Three-wheeled motorcycles, or trikes, get a lot of attention on the road, but they also get a lot of bad raps. It’s time to get the real story. We're going to be debunking the biggest myths and misconceptions about trikes so you can get a clearer picture of what they're actually like to own and ride. Let’s separate the tall tales from the truth and discover why more people are choosing three wheels over two.
Trikes Are Just for Old Riders
You've probably heard this one a million times. The idea that trikes are only for riders who can't handle a two-wheeler anymore is completely off base. The reality is that riders of all ages and experience levels choose trikes for a lot of different reasons. Some love the added stability for long-haul touring, especially when they're carrying a passenger and a week's worth of gear. Others are drawn to the unique look and the custom possibilities. It's not about age; it's about what you want from your ride. The trike community is a diverse bunch, from young builders to seasoned road warriors.
They Handle Poorly Compared to Motorcycles
People who've never ridden a trike love to say they handle like a boat. That's just not true. Yes, they handle differently than a two-wheeler, but "different" doesn't mean "bad." You don't counter-steer a trike; you steer it directly, more like a car. It takes a little getting used to, but once you do, you'll find they’re incredibly stable and predictable, especially when rounding corners.
Trikes Aren't "Real" Motorcycles
This one comes from purists who believe if it doesn't have two wheels, it doesn't count. That's a pretty narrow view. A trike starts with a motorcycle frame, a motorcycle engine, and a motorcycle spirit. It gives you the same open-air freedom and connection to the road that you love. You're still out there, feeling the wind and hearing the rumble of the engine. The only difference is an extra wheel in the back. It's an evolution of the riding experience, not a departure from it. A trike is every bit a motorcycle, just with a different configuration that offers its own unique set of advantages.
You Lose All the Fun of Riding
Some riders worry that the stability of a trike means you lose the thrill. They couldn't be more wrong. The fun of riding isn't just about leaning hard into a curve. It's about the power, the scenery, and the journey itself.
Trikes deliver on all fronts. You can still feel the acceleration push you back in your seat, and you've got an even better platform for taking in the views. Plus, the added comfort and stability mean you can ride for longer without getting worn out. That means more miles, more roads, and more adventures. The fun isn't gone; it just changes form.
Converting to a Trike Ruins Your Bike
Some folks believe that converting a motorcycle into a trike is a one-way street that permanently butchers your bike. That's not how quality conversion kits work. Reputable kits are designed to bolt on to your bike's existing frame without requiring major cutting or welding. This means the process is completely reversible. If you ever decide you want to go back to two wheels, you can unbolt the trike rear end and put your original swingarm, wheel, and fender back on. It gives you the flexibility to choose the ride that suits you best, whenever you want.
They're All Huge, Heavy Machines
While many popular trikes are based on large touring bikes, that's not the whole story. You can find trikes built from all sorts of motorcycles, from nimble sportsters to mid-size cruisers. A trike's size and weight are directly related to the donor bike. If you start with a lighter motorcycle, you'll end up with a lighter, more agile trike. The idea that they’re all big, lumbering beasts is just plain wrong. There's a trike out there to fit just about any rider's preference for size and style, so you don't have to pilot a land yacht unless you want to.
Trikes Are Too Expensive
Sure, buying a brand-new, factory-built trike can be a big investment. But it's not the only option. Converting your current motorcycle with a kit is a much more affordable path to three wheels. It lets you keep the bike you already know and love while getting the benefits of a trike setup. When you consider the cost of a high-end touring bike, a conversion kit can be a very cost-effective alternative. It puts a three-wheeled ride within reach for a lot more people, without requiring them to take out a second mortgage to get it.
Maintenance Is a Complicated Hassle
Adding an extra wheel and a different rear end might sound like it doubles your maintenance work, but it's surprisingly straightforward.
The motorcycle part of the trike—the engine, front end, and electronics—requires the same care it always has. The trike-specific components, like the differential and axle shafts, are built to be durable and low-maintenance, similar to what you'd find in a car. Routine checks and fluid changes are simple for any competent mechanic, or even for you if you like to do your own wrenching. It’s not some exotic piece of machinery that requires a specialist for every little thing.
You Can't Customize a Trike
This is one of the wildest myths out there. Trikes are some of the most customizable vehicles on the road. Because you have so much more real estate to work with on the back end, the possibilities are almost endless. You can add custom fenders, unique lighting setups, tour packs for storage, and killer paint jobs that wouldn't be possible on two wheels. If you can dream it up, you can probably build it on a trike.
Time To Ride Your Own Ride
We’ve spent some time debunking the biggest myths and misconceptions about trikes, and hopefully, you have a better understanding of what they offer. They're a legitimate, fun, and practical way to enjoy the open road.
If you’re looking for high-quality motorcycle trike kits that let you convert your two-wheeler into a three-wheeler, DNA Specialty's kits have all the parts you need for the switch. Shop now and get the stability and style you're after.
