Skip to main content

Motorcycles aren’t for everyone. Some people don’t want to ride, and others can’t for one reason or another. However, three-wheeled options have the potential to get the latter out in the wind. So, between a trike and a sidecar motorcycle, which three-wheeler ride is right for you?

Is a sidecar motorcycle a better option than a trike for a rider looking for a three-wheeler?

A Sidecar motorcycle and a trike have one crucial, albeit obvious, thing in common: three wheels. They take the inherent instability of a motorcycle and add a third wheel in such a way that a kickstand isn’t necessary. It’s beneficial for mobility-compromised riders who can’t balance a heavy motorcycle. 

Furthermore, both three-wheeled motorcycle styles are available from the factory or in a kit. Many popular motorcycle models, like the Triumph Bonneville, have attachment-ready aftermarket sidecar options. Conversely, Ural (yes, that Ural) sells from-the-factory sidecar adventure bikes.

The same can be said of trikes. From one-wheel-up-front Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide Ultras to the modular and inverted Polaris Slingshot, you can buy a new trike in nearly any configuration. Or, owners can purchase and install an aftermarket conversion kit to transform an existing bike into a three-wheeled machine.

A dog looks content in a sidecar connected to a motorcycle.
A dog in a sidecar | altcheyedigital via iStock

So which one should you choose? Well, a sidecar motorcycle will ride differently from a rider-centric trike. However, your passenger will likely enjoy the comfort of a sidecar more given the wind protection and space. If you’re a solo rider, you may enjoy the ride of a powerful, smooth trike more.

Moreover, trikes typically require a reverse gear or electric reversing motor. Conversely, riders with sidecar motorcycles will typically have to roll out of spots. Of course, that isn’t the case for every sidecar-equipped bike.

So is a sidecar motorcycle cheaper than a trike? 

Well, yes and no. Depending on the base motorcycle, year, mileage, and condition, you can get a used trike for under $10,000. For instance, a custom three-wheeler conversion with a Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster base bike can cost around $6,000. 

However, the Sportster conversion won’t offer many of the same modern amenities you would with a new Tri-Glide Ultra. On the other hand, you can purchase a new Ural for around $22,000. That, or you can buy a new sidecar for a Triumph or BMW for around $10,000.

Related

The Condor A580: The Swiss Military’s BMW Bike Alternative

Best in 2 Wheels
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).