Most people are of the impression that tricycles are for kids who are learning how to balance and are a precursor to the standard bicycle. However, adult tricycles are slowly becoming the norm, and it’s no more a thing of surprise for cyclists.
It’s quite difficult for large riders to find a bike that they can ride comfortably without worrying about the bike weight capacity. Adult tricycles are a fantastic option for them.
It’s an excellent option for people who have balance issues or are recovering from injuries and are still looking for ways to work out. Tricycles are more comfortable to ride, are easier on the knees, and a great way to trim off the extra pounds.
Heavy-duty adult tricycles or industrial tricycles are the beefed-up versions of a standard trike that can handle large carrying capacities. Most people find them extremely convenient while running errands, shopping around the town.
It looks rugged, most commonly has 300 to 500 lb capacity. You can find heavy-duty trikes that have more carrying capacity, but they are generally used in the industrial sectors.
Along with supporting heavy loads, they ride well on most terrains. Due to the two rear wheels, they do not topple over on steep roads, despite the cargo weight.
If you are looking into buying one, whether, for you or your parents, we’ve listed amazing heavy-duty tricycles. It will ease the process of finding the perfect trike that’ll cater to all your needs and demands!
Comparison Chart
Schwinn Meridian Adult Tricycle with 26-Inch Wheels in Maroon, with Low Step-Through Aluminum Frame, Front and Rear Fenders, Adjustable Handlebars, Large Cruiser Seat, and Rear Folding Basket
Best Heavy Duty Adult Tricycles & Reviews
1. Addmotor M-360 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle
Addmotor is well-known for its heavy-duty trikes, and M-360 is a great, sturdy bike that’s perfect for hauling heavy loads. It’s fit for people who are 5’6” – 6’6” tall. It has the carrying capacity of nearly 350 pounds and a rear rack capacity of 100 pounds.
Constructed using the 7075 aluminum alloy, the M-360 is durable and stable. It is a heavy trike, weighing about 86 pounds, which is precisely why it can handle about 450 to 500 lb of weight.
The Addshox steel suspension fork in the front and the fat 20” x 4” tires soak up the bumps and thumps of the terrain and ensure a smooth, comfortable ride. This makes the M-360 ideal for riding on soft sand or snow. For smooth gearing, the trike is equipped with Shimano 7-speed gears.
This heavy-duty trike is powered by a Bafang 750W brushless hub motor, which supplies sufficient force and speed to it.
It is coupled with the Panasonic 48V 14Ah lithium battery that helps the trike cover a range of 45-55 miles per recharge at level one pedal assist mode. It takes about 4-5 hours to recharge the battery fully.
The M-360 has a longer frame compared to the other Addmotor tricycles. The increased length enables the rider to have more control and stability throughout the ride.
The trike is equipped with a back seat and has a reclined seating arrangement for comfortable riding. Most trikes demand a forward-leaning position; however, you can enjoy an upright position that’ll make for a relaxed ride.
The M-360 features dual mechanical disc brakes that give the trike serious stopping power. The trike offers ample safety measures since it is fitted with a big headlight with horn and a tail light that is activated when the brakes are applied.
The trike has a folding handlebar that saves up space when you are not riding. Equipped with a large steel rear rack, the M-360 is ideal for carrying heavy cargo.
Pros
- Carrying capacity of 350 lbs plus 100 lb rear basket capacity
- Powerful 750W motor
- Comfortable recline seating with backrest
Cons
- Expensive
- Considerably heavy, weighing 86 pounds
Our Verdict: The M-360 is an alluring bike that is functional, sturdy, and provides excellent value for money. This electric fat bike is perfect for varying terrains, mainly sand and snow. It has a robust frame with a semi-recumbent design, which is preferable for people with a larger frame.
2. Schwinn Meridian Adult Trike
The Schwinn Meridian is one of the most popular trikes that can carry a load of upto 300 pounds. It’s on the heavier side, weighing about 77 pounds, but that’s what makes it so sturdy and stable.
The aluminum construction of the Meridian makes it highly sturdy, durable, and light. The 26” tires with the protective alloy rims offer a comfortable riding experience.
The trike has a padded cruiser saddle with springs, and easy adjustment is what makes for a fantastic individual experience. The step-through frame makes it easy to mount and dismount the trike.
It has a rear hand brake with a front linear-pull brake that gives the trike ample stopping power to provide the rider with complete control. Also, this single-speed trike is simple to operate and easy to maintain.
The trike is equipped with a huge rear folding basket that’s perfect for carrying your week-long groceries or your shopping load.
It takes about an hour to assemble the trike. For most people, it is easy to put together the trike, but if you are not accustomed to the mechanics of it, it’s recommended to be taken to a bike shop for assembly.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Front and rear fenders to keep off the dirt
Cons
- The seat is slightly uncomfortable
- Regular maintenance is required
Our Verdict: The Schwinn Meridian is perfect for those who are looking to invest in a trike that would last them long. It is inexpensive and hence is a fantastic choice for an entry-level trike rider. The Meridian provides great value for money and is one of the most popular trikes amongst cyclists. It is stable, balances well, and is sturdy.
3. Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle
Mobo trikes are different in their design and built, and it’s quite evident once you see it. It has the carrying capacity of 250 pounds.
What’s unique about Triton Pro is the absence of a regular handlebar. If you’re wondering about how to steer, do not worry. The trike has two joysticks on either side that’ll enable the steering system. It might take a while to get used to it, but it’s not that difficult.
The seat is in a recumbent position and is cushioned. It’s perfect for people who experience back and neck pain while riding a standard bike or a trike.
The frame is constructed using steel, making it sturdy and durable. It can be adjusted using the given 10 slots to suit riders who are 4’2” to 6’3” tall.
The trike has a front 20” wheel and two 16” rear wheels. It is ideal for riders with a large frame.
The Triton Pro is a single-speed trike, which means it’s suited for even ground. It might be difficult to ride it on inclined terrain, especially since the weight of the rider is shifted to the rear wheel.
It features hand caliper brakes, which can be easily triggered by a single squeeze. It lends the rider complete control over the tricycle.
The trike has the option to be equipped with a basket big enough to carry the groceries or your helmet. But, it has to be bought separately.
Pros:
- Low riding position for people with balance issues
- Recumbent seating position
Cons:
- The trike turns extremely wide owing to the rear wheel steering
- Not ideal for riding on hills
Our Verdict: If you want a unique trike that solves your issue of balancing or back pain, the Triton Pro is perfect. It suits people with different frames because of the adjustability and is apt for growing teens too. It is inexpensive and provides great value for money.
4. Addmotor Motan M-350 Electric Tricycle
The Addmotor Motan is a sturdy electric trike, suitable for riders who are 5’2” – 6’6” tall. The frame is constructed using the 6061 aluminum alloy, which makes it lighter and durable.
It is a heavy-duty trike that can carry cargo. It has a carrying capacity of 350 pounds, which is why the weight of the bike, around 82 pounds, makes it more stable for a ride on varied terrains.
The Mozo front suspension fork and the 24” x 4” Kenda fat tires make for a comfortable ride, especially when you are riding on bumpy terrain. Since it’s a fat trike, you can be assured that the snow or the sand will not stop you from going out for a nice ride.
The Motan M-350 is powered by a Bafang 750W front hub motor that can take the trike up to 25 mph. The trike can run up to 40-55 miles with a single charge of the battery, using level one pedal assist.
The trike is equipped with a 48V 14.5 Ah Lithium battery, which can be charged easily on or off the bike in 4 hours. It is also fitted with an LCD display panel for information regarding the battery percent, five modes of assistance, current speed, max speed, etc.
It is fitted with dual mechanical disc brakes that give ample stopping power and precision to the trike. It might get slightly tricky when it is loaded with cargo. Hence it is advised to ride at lower speeds when the Motan is fully loaded.
The trike has a Spanninga Trendo headlight that eases riding during the dark. It also has an independent tail light that works on AA batteries. It has a large rear waterproof basket that can carry heavy cargo.
Pros
- The seat post has suspension and is adjustable
- The half grip twist throttle allows the bike to be ridden like a moped
- Less recharge time of 4 hours
Cons
- The rear brake applies only to the right wheel
- The motor fitted in the front wheel makes it susceptible to slipping on loose terrain
Things To Consider Before Buying The Perfect Heavy Duty Trike
It’s challenging to find a tricycle that meets your demands and is comfortable enough to ride regularly too. It’s essential to understand your requirements and narrow down your choices to find the perfect trike. These are some of the things you should consider before investing money in buying one:
1. Carrying Capacity
Since you are looking to buy a heavy-duty trike, this is of utmost importance. Depending on your needs and what your usual cargo would weigh, you should opt for a trike that meets your demands.
2. Material
Heavy-duty tricycles weigh more than standard trikes, and hence, the material it is made of is important. Aluminum weighs considerably less than steel and is durable. But it is more expensive too. Choosing a material that makes the trike sturdy, weighs less, also suits your budget is ideal.
3. Size
The frame of the trike should be suitable for the rider’s frame. Having a wrong-sized trike can lead to discomfort. The size should result in a comfortable riding position and not lead to body aches.
4. Usage
It is crucial to know what kind of usage and need you want to meet with the trike. Is it for a regular workout or to carry your daily groceries? If you need a trike for sand or snow, you should opt for a fat tire trike. If you require some push for your everyday riding, you should opt for an electric trike.
5. Portability
Sometimes, you need to carry around your trike from one place to another. Heavy-duty trikes are not easily portable due to its size and weight. So, if you require a portable trike, you should opt for a folding adult tricycle that can fit in your car’s trunk.
6. Design
Adult tricycles come in a lot of designs. Specific to riding position, it is available in upright, semi-recumbent, and recumbent designs. Different trikes have different handlebars: traditional, loop, and chopper handlebars. It is vital that you choose the trike whose design meets your wants.
7. Gearing
You should opt for a trike depending on the kind of speed you want to achieve with it. Most heavy-duty trikes are available in single and 7 speeds. However, 3 speed and 6 speed adult tricycles are available too.
Final Verdict
Adult tricycles are for people who cannot enjoy riding the standard bicycle. They are convenient, ensure low-risk workouts, and are ideal for people with balance and physical issues. The investment is long term, and hence, it’s essential to make the right choice.
The quintessential heavy-duty trike is sure to be comfortable for a rider with a large frame or to carry cargo and weekly groceries. Also, it is sure to turn heads and get frequent love-struck glances!