As a person who felt uncomfortable with traditional tricycles, the discovery of recumbent trikes has been the best of my entire life. Recumbent trikes are absolutely the most comfortable and stable alternatives for anyone who has strained buttocks and back muscles. Similarly, whether it is grabbing your groceries from the market or mild workouts, or even commutes, they are the all-rounder alternatives you can find out there.
Choosing the right recumbent tricycle is not challenging as long as you have a clear idea of your requirements. These trikes come in two different structures, delta and tadpole, hence, you need to look into everything from weight to wheel size, material construction, and much more. To save your day, I am here with this best recumbent trikes review, so dive right in for more.
Contents
- Best Recumbent Trikes for Adults Overview
- 7 Best Recumbent Trikes for Adults Review
- 1. Mobo Shift Recumbent Trike for Adults
- 2. Mobo Triton Pedal Recumbent Go Kart Trike
- 3. Mobo Triton Pro Recumbent Tricycle – Best Entry Level Recumbent Trike
- 4. Mobo Mobito Recumbent Trike for Kids
- 5. TW-Bents Artifice Adult Recumbent Tricycle
- 6. Performer JC70 Recumbent Trike for Adults
- 7. Trident Adult Tricycle – Affordable Recumbent Trike
- Types of Recumbent Tricycles: Which one is better?
- FAQs of Recumbent Trikes
- Concluding Recumbent Tricycles for Seniors Review
Best Recumbent Trikes for Adults Overview
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Best Overall | Best Overall | Mobo Shift Recumbent Bicycle Trike |
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Best Tadpole Trike | Best Tadpole Trike | Generic Tadpole Electric Recumbent Trike |
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Premium Pick | Premium Pick | Mobo Triton Pedal Recumbent Go Kart Trike |
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Top Pick | Top Pick | Mobo Triton Pro Adult Recumbent Tricycle |
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Editor’s Choice | Editor’s Choice | Mobo Mobito Kids Recumbent Trike |
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Heavy Duty | Heavy Duty | TW-Bents Artifice Adult Recumbent Tricycle |
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Performer JC70 Recumbent Trike |
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Budget Friendly | Budget Friendly | Trident Adult Recumbent Tricycle |
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7 Best Recumbent Trikes for Adults Review
1. Mobo Shift Recumbent Trike for Adults
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Frame Material: Steel
To start my list of the best recumbent trikes, I am here with this massively popular Mobo Shift. I am currently using this one for quite some time and absolutely love the experience.
Similarly, the thing I am thoroughly impressed with is the fact that it is loaded with features. I also really like the extended adjustable frame as it helped me with the desired position.
The first thing I would like to appreciate about this trike is its steel frame which is absolutely sturdy. It is further accompanied by inflatable rubber wheels that possess the ability to smoothly glide over some bumps. Here, after using this for some time, I would say the adjustments are for riders between 4’6’’ and 6’3’’. That being said, it is a bit on the heavier side.
Another thing I really liked as an entry-level rider is its single-speed configuration, given that it was easy to handle. The manufacturers have further added six different backrest options. Hence, I was able to achieve the most comfortable position while maintaining eye and hand coordination well. All in all, this trike is responsible for building my confidence on different terrains.
What I Like?
- Different backrest positions
- Smooth and comfortable
- It is affordable
- Includes a reverse function
What I Didn’t Like?
- It only has a one-speed option.
Why I Recommended Mobo Recumbent Tricycle
Wrapping up, this 3-wheel recumbent trike from Mobo is my absolute favorite for daily commutes. It has a number of adjustments that helped me in keeping myself comfortable with proper eye-hand coordination. What made me put this trike at the top is that it is loaded with features, more specifically, the reverse function. However, the only downside to this trike is that it is a bit heavy. You can also read about types of tricycle.
2. Mobo Triton Pedal Recumbent Go Kart Trike
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 16 inches front and 12 inches rear
- Frame Material: Hi-Ten steel
If your little kid is intrigued by recumbent trikes and wants to explore more of them, do consider gifting this to the small ones.
It is specifically designed for workouts, all credit to the practical rear steering function and the hand brakes. In addition, I particularly like this for its adjustable height and durable frame.
First of all, it comes with a hi-ten steel frame that is absolutely long-lasting and keeps you stable. It is also barely above the ground, which means it has a low center of gravity that is primarily responsible to keep your child comfortable. Hence, if your kid is building confidence with recumbent trikes, this one is it.
Lastly, another thing that deserves appreciation is its functional steering mechanism. This allows riders to choose the perfect position that is comfortable and provides them with better eye and hand coordination. The fact that your kid just needs to know the basic movement to ride this makes this worth the money.
What I Like?
- Great for workouts
- Easy to handle
- Better eye-hand coordination
- Easy to store
What I Didn’t Like?
- Not for experienced riders
Why I Recommended Mobo Triton Pedal Recumbent Trike
In conclusion, this Mobo Triton Pedal trike is the best you can find for your kids, all thanks to its simple and straightforward design. It is equipped with innovative rear steering that allows you to achieve a comfortable position. Finally, the fact that it is really low to the ground makes it best suited for kids between seven and twelve.
You may also be interested to read about best electric tricycles for adults
3. Mobo Triton Pro Recumbent Tricycle – Best Entry Level Recumbent Trike
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 20 inches front and 16 inches rear
- Frame Material: Hi-Ten steel
For anyone who wants an affordable recumbent trike, I am here with this Mobo Triton Pro. It is best suited for anyone who has just started using the trikes and wants a smooth experience.
I would like to appreciate that it is great for all ages and heights, all thanks to the handle and steering adjustments. Likewise, the single-speed is fun yet easy to handle for entry-level riders.
The first thing that impressed me about this beach cruiser recumbent trike is its Hi-Ten steel frame. It is absolutely rugged and glides over bumpy surfaces smoothly. The tricycle wheels are equally durable and keep you stable on different terrains. While using this in the early days of my experience with recumbent trikes, I would say it was quite comfortable for me to access the brakes and steering.
In the end, speaking of performance, it is undoubtedly great for all riders, irrespective of their height and age. This is because it has an adjustable height that helps you set it as per your desired visibility.
I was able to coordinate my eyes and hands properly with any flat surface. One thing I particularly found amazing is that it has no chain that could hinder mobility.
What I Like?
- Ideal for beginners
- It has height adjustments
- The design is chainless
- It has different colors
What I Didn’t Like?
- It only has a single speed
Why I Recommended Mobo Triton Pro Adult Tricycle
In essence, this Mobo trike is great for all, whether they are seniors, adults, tall, or big. This is because it has height and frame adjustments that allow you to customize the positioning at your convenience. My favorite thing about this 3-wheel recumbent trike is that it is chainless and has a durable frame that serves you well while cruising. If you’re looking trike for an adult, have a look at best tricycles for adults available in the market.
4. Mobo Mobito Recumbent Trike for Kids
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 16 inches front and 12 inches rear
- Frame Material: Hi-Ten steel
Here comes the mini version of the Shift Recumbent trike for kids. It is best suited for children between seven and twelve years who are currently learning the art of riding these trikes.
This serves equally incredible for mild workout sessions. All in all, its light and low-impact design make it stand out among other competitors.
Firstly, speaking of its design, it has a hi-ten steel frame that is rugged enough to glide over different surfaces, without damage. It also has inflated carbon wheels that are great for bumps and turns. Similarly, if your kid is a bit tall, you don’t have to worry as it has height adjustments up to 4’8’’.
Lastly, when it comes to performance, I really like the fact that this trike is chainless and really low to the ground. This is because this combination makes it absolutely easy to use and balanced. It also has six seating positions, so the kids can choose the one that has proper eye and hand coordination.
What I Like?
- Different seating adjustments
- Durable and light
- Better eye-hand coordination
- Ideal for workouts
What I Didn’t Like?
- A bit expensive for kids
Why I Recommended Mobo Mobito Trike for Kids
Final thoughts, this Mobo Mobito recumbent trike is great for touring and workouts, all thanks to the six different seating positions. It comes with responsive steering that helps riders with a better eye and hand coordination. Moreover, the fact that it works on hand caliper brakes makes it great for kids to work out.
5. TW-Bents Artifice Adult Recumbent Tricycle
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 26 inches rear and 20 inches front
- Frame Material: Chrome moly/ stainless steel, aluminum
If you are concerned about comfort and stability, this recumbent trike from TW-Bents is certainly a suitable alternative.
It is an all-purpose option for anyone who wants to tour, facilitate their commutes, or even want a trike for a mild workout. The low-impact design and different speed configurations add to its value.
To start with, it is made up of steel and aluminum which is highly sturdy. The low center of gravity further helps riders easily access the shifters and handle. It also has inflated carbon tires that are rugged enough to glide over different surfaces. The tricycle is foldable which allows you to easily store and transport it.
Lastly, another thing that I would like to appreciate about this trike is its hand-caliper brakes. This requires force from the rider, making it great for workouts. Likewise, this is further equipped with 24 different speed options that allow you to enjoy a thriller and exciting experience.
What I Like?
- Easy to store
- Comfortable and durable
- Easy access to shifters
- Different speed options
What I Didn’t Like?
- It can be a bit expensive
Why I Recommended Artifice Adult Recumbent Tricycle
Final thoughts, this TW-Bents recumbent trike is a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile option for touring, commuting, and workout. It comes with different speed options and a comfortable seating position that serves you well. On the whole, it offers easy access to steer and can glide over different surfaces easily.
6. Performer JC70 Recumbent Trike for Adults
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 20 inches front and rear
- Frame Material: Aluminum
If you want a comfortable recumbent trike for commutes or grabbing something from the market, do consider this one.
Everything from the handle to the chain, and even the steering is easily accessible and responsive. Similarly, I found the power supply as well as the gear shifters quite smooth for transitions.
First of all, the aluminum used in the frame is absolutely rugged and lasts for a long time. It is equally worth noting that the steering linkage is properly heightened and adjusted for adults. I found the brakes quite effective and the shifters easy to access. Here, the brakes also don’t require more power and force.
Lastly, for performance, this trike has 27 different speed settings with which you can easily go smoothly over different surfaces. One thing I like about this trike is its reclining position as it still offers you scope to see the front easily. In the end, the carbon wheels are absolutely great to resist physical damage.
What I Like?
- Rugged and durable
- Great value for money
- Ideal for commutes
- Proper eye-hand coordination
What I Didn’t Like?
- It is a bit on the heavier side
Why I Recommended Performer JC70 Recumbent Trike
Final thoughts, this Performer recumbent trike is a great choice for anyone in search of something comfortable and stable. It not only provides better eye and hand coordination but also is appropriately positioned for you to take charge on busy roads. In addition, the fact that the steer and shifters are easily accessible which makes this recumbent trike easy to handle.
You may also want to read about off road tricycle for adults
7. Trident Adult Tricycle – Affordable Recumbent Trike
Specifications
- Wheel Size: 26 Inches
- Frame Material: Aluminum
Last but not least on my list of the best recumbent trikes is this one from Trident. I really like this one for daily chores like grabbing groceries from the market.
In addition, despite it being affordable, it is loaded with features like a Chromoly frame, Teflon chain tubes, different speeds, and handle/ steering adjustments.
The thing that impressed me about this trike is that it is made up of aluminum. Apart from it being rugged, the design is foldable and can be stored easily. Also, while using this trike, I found the steering and shifters easily accessible. Hence, I felt comfortable and stable for the most part on different terrains.
Finally, for performance, the manufacturers have added a Teflon-managed chain. This is known for its flexibility and can be folded easily. All in all, it didn’t take me more than 60 seconds. The brakes also work well and don’t require much force, making them suitable for kids and entry-level riders.
What I Like?
- Durable and sturdy
- Easy to store
- Flexible chain design
- Light and comfortable
What I Didn’t Like?
- Not the best for workouts.
Why I Recommended Trident Adult Tricycle
In essence, this Trident recumbent trike is undoubtedly the best for anyone who wants something light, stable, and comfortable. I absolutely love the fact that it is easy to store and transport. Moreover, after using it for quite some time, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that it glides smoothly over surfaces and works well for daily commutes.
Types of Recumbent Tricycles: Which one is better?
As the name suggests, recumbent tricycles are three-wheeled bikes that have a reclined position. Hence, the riders have their legs in front of them, which is totally opposite to the regular tricycles.
Recumbent trikes are designed to provide riders with comfort and stability, so they can enjoy their experience in a reclined position. Most commonly, they are used by disabled and injured cyclists who are looking for something stable and safe. Below I have mentioned everything you need to know about types of recumbent trikes. You can also read a comparison of tadpole vs delta trike.
Delta Trikes
To make it easily understandable, it has one front and two rear wheels. They are relatively versatile and allow you to facilitate commutes, tour, or use the trike as a workout. This is because there is only the front wheel that can move up to 90 degrees easily and can even take tight turns.
Similarly, these trikes are mobile, hence, riders can easily get on and off the trike. Their designs also have a really low center of gravity, making them comfortable for riders.
That being said, it is worth mentioning that these trikes can be a bit risky when it comes to sharp corners. The delta trikes are not the best when it comes to speed, hence, the majority of these trikes only have a single-speed option. In addition, the fact that they are a bit on the heavier side makes the riders prone to tripping.
Tadpole Trikes
On the contrary, tadpole strikes are totally opposite to the delta ones. Hence, they have two wheels on the front and one wheel on the rear.
They are known for their ability to balance the riders, all thanks to the fact that the two wheels proportionately distribute the weight. This is also because they have a larger center of gravity and low-impact design that keeps the riders completely in control of the trike.
Similarly, the fact that they are absolutely incredible at high speed makes them great for workouts.
Yet, they also have some disadvantages like their counterparts. For instance, if you want to go through tighter spaces and really narrow turns, these are not the best, considering that all the bulk is on the front. Hence, they are also not the most mobile, so riders may feel some difficulty in handling these trikes and they can only get off them from a lower seated position.
FAQs of Recumbent Trikes
What is the point of a recumbent trike?
Recumbent trikes, as the name suggests, are the opposite of regular tricycles. They have a back-seated structure with the rider legs on the front. Hence, they are more stable and comfortable than the usual traditional tricycles. They are designed particularly for injured or immobile cyclists who want to facilitate their commutes or want a regular workout alternative, irrespective of the strain and pain in the joints.
Is a delta recumbent trike better than a tadpole trike?
The primary difference between these two trikes is their structure. Hence, it primarily depends on riders’ requirements. For instance, for anyone who is new to these trikes and wants mobility and comfort, a delta trike is best suited. On the contrary, tadpole trikes are great for experienced riders who want a workout alternative and need a combination of stability and speed.
Should I get a recumbent trike?
Well, it all comes down to your individual requirements. For instance, if you want something stable and convenient to facilitate daily commutes or less painful workout sessions, these trikes are best for you. They are great for your back and buttock muscles, considering that they have reduced pressure and stress on these areas. So, if you feel uncomfortable with regular tricycles, these might work well.
Are recumbent trikes good for seniors?
Yes, recumbent trikes are often considered good for seniors due to their comfortable and stable design, providing a low-impact exercise option while minimizing strain on joints and providing a supportive seating position.
Concluding Recumbent Tricycles for Seniors Review
In the end, recumbent trikes have been my savior as a person who always felt uncomfortable and stressed with traditional tricycles. This is because they have a unique back-seated design that helps you with a perfect combination of stability, mobility, and comfort.
Finally, if you are in search of the right one, here are some of my recommendations from the list;
- Mobo Shift 3-Wheel Recumbent Bicycle Trike is best known for its reverse function, better eye and hand coordination, and rugged frame.
- Mobo Mobito Kids 3-Wheel Bike. Recumbent Trike is great for kids who want to learn to ride these trikes, with stability, easy access to handle, and speed.
- Mobo Triton Pro Adult Recumbent Tricycle is massively popular for its different seating positions, steering adjustment, and durable frame.
Finally, I hope you soon will be able to find the best recumbent trike, with the help of this review guide.
Hi, My name is Ruth Winder, founder of Tricycle Hub. I am a salesman by profession and cycling enthusiast by passion. I have been riding trikes for more than 5 years. On TricycleHub, I share everything related to tricycles and other gadgets I use for daily commuting and other outdoor activities on tricycles.
Learn About Me to know how and why I switched from bicycling to tricycling.