Electric trikes make a lot of sense for a very specific kind of rider — especially seniors or anyone who wants a more stable, confidence-inspiring alternative to traditional e-bikes. With three wheels on the ground, you don’t have to worry about balance at stops or slow speeds, and most trikes offer a relaxed, upright riding position that’s easier on the back, hips, and knees.
But there’s one catch: price. A lot of electric tricycles cost well over $2,000, and some even creep past $3,000 once you start adding features. If you’re shopping on a tighter budget, finding a solid model under $1,500 can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
We’ve spent time comparing and evaluating a wide range of trikes across different price points. Out of that pool, three stood out as the best electric trikes under $1,500. Each one offers a smart mix of usability, comfort, and capability — from foldable frames to front suspension to motor power that can actually handle hills.
If you’re looking for a dependable ride that won’t break the bank, start with these.
Meet One Breeze Etrike
Pros
✅ Dual-battery ready (serious range potential)
✅ Powerful 750W motor handles hills easily
✅ Semi-recumbent riding position with backrest support
Cons
❌ Heaviest of the bunch
❌ Mechanical brakes (not hydraulic)
Power: 750W rear hub
Weight: 125 lbs
Top Speed: 20 mph
Range: 30–80 miles
The Meet One Breeze folding electric trike is one of the most full-featured e-trikes you’ll find under $1,500. With a 750W rear hub motor and a 48V 15Ah removable battery, it offers solid climbing power and a wide operating range—anywhere from 30 to 80 miles depending on rider weight, terrain, and assist level. The rear-wheel drive adds extra traction, and paired with fat tires, the ride feels stable and cushioned even on uneven paths.
The Breeze is equipped with a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain, triple mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors, and a low step-through frame designed for easy on/off.
One standout feature is the oversized saddle with a full backrest, which is mounted directly to the extended rear rack rather than the seatpost. Combined with the forward-mounted pedals — positioned ahead of the rider instead of directly beneath — this setup allows for a semi-recumbent riding posture. That means your legs can extend naturally while your back stays supported, offering a more relaxed and ergonomic ride, especially on longer trips.
Front and rear baskets come included (with the rear basket rated for 100 lbs), adding practicality for errands or gear. While the brakes are mechanical rather than hydraulic, they include parking locks to prevent unwanted rolling—handy for slopes and loading.
Riders can toggle between pedal assist and throttle-only mode, with top speeds up to 20 mph. Reverse mode also comes standard—a rare bonus in this price range.
Lectric Electric XP Trike
Pros
✅ Folds down; just 62.5 lbs without battery
✅ Hydraulic brakes with parking lock
✅ Rear motor offers better balance
✅ Beginner Mode for safer speeds
Cons
❌ Single-speed limits high-speed pedaling
❌ No suspension — stiff on rough roads
❌ Taller riders may get less leg extension
Power: 500W rear hub
Weight: 68 lbs
Top Speed: 14 mph
Range: Up to 50 miles
The Lectric XP Trike is one of the most compact and travel-friendly electric tricycles on the market — and at $1,499, it offers a remarkable value. This Class 2 trike is powered by a rear 500W hub motor, which gives it a more balanced. Paired with a 48V 14Ah battery (672Wh), the XP Trike delivers a real-world range of 40–50 miles, depending on rider weight and assist level.
It ships with hydraulic disc brakes (180mm rotors), bright integrated lights, and a foldable frame with a low 13.8” standover height, making it easier to store or load into a vehicle. The ride is supported by 20”x2.6” tires and a rigid steel fork — no suspension here, but the slightly knobby tires and optional suspension seatpost help smooth things out. Riders can use the PAS 1–5 system or throttle-only mode, and speeds are capped at 14 mph (or 12 mph in Beginner Mode, which we recommend for newer trike users).
A single-speed drivetrain keeps things simple, and with optional front and rear cargo racks, the XP Trike can haul over 100 lbs of gear in addition to its 330 lb rider limit. The included saddle is cruiser-style, and an upgraded backrest seat is available for more comfort. Setup is minimal — it ships nearly fully assembled — and Lectric includes thoughtful touches like dual parking brakes and brake lights.
Mooncool TK1 Etrike
Pros
✅ Front suspension fork with lockout for smoother rides
✅ Hydraulic brakes with 180mm rotors and parking lock
✅ Stable at low speeds, tight turning radius
Cons
❌ Hard to lift despite folding
❌ Ghost pedaling at higher speeds due to single-speed drivetrain
Power: 500W rear hub
Weight: 89.9 lbs lbs
Top Speed: 16 mph
Range: Up to 60 miles
The Mooncool TK1 offers a strong mix of comfort, control, and safety features — all packed into a foldable design that makes this trike surprisingly practical for daily use. With a rear 500W hub motor (750W peak), the TK1 delivers smooth torque and low noise, and pairs it with a 48V 15Ah battery that yields 40–60 miles of real-world range depending on terrain and assist level.
Up front, you get adjustable suspension to take the edge off rough pavement, while hydraulic disc brakes (with electric cut-off) ensure confident stopping power. The integrated parking brake adds convenience when loading up or dismounting. A rear differential lets the trike corner smoothly without lifting a wheel — a detail that noticeably improves low-speed handling.
The TK1 folds down for easier storage or transport, though at nearly 90 lbs, it’s still a two-person lift for most users. The frame’s step-through design helps with accessibility. On the safety side, it comes fully equipped: front and rear lighting, brake lights, turn signals, and even a horn for urban use.
It’s not built for high speed — the TK1 tops out around 16 mph — but for steady, comfortable cruising and city riding, it hits the right balance. It arrives 95% assembled and ready to roll with minimal setup, making it one of the most approachable trikes in this category.
Final Thoughts
This roundup is designed to help you get started if you’re considering an electric trike but need to stay under a $1,500 budget. We’ve focused on real-world usability, not just spec sheets — and each model here has something meaningful to offer depending on your riding needs.
Before your first ride, take the time to read the manual, get familiar with the controls, and start slow — especially if this is your first time on a trike. The riding technique is different from a bike, and it’s completely normal for it to take a few practice sessions to feel natural. Stick to lower assist levels at first, keep your turns wide, and give yourself room to get used to the balance.
Always wear a helmet, and consider using lights or high-visibility gear when riding in traffic or low light. Electric trikes are about stability and comfort, not speed — so go easy, stay alert, and enjoy the ride.
If you’ve got a favorite budget trike we didn’t cover here, or if you’re riding one of the models we featured, let us know in the comments. We’re always interested in hearing how these trikes perform out in the real world.