Tandem Bike vs Electric Trike: How to Choose the Right Two-Seater Ride

Sep 17, 2023

By Linus Li

Tandem Bike vs Electric Trike: How to Choose the Right Two-Seater Ride

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Evolution of Tandem Bicycles
The Rise of Modern E-Trikes
Key Components and Configurations
Comparing the Riding Experience
Accessibility for Disabled Riders
Affordability and Costs
Storage Footprint
Intended Use Cases
Which One Should You Choose?
Conclusion
Read More

Introduction

Ever wonder which two-wheeled ride is better for enjoying the outdoors with a partner - an old-school tandem bike or one of those new-fangled electric trikes? This guide goes deep into the backstory of tandem bikes vs. the e-trike boom. We'll break down the key parts that make each one tick, compare what it's like to pedal them side by side and weigh things like accessibility, price, storage, and how you plan to use it. Learning all the ins and outs covered here will have you primed to pick the perfect tandem or trike for your cycling dreams with friends and family.

	Tandem Bicycle	Electric Trike
Number of Riders	Requires two riders	Allows solo or two riders
Control	Captain controls steering/braking	Independent control for each rider
Propulsion	Human pedal power only	Electric assist with pedaling or throttle
Stability	Balances on two wheels	Low center of gravity on three wheels
Speed	Thrilling at higher speeds	Relaxed cruising pace
Cost	Starting under $1500	Entry models $300-$1000, up to $3000+
Storage Size	Approx. 5' x 2'	Approx. 7' x 3'
Intended Uses	Group rides, trails, touring	Commuting, errands, accessibility

The Evolution of Tandem Bicycles

Tandem bikes first emerged in the late 1890s, with early models known as "sociables" that allowed two cyclists to ride together. The first official tandem bicycle patent was awarded in 1898 to Mikael Pedersen, a Danish inventor. His design extended the wheelbase to accommodate two sets of pedals and seats while using one front steering mechanism. This allowed two riders to power the bicycle together and share the cycling experience.

Through the early 1900s, tandem designs continued to evolve. Models were built for casual recreational riding, racing, and even rough off-road adventuring. From road racing to laid-back cruising, today's tandem bikes allow two riders to bike together in harmony.

The Rise of Modern E-Trikes

Electric tricycles, also known as e-trikes, have really taken off in popularity over the past 10 years. This new breed of three-wheeled bikes with electric motors under the hood has a whole range of benefits compared to the old-school trikes.

The core benefit of some e-trikes is the integration of electric motors and lithium-ion battery packs to augment pedaling power. Sensors and intelligent control systems provide motor assistance only when needed, enabling e-trike riders to go farther and carry heavier loads with less effort.

With three-wheel stability, e-trikes open cycling to people unable to balance on two wheels. The low center of gravity and upright seated position make e-trikes easily manageable for seniors and riders with limited mobility.

For adventurous spirits, casual riders, and commuters alike, e-trikes provide exciting new ways to explore with a modern electric-assist tricycle.

Key Components and Configurations

When examining the parts and mechanics, traditional tandem bicycles and electric-assist trikes have some significant differences:

Components of Tandem Bicycles

Tandem bikes have been around for over 100 years, letting two riders enjoy cycling side by side. When you take a close look at the important pieces and how they're put together, traditional tandem bikes have some distinguishing traits:

Two separate saddles and pedal sets to accommodate the captain in front and stoker in the rear, allowing riders to work together to power the bicycle
An extended wheelbase typically spanning 6-7 feet to provide sufficient room for two riders to pedal and balance comfortably
Custom frame geometries and elongated designs engineered specifically for stability and optimal handling with two riders aboard
Pedaling timing and cadence requires active synchronization and communication between the captain and stoker to ride efficiently
One steering mechanism and integrated brake system controlled solely by the captain in the front, requiring trust from the stoker
Multiple gearing options from single-speed to 30-speed derailleur drivetrains to handle various terrains and riding conditions
Standard bicycle wheels, tires, gearing systems, chains, derailleurs, and other traditional drivetrain parts make maintenance more accessible

What Makes an E-Trike Tick

Electric tricycles are a more modern creation that uses electric power to upgrade the riding experience. If you take a look under the hood at the key parts, today's e-trikes diverge from regular bicycles in several ways:

Three wheels positioned in a wide stance for increased stability and balance compared to standard two-wheeled bicycles
Integrated electric pedal assist motor typically between 250-750 watts to give a power boost while pedaling, especially uphill
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries offering 15-60+ miles range per charge depending on assist level, providing extended ride times
Handlebar throttle control enables adjustable motor power on demand for effortless acceleration or coasting
Intelligent torque sensor provides smooth electric assist that seamlessly responds to human pedaling input
Upright Dutch-style or recumbent seat positioning for increased comfort and accessible step-through mounting
Braking options like caliper, disc, or regenerative help control speed, with added stability from the three wheels

These core components and technical differences between tandem bicycles and e-trikes have a significant influence on the overall riding experience, handling, and functionality of each type of cycling option. The choice of frame design, wheels, drivetrain, steering, and other key parts shapes the way each bicycle performs and feels to ride.

Comparing the Riding Experience

Test riding a tandem bicycle versus an electric tricycle reveals significant differences in how each one handles and feels to operate. Here's how they compare:

Riding Tandem Bicycles

Tandem bicycles have been engineered for over a century to enable two cyclists to ride together in synchronicity. The experience of piloting a tandem bike has unique characteristics:

Requires active coordination and communication between the captain in front and the stoker in the rear to pedal, steer, and brake in harmony
The captain takes full control of steering, changing gears, and braking operations during the ride
The stoker provides supplementary pedal power from the rear but does not handle steering or braking
Achieving higher speeds is thrilling but requires perfect unison between the captain and stoker
Both riders must pedal continuously at a similar cadence set by the captain for optimal efficiency
Balancing on just two wheels takes a joint effort between the captain and stoker shifting body weight

Riding Electric Trikes

Modern e-trikes use electric power assistance to create a more relaxed and comfortable cycling encounter:

Each rider can independently pedal, steer, and control brakes for a customized experience
Integrated throttle and pedal assist allow coasting with less human pedal effort required
Total freedom to dictate your own pedaling, speed, route, and stopping gives each rider independence
The three-wheel stability provides greater comfort at slower speeds than a bicycle
Minimal balancing is needed thanks to the three-point contact creating a natural equilibrium
Certain models with large baskets enable running errands or family rides

The choice between an exciting, synchronized tandem bike ride or a laid-back electric trike cruise depends on your preferences for cycling together or cycling your own way.

Accessibility for Disabled Riders

Both tandem bikes and e-trikes can enable disabled individuals to enjoy cycling. Here are some of the benefits each provides:

Tandem Bicycle Accessibility

Tandem bikes have unique benefits for riders with certain disabilities:

Visually impaired individuals can experience cycling as the stoker, guided by the captain
Great way for partners with different mobility limitations to ride together and share the experience
Easy for riders with leg/muscle weaknesses to contribute pedaling power from the stoker position
Creates a special connection and synchronicity riding as an integrated captain/stoker team

E-Trike Accessibility

Electric tricycles provide advantages for disabled riders as well:

Upright 3-wheel design is inherently easier for mounting and balancing than standard bicycles
Riders maintain independent control to steer, pedal, and brake at their own pace
Throttle-assist helps overcome muscle/strength limitations while pedaling
Opens up cycling as an activity for those unable to balance and ride a two-wheel bike

Whether you desire the synchronized experience of tandem riding or the independence of an e-trike, both these cycles can help people with disabilities pursue cycling in an accommodating way.

Affordability and Costs

When shopping for a new cycle, pricing is an important consideration when comparing tandem bicycles and electric trikes:

Tandem Bicycle Costs

The relatively straightforward mechanical design of tandem bicycles keeps their base costs more affordable.
New tandem bikes from reputable brands generally start at price points under $1500.
Well-maintained used tandem bicycles can often be found for under $1000 through private sellers.
Fewer components to purchase and maintain reduces overall long-term costs.
Custom build kits allow DIY construction to potentially save on labor costs.

E-Trike Costs

Electric motors, batteries, and electronic components increase the baseline costs of e-trikes.
Entry-level consumer e-trike models typically range from $300-$1000 at retail.
High-end electric trikes from specialty brands can run over $3000 depending on features.
More complex electrical systems may require professional diagnosis and service.

Though tandem and e-trikes differ in upfront cost and storage needs, with careful planning, almost any budget and space can accommodate the enriching shared cycling experience.

Storage Footprint

Depending on available storage space, the size of a tandem bike versus an e-trike should be considered:

Storage of Tandem Bicycles

A typical tandem bicycle requires around a 5-foot x 2-foot space for storage.
Tandem designs allow for horizontal floor storage or vertical hanging storage.
More compact overall frame size compared to e-trikes.

Storage of E-Trikes

Larger three-wheel frames and batteries need approx. 7 feet x 3 feet for storage.
Harder to hang vertically due to heavy batteries and low center of gravity.
Heavier batteries also limit transport options like roof racks.

Though tandems fit in small spaces and e-trikes take up more room, creative storage solutions let most cyclists find space for their perfect two-seater or three-wheeler - where there's a will to ride together, there's a way to stow it.

Intended Use Cases

The optimal riding purposes vary between tandem bicycles and e-trikes:

Intended Use of Tandem Bicycles

Casual group riding with friends or family on bike paths or in neighborhoods for fun at moderate speeds
Day touring on paved trails, smooth dirt roads, or rolling park paths to see sights together at a leisurely pace
Providing a unique "buddy biking" experience for kids or as a novel activity for couples and groups
Light off-road touring on hybrid tandem designs made for stability on gentle dirt, gravel, and easy single-track

Intended Use of E-Trikes

Independent commuting, running errands, and sightseeing around towns and cities at your own pace
Enabling seniors or riders with disabilities to cycle safely and confidently with electric assist and upright tricycle stability
Carrying children, pets, or cargo loads in certain models designed with extended rears featuring seats or storage capacity
Covering longer 10-40 mile distances using electric pedal assist to reduce exertion and extend range

Tandem bikes and e-trikes each enable special adventures - tandems conquer hills and trails in tandem, while e-trikes reveal new horizons for all riders; whatever your shared journey, lasting memories unfold.

Which One Should You Choose?

So, how do you decide between a traditional side-by-side tandem bicycle or a newer electric tricycle? Here are a few key questions to help assess your needs:

Will you be riding with a partner or solo? Tandem for togetherness or e-trike for independence.
Do you have accessibility requirements? E-trikes tend to offer more options.
What is your budget? Some e-trikes can be more affordable.
How will you use the cycle? Casual tandems or utility e-trikes?
What kind of storage space do you have available?

Talk to knowledgeable dealers who can help match you with the ideal tandem bike or e-trike to fit your cycling lifestyle and goals. The right cycle will provide you with healthy recreation and transportation for years to come. Just be sure to get out and enjoy the ride!

Conclusion

Side-by-side tandem bicycles allow two riders to share the enjoyment and exertion of cycling together in sync. Modern e-trikes provide electric-assist cycling independence and accessibility. While tandem bikes excel at casual group rides, e-trikes empower individuals with disabilities to ride. By understanding the key differences in riding experience, costs, storage, and intended uses, both cycling enthusiasts and prospective riders can select their optimal tandem bike or e-trike match. With an abundance of models and customizations, you're sure to find the perfect fit. Just decide on tandem teamwork or e-trike freedom, and start creating fun cycling memories today!