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Motorcyclists Turn to Trikes

Easier to drive but still capable of providing a thrill, 3-wheelers are becoming the vehicle of choice for many 2-wheel enthusiasts.

By Claire_Martin Jul 23, 2012 11:43AM
Can-Am 3-Wheeler photo by Can-AMThey're easier to balance, they're gentler on the knees and they can be simpler to drive than their 2-wheel counterparts. They're trikes, and they're gaining in popularity, according to a report by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. 

Women, baby boomers and those looking for a bit of novelty are behind the current trend, which kicked off in 2008 when Harley-Davidson contracted with Lehman Trikes USA to produce Harley's Tri-Glide motorcycles. (Harley has since begun manufacturing the trikes itself, in Pennsylvania.)

"It's a cool thing now because it's different," Tom Dorcey of Wisconsin trike dealership Rob's Performance Motorsports told the Journal Sentinel. So far this year, Rob's has sold 20 percent more Can-Am Spyder trikes than during all of 2011.

Conversion kits are also available for owners of traditional motorcycles who want to add a third wheel to their bike instead rather than buying a new vehicle.

In addition to extra stability, some trikes have finger-operated electronic transmissions for riders averse to operating a clutch. Heated handlebars and seats add an extra level of comfort. 

Drivers who use wheelchairs reportedly have found their way to the trikes. And people looking for a high-performance ride aren't disappointed either. According to Dorsey, "It's like riding a snowmobile on the road at 70 miles per hour."

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4Comments
mrchriss
Jul 23, 2012 12:26PM
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I'm not ready to retire my two-wheelers just yet but I like the looks of the Can-Am Spyders.  They at least look like they would be more stable in the corners than the traditional trikes.
TXMX-5EE
Jul 23, 2012 12:42PM
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Trikes also seem to be a way to bypass extensive safety requirements to allow small companies to bring innovative vehicles to market "at your own risk".  One example is the Campagna T-Rex.  I don't say this negatively, I rather like the idea of a company being able to provide a neat and innovative product to market with the fact that it's not as safe as a conventional model and there are risks involved made clear to the consumer.  Over the years, 4 wheel road going cars have been so deeply regulated that only the largest companies can design a car and bring it to market.  I like the idea that there is some small avenue for people to make their dreams come alive.
Al460
Jul 24, 2012 9:54AM
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This article is a little light on substance.  Big difference between a Harley "trike" and a Can-Am "trike".  Having the two wheels either in the front or in the back will dictate whether the "trike" can actually stop, go, and turn.  Two up front is far superior.
antidonkeyx15543
Jul 25, 2012 4:56AM
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I love my motorcycle. If/when I get to the point where I can't ride/balance/support​ it, I'll switch to a trike. Until then, I'll stick with 2 wheels.
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