According to the most recent data available from The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the death rate from motorcycle accidents in 2014 was 27 times higher than the death rate from auto accidents. This rate is deeply concerning in addition to being amazing. Motorcycle sales are rising in spite of these dangers.
Three primary aspects need to be taken into account when comparing trikes with conventional motorcycles:
A Higher State of Equilibrium
A more evenly distributed weight distribution is made possible by the installation of a third wheel. Instead of being divided among two points, the weight of the bike and passengers—which can weigh more than 1,000 pounds—is divided among three points. This uniform distribution of weight improves the traction and balance the tires have on the road as the rider turns, brakes, and accelerates, as well as lowering the effort required to keep the bike upright.
Enhanced steadiness
Trike riders don’t need to lean into turns to keep their bikes from toppling over since the third wheel keeps the bike stable. Stoplights exhibit this same stability. The design of a trike relieves pressure on the rider’s knees and muscles in addition to reducing rollover injuries because the user is not required to steady the bike with Three primary aspects need to be taken into account when comparing trikes with conventional motorcycles:
Enhanced balance
A more evenly distributed weight distribution is made possible by the installation of a third wheel. Instead of being divided among two points, the weight of the bike and passengers—which can weigh more than 1,000 pounds—is divided among three points. This uniform distribution of weight improves the traction and balance the tires have on the road as the rider turns, brakes, and accelerates, as well as lowering the effort required to keep the bike upright.
Enhanced steadiness
Trike riders don’t need to lean into turns to keep their bikes from toppling over since the third wheel keeps the bike stable. Stoplights exhibit this same stability. The shape of a trike relieves pressure off the rider’s body and knees while also reducing rollover injuries.
Enhanced mental tranquility
Compared to bikes, trikes are more stiff and turn more like cars. A bike must counter steer and lean precisely to negotiate the ideal turn. Lower seats on certain three-wheel types help the rider maintain control at slower speeds. The idea that trikes are safer is influenced by these elements. Nevertheless, despite the fact that trike users praise the comfort and steadiness of these vehicles, many of them still yearn for the two-wheeled bike’s lean, per a 2012 New York Times article.
The answer to the question of whether trikes are safer than motorbikes is somewhat arbitrary because some of the risky drawbacks persist despite the aforementioned benefits. Trikes, for example, are still considered open-air vehicles, meaning that riders who are thrown from their seats, particularly if they are not wearing helmets, have little to no protection. Furthermore, even though trikes may see the road from a wider vantage point than cars and trucks, other drivers may not notice them as readily.
Having assisted hundreds of injured parties in establishing solid bases for their injury claims, we have discovered that nearly anything can result in an accident. For this reason, we prefer to take the initiative and inform our clients in advance of an accident.
Being informed is the best defense against a motorcycle or trike accident for you and your loved ones. To make sure you always have the information and advice you need to keep safe, like and follow us on Facebook. We will send out regular safety updates and resource notifications.