Retro-cool trike with modern utility
There are some things in life that possess an intrinsic flair, an audacious panache that tears through the mundane and ordinary, and the Helicon eº trike is one such entity. This German marvel, priced at a solid €6,499 (or approximately US$7,063), is not your average electric-assist cargo trike. It's an entity that’s retro, cool, and utterly practical, all bundled up in an attractive package.
Instead of the conventional design, with a single wheel in the rear and a cargo space upfront, this one flips the script and presents a refreshing take – a single wheel in front, a set of chopper-bike-like handlebars, and a rear cargo-carrying setup. This delta-type trike, while potentially less stable when cornering than the tadpole trikes, offers a tighter turning radius and much easier mounting and dismounting.
The Helicon eº, with its hand-welded steel frame and a 4-mm fiberglass front fairing, is a feat of engineering as much as it is of design. The 175-liter lockable rear cargo compartment could easily accommodate anything from grocery bags to picnic supplies. Equipped with a 250-watt mid-mount motor, it could take you to speeds of 25 mph, and one charge of the battery could keep you moving for about 43.5 miles. Not too shabby, I'd say.
The trike’s features are impressive. An ergonomic seat for comfort, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for safety, and SR Suntour front and rear suspension for smooth rides. The 26-inch front wheel and 24-inch rear wheels are fitted with Schwalbe BigBen Plus tires, suggesting it's built to handle both city streets and off-road paths with equal finesse.
Weighing in at 130 lbs, it can handle a maximum rider and cargo weight of 331 lbs. It’s relatively compact, considering its capabilities, measuring 78.7 inches in length and 31.1 inches in width. There's even talk of a child seat swap for the cargo compartment, which could make it an interesting proposition for families.
Now, the company's founder, Pascal Löser, wants to change perceptions about tricycles, not just as a mobility aid, but as a versatile vehicle for everyone. A worthy objective, I must say.
Finally, let's talk about the looks. The Helicon eº trike is a blend of modern functionality and vintage aesthetics. Its metallic grey, red, or blue color options complement its hip vintage design perfectly. It’s almost as if someone took a classic chopper, threw in some of the 21st-century tech, and turned it into this quirky, charming, and highly functional trike.
I'm reminded of a quote by Mark Twain: “Get a bicycle. You will not regret it, if you live.” The Helicon eº team seems to have adapted it quite fittingly: “Get a Helicon eº, and you won't regret it.”
And you know what? I can't help but agree. The Helicon eº is more than just an electric trike; it’s a statement, a testament to the blend of utility, innovation, and style. So, if you're in the market for something that's more than just a means of getting from A to B, the Helicon eº is worth a serious look.
Pros:
- Design: The Helicon eº sports a unique and attractive retro design, setting it apart from more conventional electric trikes. The chopper-bike-like handlebars add to its distinctive look.
- Cargo Space: With a 175-liter lockable rear cargo compartment, it provides ample space to carry goods, groceries, or personal items. This feature enhances its utility for everyday commuting or running errands.
- Comfort: It comes equipped with a padded ergonomic seat, which could make long rides more comfortable. The SR Suntour front and rear suspension should also help in providing a smooth ride.
- Performance: A 250-watt mid-mount motor, along with a 15.6-Ah lithium battery, offers an assisted top speed of 25 mph and a range of 43.5 miles on a medium amount of motor assistance, which is quite decent for an electric trike.
- Safety Features: The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Supernova head- and tail lights, along with the sturdy construction of the trike, contribute to its safety features.
- Versatility: The manufacturer's plans to develop a child seat that can replace the cargo compartment hints at the trike's versatility and potential appeal to families.
Cons:
- Stability: As a delta-type trike (one wheel in front, two in the back), it may be less stable when cornering compared to tadpole trikes (two in front, one in the back).
- Price: The price tag of €6,499 (about US$7,063) is on the high side. This might deter potential buyers who are budget-conscious or those who want to test out an electric trike for the first time.
- Weight: The trike weighs 130 lbs, which could make it challenging to manually move or store when not in use.
- Limited User Weight: The maximum combined weight for the rider and cargo is 331 lbs, which may limit its use for heavier riders or those needing to transport larger loads.
- Battery Life: Depending on usage and terrain, a 43.5-mile range might not be sufficient for all users, especially those planning to use it for long commutes without access to charging facilities.
Remember, the perceived pros and cons can vary depending on individual needs, preferences, and use cases.
