Your pull into the local convenience store and there it sits. Is it a motorcycle, some type of off road vehicle, or a tri-wheeled motorcycle??? You ask the owner and he speeds away yelling “it’s a Trike.” A Trike? What the $%#*?

There is little doubt that the popularity of Trikes is shooting skyward. Trikes offer many benefits to bikes, but some drawbacks.

Trike conversions are fairly expensive. Say you spend $15,000 – $20,000 on your Gold Wing SE, get ready because a Trike conversion will likely run as much as $9,000 or more.

Trike conversions are fairly complex. The rear wheel is removed and a bolt-on rear section consisting of two automotive wheels, a differential and new driveshaft, fenders and rear trunk are installed. Custom paint is typically needed to achieve a polished look. In short, get an “expert” to perform the conversion is possible.

On advantage to a Trike is that you don’t have to put your feet on the ground at each stop. Additionally, the fear of a passenger tipping your bike or spilling them onto the road is gone.
Beware, Trikes do not handle like Bikes!!! The steering is different and you need to get used to it. Practice driving your new Trike in a parking lot doing figure-8s. Get used to the long pushes in corners. The easiest steering is the push-pull technique. Practice evasive moves! Your mind must be retrained to steer, rather than counter-steer. Remember: You are not on a bike! Don’t put your foot down at stops since the back tires will run over them. You must account for decreased turning radius and the width of the Trike.

Remember: Your 30 years on a bike do not count on a Trike!!! Practice, practice, practice. Look for a Trike Safety Course in your area. Its worth the time and may save your life.

To Trike or Bike, you decide. Do both safel