Can You Still Ride an EBike at 70? E-Bike vs. E-Trike for Seniors: Which Is Actually Safer?

Seniors, are you wondering whether an e-bike or an e-trike is the better fit for you? 

I'm Dustin, and with 20 years of experience in the bike and e-bike industry, I'll help you answer the question: Which is better for seniors, an e-bike or an e-trike?

We often meet riders over the age of 60 or 70 here in San Clemente who are deciding between a two-wheel e-bike and a three-wheel e-trike. While I can't make the definitive choice for you, I can share suggestions based on what we see with many riders.1

E-Trikes: Stability vs. The Learning Curve

Many riders are initially drawn to e-trikes because they offer stability, meaning you don't have to worry about balancing or tipping over.

However, trikes drive differently than e-bikes. We've had people try an e-trike and find it challenging or unexpected. Some riders actually transition back to an e-bike, feeling safer on two wheels than on three. This often happens because people learned to ride on a two-wheeler and have decades of experience with that setup. Transitioning to a three-wheeler can be difficult, making some feel unsafe and prompting them to return to a two-wheel bike.

If you opt for a trike, consider the specific model. For instance, the Simple Glide fat tire is described as the most intuitive and easy-to-steer model, particularly because its longer frame tends to be easier to handle than more upright trikes.1

Safety Considerations for Both

There is a level of risk in riding both options.1

• E-Trikes: While you don't have to balance, there is the possibility of tipping over if you go too fast or aren't riding correctly.1
• E-Bikes: Crashes can occur if you accidentally hit the throttle or are driving incorrectly.1

Ultimately, the choice relies on what feels safest and best for your body.1

E-Bikes: Finding the Right Fit

If you already have an e-bike and don't feel safe, it may be a question of getting the right two-wheel model. You need to choose something conducive to your physical ability, such as a low step-over or a low seat.1

For example, the Relaxed Body e-bike is a semi-recumbent model with a seat very low to the ground, which makes riding, dismounting, and remounting very easy. Even with the low seat, the pedals are moved forward, providing ample leg extension as you pedal out in front of your body. The simple step-through model with its very low step-through frame is another good option for ease of access.

Planning for Future Mobility

Consider your physical condition in the next five to six years.

• If you feel capable of riding a two-wheel e-bike today, you might stick with that and switch to a trike in two or three years if your mobility becomes limited (e.g., due to arthritis or hip surgery).
• Conversely, some riders decide they want the stability of a trike right now, knowing they can own it for the next five to ten years, even realizing a two-wheel e-bike might become unfeasible later.

We see both trends: returning customers switching from e-bikes to trikes for stability, and others who bought a trike returning for a two-wheel e-bike because they feel they can still handle it.

Other Considerations

• Transportation: A two-wheel e-bike is generally easier to transport, and racks for them are often less expensive than those for e-trikes.
• Priority: The number one most important factor is finding the right e-bike or e-trike to keep you safe and comfortable during your rides.

Contact and Purchase Information

If you have questions or comments, you can contact at theteam@sixthreezero.com or call 310-982-2877.

• Test Ride Policy: We offer a 30-day test ride policy. If you don't love your e-bike or e-trike in the first 30 days, send it back for a full refund.
• Warranty: Everything is covered by a one-year warranty, including parts and labor.
• In-Person Test Ride: You can visit us in San Clemente, California, at 1046 Calle Rocoto, Unit K, to test ride all of our e-bikes and e-trikes before purchasing.
• Community: Join our Facebook group, "Sixthreezero Pedalers," before you purchase to talk to existing riders. After you have your bike, you can post to the group, make friends, and download the app to track your rides and compete on the leaderboard.

Thanks for sticking around, and remember: it's your journey or experience. Enjoy the ride.