If you’re thinking about buying a recumbent trike for fun, fitness, or even daily rides, you’re probably comparing two popular choices: the Terratrike Maverick and the Trident Spike. These two trikes are budget-friendly, easy to ride, and packed with features. But which one is better for you? Let’s break it down in simple terms and help you make the best choice for your lifestyle.
What Are Terratrike Maverick and Trident Spike?
The Terratrike Maverick and Trident Spike are both entry-level recumbent trikes designed for comfort, stability, and ease of use. Unlike traditional bicycles, recumbent trikes let you sit back in a chair-like seat, which takes the pressure off your back, shoulders, and wrists. They’re great for people of all ages—especially older adults or anyone with mobility issues.
The Terratrike Maverick is made by TerraTrike, a well-known brand in the recumbent world. It’s designed with simplicity in mind—single boom frame, adjustable seat, and internal gearing for an easy ride. The Trident Spike, on the other hand, is made by Trident Trikes and is known for its foldable design and more customizable options. Both are three-wheel recumbent trikes, but they do have differences that can really affect your decision.
Easy Setup and First Ride
One of the most common concerns new trike riders have is, “How hard is it to assemble and ride?” Thankfully, both the Maverick and the Spike score pretty high in this area—but there are still differences worth mentioning.
The Terratrike Maverick comes mostly assembled out of the box. You’ll only need to do minimal work to get it road-ready. This is great for beginners or people who don’t want to spend hours with tools. The Maverick also has an intuitive riding position. Just sit, pedal, and you’re off.
The Trident Spike might require a bit more effort to put together if you’re doing it yourself. However, Trident offers an optional “White Glove” delivery service where they’ll send you the trike fully assembled and test-ridden. That can be a great option for people who don’t feel confident with tools. Once you’re on it, the Spike is smooth and responsive, although it may take a few minutes to get used to the feel of steering.
Comfort for Long Rides
Comfort is where recumbent trikes really shine. If you’re planning on using your trike for longer rides—say, 10 miles or more—you want something that doesn’t cause back pain, saddle soreness, or fatigue.
Seat Design Comparison
The Terratrike Maverick comes with a mesh seat that’s wide and breathable. It has three recline positions, which means you can adjust it based on how upright or laid-back you want to be. It’s perfect for casual riders who value a relaxed position.
The Trident Spike features a mesh seat as well, but it offers a slightly more sporty feel. The frame under the seat is more supportive and allows for fine-tuned adjustments. Some riders say the Spike seat feels more secure on fast turns or bumpy roads.
How Smooth Is the Ride?
The Maverick has a Cro-Mo (Chromoly) steel frame, which naturally absorbs road vibrations. Combined with its larger 20″ wheels, it glides over cracks and bumps with ease. This makes it great for bike paths, neighborhood roads, and light trails.
The Trident Spike also offers a smooth ride, especially with its longer wheelbase and wide tires. It tends to feel more responsive and agile, especially at higher speeds. However, some riders find the ride a bit firmer compared to the Maverick.
Back Support Matters
If you have lower back problems, the Terratrike Maverick wins here. Its seat base is broader and offers slightly better lumbar support. While both seats are adjustable, many users with chronic back pain have reported more comfort on the Maverick, especially on rides lasting more than an hour.
Gears and Going Uphill
The gear system on any trike matters a lot—especially if you live in a hilly area. Climbing with a trike is very different from climbing with a regular bike because you can’t stand on the pedals.
The Terratrike Maverick comes with internally geared hubs (especially the i8 version with 8 speeds), which are low-maintenance and super easy to shift—even when stopped. This is a great feature for beginners or city riders who have to stop at lights often.
The Trident Spike comes in two versions: the Spike 1 (8-speed) and Spike 2 (24-speed). The Spike 2 gives you more flexibility for climbing hills and faster speeds on the flats. If you live in a hilly area or want to tackle more difficult terrain, the Spike 2 is probably the better option.
How Much Do They Cost?
Price is always a big factor, especially if you’re just getting into trike riding and don’t want to spend thousands right away.
The Terratrike Maverick is one of the most affordable recumbent trikes on the market. Depending on the version, it usually costs between $1,300 to $1,600 USD. It’s an excellent deal for the build quality and ease of use.
The Trident Spike starts a little higher, especially if you choose the 24-speed version. Prices generally range from $1,400 to $1,900 USD depending on configuration and accessories. However, you do get more gearing options and a folding frame, which adds value.
Which One Is Easier to Store and Move?
Recumbent trikes are not small—and if you live in a home with limited storage or need to transport your trike in a car, this section is important.
Folding Options
The Trident Spike is known for its folding frame, which makes storage and transportation much easier. You can fold the trike in about two minutes and fit it into most car trunks or closets. This is a huge plus if you plan to travel with your trike.
The Terratrike Maverick does not fold. It’s built to be solid and stable, which is great for riding—but not ideal for tight storage. However, you can remove the seat and front wheels for easier storage if needed.
Trike Size and Storage
In terms of overall size, both trikes are fairly comparable, with the Maverick being slightly longer. The Spike’s compact folded size gives it a big edge in apartments or small garages.
Safety and Stability
Both trikes are incredibly stable due to their three-wheel design. However, the Terratrike Maverick has a slightly lower center of gravity, which makes it feel a bit more grounded on sharp turns. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize safety and control.
The Trident Spike is also stable, but its more responsive steering might feel twitchy to beginners. Once you get used to it, though, it’s a ton of fun.
Best for Older Riders or People with Mobility Needs
Both of these trikes are fantastic options for seniors or anyone with mobility challenges. The Terratrike Maverick stands out a bit more because of its low step-over height, comfortable seat, and simple gearing system. It’s incredibly easy to mount and dismount, and riders feel secure even when going slow.
That said, the Trident Spike’s foldability and lightweight frame make it a great choice if you need something portable and still want multiple speed options. If your priority is ease of use, the Maverick is the winner. If it’s versatility and performance, the Spike is worth the extra consideration.
The Bottom Line
So, who wins the battle of Terratrike Maverick vs Trident Spike? The answer really depends on what you need from your ride.
- Choose the Terratrike Maverick if you want an easy-to-use, comfortable, and budget-friendly trike. It’s ideal for beginners, casual riders, and those with mobility concerns.
- Go for the Trident Spike if you want a folding trike with more gears, better portability, and slightly sportier performance. It’s great for mixed terrains, travel, and riders who want more options.
No matter which one you pick, both trikes are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and ride in comfort. Whether you’re 18 or 80, the freedom of three wheels is just a ride away.
