Motor Trike to Road Smith

[rhino65]

New to trikes and still shopping for my first. I've noticed that it seems the motor trikes are priced a couple thousand or more less than the Roadsmiths. This is comparing IRS versions. Any big differences between the two? Any other input on these two kits would be helpful as well.

 

[mhgoldwing]

I chose Roadsmith:

1) for the 8" longer wheelbase which dramatically improves the ride.

2) KISS design principle. Look at the simplicity of the RS design and use of common auto parts (much heavier duty than needed). MT and CSC use proprietary equipment you can't purchase anywhere but from them.

3) MT will corner better if you're racing through the twisties because of short wheelbase and design. RS will almost keep up and do it much smoother

4) Look at the passenger footrests and notice their feet are between the bike and inside of fender. Then look at RS.

5) Know two people who owned other trikes, bought a RS and declare the ride is much smoother than their old trikes.

6) The longer wheelbase also moves the passenger seat back so that they are not sitting directly above the rear axle which improves their ride.

Obviously, these are my opinions and worth nothing. I would suggest you drive anything you are interested in and determine how you're going to use the trike before making a decision. And I don't mean an around the block test drive.

The key to any trike's success is the installer. A bad installer can screw up a great trike.

So spend do diligence getting first hand opinions from people who purchased trikes from them.

If you're looking at used then having an installer/dealer who services your brand will make life easier.

Here's wishing you success!

 

[Gold Rush]

+1 :Agree: :Agree:

I rode a Motor Trike Adventure (IRS) for 50,000 miles. When I bought my 2015 I chose Roadsimth HTS1800 for all the reasons mentioned. The only thing I miss it the cornering. Every other performance point is won by Roadsmith.

 

[Wingrider55]

1) for the 8" longer wheelbase which dramatically improves the ride.

2) KISS design principle. Look at the simplicity of the RS design and use of common auto parts (much heavier duty than needed). MT and CSC use proprietary equipment you can't purchase anywhere but from them.

3) MT will corner better if you're racing through the twisties because of short wheelbase and design. RS will almost keep up and do it much smoother

4) Look at the passenger footrests and notice their feet are between the bike and inside of fender. Then look at RS.

5) Know two people who owned other trikes, bought a RS and declare the ride is much smoother than their old trikes.

6) The longer wheelbase also moves the passenger seat back so that they are not sitting directly above the rear axle which improves their ride.

Obviously, these are my opinions and worth nothing. I would suggest you drive anything you are interested in and determine how you're going to use the trike before making a decision. And I don't mean an around the block test drive.

The key to any trike's success is the installer. A bad installer can screw up a great trike.

So spend do diligence getting first hand opinions from people who purchased trikes from them.

If you're looking at used then having an installer/dealer who services your brand will make life easier.

Here's wishing you success![/QUOTE]

:Agree:

Tried them all, love my Roadsmith. Wife loves it to..

 

[Hot Rod 1]

Roadsmith

Before I purchased my Roadsmith Kit for my GL1800. I rode a GL1500 with a CSC solid axle kit. Like others have said the shorter wheelbase kits without IRS will handle better in the twisties but the slight loss in handling is well worth the added comfort of the Roadsmith IRS. I also like the availability of being able to buy parts over the counter if needed. Good luck with your choice.

 

[rhino65]

Do any of the Roadsmiths have the airbags? I know the Motor trike does and have read that they tend to have leak issues. I see alot of motor trike kits when looking for trikes to buy

 

[Haste Maker]

pm send

 

[jredman]

I have a Motor Trike Razor with the air ride suspension, has never leaked. Yes shorter wheel base, but mine rides like a Cadillac. But I would guess all do with the IRS. Yes air ride is even more impressive when you pull a trailer fully loaded. Bump up the air and you smooth as silk and never feel the trailer back there. I keep looking in the mirror to make sure it is still there.

Great advice to ride them all and make a decision from there. If I get a new one in a few years, that is exactly what I will do as well.

 

[rhino65]

Appreciate all replies. I test rode 3 different versions of IRS at my local dealer Neihaus in Litchfield, IL. Rode a Motor Trike, Roadsmith and CSC. I & my better half really couldn't tell any difference between the 3 but we are newbies to trikes.

 

[Gorilla]

Appreciate all replies. I test rode 3 different versions of IRS at my local dealer Neihaus in Litchfield, IL. Rode a Motor Trike, Roadsmith and CSC. I & my better half really couldn't tell any difference between the 3 but we are newbies to trikes.

If you can not tell the difference in the ride (which is okay because they all ride good) then the one that you like the looks of better is the way to go. Your spending a lot of money you need something that WOWS you.

 

[keepinon]

I love my MotorTrike Adventure. My only complaint is the low clearance of the rear drive unit, it drags too easily. If all three ride equally well the greater clearance one would seal the deal.

 

[jredman]

If you can not tell the difference in the ride (which is okay because they all ride good) then the one that you like the looks of better is the way to go. Your spending a lot of money you need something that WOWS you.

Perfect advice.

 

[Skeet7373]

Mt vs rs

I never got the opportunity to ride a RS. I can see that the long wheel base would be more comfortable for 2 up riding. I own a Motor Trike Razor. Coming off two wheels (my ego is still screaming at me) I rode a HD TG for 3.5 years and finally told HD to kiss my axle. I fell in love with the looks of the MT. Mine handles like a go cart. The ride is good for just me with the air bags and the shocks.

I recommend to you go ride them all. Find a dealer that will allow you to take one out and ride it on all different roads and speeds to get the feel. Each kit is a little different, but they all ride very well.

Karen

 

[BigMac46]

MT vs RS

Karen you have a beautiful trike. I have a 97 GL1500SE with a Road Smith kit on it and it is white also and I love it would love to have a new GW with another Road Smith kit on it. I had a 99 GW SE with a Motor trike kit on it it was a nice ride but I love the RS better I totaled the 99 out on the pig trail in Arkansas that is enough of my I do love your trike

 

[wehrme]

I have a Motor Trike Razor with the air ride suspension, has never leaked. Yes shorter wheel base, but mine rides like a Cadillac. But I would guess all do with the IRS. Yes air ride is even more impressive when you pull a trailer fully loaded. Bump up the air and you smooth as silk and never feel the trailer back there. I keep looking in the mirror to make sure it is still there.

Great advice to ride them all and make a decision from there. If I get a new one in a few years, that is exactly what I will do as well.

Razor here also.... same results.