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How to Build a Trike Using a Motorbike Frame

In the motorcycle culture, trikes are revered. The trike makes a statement of individuality and personal expression. The stability of a trike also gives disabled riders independence on the road. Custom-built trikes can be expensive. Doing it yourself from scratch requires cutting, welding and superior mechanical expertise. However, a bolt-on trike conversion kit can turn a stock motorcycle into a three-wheeled machine at a fraction of the cost and at an accessible skill level. The job requires familiarity with common tools. A minimum engine size of 1100 cubic centimeters is recommended.

Things You'll Need

  • Trike conversion kit
  • Motorcycle jack
  • Tire chock
  • Clean scrap wood
  • Vise grip
  • Tape measure
  • Rolling jack
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prop the rear wheel with a jack, and chock the front of the bike to secure it. Remove the seat, fender, swingarm, shocks, brake and exhaust from the rear of the motorbike. Disconnect the lighting, and remove the pulley. Install the kit's new swingarm, and replace the shocks and struts with those that are also included with the kit. Position the kit's rear suspension behind the motorbike. Place the apparatus on its side in order to have better access to its components.

    • 2

      Remove the sway bar, adjuster bolts, adjuster plates and front rods from the bike on both sides. On the drive side, remove the two rear bolts. Gently coax the drive side off with a piece of scrap wood, but do not force it off. Set it aside, keeping the shaft clean.

    • 3

      Bend the tabs slightly on the kit's lock ring plate, using a vice grip, to permit some work room during installation. Reinstall the drive side onto the rear suspension, followed by the pulley. Secure the lock ring. Measure the distance between the bearing spacer of the apparatus and the bike pulley, and adjust it to the specifications. With the belt to the right of the pulley, lead the shaft into the center section until it engages; then adjust the axle until it comfortably works into the gear.

    • 4

      Slide on the bearing section until it is touching the bearing spacer. Reattach the front plates and rear bolts. Use a rolling jack to lift up the rear suspension until it aligns with the adjuster plate holes. Bolt it in place, and tighten the bolts.

    • 5

      Fit the belt on the pulley, and adjust its tension. Tighten the remaining loose bolts at this time. Assemble the kit's wheels so the trike stands free. Reconnect the bike seat, lighting and sway bar. Save installation of the exhaust for last. The trike should now be ready to ride.

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