September 23, 2022 - (Montreal, Que.) We were stoked when the opportunity came up to test a Triobike Mono E three-wheel e-cargo bike as it was the world’s first cargo-bike company to be safety tested by the Danish Consumer Agency in 2004.
Triobike was also the first in the world to introduce 5-point seat belts and with a three-and-a-half year-old daughter I was very excited to test this lightweight e-cargo bike with her for daily trips to the park, daycare, and shopping.
The Canadian distributor, Allo Velo Inc., has a Velolifestyle Boutique retail store in Montreal where we picked up our test model, and they also have a store in Vancouver as well.
Built around an aluminium 7005 frame, the Triobike Mono E impresses from the start with its robust, attractive looks. The wiring is well integrated throughout presenting an elegant e-cargo bike with beautiful curves.
Powered by a 250-watt Brose Drive S motor with 90 Nm of torque, a 508Wh battery, along with a Shimano Nexus internal 5-speed drivetrain, you’re ready for smooth and reliable riding.
The stylish display helps to keep track of the battery level, distance and speed and you can also choose exactly how much assistance you want from the motor. All e-systems provided by Triobike comply with the European EN 15194 standard.
The Mono is ideal for daily trips with kids and gear with a spacious and sturdy 220-litre front box that has a maximum payload of 140kg, and an overall max weight of 240kg. The durable external skin, made from ABS vacuum-formed plastic with rounded edges, is shock-resistant, while the PU foam-filled shell creates a strong and light construction for passenger protection.
The well-balanced, powerful and pleasant pedal-assist will easily get you up to speed, and we found that the first three gears were ample for most trips given the 25kph supported top speed. With 90Nm of torque, and the smooth transmission, you can remain seated even if starting from a stationary position.
Two children can sit comfortably on the ergonomically designed seats while strapped in with well-harnessed seat belts, and there will still be plenty of room for shopping items and other gear.
Equipped with powerful front and rear Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, the Mono also features a parking brake that locks the wheels when stationary, allowing for safe and practical loading or unloading in a relaxed manner.
The Triobike Mono E is designed to lean into corners when turning for more comfort and stability, which is a great idea and could be increased even more for my riding style. Given Montreal’s at times bumpy roads any kind of suspension is appreciated.
The Mono’s safety lighting is nicely integrated with a red light on the rear mudguard, and two yellow lights on each side of the two front wheels – all managed by the front display so you can turn the lights on and off.
The battery is securely hidden, and protected from the elements, under the front box and can be accessed by lifting the box from the rear. The additional space under the seat provides extra storage space as needed.
Several accessories are also available and the soft top hood that completely covers and protects the front box is recommended. Easy to install and retractable, the well-thought out covering features front and rear windows and zippers which allow you to keep an eye on things while protecting passengers on bad weather days.
A cautionary note not to overload the front of the box as the Mono could become unbalanced when the driver is not seated. A front stand is sold separately as an option to remedy this.
The TrioBike Mono is a great option for families looking for an e-cargo bike for everyday destinations and adventures. While three-wheelers may not be for everyone the Mono completely passed the test for my daughter with two thumbs up.
The SRP is $8,990 and for more information please visit here.
