How to Ride an Electric Trike Uphill
Riding an electric trike uphill can be a bit intimidating at first, especially since not all roads are flat. Sometimes, you’ll encounter uneven or steep terrain. But with the right techniques, you can make the experience both easy and enjoyable. Whether you rely on the throttle or pedal assist, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you conquer those uphill climbs.
1. Start in the Right Gear
Before you even start your climb, make sure you're in the right gear. Most electric trikes, like those with Shimano 7-speed systems, allow you to shift gears for easier pedaling. When heading uphill, always shift into the lowest gear before you start your climb. This allows for maximum torque and makes it easier to pedal.
Avoid shifting gears while already on the incline if you’re applying a lot of force to the pedals. This can cause strain on the derailleur, especially on steeper slopes. It's better to be in the right gear before you start.
2. Use Maximum Pedal Assist
Pedal assist can make a huge difference when climbing hills. When you approach a hill, crank the pedal assist to its highest level, which will provide more power from the motor. The higher assist levels can help you power through an incline without feeling exhausted, even on a steeper grade.
If the hill is steep and you feel you’re over-pedaling, you can adjust the assist level mid-hill. Start high and lower it as needed once you’re used to the hill’s grade.
3. Correct Use of the Throttle
When tackling an uphill climb on your electric trike, the throttle can be an invaluable tool. If your trike is equipped with a throttle, you can rely on it to handle shorter or less steep inclines with ease. Simply twisting the throttle will engage the motor, helping you maintain speed and conserve energy, especially if you want to give your legs a break from pedaling.
It's important to note that while the throttle can be a powerful ally, it’s best used when you’re looking for a smooth, effortless ride. However, always be mindful of the hill’s gradient and your own weight—on very steep inclines or if you’re a heavier rider, the throttle might not be enough on its own to get you up without some additional help from pedal assist.
4. Maintain Momentum and Avoid Stopping
Momentum is essential when climbing hills. Before you reach a steep incline, try to carry some speed from the flatter section to the base of the hill. This will help you build momentum and avoid struggling to start from a standstill, especially if you're using pedal assist.
If you're on a steep hill, it's important to avoid stopping midway. Stopping on a severe incline makes it harder to restart, as both the motor and your legs will have to work harder. If you must stop, try to find a flatter area before continuing your climb.
5. Body Position and Balance
As you start climbing, pay attention to your body position. On steeper hills, lean forward slightly to help maintain balance and traction. For less steep inclines, you can ride upright, but if the grade gets more intense, slight forward lean can help keep the rear wheels engaged.
6. Avoid Riding Parallel to Steep Hills
When riding on a slope, especially a steep one, avoid riding parallel to the hill. This can cause the trike to lose balance and potentially tip over. If you must cross a slope, make sure to lean into the hill. This helps counteract the pull of the slope and keeps the trike more stable.
Additionally, steering is important. Actively steer in the opposite direction of the slope to keep the trike on course and prevent veering off track. By combining proper body lean and steering, you can navigate slopes more safely and maintain better control.
Conclusion
Climbing hills on an electric trike doesn’t have to be difficult. By choosing the right gear, utilizing the motor's assist properly, maintaining momentum, and being mindful of your body position, you'll find that tackling uphill terrain is both manageable and enjoyable. Practice makes perfect, so take your time and adjust your technique based on the terrain and your own comfort level.