Tricycle for adults: Harleys Freewheeler

Three-wheeled vehicles eke out a shadowy existence in this country, but the range is nevertheless extremely diverse. Basically, it is divided into three categories: The sidecars, the trikes and the so-called threewheelers. The latter is what the Harley-Davidson Freewheeler is called, which is actually wrong, because a Freewheeler rolls on two wheels in the front and not in the back - but for the sake of the nice play on words, we'll let it stand. With the aforementioned Freewheeler, the company is adding a second trike to its premium three-wheeler Tri Glide Ultra (CHF 39,900. -), which has been available in Switzerland for some time now.

Potent engine
The Freewheeler has a much more purist and lighter design than the Tri Glide Ultra and is naturally also more affordable (from CHF 31,500.-). However, the riding fun is tremendous thanks to the powerful engine. The heart of the three-wheeler is namely, as with all 2017 touring models, the Milwaukee Eight 107 engine (1745 cc) with 91 hp and 153 Nm, which was introduced last fall. While the sidecar has the third wheel mounted on the outside of the sidecar between the front and rear wheels, the Freewheeler rolls on two parallel wheels at the rear, which also helps it achieve a key feature, namely a huge trunk with 60 l capacity.

As a woman, of course, you are immediately enthusiastic about it; you can carry a lot more on it than on a normal motorcycle, where usually only small-sized saddlebags and, if it comes to it, a topcase are available. This is one reason why trikes are mainly ridden by women in the States. Another, not unimportant reason: The Freewheeler can be driven like all Trikes with the "normal" autobillet, it needs no motorcycle examination for it. In particular, the Silver Generation, i.e. motorcyclists over 55, should find the Freewheeler an exclusive alternative if they no longer feel comfortable on a two-wheeler or no longer want to take the motorcycle test.

Classic hot rod look
The Freewheeler's appearance is characterized by a purist hot-rod look and classic, clear forms; it can be optionally spiced up with chrome parts from the accessories. Power transmission is handled by a six-speed gearbox and there is an electric reversing aid. The top speed is 165 km/h, according to the manufacturer. Two disc brakes each at the front and rear slow down the ride (ABS). A 19-inch alloy wheel spins on the 49-mm sub-fork, while a duo of 15-inch wheels with 205 tires are used at the rear. The road is illuminated by front headlights and taillights with LED technology, and long straight stretches on the highway are a breeze thanks to cruise control.

Muscles are in demand
The Freewheeler weighs in at 507 kg ready to ride. The seating position is extremely comfortable, and you can even take along a pillion passenger. Handling is super easy, clutching, shifting, blinking, etc. just like on a motorcycle. You quickly find confidence in the unfamiliar vehicle. The acceleration of the Milwaukee-Eight is fabulous - thanks to the powerful torque in the lower speed range. Cornering, however, differs greatly from the usual bike handling. This is due to the fact that the bends do not have to be negotiated by light countersteering, as is the case with motorcycles, but with a clear steering angle. In addition, this turning requires relatively high steering forces and these increase parallel to the speed. And the width of the vehicle still has to be taken into account, so that you don't pull out with your wide butt over the center line or into the botany. But you quickly get the hang of it, and kilometer after kilometer the driving pleasure increases - straight into the great freedom.
Available immediately. (Text: Brigitte Burri)

www.harleydavidson.com