The Maxfoot MF-30 Fat Tire Electric Trike is a powerhouse in the world of e-trikes, bringing versatility, strength, and comfort to those in need of a stable, reliable ride with impressive cargo capacity. With its robust design, rear hub motor, and accommodating frame, it’s crafted to suit riders seeking an electric trike that handles everything from city errands to recreational rides. Let’s explore its unique features, performance, and overall riding experience to help you decide if the MF-30 is the right trike for your lifestyle.
First Impressions: Built for Utility and Fun
When I first saw the Maxfoot MF-30, its sheer size and sturdy build were the first things that struck me. With its wide, fat tires and solid construction, this trike makes a bold statement. But despite its rugged look, the MF-30 is surprisingly approachable. It’s easy to see that this trike was designed with functionality in mind—from the large front basket to the spacious rear cargo rack, which together can handle a payload of up to 350 pounds. Whether you’re transporting groceries, gear, or even a picnic setup, this trike is ready to roll.
The low step-over height adds accessibility, and the balanced design creates a stable, user-friendly riding experience. It’s clear that Maxfoot has built this trike to suit a variety of riders, whether they’re daily commuters or weekend adventurers looking to hit local trails. And while it’s a bit more substantial in size than some other trikes, the MF-30 doesn’t feel overwhelming—its smooth maneuverability and solid structure make it easy to handle.
Design and Features: A Trike that Packs a Punch
The MF-30 may look like a rugged machine, but Maxfoot has managed to design it for practicality without sacrificing comfort. Equipped with three 4-inch fat tires, it’s built to provide a smooth ride on city streets and can even handle light trail use. The wide tires offer solid traction on pavement, gravel, and moderately rough surfaces, making the MF-30 a versatile choice for various types of terrain. Just keep in mind that like any trike, it’s tippy at higher speeds and tight turns, so a bit of caution is advised when navigating curvy paths.
The rear cargo rack is one of the MF-30’s standout features. Its wide platform can hold large items easily, while the front basket offers extra storage for smaller goods. This combination of space and carrying capacity makes the MF-30 ideal for errands, picnics, or any task requiring transport of heavier loads. And with its metal fenders and durable frame, this trike feels ready to take on whatever you throw its way.
Assembly-wise, this trike does require some patience and experience. While not overly complicated, the setup process might take some time for those who are new to e-bikes or electric trikes. If assembly isn’t your strong suit, it may be worth considering professional setup to save time and ensure everything’s installed correctly.
Power and Performance: High Torque and Reliable Speed
The powerhouse of the MF-30 is its upgraded 750W Bafang rear hub motor, which brings impressive torque and acceleration to the trike. Positioned in the rear, this motor provides a familiar “push” sensation, giving riders a stable, more balanced handling experience—especially helpful for tackling inclines and managing heavy loads. With 85Nm of torque, the rear-drive motor allows for smooth starts and steady climbing power, even when the trike is fully loaded.
The trike comfortably reaches speeds of up to 20 mph, which is ideal for commuting or errands but still feels manageable for most riders. When turning at higher speeds, be cautious, as trikes, in general, have a natural tendency to tilt. At lower speeds, however, the MF-30 is steady and maneuverable, allowing for quick turns in crowded areas without feeling unstable. The motor, combined with the cadence-sensing pedal assist, ensures a smooth and responsive riding experience.
Battery and Range: Built for Distance
Maxfoot equipped the MF-30 with a robust 48V, 20Ah battery that provides up to 80 miles of range under optimal conditions. Realistically, factors like load, terrain, and pedal assist settings will affect the actual range, with an average estimate closer to 30-40 miles in real-world use. The battery is located behind the seat in a silverfish-style casing, which keeps the trike’s balance evenly distributed.
This battery placement not only aids balance but also makes it easy to remove for off-bike charging. While taking the battery out requires removing the seat post, it’s a minor inconvenience for the convenience of a removable battery. For most riders, this setup will offer plenty of distance on a single charge, making it well-suited for a full day of errands or a relaxed afternoon ride.
Braking and Safety Features: Secure Stops, Plus an Added Safety Touch
Safety is critical on any e-trike, and the MF-30 includes thoughtful features to ensure secure stops. It comes equipped with mechanical disc brakes on all three wheels, offering reliable braking power. The inclusion of 180mm rotors in the front and rear gives you solid stopping capability. While hydraulic brakes would have added extra precision, the mechanical system here is responsive and effective.
One of the standout safety features on the MF-30 is its motor inhibitor system, which cuts power to the motor when the brakes are engaged. This is especially useful on an electric trike, where quick stops are essential for stability. The Shimano Tourney 7-speed derailleur also provides a range of gear options to tackle different terrains and inclines, though riders should take extra care on rough trails since the derailleur hangs slightly low.
Riding Experience: Smooth, Stable, and Fun
The MF-30 provides a balanced riding experience. On paved roads and mild trails, it feels smooth, steady, and even a bit playful. The wide handlebars and comfortable seat with a backrest ensure an ergonomic posture, while the suspension fork absorbs minor bumps, making for a comfortable ride on city streets or light trails. At full throttle, the trike quickly reaches its max speed, but you’ll likely want to keep it around 15 mph for maximum stability, especially on turns.
The motor is relatively quiet, adding to the overall enjoyable experience, and with the throttle live from zero mph, you can kick-start the ride without needing to pedal. The backrest on the seat adds a touch of extra comfort, which is especially beneficial for longer rides. Additionally, the trike’s differential rear axle allows the wheels to spin independently, enhancing stability on tight turns—an essential feature for maneuvering a three-wheeler like this.
Final Verdict: Is the Maxfoot MF-30 the Right Trike for You?
The Maxfoot MF-30 Fat Tire Electric Trike is designed with the urban adventurer in mind. Its combination of power, stability, and cargo capacity makes it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their daily transportation. While it’s not meant for off-road trails, its performance on paved and light gravel paths is outstanding. The rear hub motor provides an stable ride dynamic, and the ample storage space makes this trike perfect for commuting, shopping trips, or simply cruising around town.
For riders who want a stable, powerful, and comfortable electric trike, the MF-30 is a solid option that’s both fun and functional. It’s especially suitable for those who might not feel comfortable balancing on a two-wheeled e-bike. With a sturdy frame, impressive load capacity, and thoughtful design, the MF-30 is worth considering if you’re seeking a versatile electric trike that excels in practicality and reliability.
If you’re ready to experience the freedom of a three-wheeled electric ride, the Maxfoot MF-30 might just be the perfect companion for your journey.