What’s the deal with trikes? I have to admit, I simply do not understand them. Sidecars are interesting but for the most part they can be removed and the original two wheel motorcycle can be regained. Some motorcycles are specifically manufactured to be sidecar rigs so that is not always the case, but for the most part, they’re a removable addition.
Trikes, on the other hand, are built to be trikes, period. I’m not sure what you gain from it and the bikes used in conversions are from every manufacturer and model. My thoughts got off on this after seeing V-max trikes the other day. V-max trikes! They’ve done a V-Rod, too, and loads of other bikes have gone under the wrench to emerge as three wheelers. What’s particularly interesting is that at speed they’re more unstable if you have to turn quickly, though I guess the upside is you no longer need a kickstand. Of course, there are the old Harley Servicars that were used to sell ice cream and stuff and they were pretty neat, but those seem to be a special case. A fellow that lives not very far from me has one and I see him motor by on occasion, kinda cool.
Opinions and tastes differ so people can ride whatever they wish and find enjoyment in the process and many do. I heartily support diverse mechanical ideas but I’ll have to ponder on this one for a while as I search for enlightenment.
The Kneeslider: Motorcycle Trikes for sale
sharks says
A properly designed sidecar setup is an outfit for life: to get the things to handle half-way sane you’ve got to replace the whole front end with a leading link or similar.
Trikes are pretty cool in their own, odd way. They’re a good solution if you’re into bikes but can’t hold ’em upright at the lights any more: a friend has a Road King trike with attached wheelchair bin, and it’s a lot of fun.
Z1300s and Goldwings look better as trikes anyway!
—–sharks
BeardedJon says
I have a Kawasaki KZ440 trike. It’s my Snowmobile. In Alaska there is a huge contingent of TRI (Trike Riders International). We have two seasons here: two wheeled season and three wheeled season.
I also have a friend, one legged Dick, who rides a trike with mounts for his crutches.
Johnny Huh? says
I never understood the attraction of a trike. Its all the worst aspects of biking combined with the worst aspects of a car. No lane splitting, not wicked sharp handling and they look, for the most part, pretty goofy (though the one’s you’ve posted are definitely above par in the looks category).
I always laugh when I see a guy on his trike sitting in traffic as I ride on by.
But, I guess, if you can’t ride anymore, a trike would be the next best thing. Or maybe they’re bikers who got tired of not being able to bring much with them.