When it comes to electric tricycles, the market has exploded with options for riders seeking stability, comfort, and eco-friendly transportation. Two models that consistently rise to the top of consumer searches are the Velotric Triker and the Radtrike. But which one truly delivers the best value, performance, and features? After a comprehensive analysis of both models, the Velotric Triker emerges as the superior choice for most riders. Let’s dive deep into why.
Contents
- Overview: Two Contenders, One Clear Winner
- I. Power, Battery, and Riding Performance
- II. Smart Technology and Convenience
- III. Safety and Control
- IV. Comfort and Ride Quality
- V. Utility and Everyday Use
- VI. Price and Value Considerations
- Who Should Choose the Velotric Triker?
- Who Might Consider the RadTrike?
- Final Verdict: Velotric Triker is the Clear Winner
- Conclusion: Investment in Quality and Safety
Overview: Two Contenders, One Clear Winner
Both the Velotric Triker and RadTrike target adults seeking a stable, three-wheeled electric bike solution. Whether you’re a senior looking for safe transportation, someone with balance concerns, or simply an enthusiast who prefers the stability of three wheels, these e-trikes promise comfort and convenience. However, the similarities end there.
We’ll first create a complete comparison table listing the specifications of both bikes, and then proceed to compare them in detail across individual aspects.
| Brand | Velotric Triker | Rad Power RadTrike |
|---|---|---|
| Triker | ||
| Battery | 48V, 16.75Ah (804Wh) | 48V, 10Ah (480Wh) |
| Motor | 48V, 750W, 90Nm | 48V, 750W, front-hub motor |
| Torque Sensor | ✓ | × (speed sensor only) |
| SensorSwap | ✓ | × |
| Beginner Mode | ✓ (3 PAS + 8 MPH max) | × |
| Range | 60 miles | 55 miles |
| Pedal Assist Modes | 5 PAS levels | / |
| Taillight | Rack taillight w/ turn signals + brake light | Rack taillight w/ brake light |
| Throttle | Thumb throttle | Full-grip throttle |
| Smart Features | Apple Find My | / |
| Brake System | Hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors + parking lock | Mechanical disc brakes, 180mm, single-lever front brake + parking lock |
| Drivetrain | 40T – 11/32T | 42T – 16T |
| Rear Differential | ✓ | × |
| Front Fork | 80mm hydraulic suspension | Steel rigid fork |
| Tires | 20” × 3.0” Kenda | 18” × 2.25” |
| Frame Material | Aluminum alloy | Steel |
| Stem | Foldable, 180° adjustable | Non-foldable, no adjustment |
| Weight | 85.8 lbs | 82 lbs |
| Max Load | 500 lbs | 415 lbs |
| Shifting System | SHIMANO 7-speed | × (single-speed) |
| Rear Rack | ✓ | × |
| Price | $2,399 | $1,699 |
I. Power, Battery, and Riding Performance
1. Battery and Range: Velotric Dominates in Power
Velotric Triker: Long-Distance Champion
The Velotric Triker comes equipped with a robust 48V, 16.75Ah (804Wh) battery, providing an impressive 60-mile range on a single charge. This substantial battery capacity means:
- Fewer charging stops during your daily commute
- Confidence for longer recreational rides
- Better battery longevity over the product’s lifetime
- More power reserve for hilly terrain
RadTrike: Adequate but Limited
In contrast, the RadTrike features a 48V, 10Ah (480Wh) battery with a 55-mile range. While 55 miles is respectable, the smaller battery capacity means:
- More frequent charging required
- Less power reserve for challenging conditions
- Potentially shorter battery lifespan due to deeper discharge cycles
The 67% larger battery capacity and 5 additional miles of range make a significant real-world difference.
2. Motor Performance: Equal Power, Different Applications
Both models feature a 48V, 750W motor with 90Nm of torque, putting them on equal footing for raw power. This means both can:
- Handle hills with confidence
- Provide strong acceleration
- Support heavier loads effectively
However, the Velotric’s larger battery means you can access this power for longer periods without range anxiety.
II. Smart Technology and Convenience
1. Advanced Sensors and Modes
The Velotric Triker includes:
- Torque sensor: Provides natural, responsive pedal assistance
- SensorSwap technology: Allows customization of riding experience
- Beginner Mode: Offers 3 Pas levels with a maximum speed of 8MPH, perfect for new riders gaining confidence
RadTrike: Basic but Functional
The RadTrike features only speed sensors, which provide less sophisticated pedal assistance compared to torque sensors. It lacks the SensorSwap and Beginner Mode features entirely.
The intelligent sensor system and beginner-friendly features make it more versatile for riders of all skill levels.
2. Charging Convenience
- Velotric Triker: 48V, 3A charger for reasonably fast charging
- RadTrike: 48V, 2A charger for slower charging
The Velotric’s 50% faster charging rate (3A vs 2A) means less downtime waiting for your trike to be ready for the next ride.
3. Display and User Interface
Velotric Triker: Modern Color Display
Features a 3.5-inch color display that provides clear, easy-to-read information even in bright sunlight. Color displays typically offer:
- Better visibility in various lighting conditions
- More intuitive information presentation
- A modern, premium feel
RadTrike: Basic LCD
The RadTrike’s left-mounted LCD display is functional but represents older technology with limited information display capabilities.
The color display enhances usability and represents better value.
4. Smart Features
Velotric: Connected and Secure
The Apple Find My integration allows you to:
- Track your trike’s location if stolen
- Locate your trike in crowded parking areas
- Enjoy peace of mind with connected security
RadTrike: No Smart Features
The RadTrike lacks any smart connectivity features.
Anti-theft tracking is increasingly essential for protecting your investment.
III. Safety and Control
1. Pedal Assist and Riding Modes
Velotric: Flexible and Versatile
- 5 levels of pedal assist for fine-tuned control
- Beginner Mode for safe learning
- Throttle available for no-pedal riding
RadTrike: Simple Single-Speed
The RadTrike uses a single-speed system, limiting rider control over assistance levels.
Multiple assist levels provide better adaptability to different terrains and rider preferences.
2. Lighting for Safety
Velotric Triker: Superior Illumination
- Front light: 500Lm/180Lux – exceptionally bright for nighttime visibility
- Rear lights: Cargo rack-mounted, left and right turn signals, brake lights
RadTrike: Basic Lighting
- Front light: 70Lux – adequate but significantly dimmer
- Rear lights: Cargo rack-mounted with brake lights
The dramatically brighter front light (500Lm vs 70Lux) and additional turn signals provide superior safety, especially for night riding.
3. Braking System: Professional vs. Basic
Velotric Triker: Superior Stopping Power
- Hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors
- Parking brake function for stability when stopped
Hydraulic disc brakes offer:
- Better modulation and control
- Consistent performance in wet conditions
- Less hand fatigue due to easier lever pull
- Longer-lasting performance
RadTrike: Mechanical System
- Mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors
- Parking brake included
While mechanical brakes are functional, they require more maintenance and provide less refined braking feel.
Hydraulic brakes represent a significant safety and comfort upgrade.
4. Handlebar and Steering
Velotric Triker: Adjustable Precision
-
Foldable stem with 180-degree adjustment allows:
- Perfect handlebar height positioning
- Easy storage when folded
- Accommodation of different rider heights
RadTrike: Fixed Position
- Non-foldable, non-adjustable stem
Adjustability is crucial for comfort during long rides.
IV. Comfort and Ride Quality
1. Suspension and Comfort
Velotric Triker: Smooth Ride
- 80mm hydraulic front suspension for excellent bump absorption
RadTrike: Rigid Front End
- Iron front fork with no suspension
Hydraulic suspension dramatically improves comfort on rough roads.
2. Wheels and Tires
Velotric Triker: All-Terrain Capability
-
20" x 3.0" Kenda tires provide:
- Excellent stability
- Better traction
- Comfortable ride quality
- Good puncture resistance
RadTrike: Smaller Contact Patch
- 18" x 2.25" tires are narrower, providing less cushioning and traction
Wider tires enhance comfort, stability, and capability.
3. Frame and Build Quality
Velotric Triker: Premium Materials
-
Aluminum alloy frame offers:
- Lightweight construction (85.8 lbs total weight)
- Rust resistance
- Strength and durability
- 500 lbs maximum load capacity
RadTrike: Heavier Iron Construction
-
Iron frame results in:
- Heavier weight (82 lbs, but iron is denser)
- Potential rust concerns
- 415 lb maximum load capacity
Aluminum construction provides better weight-to-strength ratio and 85 lbs more cargo capacity.
4. Seating and Ergonomics
Velotric Triker: Ergonomic Excellence
- Ergonomic saddle with backrest and adjustable back support
- Dual-position adjustable aluminum seatpost for perfect fit
- Rotating handlebar for optimal hand positioning
RadTrike: Simple Comfort
- Ergonomic saddle with backrest
- Standard aluminum seatpost
- BMX-style handlebar
Superior adjustability ensures better fit for various body types.
V. Utility and Everyday Use
1. Drivetrain and Gearing
Velotric Triker: Wider Gear Range
- 40T-11/32T drivetrain with rear derailleur
- SHIMANO 7-speed system
This setup provides:
- Excellent range for both hills and flat terrain
- Smooth, reliable shifting (Shimano quality)
- Better efficiency across various riding conditions
RadTrike: Limited Range
The single-speed system limits versatility, particularly on varied terrain.
- 42T-16T single-speed drivetrain
- No derailleur
The 7-speed Shimano system offers dramatically better versatility.
Size Availability
Both models come in one size designed to fit most adults, making the decision straightforward.
Cargo Capacity
Both models feature rear cargo racks, but:
- Velotric Triker: 500 lbs total capacity
- RadTrike: 415 lbs total capacity
85 lbs more capacity for groceries, cargo, or passenger use.
VI. Price and Value Considerations
While the Velotric Triker is priced at $2,399—slightly higher than the RadTrike at $1,699—the long-term value tells a very different story. The Triker 1 delivers a far more advanced feature set, including:
- Hydraulic suspension
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Torque sensor
- Larger battery
- Color display
- Apple Find My integration
- 7-speed Shimano drivetrain
These upgrades translate into better performance, safer handling, and a smoother riding experience that easily justifies the price difference.
More importantly, Rad Power has already announced its shutdown, raising serious concerns about future service, parts availability, and product support. From a long-term ownership perspective, choosing a brand that can continue providing support is a critical consideration.
Who Should Choose the Velotric Triker?
The Velotric Triker is ideal for:
- Seniors seeking safe, stable transportation with confidence-building features
- Commuters who need reliable, long-range performance
- Recreational riders wanting comfort and versatility
- Anyone with balance concerns who values advanced safety features
- Tech-savvy users who appreciate smart connectivity
- Riders in hilly areas who need gear range and power
- Those who ride at night requiring superior lighting
Who Might Consider the RadTrike?
The RadTrike could work for:
- Budget-conscious buyers willing to sacrifice features for lower cost
- Casual riders with minimal range requirements
- Those who prefer simplicity over advanced features
- Riders who prioritize color selection
Final Verdict: Velotric Triker is the Clear Winner
When comparing feature-for-feature, the Velotric Triker demonstrates clear superiority in virtually every category that matters:
Key Advantages Summary:
✅ 67% larger battery (804Wh vs 480Wh)
✅ Longer range (60 miles vs 55 miles)
✅ Hydraulic disc brakes for superior safety
✅ Hydraulic front suspension for comfort
✅ Torque sensor for natural pedal feel
✅ 7-speed Shimano drivetrain vs single-speed
✅ 500Lm front light vs 70Lux (7x brighter)
✅ Turn signals for enhanced safety
✅ Apple Find My anti-theft protection
✅ Color display vs basic LCD
✅ Beginner Mode for new riders
✅ 85 lbs more cargo capacity (500 vs 415 lbs)
✅ Aluminum frame vs iron
✅ Adjustable stem (180-degree) vs fixed
✅ Wider tires (3.0" vs 2.25")
✅ Faster charging (3A vs 2A)
Conclusion: Investment in Quality and Safety
While both electric tricycles serve the three-wheel e-bike market, the Velotric Triker represents a significant leap forward in technology, safety, and rider experience. The combination of superior battery capacity, advanced sensors, hydraulic systems, smart connectivity, and thoughtful features like Beginner Mode make it the obvious choice for anyone serious about electric tricycle ownership.
The RadTrike offers basic functionality, but in today’s competitive market, “basic” isn’t enough when superior options exist at comparable price points. The Velotric Triker’s comprehensive feature set, safety enhancements, and quality components make it not just a better tricycle, but a better investment in your mobility, safety, and riding enjoyment.
For anyone choosing between these two models, the Velotric Triker is the recommended choice – offering more features, better performance, superior safety, and greater long-term value. Your future self will thank you for choosing quality, capability, and peace of mind.
