Electric tricycles are gaining popularity for personal and commercial use. But what makes them different from regular bikes or motorcycles?
Building your own electric tricycle offers many benefits. It’s cost-effective, customizable, and highly practical for daily use.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of building an electric tricycle, from parts selection to assembly. You’ll learn how to create your own unique ride tailored to your needs.
Essential Components for Building an Electric Tricycle
Choosing the Right Frame for Your Electric Tricycle
What Type of Frame Should You Use?
For durability and stability, a strong steel frame is a must. It ensures your tricycle can withstand the extra weight and power of an electric motor. You’ll need to decide between recumbent and upright frames, which both offer different riding experiences. A recumbent frame provides a more comfortable, laid-back position, while an upright frame is more traditional and offers better visibility.
When sourcing a frame, you can go for used or new, but make sure it’s sturdy enough for your motor and battery. A frame that’s too weak might lead to instability or damage over time.
What Makes a Good Electric Tricycle Frame?
A good frame needs to accommodate the motor and battery placement for proper weight distribution. You don’t want the tricycle to be top-heavy, so make sure the frame keeps everything balanced. Jinpeng’s frames are popular for both personal and commercial builds, offering strength and reliability.
Selecting the Right Motor for Your Electric Tricycle
What Motor Type Should You Choose?
When choosing a motor, you’ll typically face a decision between brushless and brushed motors. Brushless motors are more efficient, require less maintenance, and offer better performance, while brushed motors are cheaper but may wear out faster.
Power requirements vary based on your usage. For most personal builds, 500W or 750W motors are ideal for commuting and light hill climbing. If you need more power, consider a 1000W motor.
How to Mount the Motor and Ensure Proper Alignment?
The motor needs to be mounted securely on the frame to ensure it operates smoothly. Pay special attention to the alignment of the motor with the drivetrain to avoid issues like slipping chains. A well-aligned motor guarantees a smoother ride and better overall performance.
Jinpeng motors are known for their power and durability. Whether you’re using the tricycle for personal or commercial purposes, they provide excellent performance.
Battery Selection and Placement for Your Electric Tricycle
What Is the Best Battery for Your Electric Tricycle?
For long-lasting performance, choose a Lithium-ion battery over a Lead-acid one. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and offer better efficiency. When choosing a battery size, go for at least a 20Ah capacity for longer commutes.
Battery placement is crucial. You want the battery to be well-positioned to maintain balance and avoid making the tricycle too top-heavy. Ensure the weight is evenly distributed.
Best Battery Options in the Market
Jinpeng’s lithium-ion batteries are a top choice. They’re both durable and lightweight, making them ideal for electric tricycles.
Controller and Throttle Setup for Electric Tricycles
What Is the Role of the Controller in Your Electric Tricycle?
The controller is key in regulating motor speed and power. It ensures your motor runs efficiently based on the battery’s output. Select a controller that’s compatible with both your motor and battery for optimal performance.
Throttle Control: Ensuring Smooth Operation
The throttle control should be intuitive and smooth. Make sure both motors are synchronized, especially if you’re using two motors, to prevent one from outpacing the other. This ensures better control and a smoother ride.
Additional Components for Building an Electric Tricycle
Brakes
For safety, hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes are necessary. They offer reliable stopping power, especially on a motorized tricycle. Proper brake installation ensures smooth stops, preventing accidents.
Tires and Wheels
Fat tires are highly recommended for electric tricycles. They offer better shock absorption and better grip, especially on uneven terrains. Fat tires are also more comfortable, making your ride smoother.
Lights and Reflectors
To ensure visibility, especially in low-light conditions, always install lights and reflectors. This is not only safer but also required by law in many places.
Tools You’ll Need to Build Your Electric Tricycle
You’ll need some basic tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, and others. These tools are essential for securely fastening components and ensuring everything is properly aligned. Always keep tools on hand for maintenance as you build.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Electric Tricycle
Building your own electric tricycle can be an exciting and rewarding project. By carefully selecting the right components and following a systematic approach, you can craft a vehicle that fits your needs perfectly. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved in building your own electric trike.
1. Preparing the Frame for Assembly
How to Prepare Your Frame for the Build?
Before starting the assembly, make sure the frame is in good condition. Begin by cleaning it thoroughly to remove any dirt, rust, or old grease. Inspect the frame for any potential cracks or weaknesses, especially around areas that will bear the most weight or stress, like the joints and welds.
Next, check that the frame dimensions are compatible with your motor and battery system. This ensures that your components will fit properly without any modifications to the frame later on. The alignment of the motor and battery with the frame is essential for optimal performance and balance of the tricycle.
2. Motor and Drivetrain Assembly
Mounting the Motor
This is one of the trickiest parts of building an electric tricycle. Mount the motor securely to the frame, ensuring it is aligned with the drivetrain. If using a motor from an old electric wheelchair, make sure it turns in the proper direction to drive the trike forward.
Attach the motor to the chain or gear system, making sure that the motor’s output is connected to the drivetrain with the correct sprockets. Be sure that all bolts are tightly secured, and check alignment to prevent the chain from slipping.
If your tricycle has a 3-speed hub, you can use the different gears to adjust for more power or speed depending on your needs. Proper alignment and secure mounting are critical, as the motor will generate significantly more force than a person pedaling.
3. Installing the Battery and Controller
How to Install the Battery?
The placement of your battery is key to maintaining a low center of gravity, which ensures better stability while riding. Mount the battery securely to avoid instability or rattling. Position the battery in a way that distributes the weight evenly, ideally closer to the frame's center.
Wiring the battery to the controller and motor is the next step. Ensure that you properly insulate all connections to avoid shorts or malfunctions. Zip tie the wires neatly to prevent them from interfering with moving parts or getting caught in the drivetrain. Properly securing the battery and controller will help your trike run smoothly and safely.
4. Connecting the Throttle and Final Wiring
Throttle Setup
Once the motor and battery are installed, it’s time to wire the throttle to the handlebars. Make sure the throttle is easily accessible while riding. The wiring from the throttle should connect to the controller for responsive acceleration and deceleration.
It’s essential that the wiring to the controller is correct to ensure the throttle operates smoothly and doesn’t cause malfunction. Test the throttle by turning it and checking the response from the motor. Make sure all connections are tight and properly insulated for safety.
5. Brake, Tire, and Light Installation
How to Install the Brakes and Tires?
Next, focus on your braking system. Install the brakes securely, ensuring they function correctly with the tricycle’s wheels. Whether you use mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, make sure they are properly aligned for maximum stopping power.
Once the brakes are in place, it’s time to install the tires. Make sure the tires are correctly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to ensure a smooth ride and optimal performance. Check the tire tread for proper grip, especially if you plan to ride on rough terrain.
Adding Lights and Reflectors for Safety
For safety, ensure that you have adequate lighting on your trike. Install headlights, taillights, and reflectors, as these are required for night riding and greatly increase your visibility to others. It’s always a good idea to add extra lighting if you plan on riding in low-light conditions or on busy roads.
Testing and Troubleshooting Your Electric Tricycle
Once you've assembled your electric tricycle, it's time to hit the road and make sure everything is working as it should. Testing and troubleshooting are essential steps to ensure a safe, smooth ride.
Initial Test Ride and Adjustments
How to Safely Test Ride Your Electric Tricycle?
Before taking your electric tricycle on a long ride, conduct a thorough test ride to ensure all components are functioning correctly. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Check the Tires: Ensure they are properly inflated, especially if you're using fat tires. Low tire pressure can affect your ride quality and efficiency.
Inspect the Brakes: Make sure both the front and rear brakes work well and respond smoothly. If using hydraulic brakes, check for leaks and ensure proper fluid levels.
Test the Motor: Slowly accelerate and check that the motor responds without any unusual sounds or vibrations. Listen for any grinding noises, which could indicate alignment issues.
Throttle Response: Test the throttle to ensure smooth acceleration. It should not be too jerky or slow.
If anything feels off, stop and inspect the specific component. You might need to adjust cables, check wiring, or verify alignment.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
During the test ride, you might encounter some typical problems. Here are common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Motor Misalignment: If the motor is not working smoothly or makes strange noises, check the alignment of the motor and sprockets. Misaligned sprockets can cause the chain to slip or jam. Make sure everything is securely mounted and aligned.
Battery Charging Problems: If the battery is not charging, ensure the charger is plugged in properly and that the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. Sometimes, charging issues are caused by a loose or broken connection between the battery and the controller.
Throttle Issues: If the throttle doesn't respond or is erratic, it could be due to a loose connection or a faulty throttle sensor. Check the wiring for any visible damage.
How to Troubleshoot Common Problems
What If Your Electric Tricycle Doesn’t Perform As Expected?
Motor Problems:
Slow acceleration or power loss: This could be due to a worn-out motor, poor connections, or issues with the controller. Check all wires for corrosion or loose connections.
Motor overheating: If the motor is running too hot, it may be overworked or have insufficient cooling. Ensure there’s adequate airflow around the motor and reduce the load.
Throttle and Drivetrain Issues:
Throttle not engaging properly: If the throttle is unresponsive, check for wiring issues or a malfunctioning throttle sensor. Sometimes a simple recalibration of the throttle can fix the problem.
Drivetrain slipping: A slipping chain or gears can result in poor performance. Make sure the chain is properly tensioned and that the gears are aligned.
Battery and Wiring Problems:
Battery not holding a charge: If your tricycle is not holding a charge, check the battery for wear and ensure the charging port is clean and undamaged. Batteries degrade over time, so replacing an old battery may be necessary.
Loose wiring: If the tricycle cuts off during a ride or behaves erratically, inspect all wiring and connections. Loose wires can lead to intermittent power loss or malfunction.
By identifying and fixing these common problems early on, you can ensure your electric tricycle remains in great working condition for many rides ahead.
Conclusion
Building your own electric tricycle offers customization, cost savings, and creative freedom. However, it comes with reliability concerns and significant time investment. Consider your needs and budget before deciding between a DIY build and buying from a trusted manufacturer. For those seeking quality, ease, and reliability, purchasing a ready-made electric tricycle like Jinpeng offers peace of mind and excellent performance.
FAQS
Q: How much does it cost to build an electric tricycle?
A: The cost can vary, but using repurposed parts like a powerchair motor can significantly lower expenses. Expect to spend less than buying a pre-made tricycle.
Q: Can I convert an old tricycle into an electric one?
A: Yes, you can convert an old tricycle by adding an electric motor, battery, and controller. Make sure the frame is durable and can support the extra components.
Q: How long does it take to build an electric tricycle?
A: It can take several weeks, depending on the complexity of your design and availability of parts.
Q: What tools do I need to build an electric tricycle?
A: Basic tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, and zip ties are needed. You may also require a welder or specific components for mounting.
Q: Can I use a second-hand motor and battery for my electric tricycle?
A: Yes, using second-hand motors and batteries is possible, especially from sources like old powerchairs. Ensure they are still in good working condition.
