Meziere-Reverser-web-ad-90x750-r3 copy

150 Most Recent Posts

Thread AuthorPostersPost AuthorForumThread/Post Link
Grandpot5NotgrownupHonda TrikesFront tire?
Grandpot53W-loneriderHonda TrikesFront tire?
Geep20202woodyNew Member Introduct...New Member
Trampas3PanheadSteveHarley Tri GlideWas at my dealer today
Trampas3SeaweedHarley Tri GlideWas at my dealer today
Grandpot5cycle7447Honda TrikesFront tire?
Grandpot5tourmanHonda TrikesFront tire?
ultrafxr5TrampasHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
Trampas3TrampasHarley Tri GlideWas at my dealer today
Grandpot5GrandpotHonda TrikesFront tire?
Geep20202Geep2020New Member Introduct...New Member
Oldman-TriGlide3NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideOpen or Closed Trailer for 2028 Tri...
Oldman-TriGlide3ultrafxrHarley Tri GlideOpen or Closed Trailer for 2028 Tri...
Noodles1073BrokenBackJackHarley Freewheeler /...Very Nice Gloves
Oldman-TriGlide3Oldman-TriGlideHarley Tri GlideOpen or Closed Trailer for 2028 Tri...
RedOregon13Papa ZookHarley Tri GlideUpgrades on '24 Triglide?
Bama boy4DragonStallion TrikesStallion fuel pump
Bama boy4DragonStallion TrikesStallion fuel pump
Bama boy4DragonStallion TrikesStallion fuel pump
Papa Zook239SullyNew Member Introduct...What Made You Join TrikeTalk Forum?
RedOregon13RedOregonHarley Tri GlideUpgrades on '24 Triglide?
RedOregon13NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideUpgrades on '24 Triglide?
phillipschuckann7NotgrownupHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
Papa Zook239ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...What Made You Join TrikeTalk Forum?
PKLGW2pawsHonda Trikes2007 gl1800 motor trike
ultrafxr5Papa ZookHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
Noodles1073NotgrownupHarley Freewheeler /...Very Nice Gloves
ultrafxr5NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
Papa Zook239rhino 2New Member Introduct...What Made You Join TrikeTalk Forum?
PKLGW2PKLGWHonda Trikes2007 gl1800 motor trike
Papa Zook239skisnow806New Member Introduct...What Made You Join TrikeTalk Forum?
Speedy Pete12JTJerseyNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
Just BOB2Just BOBStallion Trikesinfo
ultrafxr5Longbeard71Harley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
ultrafxr5ultrafxrHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
ultrafxr5TrampasHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
ultrafxr5ultrafxrHarley Tri GlideFinished at last . . . well at leas...
Noodles1073Noodles107Harley Freewheeler /...Very Nice Gloves
Speedy Pete12cycle7447New Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
RISal24!12cycle7447New Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
phillipschuckann7Papa ZookHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
RISal24!12ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Bama boy4Grey_Ghost_27Stallion TrikesStallion fuel pump
phillipschuckann7trike ladyHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
RISal24!12trike ladyNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Speedy Pete12RustyBNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
RISal24!12Marc HNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Bowie11RustyBNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
RISal24!12RustyBNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
RISal24!12rhino 2New Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
RISal24!12hardwickbvNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Bowie11hardwickbvNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
RISal24!12Uncle FesterNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Bowie11ZammyNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
RISal24!12SullyNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
RISal24!12ZammyNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
Chief80138520fdHarley Tri GlideHow many miles on your Triglide?
RISal24!12GorillaNew Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
RISal24!12RISal24!New Member Introduct...New member..new to trikes
woody19woodyHonda Trikes2019 Goldwing CSC
DK Custom Products362NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideWhat did you do to Your Tri-Glide T...
Bouncer10NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
Bouncer10BouncerHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
Bouncer10BouncerHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
phillipschuckann7GorillaHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
rjd637brianlHonda Trikes1989 Honda Goldwing trike opinions
DeathBySnuSnu19GorillaVW Powered TrikesVolkswagen Kit Cars
DK Custom Products362520fdHarley Tri GlideWhat did you do to Your Tri-Glide T...
SHARKDIVER4DK Custom ProductsGeneral Harley Chatsuper shox
phillipschuckann7trike ladyHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
phillipschuckann7ol' schoolHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
phillipschuckann7rhino 2Honda TrikesWho made my trike?
phillipschuckann7phillipschuckannHonda TrikesWho made my trike?
Bowie11Uncle FesterNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
RedOregon13RedOregonHarley Tri GlideUpgrades on '24 Triglide?
DeathBySnuSnu19DeathBySnuSnuVW Powered TrikesVolkswagen Kit Cars
Bowie11woodyNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Just BOB2GorillaStallion Trikesinfo
SHARKDIVER4WindyOneGeneral Harley Chatsuper shox
Bouncer10GorillaHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
Just BOB2Just BOBStallion Trikesinfo
Chief80138CagmoHarley Tri GlideHow many miles on your Triglide?
PopPop13consitterNew Member Introduct...New Member
TxHarleyRider2Papa ZookHarley Trike Convers...Need help bad with conversion.
PopPop13Pegasus1300New Member Introduct...New Member
Bouncer10NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
PopPop13ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New Member
Bowie11ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Chief80138DOKKHarley Tri GlideHow many miles on your Triglide?
Bouncer10BouncerHarley Tri GlideDrive Belt Replacement Time
Bowie11trike ladyNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Bowie11GorillaNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Bowie11rhino 2New Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Bowie11Marc HNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
SaltBushBill11Marc HNew Member Introduct...New member
Bowie11BowieNew Member Introduct...New to trike, old time rider
Rick Sinacore9RawhidekenHarley Tri GlideTour pack reinforcement
SaltBushBill11Uncle FesterNew Member Introduct...New member
Burnerboy3tommyv333Harley Trike Convers...Hey Bozo (Andrew)
Old Aviator5Old AviatorHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
Old Aviator5Old AviatorHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
Noodles1073JTJerseyHarley Freewheeler /...Tobacco Fade
Noodles1073trike ladyHarley Freewheeler /...Tobacco Fade
Old Aviator5Phu CatHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
SaltBushBill11SullyNew Member Introduct...New member
ronc44242Papa ZookHarley Tri Glidequestion
TxHarleyRider2TxHarleyRiderHarley Trike Convers...Need help bad with conversion.
Chappy KC5StrelnikovFrankensteinFrankenstein Kit
jerry1@iw.net4StrelnikovFrankensteinFrankenstein owners
TxHarleyRider2Papa ZookHarley Trike Convers...Need help bad with conversion.
Skavoola14SkavoolaNew Member Introduct...New to Trike Talk
Old Aviator5GoldWingrGregHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
El Lobo10El LoboHarley Tri GlideBeen away for a while
SaltBushBill11GorillaNew Member Introduct...New member
cissywalton2GorillaCalifornia Sidecar T...how do I change out the reverse bel...
Noodles1073Noodles107Harley Freewheeler /...Tobacco Fade
Old Aviator5Old AviatorHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
SaltBushBill11trike ladyNew Member Introduct...New member
ronc44242ronc4424Harley Tri Glidequestion
Old Aviator5SkavoolaHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
Old Aviator5rhino 2Honda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
Old Aviator5Old AviatorHonda TrikesGreasing a Motortrike Coupe SA rear...
cissywalton2cissywaltonCalifornia Sidecar T...how do I change out the reverse bel...
Skavoola14PosseRiderNew Member Introduct...New to Trike Talk
Skavoola14woodyNew Member Introduct...New to Trike Talk
PopPop13woodyNew Member Introduct...New Member
Speedy Pete12woodyNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
Vulcanology10woodyNew Member Introduct...New member
SaltBushBill11woodyNew Member Introduct...New member
SaltBushBill11hardwickbvNew Member Introduct...New member
Vulcanology10hardwickbvNew Member Introduct...New member
Speedy Pete12hardwickbvNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
SaltBushBill11rhino 2New Member Introduct...New member
RedOregon13NotgrownupHarley Tri GlideUpgrades on '24 Triglide?
SaltBushBill11ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New member
Vulcanology10ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New member
Speedy Pete12ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
D'07ShadowAero6ol' schoolNew Member Introduct...My Older and Dear Friends Gideon! M...
SaltBushBill11scuzziNew Member Introduct...New member
SaltBushBill11SaltBushBillNew Member Introduct...New member
PopPop2Pegasus1300Can Am Spyder Trike...New Member
Vulcanology10GorillaNew Member Introduct...New member
Vulcanology10rhino 2New Member Introduct...New member
Speedy Pete12Marc HNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
Vulcanology10Marc HNew Member Introduct...New member
TxHarleyRider2TxHarleyRiderHarley Trike Convers...Need help bad with conversion.
Speedy Pete12trike ladyNew Member Introduct...New member from Alberta, Canada
rjd637trike ladyHonda Trikes1989 Honda Goldwing trike opinions
DrCrazyTrain13Uncle FesterNew Member Introduct...Introduction
Vulcanology10Uncle FesterNew Member Introduct...New member
Likes Likes:  0
Thanks Thanks:  0
Results 1 to 8 of 8

Thread: Rear-engine vs. mid-engine...pro's/con's?

  1. #1
    1+ Posts
    Join Date
    Mar 2016
    Location
    Raleigh
    Posts
    4
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Question Rear-engine vs. mid-engine...pro's/con's?

    Hey folks...noob here. I've had a couple of two-wheelers in the past (no motorcycle at the moment). I've always found trikes appealing (except the price tag!), but have yet to ride one and see if I like it. I think I would like it quite a lot actually...I believe I'd be able to enjoy the ride more without concentration so much on the mechanics of riding.

    I really like the look of chopper-style trikes with a lot of rake and the forks way out front. I really only need seating for one passenger, not 2 or 3 (unless, one is going to sit behind me, and another in front of me facing backwards with her legs around me. )

    Anyway, the question I have is around "which type of trike?". Trikes seem to fall into two categories:

    1) Mid-engine (like a normal 2-wheeler) like the Harley-Davidson TriGlide, converted Honda Goldwings, etc. You sit essentially on top/slightly behind the engine, and are seated a little higher and more upright. These usually seem to have motorcycle-style controls.

    2) Rear-engine (more like a dune buggy with only three wheels) like VW-based Trikes, the Rewaco Trikes, etc. You typically sit lower and in front of the engine, typically a little more leaned back. These usually seem to have automobile-style controls, although some do have a twist throttle on the right handgrip.

    Are there any consistent differences in how these two types tend to ride and handle? Difference in comfort level (sitting higher vs. sitting lower)? Is one type more stable than the other? Any other big differences that I don't know enough to even ask about?

    I'm interested in any of your thoughts, so please post away!

    Thanks,
    Gruuve

  2. #2
    2000+ Posts tfdeputydawg's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jun 2010
    Location
    Indianapolis, In.
    Posts
    2,178
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 2 Times in 1 Post

    Default

    There is a very definite difference in the ride of the VW types and conventional trikes. Big difference in the steering of those that have that chopper look front end.
    You need to test ride several to pick the type for yourself.
    Make sure you ride a trike with IRS suspension and a rake kit.
    Christian Motorcyclist Association #64488
    Patriot Guard
    Volunteer Fire/Rescue/EMT/Captain
    Was a LEO
    Part time Corrections Officer

  3. #3
    2500+ Posts Keystone's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jul 2010
    Location
    Minnesota
    Posts
    2,525
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default

    Welcome to TT!

    As already stated, you need to ride some of each type. They handle and ride very differently.
    BKMNI
    100,000+ miles of three wheel fun and counting!
    2015 Harley FLRT
    2018 Can-Am F3 Limited

  4. #4
    1+ Posts
    Join Date
    Mar 2016
    Location
    Raleigh
    Posts
    4
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default

    Thanks guys! What's the difference in the steering for trikes (conventional mid-engine or rear-engine) with a large rake-angle? Harder to turn with more rake?

    Also, the rear-engine types often seem to have a shifter under the left side of the seat...shifting with your left hand. Is that hard to get used to, or does it become 2nd nature quickly?

    Cheers,
    Gruuve

  5. #5
    1000+ Posts
    VW Tech Contributor
    stinger608's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jan 2014
    Location
    Cheyenne Wyoming USA
    Posts
    1,118
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default

    Actually Gruuve, the VW trike that I have the shifter is in the center between my legs in front of the seat. It really wasn't that hard to get used to. Many VW trikes have it, as you said, on the left side but it is usually turned 90 degrees so that the shifter sticks out rather than up. I personally haven't ran a trike with that configuration yet.

    However, as stated, you should try to ride each type to see what is most comfortable to you personally. And of course your own budget is a biggie.


    And a huge WELCOME TO TRIKETALK!!!!!!

  6. #6
    1+ Posts
    Join Date
    Mar 2016
    Location
    Raleigh
    Posts
    4
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default

    Thanks a lot for all the warm welcomes, guys. This seems like a really good group...glad I found it. Yeah, trikes sure do seem to come at a premium...kinda like putting the word "wedding" in front of "cake", the price goes up exponentially! I have seen a few used VW-based trikes for < $10K though...I have to wonder if they are home-made junk or reasonably good. I haven't ridden ANY trikes yet, so I'm not sure I'd know the difference yet! I'm very much a student of everything in life, so seems like asking a few questions here is an awefully good way to start learning. And yeah, I do need to just go ride some. Plan to do that some in the spring and summer. Cheers, Gruuve - - - Updated - - -

    So, I know Harley-Davidson makes the production Triglide trike (conventional mid-engine) here in the US. I *think* I'd really dig the rear-engine type though. (Excepting the Polaris Slingshot...I don't think I'd like side-by-side seating.) There seem to be a few production makers of the rear-engine type in Europe (Boom/Wolf and Rewaco). Are there any production makers of rear-engine trikes in the US?

    Cheers,
    Gruuve

  7. #7
    1+ Posts
    Join Date
    Mar 2016
    Location
    Raleigh
    Posts
    4
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default

    Hmmm...here's a rear-engine VW-style trike within about 1.25 hours of me:

    http://fayetteville.craigslist.org/mcy/5480598110.html

    This may be worth going to take a look and possible ride. It's old, but looks to be pretty good cosmetic shape in the pics (from what I can tell...it's always hard to tell from pics). Low price...I assume that reflects the age.

    No fenders over the rear wheels...I'd assume it would throw some dirt/debris at the rider.

    Update: Spoke with the seller, he built it from mostly a kit. Might be worth a drive to take it for a spin...

    Gruuve

  8. #8
    1+ Posts
    Join Date
    Feb 2018
    Location
    Montreal, Quebec, Canada
    Posts
    3
    Thanks
    0
    Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts

    Default Rear-engine vs. mid-engine...pro's/con's?

    [QUOTE=Gruuve;351432]Hey folks...noob here. I've had a couple of two-wheelers in the past (no motorcycle at the moment). I've always found trikes appealing (except the price tag!), but have yet to ride one and see if I like it. I think I would like it quite a lot actually...I believe I'd be able to enjoy the ride more without concentration so much on the mechanics of riding.

    Good afternoon Noob,

    You cover a lot of ground with your question, I will try and guide, through these issues.

    There are pros and cons with each one. First if you are looking at an extended fork version, Brazil and Mexico have a great number of this type ( Triciclos ) trike, check this video for ideas, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6Pj5BZfWhI

    I personally love the mid-engine configuration, where the engine sits either on top or in front of the rear wheels, this platform provides more stability, and reduces the front wheel hop or even worse the complete lift of the front wheel.

    Now if you are looking for comfort, the Honda trike is the one to go with.

    Dom

Similar Threads

  1. Engine guard bar...
    By First Timer in forum Harley Freewheeler / Road Glide 3
    Replies: 15
    Last Post: 08-20-2015, 11:33 PM
  2. vw engine ser# ID
    By bluedog in forum VW Powered Trikes
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 07-14-2013, 08:17 AM
  3. New engine?
    By molinoman in forum Stallion Trikes
    Replies: 4
    Last Post: 05-01-2013, 09:14 PM
  4. vw engine/hp
    By grigglybob in forum General Discussion
    Replies: 14
    Last Post: 03-06-2013, 03:26 PM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •