What is a motorcycle with 3 wheels called?

Ever seen one of those three-wheeled beasts rolling down the street? Looks like a bike, sounds like a bike, but sits on the road like it owns the place

1. The Lingo: Trikes, three wheels motorcycle, and Tuk-Tuks

Most people just yell “three wheels!” and call it a day. But that’s like calling every four-wheeler a “Ford.” There’s a world of difference.

First off, you got your Traditional Three Wheels (or Delta Trikes). One wheel up front, two in the back. This is the classic biker vibe. Handlebars, a seat you straddle, and usually a manual transmission. A lot of these start life as regular Harleys or Gold Wings that got converted. Why do people love ’em? Because you get that same wind-in-your-face freedom, but you don’t have to worry about putting your foot down at a stop light. It’s the same chrome and rumble, just with a built-in kickstand.

Then there are Reverse Trikes (two wheels up front, one in back). These feel more like a go-kart or a sports car. They corner like they’re on rails and are usually faster than your average trike.

And let’s not forget Autocycles. These are the weird cousins. They look like enclosed cars but have three wheels. Steering wheel, pedals, automatic transmission. Basically, it’s a car that forgot a wheel.

2. The Legal Headache: Licenses and Rules

Here’s where it gets messy. The name matters because the law says it does. Unlike regular motorcycles, which have pretty standard rules, three-wheelers are a free-for-all.

In the U.S., a traditional trike usually means you need a Motorcycle License (Class M). But autocyles? Since they drive like cars, you can often get away with just a regular driver’s license. That’s huge for people who want the open road but don’t want to learn how to balance a two-wheeler.

Go overseas, and it’s a whole different story. In Asia, those things are called “Tuk-Tuks.” They’re not for cruising; they’re for survival. Taxis, delivery trucks, family haulers—they’re everywhere. Small engines, zero regard for traffic laws, and they’re cheap as chips.

Quick Rant: A motorcycle with a Sidecar is NOT a trike. It’s still a motorcycle with a box bolted on. Big difference in handling and legally. Don’t mix those up.

3. Who Actually Uses These Things?

Gone are the days when three-wheelers were just for people who couldn’t afford a car. Today, they’re everywhere.

In countries like India, the Philippines, and China, utility trikes are the backbone of the economy. Electric or gas-powered, they carry people, food, and cargo through streets where a car can’t fit. China alone sold over 115 million of these things in 2023—they’re basically exporting the concept to the world.

In the West? It’s more about lifestyle. Retirees love trikes because they can keep riding without the fear of falling over. Gearheads love reverse trikes for the speed. And autocyles? They’re for people who want a motorcycle experience without the motorcycle hassle.

The Bottom Line

So, what is it called? It’s a trike, it’s an autocycle, it’s a tuk-tuk—depending on what you’re looking at.

Before you buy one, do yourself a favor and check your local laws. Licensing is all over the map. But if you’re looking for a fun, practical, or just plain badass way to get around, three-wheelers prove you don’t need two wheels to feel alive.