Providing effective transportation in
inaccessible and harsh terrain

Soldier Modernisation talks to Trikke about their innovative solutions
used by over 200 military and law enforcement agencies

Download article as PDF

The problem of carriage has plagued troops since warfare started, be that the use of mules to carry equipment in mountainous areas or the use of electric bikes for modern warfare.

Both come with major problems and weight carriage issues. So where can we find a solution that can tow up to 500 lbs, is easily transported, assembled and used?

We spoke to TRIKKE's David Beerman (Senior Account Exec for sales & training) on a proven product that may surprise our readers.

Q: The development of new soldier systems and increased levels of materiel needed by front line troops has advanced the need for an effective multi-terrain mobility/utility vehicle; could we look at the Trikke and its capabilities?

A: TRIKKE builds a stealthy land vehicle that can individually transport dismounted troops more than 30 miles, onroad/offroad, at over 40mph. It is configured in a 100 lb package that occupies less than 20 cubic feet. TRIKKE vehicles provide a real force-multiplier for operators to patrol farther and faster than when dismounted.

Q: What are the innovative and unique features of Trikke?

A: Quick-recharge swappable lithium-ion battery, 3 sealed high-torque hub motors, hydraulic disc brakes, full suspension, precision steering and thumb-grip throttle control, and small turning radius. LCD control panel with adjustable torque and speed settings, and available RFID key fob and card key. Quiet emission-free day/night operation and a low-fatigue upright ergonomic stance for the rider, which provides enhanced manoeuvrability and visibility. The cambering frame design keeps all 3 wheels securely in contact with the ground through high-speed turns, and the independently pivoting trailing arms allow for smooth riding over uneven terrain. For law enforcement applications we can provide a package with up to 7 emergency lights (with 15 flasher modes) and a 3-tone air siren.

Q: Another area that is critical for dismounted troops is the ease of forward deployment into the battle space - using land, air or seaborne vehicles. Is simplicity of construction a key feature for Trikke?

A: The main frame consists of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum. It can be easily folded into a compact footprint by releasing the locking lever on each of the two trailing arms and folding down the steering column. Easy one-man load/unload into a host vehicle for forward deployment. Additional utility is provided by available options like a quick-release hitch and hard-shell cargo boxes or EMS kits. The vehicle can tow a trailer with up to 500 lbs of extra munitions, supplies, tools, SATCOM gear, casualties, etc.

Q: Could we talk about who is using the products and a short history of the company?

A: TRIKKES are currently in use by more than 200 law enforcement, security, military and commercial agencies around the US and internationally - for emergency response, perimeter surveillance, also traffic control, special events and materiel mobility. They are operating at airports in Dallas-Ft. Worth, Detroit, Orlando, Sacramento, Phoenix, San Juan (Puerto Rico) and also for harbour and airport patrol in San Diego.

TRIKKE Tech, Inc. was founded in 2000, originally producing recreational 3-wheel cambering vehicles, sized for kids and adults. Manual propulsion of the TRIKKE provided a fun full-body workout. A battery and front-wheel electric motor was added in 2009 for extra range and easier hill-climbing. Then the product lines were streamlined and dedicated to the professional market with the front-wheel-drive Patroller in 2014, and the all-wheel-drive DEFENDER in 2016.

Q: Where do you see the family of vehicles by Trikke going in the next few years, and are you able to support orders worldwide and associated maintenance?

A: The basic design of frame and components has become mature and stable with the DEFENDER and POSITRON vehicles. We can provide custom solutions like cargo box mounts, firearm mounts, push-to-talk comms, and wheel/tyre/tread options for more diverse operating environments. We want to expand our sales to more military and government clients.

TRIKKE maintains a ready supply of spares at its headquarters in Buellton, CA. Basic maintenance can be completed with a set of allen wrenches. Primary wear items are tyres, inner tubes and brake pads, which can all be easily replaced when necessary.

For more information please visit:
http://trikkemobility.com