tricycle

A tricycle is a three-wheeled vehicle that can be powered by pedaling or by a motor. Compared with bicycles, tricycles offer greater lateral stability, making them common for young children, older riders, and people with balance difficulties. They are used for transportation, recreation, and exercise, and come in a range of sizes and configurations.

Designs vary by wheel arrangement. The delta configuration has one wheel at the front and two at the rear, while the tadpole configuration has two wheels at the front and one at the rear. Delta-trikes are common for children and many recreational models, whereas tadpole and other upright designs are common in recumbent trikes and some cargo configurations.

History and use have evolved since the 18th century. Pedal-powered tricycles appeared in the late 1700s and gained popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries. They have since become widely used as toys for children and as practical vehicles for mobility, cargo handling, and specialized cycling applications, including racing and recreation. Electric and other motorized tricycles have expanded use in commuting and freight.

Types and applications include child-sized tricycles, adult transport and mobility trikes, recumbent trikes designed for comfort and efficiency, and cargo or delivery trikes used in urban settings. Safety features include brakes, reflectors, and helmets; for motorized models, compliance with local vehicle regulations and licensing may apply.