Viribus Trike Review: Can the Grown-up e-Trike be any good at all?

Today, we’re diving into something a little different, a little quirky, and a whole lot of fun – the Viribus Adult E-Trike. Now, you might be thinking, “A tricycle? For adults? Really?” Oh, but trust us, this isn’t just any kiddie ride repurposed for grown-ups. It’s a full-fledged, budget-friendly e-trike that promises to add a dash of excitement to your daily errands or leisurely strolls.

In true “We Tried It” fashion, we didn’t just look at this trike and wonder, “Is this any good at all?” We took it for a spin, tinkered with it, and even turned a grocery run into a mini adventure. So, buckle up (or should we say, helmet up?) as we share our honest, no-holds-barred experience with the Viribus Trike. From its unboxing – which was a spectacle in itself – to its performance on the streets, we’re here to tell you if this e-trike is a steal or if you should wheel on by. Let’s roll out! 🚲💨

The Assembly Adventure: More Than Just Unboxing

Picture this: a box arrives at your doorstep. It’s compact, surprisingly small, and you’re thinking, “There’s no way there’s a full-sized adult tricycle in there.” But, oh, how appearances can deceive! This is where our Viribus Trike story begins – with what we’ve affectionately dubbed “the world’s smallest bike box.”

The Unveiling

Unboxing the Viribus was like a magic trick. Piece by piece, this compact box revealed a full tricycle, leaving us both baffled and impressed. It was like one of those clown cars at the circus, except it’s a bike, and we’re the clowns trying to figure out how it all fits together.

The Assembly Challenge

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it – assembling the Viribus Trike was an adventure in itself. If you’re expecting a quick, snap-together experience, you might want to grab a cup of coffee (or two). It’s not that the assembly is rocket science, but it does require some patience and a bit of elbow grease.

We laid out all the parts, which seemed to multiply when we weren’t looking, and got down to business. The instructions were decent, but there’s something about doing it yourself that makes you feel like a true DIY champion.

We noticed that some of the parts were bent, and we called the pros at Velofix. They helped us make sure the bike was put together correctly.

Test Ride: A Grocery Run Like No Other

With the Viribus Trike assembled and looking pretty snazzy, if I do say so myself, it was time to put it to the ultimate family-friendly test – a grocery run. Yes, you heard that right. We’re all about practicality here at “We Tried It,” and what’s more practical than seeing if this e-trike can handle the thrilling task of grocery shopping?

Setting Off

Helmet on, shopping list in hand, and a slight sense of trepidation, we set off. The first thing you notice about the Viribus is its unique look. Riding it, you can’t help but feel a bit nostalgic, like a kid again, but with the added bonus of not having to pedal all the time – thanks to the nifty throttle-only mode.

The Ride Experience

Now, let’s talk about the ride. The Viribus isn’t your high-speed racing bike; it’s more like your leisurely Sunday afternoon ride… but with a bit of a kick. The pedal assist, or should I say, the throttle assist, is quite a treat. It’s like having a little invisible helper pushing you along, making the ride smooth and almost effortless.

Navigating through the neighborhood, the trike handled well. The turning radius isn’t exactly tight – it’s a trike, after all – but it’s manageable once you get the hang of it. And let’s not forget the attention it draws. Riding this trike, you feel like a local celebrity; neighbors wave, kids point, and you can’t help but smile and wave back.

The Grocery Haul

Arriving at the grocery store, it was time to test the Viribus’s carrying capabilities. The trike comes with a handy basket, perfect for a modest grocery haul. It’s not going to carry your week’s worth of family groceries, but for a quick run, it’s more than sufficient.

Loading up the basket with our essentials (and a few impulsive snack purchases – because why not?), we were ready to head back. The trike, even loaded with groceries, maintained its steady and comfortable pace. The ride back was just as enjoyable, if not more, with the satisfaction of a successful grocery mission.

The Verdict So Far

So, what’s the verdict from our test ride? The Viribus Trike is a fun, practical, and definitely eye-catching way to get around for those short, local trips. It’s not going to replace your car, but it’s not trying to. It’s there to add a bit of joy and simplicity to your daily errands or leisurely rides.

But wait, there’s more to this trike than just a fun grocery run. In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into the features and specs, and I’ll share some of the things I loved and a few I didn’t. Stay tuned, because this is where we get down to the nitty-gritty! 🛒🚲💨

Deep Dive into Features and Specs: The Nitty-Gritty

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks and talk about what the Viribus Trike is packing under the hood – or, in this case, under the seat. We’ve had our fun with the grocery run, but now it’s time to dissect this e-trike’s features and specs to see what really makes it tick.

Power and Performance

First up, the motor. The Viribus comes equipped with a 250-watt front hub motor. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “250 watts? That’s pretty modest.” And you’re right. It’s not the powerhouse you’d find in some of the higher-end models, but here’s the thing – it’s surprisingly adequate. This little motor chugs along nicely, providing enough oomph to make your ride smooth and enjoyable, especially on flat terrains.

Speed and Range

Speed-wise, the Viribus isn’t breaking any records, but it’s not meant to. It’s designed for leisurely rides and practical use, and it does that perfectly. The top speed is enough to get you where you’re going without turning you into a speed demon. As for the range, it’s on the lower side compared to some other e-bikes, but again, for short trips around the neighborhood, it’s more than sufficient.

In our Viribus Trike Review, we got the Viribus Trike up to about 13 MPH. For comparison, that’s very close to what you will find in our RadTrike Review.

The One-Speed Wonder

Here’s something interesting – the Viribus has a simple, one-speed gear system. No fussing with multiple gears, just hop on and go. It’s part of what makes this trike so user-friendly and perfect for those who want a no-nonsense, easy riding experience.

Turning Heads with Its Design

Let’s talk aesthetics. The Viribus Trike has a certain charm to it. Its design is sleek, modern, and definitely turns heads. Riding this trike feels like you’re part of an exclusive club – the cool e-trike riders club, that is.

The Little Extras

The trike also comes with some nice little extras – like the aforementioned basket, which is super handy for those quick errands. And the throttle-only mode is a nice touch, giving your legs a break when you just want to cruise.

But It’s Not All Roses

Now, for the downsides. The Viribus Trike, while a great ride, does have its limitations. The smaller motor and lower range mean it’s not suited for long, strenuous journeys. And the one-speed gear system, while convenient, might not appeal to those who like more control over their riding experience.

Who’s It For, Really?

So, who would love the Viribus Trike? It’s perfect for casual riders, those with mobility issues who still want to enjoy the outdoors, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly entry into the world of e-bikes. It’s about enjoying the ride, not racing to the finish line.

Final Verdict: The Viribus Trike – A Ride Worth Taking?

After thoroughly testing, assembling, and cruising around in the Viribus Electric Tricycle, it’s time to wrap up our adventure and answer the big question: Is the Viribus Trike worth your investment?

Summing Up the Viribus Experience

The Viribus Trike is a unique blend of practicality, comfort, and a dash of fun. It’s not just a mode of transport; it’s a statement. With its 250W motor, you’re not going to be winning any races, but you’ll definitely enjoy the journey. The 30-mile pedal assist range and 21.7-mile throttle range make it a reliable companion for your local errands or leisurely rides in the park.

The assembly might be a bit of a puzzle, but it’s a challenge that can be rewarding (or a good excuse to call in a pro!). Its compact design, combined with a payload capacity of 265 lbs, makes it both convenient and practical. And let’s not forget the comfort – from the ergonomic seat to the easy-to-use thumb throttle, every aspect is designed with a pleasant ride in mind.

Is It Worth the Investment?

If you’re looking for an affordable, comfortable, and practical e-trike for short commutes and leisurely rides, the Viribus Trike is a great option. It’s especially appealing if you’re new to the world of e-bikes and looking for an entry-level model. However, if you’re seeking high performance or a trike for more challenging terrains, you might want to explore other options.

Our Conclusion

In the grand scheme of things, the Viribus Trike offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a charming, practical, and enjoyable ride that won’t break the bank. For those who value comfort and practicality over speed and power, it’s a match made in heaven.