Why Are Rear Wheel Drive Motor Electric Tricycles Following Popularity in the U.S.?
By Addmotor | 24 February 2025 | 0 Comments
Over the past few years, electric trikes have become a favorite among seniors, people with balance issues, delivery workers, or anyone who loves the convenience of extra cargo space and a comfortable ride. In the U.S. especially, there’s been a noticeable uptick in the demand for these 3-wheeled rides.
Lately, another big trend has been developing within the e-trike world: more and more brands are offering rear-wheel drive models instead of the older front-drive setup. Companies like Addmotor, Lectric, and Sixthreezero have all contributed to this shift.
If you’ve been browsing different e-trike options, you’d want to know the difference between a front-drive and rear-drive motor and why the latter may offer a better riding experience.
That’s because attaching a motor hub to the front wheel makes assembly more straightforward, and the cost can be lower. Plus, a front-drive motor can feel like being “pulled” forward, which some riders initially found comfortable.
For example, the Addmotor M-340 electric trike from 2021 came with a front-drive motor. Similarly, some Sixthreezero e-trikes also feature front-drive motors.
This setup worked well at the time and was a popular choice. However, as technology advanced and riders started to look for certain performance qualities, rear-drive motor electric tricycles became much more appealing.
In the past few years, we’ve seen a shift toward rear-drive electric trikes, with many new models featuring the motor on the back wheel. This switch was driven by rider feedback, brand innovation, and a growing understanding of how the right motor placement can make a difference.
Take the updated Addmotor M-340 e-trike model as an example. The original version had a front-drive motor, but now it’s moved to the back. This clearly indicates that manufacturers are paying attention to what riders need.
Lectric also introduced the Electric XP Trike with a rear-drive motor, joining the trend. Although some Sixthreezero models remain front-drive, it’s fair to say most brands are shifting to a rear-drive setup.
So, what exactly makes rear-drive so popular and appealing?
Let’s talk about the main reasons.
For riders who tackle gravel paths, wet roads, or inclined streets, a rear motor that “pushes” the e-trike forward can offer more stability than a front-drive motor trying to pull the weight of both the trike and the rider. This extra traction can be beneficial when riding in rainy or slippery conditions.
But on a rear-drive electric trike, the turning process often feels more intuitive and smoother once you get used to it. Because the power is coming from behind, the front wheel is free to steer without delivering motor torque. This helps reduce the “pull” feeling and lets you make more controlled maneuvers.
Also, having the motor in the rear hub can sometimes lead to a more comfortable ride. With the motor in the back, there’s potentially less vibration transferred to the handlebars, leading to a smoother overall experience on bumpy roads.
Many riders discover that riding uphill on a rear-drive e-trike feels less intimidating. The motor engages strongly, and you’re not left worrying about the front wheel slipping or losing traction.
Let’s do a quick rundown of both sides to see which might be better for you.
· Often less expensive due to simpler design.
· Can provide a unique feeling of being “pulled” forward, which some find comfortable.
· May be slightly easier to service or replace the motor wheel since it’s separate from the main drivetrain components.
Cons
· Less traction on loose or slippery surfaces because not all the rider’s weight is over the front wheel.
· Steering can feel heavier or more “tugging,” especially under throttle.
· Might not handle hills as effectively if the front wheel loses grip.
· Better traction and stability due to weight distribution.
· Smooth handling in turns because the front wheel is free to steer without providing power.
· Stronger hill-climbing ability, especially on steep or uneven roads.
· More balanced feel when carrying cargo in the rear.
Cons
· Can be a bit more complex to service, as the motor, chain, and gears are all in the rear.
· Usually costs a bit more than front-drive versions.
· You regularly haul groceries, gear, or other items and need the motor to handle that added weight more easily.
· You live in an area with steep roads and rolling hills.
· You ride on various terrains, like gravel, dirt paths, and wet pavement.
· You value stability above all else and want a better chance of maintaining balance, especially around corners.
Conversely, a front-drive e-trike might be fine if you mostly ride on flat, dry surfaces and prefer a slightly lower price point. It can still be a great choice for daily errands or short commutes around town.
There’s also a level of confidence and comfort that comes with riding a 3-wheel electric bike that has the power in the back.
That said, front-drive e-trikes will continue to exist for those who prefer them or want a simpler, more budget-friendly option. It’s all about personal preference and finding what fits your lifestyle best.
Lately, another big trend has been developing within the e-trike world: more and more brands are offering rear-wheel drive models instead of the older front-drive setup. Companies like Addmotor, Lectric, and Sixthreezero have all contributed to this shift.
If you’ve been browsing different e-trike options, you’d want to know the difference between a front-drive and rear-drive motor and why the latter may offer a better riding experience.
The Early Days of E-Bike Front-Drive Motors
When electric tricycles first started to appear, many brands opted for front-drive motors.That’s because attaching a motor hub to the front wheel makes assembly more straightforward, and the cost can be lower. Plus, a front-drive motor can feel like being “pulled” forward, which some riders initially found comfortable.
For example, the Addmotor M-340 electric trike from 2021 came with a front-drive motor. Similarly, some Sixthreezero e-trikes also feature front-drive motors.
This setup worked well at the time and was a popular choice. However, as technology advanced and riders started to look for certain performance qualities, rear-drive motor electric tricycles became much more appealing.
The Shift to Rear-Drive Motors on Electric Trikes
Grandtan M-340 Fat Tire Electric Tricycle Series | Most Comfortable Electric Trike for Adults with Full Suspensions 
Top Features Include:
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✓ Frame Style: Step-Through
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✓ 750 Watt Rear Wheel Drive Motor
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✓ 960Wh UL-Recognized Battery
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✓ Range: 85 Miles Per Charge (PAS 1)
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✓ Payload Capacity: 280 + 100 lbs.
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✓ Max Speed: 20 mph
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✓ 7 Pedal Assist Modes + Throttle
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✓ Torque Sensor
Take the updated Addmotor M-340 e-trike model as an example. The original version had a front-drive motor, but now it’s moved to the back. This clearly indicates that manufacturers are paying attention to what riders need.
Lectric also introduced the Electric XP Trike with a rear-drive motor, joining the trend. Although some Sixthreezero models remain front-drive, it’s fair to say most brands are shifting to a rear-drive setup.
So, what exactly makes rear-drive so popular and appealing?
Let’s talk about the main reasons.
Improved Traction and Stability
Traction plays a huge role in the riding experience. When dealing with three wheels on the ground, weight distribution differs from that of a standard two-wheeler. On a rear-drive e-trike, the rider’s weight is mostly positioned over the back wheels—right where the motor is. This means more pressure on the driven wheel, leading to stronger, more reliable contact with the road.For riders who tackle gravel paths, wet roads, or inclined streets, a rear motor that “pushes” the e-trike forward can offer more stability than a front-drive motor trying to pull the weight of both the trike and the rider. This extra traction can be beneficial when riding in rainy or slippery conditions.
Better Handling in Turns
One aspect that new electric tricycle riders often mention is how different it feels to handle corners and turns compared to a regular bike. With an e-trike, you don’t lean into corners the same way. Instead, you typically stay upright, which can sometimes feel strange at first.But on a rear-drive electric trike, the turning process often feels more intuitive and smoother once you get used to it. Because the power is coming from behind, the front wheel is free to steer without delivering motor torque. This helps reduce the “pull” feeling and lets you make more controlled maneuvers.
Weight Distribution and Comfort
Electric tricycles are often used for hauling stuff. Rear-drive motors help shift the center of gravity towards the back, which can balance out the load if you have a rear basket or cargo area.Also, having the motor in the rear hub can sometimes lead to a more comfortable ride. With the motor in the back, there’s potentially less vibration transferred to the handlebars, leading to a smoother overall experience on bumpy roads.
Enhanced Performance and Hill-Climbing
Rear-wheel drive motors generally offer better hill-climbing performance because they utilize the weight of the rider over the rear wheel for extra grip. Instead of spinning out or losing traction on a steep incline, the powered rear wheel can maintain a steady push.Many riders discover that riding uphill on a rear-drive e-trike feels less intimidating. The motor engages strongly, and you’re not left worrying about the front wheel slipping or losing traction.
Comparing Front-Drive vs. Rear-Drive E-Trikes
While rear-drive electric tricycles are becoming more common, it doesn’t mean front-drive e-trikes are obsolete. Some people still prefer front-drive models because they’re affordable or give them a particular riding experience they like.Let’s do a quick rundown of both sides to see which might be better for you.
Front-Drive Electric Trikes
Pros· Often less expensive due to simpler design.
· Can provide a unique feeling of being “pulled” forward, which some find comfortable.
· May be slightly easier to service or replace the motor wheel since it’s separate from the main drivetrain components.
Cons
· Less traction on loose or slippery surfaces because not all the rider’s weight is over the front wheel.
· Steering can feel heavier or more “tugging,” especially under throttle.
· Might not handle hills as effectively if the front wheel loses grip.
Rear-Drive Electric Trikes
Pros· Better traction and stability due to weight distribution.
· Smooth handling in turns because the front wheel is free to steer without providing power.
· Stronger hill-climbing ability, especially on steep or uneven roads.
· More balanced feel when carrying cargo in the rear.
Cons
· Can be a bit more complex to service, as the motor, chain, and gears are all in the rear.
· Usually costs a bit more than front-drive versions.
Who Benefits the Most from Rear-Drive Electric Tricycles?
If you’re unsure which type of motor placement to choose, consider your personal needs and riding conditions. Rear-drive e-trikes are a perfect fit if:· You regularly haul groceries, gear, or other items and need the motor to handle that added weight more easily.
· You live in an area with steep roads and rolling hills.
· You ride on various terrains, like gravel, dirt paths, and wet pavement.
· You value stability above all else and want a better chance of maintaining balance, especially around corners.
Conversely, a front-drive e-trike might be fine if you mostly ride on flat, dry surfaces and prefer a slightly lower price point. It can still be a great choice for daily errands or short commutes around town.
Conclusion
Riders are finding that a rear-drive motor aligns better with their day-to-day needs, such as running errands, commuting to work, or just enjoying the freedom of cruising around town. Brands have responded accordingly, with many shifting their designs from front-drive to rear-drive, as seen in the evolution of the Addmotor M-340 fat tire electric trike.There’s also a level of confidence and comfort that comes with riding a 3-wheel electric bike that has the power in the back.
That said, front-drive e-trikes will continue to exist for those who prefer them or want a simpler, more budget-friendly option. It’s all about personal preference and finding what fits your lifestyle best.
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