safety equipment is a properly fitting helmet. It is strongly recommended that you wear an Australian approved helmet when using your Trike Bike. For maximum protection the helmet should be fitted correctly, the straps must be correctly set; the helmet should be comfortable and feel like it is made for your head. If the helmet is uncomfortable then please check it has been fitted correctly. If you have a child seat then it is also a legal and moral requirement that the child is wearing an approved helmet as well.
General rules for riding safely
When riding your Trike Bike you must obey the same road laws as other vehicles, this includes giving way to pedestrians, stopping at red lights and stop signs and riding safely. Some states and territories have different regulations for bicycles and tricycles; please contact your Road Traffic Authority for more information.
Ride defensively, to some other road users you may be hard to see.
Ride predictably and if possible in a straight line on the left-hand side of the road. Never ride against the traffic.
Concentrate on the path ahead; avoid potholes, drainage grates and other obstacles if you can. The extra stability of the trike can make a big difference on wet roads, oil, speed bumps and gravel but please ride slowly and carefully because it’s possible to fall off anything, including a Trike.
If you have tram and train tracks in your area always cross these at 90° or walk your Trike Bike across.
All Trike Bikes are supplied with a bell, use this as a warning if needed.
Don’t ever carry packages or passengers that will interfere with either your visibility or the control of the Trike Bike.
Don’t use anything that can restrict your hearing like an iPod or headsets.
When braking start by applying both brakes gently and then increasing the force. For your safety do not put your feet on the ground when braking otherwise they may be run over by the rear wheels.
Be aware that your Trike Bike will want to always turn downhill, if you are riding on a road with a large camber then please be aware that the Trike Bike will want to turn into the gutter. Simply adjust your riding by counter steering the other way; this will happen subconsciously after about 30 minutes on your Trike Bike.
Finally, familiarise yourself with all of the Trike Bikes features, practice changing gears, braking etc. on flat ground before venturing out into traffic. For the first few trips on your Trike Bike we recommend only riding in flat areas.
Riding in wet weather requires extra care; brake earlier because it can take a longer distance to stop. Generally ride a bit slower and avoid sudden braking or sharp corners. Be more visible on the road by wearing safety clothing and using your LED light. All road hazards like tram and train tracks, manhole covers etc. become more hazardous in the wet. Ride with extreme care in the wet.
Gear changes: when approaching a hill change down to a lower gear early so the bike can be settled and in the correct gear before applying additional pressure to the pedals. If you’ve reached the lowest gear and are still struggling stand up on the pedals to give you more strength and additional force from your body weight. If you are not an Olympian then please get off your Trike Bike and walk it up the hill by grabbing the front basket and walking along like you are taking the dog for a walk. If you push your Trike Bike by holding the handlebars you will get run over by one of the rear wheels.
Cornering techniques: riding a Trike Bike is very different from riding a normal bicycle which leans into the corner. A tricycle will lean away from a corner; this means if you are travelling too fast and try to corner quickly you can actually tip the Trike Bike over. Whilst it would be extremely uncommon for the majority of our customers to ever get into this situation it is something which is faced all the time by fearless teenagers who will intentionally do it to ride along on just 2 wheels.
The simple rule for cornering a Trike Bike is to slow down and take the corner at an appropriate speed, if the inside rear wheel lifts off the ground, do not panic, simply straighten the steering and apply brakes to slow down. When your speed has slowed you can then attempt to take the corner again. Riding a Trike Bike is for pleasure and enjoyment, it’s not a race, so please ride appropriately.
Riding downhill: is a lot of fun because you can build up speed and cover large distances without any effort but it also can be dangerous if you allow the speed to get away from you and the Trike Bike to become uncontrollable. When riding downhill keep your hands on the handlebars and your feet on the pedals. Use both the front and rear brakes as required to keep your speed under control at all times. Do not put your feet on the ground in an attempt to slow down because they will get run over by the rear wheels. Riding a Trike Bike is not about speed, it’s about control; please make sure that you stay in control at all times.
Derailleur Gears: most trikes built today are equipped with what are known as derailleur gears.
They operate using a system of levers and mechanisms to move the chain between different sized driving gears or cogs on the rear axle. The purpose of gears is to let you maintain a constant, steady pedaling pace under varying conditions. This means your riding will be less tiring without unnecessary straining up hills or fast pedaling downhill. Trike Bikes come with either one fixed gear or a Shimano 6-speed system. The 6 speed Trike Bikes are fitted with a gear change shifter on the right hand handlebar and are operated by your thumb. To select a lower, easier to pedal gear push the gear change lever away from you with your thumb. To select a higher gear (for going downhill) press the grey downshift button with your thumb.
Operating Principles: no matter how many gears, the operating principles are the same. To change the gears you must be pedaling forward. You can’t change derailleur gears when you are stopped or when pedaling backwards.
Before shifting to another gear ease up on your pedaling pressure, don’t change gears when on a hill but on approaching a hill. Shift to a lower gear before your pedaling speed slows down too much for a smooth shift. When coming to a stop, shift to a lower gear first whilst you are still moving so it will be easier when you start riding again. If, after selecting a new gear position, you hear a slight rubbing noise (chatter) from the rear gears then gently press the shifter with your thumb until the noise goes away.
Basic Maintenance
The following procedures will ensure your Trike Bike is maintained in tip-top condition.
Anywhere that is painted remove any light dust on the surface and any loose dirt with a dry cloth. To clean, wipe with a damp cloth soaked in a mild detergent mixture. Dry with a cloth and polish with car or furniture wax like Mr. Sheen. Use soap and water to clean plastic parts and rubber tires. When clean spray a light covering of WD-40 over all the metal parts on the Trike Bike and in particular the hubs and spokes. Try to keep spray off the front wheel rim otherwise you can expect reduced braking when you next ride.
Store your Trike Bike under shelter and out of the weather if you can; avoid leaving your Trike Bike in the rain or exposed to corrosive areas.
Riding on the beach or in coastal areas exposes your Trike Bike to salt, which is very corrosive. Wash your bicycle frequently and wipe or spray all unpainted parts with WD-40 every 2-3 months as detailed above.
If the hubs and bottom bracket bearings (pedals) of your Trike have been submerged in water, they should be taken apart and re-greased to prevent accelerated bearing deterioration. This should be performed by a bike shop.
If paint has become scratched or chipped to the metal, use touch up paint or nail polish to prevent rust.
Clear nail polish can also be used as a preventative measure.
Regularly clean and lubricate all moving parts, tighten components and make adjustments as required.
Storage
Keep your bicycle in a dry location away from the weather and the sun. Ultra violet rays may cause paint fading or cracking to rubber and plastic parts. Before storing your bicycle for a long period of time, clean and lubricate it and spray the frame with polish.
Don’t cover your Trike Bike with plastic or a bike cover in humid areas because “sweating” may cause advanced rusting and corrosion.
What are the sizes of the baskets ?
Baby Seats
The ultimate in safety for transporting your child.
Our custom child seat easily attaches to the Trike Bike frame without any modification and is suitable for children aged 7-9 months up to a maximum weight of 22 kg or 4 1/2 years (whichever comes first)
- Easy to load-unlike a normal bike there is no risk of the trike bike falling over when loading your precious cargo
- Strong moulded plastic child seat with detachable handlebar
- Foot rest with straps to secure child’s legs
- Headrest, safety harness and padding
- Impossible for little feet or fingers to get trapped in wheels or chain
- Children really like the closeness of their parent in front
- Quick-release mounting bracket for easy removal when not being used or for cleaning
Child Seat to fit our Standard Trike Bikes
Boxed Size: 75 x 35 x 25 Weight: 4 kgs
Although it’s a general child seat we don’t guarantee which bikes they fit. Child seats can’t be taken back for refund or exchange. This is for hygienic reasons.
Child Seat to fit our Electric Trike Bikes
Boxed Size: 75 x 35 x 25 Weight: 4 kgs
This Baby Seat fits the electric Trikes we sell, it requires some mechanical ability to fit. Although it’s a general child seat we don’t guarantee which bikes they fit. Child seats can’t be taken back for refund or exchange. This is for hygienic reasons.