Motorised tricycles and bicycles are electric versions of a standard bike or trike where assistance with pedaling can be obtained by use of a motor powered by a rechargeable battery. Electric trikes and bikes can be purchased and customised to meet an individual's workplace needs, or conversion kits can be purchased to convert a standard bike or trike to an electric version.
Electric bikes and trikes do not need to be licenced or registered however if riders are riding on a road, they need to comply with the Australian Road Rules, with some special rules applying for bicycle riders. The applicable rules can be viewed at the National Road Transport Commission website, see 'Related Links'.
Tricycles are three-wheeled vehicles that can be operated by pedal or electricity. They can be designed with either the two wheels at the front or the back depending on design and requirements for weight distribution. Tricycles can be modified for extra support of the rider such as:
- back support
- strapping of feet to pedals
- steering and braking control by a carer from the rear
- designs low to the ground or moveable handlebars for ease of transfer
- storage baskets or cargo platforms for transfer of goods
- range of pedal location depending on range of motion of the user
Motorised bikes have two wheels and can be an efficient mode of transport in the workplace such as around a factory or large grounds if working in maintenance.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
For individuals that fatigue easily and work in industries requiring transport of small items over short distances, electric bikes and trikes may be able to assist in reducing the physical exertion required for delivery. As electric bikes and trikes also do not require a driver’s license for operation, they may be beneficial for individuals who are unable to obtain a license but are required to move over reasonable distances on a worksite.
If considering use of an electric bike or trike in the workplace, features to consider include:
- overall weight of bike or trike including battery
- distance of operation prior to battery recharge
- top speed available
- ease of capacity to free wheel so can choose between pedaling with or without motor
- load capacity of bike or trike
- type and benefits of battery used and accessibility of recharge point
- length of time required for battery recharge
- type of motor used and method of throttle operation
- type of wheels available to suit terrain to cover such as city roads for courier work
- amount of pedal assistance required by user
- whether model is foldable or able to be dismantled for vehicle transport
- ongoing maintenance and associated costs
- whether a vehicle rack is required to aid transport.
References
EV (no date specified), Powerped, Electric Vehicles Pty Ltd., Melbourne, viewed 22 July 2010, <http://www.evehicles.com.au/powerped.shtml?openmenu=5>.
Independent Living Centre NSW 2009, Bicycles, Tricycles and Carts, Independent Living Centre, Parramatta, viewed 22 July 2010, <http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au/minor_groups/279/list/1?sort_by=price_asc>.
National Road Transport Commission 1999, Australian Road Rules, National Road Transport Commission, Canberra, viewed 22 July 2010, http://www.woj.com.au/AustRoadRulespts1-21.pdf.