Sun Seeker EZ-3 HD Electric Trike Review

Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Electric Trike Review
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Direct Drive Gearless Hub Motor 500 Watts
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd 48 Volt 10 Amp Hour Battery
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Contoured Foam Seat
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Comfort Mesh Back Rest
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd High Tensile Tig Steel Frame Handlebars
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Sram 21 Speed Cassette
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Sram X3 Drivetrain
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Portable 3 Amp Charger
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Electric Trike Review
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Direct Drive Gearless Hub Motor 500 Watts
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd 48 Volt 10 Amp Hour Battery
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Contoured Foam Seat
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Comfort Mesh Back Rest
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd High Tensile Tig Steel Frame Handlebars
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Sram 21 Speed Cassette
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Sram X3 Drivetrain
Sun Seeker Ez 3 Hd Portable 3 Amp Charger

Summary

  • A heavy duty electric trike designed to support up to 400 lbs of weight, powered by a 1,000-Watt peak gearless hub motor running off a 48 volt Lithium-ion battery pack
  • Open platform allows you to swap battery brands, adjust the top speed and amp flow to change performance vs. efficiency, large bright display panel is easy to work with
  • Delta layout (two wheels in the back) is easier to mount but rear-heavy, the front wheel can spin easier, there's no cargo rack and the battery covers both bottle cage bosses
  • The display panel isn't mounted as securely, the trike itself is heavy at 99 lbs, the front wheel flops to the side and requires more strength to steer at times, the suspension is basic with short-travel and minimal adjustment

Video Review

Introduction

Make:

Sun Seeker

Model:

EZ-3 HD Electric Trike

Price:

$2,305 ($350 Shipping, Fully Assembled Ready to Ride)

Body Position:

Recumbent

Suggested Use:

Neighborhood, Urban

Electric Bike Class:

Throttle on Demand (Class 2)
Learn more about Ebike classes

Warranty:

1 Year Comprehensive

Availability:

United States

Model Year:

2017

Bicycle Details

Total Weight:

99 lbs (44.9 kg)

Battery Weight:

9.3 lbs (4.21 kg)

Motor Weight:

12.8 lbs (5.8 kg)

Frame Material:

High Tensile Tig Welded Steel

Geometry Measurements:

59.5″ (151 cm) Wheel Base, 78″ (198 cm) Overall Length, 32″ (81 cm) Width, 18″ (45 cm) Seat Height

Frame Types:

Trike

Frame Colors:

Silver

Frame Fork Details:

High Tensile Steel, KSPEED 261 Mid-Frame Bumper Suspension

Gearing Details:

21 Speed 3x7 SRAM X-3, 13-28T

Shifter Details:

SRAM Grip Shift on Left and Right

Cranks:

170 mm Cranks, 30-42-52T Chainrings, Microshift Derailleur

Pedals:

Wellgo LU-812 Alloy Platform, Cage Style

Headset:

1″ Steel

Stem:

Alloy

Handlebar:

Steel

Brake Details:

Winzip-MM Mechanical Disc with 160 mm Rotors in Back Wheels, Promax Linear Pull in Front Wheel, Wuxing Levers with Motor Inhibitor and Parking Latch

Grips:

Flat Rubber, Locking

Saddle:

Alloy Frame, Contoured Foam Seat, Padded Mesh Back

Seat Post:

Rans Style Seat Slide

Rims:

Alloy Double Walled, 48 Hole, Stainless Nipples and Eyelets

Spokes:

Front Stainless 12G Silver, Rear Stainless 14G Black

Tire Brand:

Maxxis Hookworm, 20" x 1.95"

Wheel Sizes:

20 in (50.8cm)

Tire Details:

85 to 110 PSI

Tube Details:

Schrader Valve

Accessories:

Adjustable Angle Seat with Removable Cover, Heavy-Duty Torque Arm for Motor Mount

Other:

Locking Removable Battery, 1.5 lb 3 Amp Charger, 400 lb Max Weight Limit

Electronic Details

Motor Brand:

Electric Bike Technologies

Motor Type:

Front-Mounted Gearless Direct Drive Hub
Learn more about Ebike motors

Motor Nominal Output:

500 watts

Motor Peak Output:

1000 watts

Motor Torque:

33 Newton meters

Battery Brand:

Electric Bike Technologies

Battery Voltage:

48 volts

Battery Amp Hours:

10 ah

Battery Watt Hours:

480 wh

Battery Chemistry:

Lithium-ion

Charge Time:

4 hours

Estimated Min Range:

10 miles (16 km)

Estimated Max Range:

20 miles (32 km)

Display Type:

King Meter, Fixed, Backlit, Monochrome LCD

Readouts:

Battery Level (5 Bars), Speed, Avg. Speed, Max Speed, Power Level (0-5), Odometer, Trip A, Trip B

Display Accessories:

Independent Button Pad

Drive Mode:

Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist, Trigger Throttle (12 Magnet Pedelec Sensor)

Top Speed:

26 mph (42 kph)(Adjustable Speed, PAS Sensitivity, Current)


Written Review

The Sun Seeker EZ-3 HD is a “heavy duty” stand alone recumbent Delta trike. That is, a three-wheeled bicycle with two wheels in the back Delta style that can accommodate up to 400 lbs of passenger weight… and most of the weight will likely be coming from the rider because there aren’t any racks and the add-on battery pack that Electric Bike Technologies added is taking up most of the seat back support arms. There are two bottle cage bosses here but they are covered up on this model. So why not have two wheels in the front and a rack in the rear? Why not mount the battery somewhere else? This design is much easier to stand over and sit down on than most Tadpole style trikes (those with two wheels up front). As for the battery, I believe this was just the best option for accessibility given that it’s easier to plug into and even remove from this spot. All in all, I’d call this an average electric bike, one that has some real trade-offs to consider in design (uncomfortable throttle placement, basic suspension, generic brakes) but keeps the price low and makes it possible for a different audience to engage. If you’re a heavier person, this is one of the few e-trikes available at all and it’s sportier and more bicycle-like than the Worksman Cycles PAV3 (also converted by Electric Bike Technologies). One thing that I really love about it is how adjustable the control settings are and how open the battery and controller are to being upgraded or replaced by third-party options.

Driving the trike is an impressive 500 watt gearless hub motor mounted into the front wheel. The side effects of having such a large and powerful motor are that it can move the heavier frame and rider… but also takes more work to steer and may spin out. Perhaps the settings on my demo bike were mellowed out however because it did not feel especially zippy. Smoother acceleration saves power and is more predictable so that’s not a bad thing. I noticed the extra-large torque arm connecting the motor axle to the fork arm and was impressed by how quiet it performed. For those who live in hilly areas (even medium weight riders), do not expect this trike to carry you up hills without helping. The motor performs best when you gather some speed going in and if you help out by pedaling. And since you’ve got 21 gears to work with, pedaling is comfortable and a wide range of speeds. There’s even an extra large ring specifically for climbing in the rear cluster.

Powering the bike is a 48 volt 10.5 amp hour Lithium-ion battery with lightweight long lasting characteristics. The cells are contained in an Aluminum box with plastic end caps and the top has a handle making it easy to carry. I’m not thrilled with how and where it’s mounted but I can’t think of a better option without some custom designed platform mount which would likely increase the price. During my rides it worked well and was actually easier to take off than some of the in-basket designes on other trikes. The key is required to unlock and remove the pack (which slides off the left side of the seat rails) as well as to operate it. You insert the key, turn it all the way to on and then press the M button on the button pad control ring. This is something I love to gripe about because the key can jingle when riding if you’ve got a keychain connected… or even snag. Thankfully, at least inthe case of the Sun Seeker EZ-3 HD, the key is behind you and very clear of feet and arm movement while riding. Note that the battery charger resembles the battery itself, having an Aluminum case. It’s relatively light and compact but might still be difficult to cart along without some sort of custom bag solution. I often wear a backpack on the front of my body when testing trikes like this but that limits airflow… Perhaps a little trailer would do?

Operating the trike is fun and interesting once they key is inserted and turned to “on” because you get lots of options and adjustments. Whether you want to limit the top speed, disable the throttle or pedal assist or adjust the Amp output (for smoother riding). Even adjust how quickly pedal assist responds! It’s all doable here and I was told that the controller was setup with a custom power curve to match the battery pack for improved power drain accuracy. This is a great update considering some of the older batteries and displays used by Electric Bike Technologies were just basic LED readouts using sensitive Lead Acid batteries. In short, this trike is more open to adjustment which results in less complex unwanted behavior, slower riding for people with balance challenges and extended range for those who are willing to sacrifice the feelign of zippiness. The display itself is beautiful, very thin but large and easy to read. It’s adjustable forward and back, to reduce glare, but is not removable. This concerned me a little given how nice it looks… consider draping a shirt over it or something when parking to deter unwanted attention? I noticed that the wires from the display, motor, battery and controller were professionall gathered and strung along the frame and love that both brake levers have motor inhibitors built in (to cut power to the ebike systems the instant you pull them) and there’s a parking brake latch system to keep the trike from rolling away when you leave it.

At 99 lbs this trike can be a handful and there’s a $350 charge for shipping unless you can drive to Pennsylvania and pick it up. The team making these is US based, does a lot of hands on work to get products setup before delivery and you should be greeted by a large box with a product that is “ready to ride” as soon as you open and unpack it. While I love the idea of suspension, I feel that the larger tires, padded seat and upright body position all contribute equally to the comfort felt with the EZ-3. The suspension bumper itself offers limited travel and very limited adjustability. I’m not a super large rider myself and might steer towards another trike from ElectricTrike.com but completely appreciate that this one exists. It could be a real life changer for someone who hasn’t ridden bikes for a while and doesn’t have the flexibility, balance or endurance to ride with others but who still wants to go along (or maybe replace their car for short trips). Yes, I’m bummed about the limited storage but that can be overcome… just like the lack of lights and flag. Depending on where you live, with a bit of creativity this could turn into an awesome platform and be a joy to ride.

Pros:

  • You get 21 gear combinations to pedal with on this trike (along with an extra large 34 tooth sprocket in the back) which is great considering it weighs more, whether you’re climbing or striving to maintain the top assisted speed of 20 mph those gears will make it easier
  • For me, this trike was easier to stand over and mount because there’s just one wheel up front (vs. two on a tadpole trike) and the seat is slightly higher
  • In addition to the larger name brand tires (Maxxis Hookwork, nearly 2″ diameter) the padded saddle, flexible back rest and mid-frame bumper shock add to the comfort of the Sun Seeker EZ-3 HD, that’s important if you’re a larger person or just traveling faster and further than on an unpowered trike
  • I love that the seat slides forward and back to accommodate different leg lengths and that you can adjust the back rest angle for comfort, I tend to ride upright mysel
  • The wheels are reinforced with sturdy spokes (48 in the rear), reinforcement eyeletts and nipples to reduce cracking and breaking due to heavier loads and more force (especially the front wheel which has the motor spoked in)
  • Decent brakes with motor inhibitors in the brake levers and a parking latch so the trike won’t roll away, while the rear brakes are mechanical vs. hydraulic you do get two disc brakes vs. just one on the Sun Seeker Eco Delta
  • This e-trike gives you pedal assist, throttle on demand and has an open computer system allowing for integration with more after-market battery packs, you can also dial down the top speed and amp output for safety and efficiency
  • A 12-magnet cadence sensor detects pedal motion (and stops) much faster than some of the cheaper 6-magnet designs I’ve seen, because it’s cadence sensing you don’t need to push especially hard in order to activate the motor, you can just stretch your legs and pedal gently if you want but still get a boost
  • I think it’s great that you can order the Sun Seeker EZ-3 HD completely converted to electric, shipped directly to you ready to ride… but Electric Bike Technologies also sells the kits on their own so you could convert an existing trike too (they even have video tutorials)
  • I like the pedals they chose for this trike because they offer good traction, more surface area, they match the frame and just seemed sturdier
  • Given the added mechanical forces and weight at plan in the front wheel, I like that Electric Bike Technologies added an oversized torque arm to the front fork

Cons:

  • This is a heavier electric trike, weighing in at just under 100 lbs the Steel frame and handle bars are strong and lend to the Heavy Duty (HD) hame which can accommodate up to 400 lbs but as a result the bike itself weighs more too and may be difficult to transport or pedal (especially if it runs low on battery)
  • There’s no rear rack to mount a trunk bag or pannier to, it’s one of the big trade-offs I’ve seen with the Sun Seeker Delta trikes (that have two wheels in the back and one up front)
  • Electric Bike Technologies had to get creative when mounting their battery pack to the EZ-3 HD frame because there’s no rack, instead, they clamped it to the seat support arms which blocks both bottle cage mounting points
  • The trigger throttle was fit onto the right portion of the handle bars and set between the grip and twist shifter. For me, this felt uncomfortable and blocked shifting, I think it would be worth exploring a different trigger throttle design that could mount behind the grip twist and stick out further for easier use
  • The gearless hub motor they chose is powerful and seemed sturdy (they tend to be bulletproof) but adds more weight compared to geared and this impacts steering, when you let go of the bars the front wheel wants to flop to one side or the other so it takes a bit of extra arm strength to maneuver this thing
  • There are no integrated lights or flag pole accessories included here, these would be nic to have because they would improve convenience while enhancing safety… but you do get reflectors and the silver frame is more visible
  • At $2,305 you get a lot of bang for your buck with this trike but keep in mind their shipping is an extra $350 anywhere in the contiguous USA
  • The key must be left in the battery pack and switched to on when riding, it stays out of the way on this trike but might still jingle a bit if you’ve got a keychain attached
  • Because this bike uses a gearless hub motor, there is a bit of cogging (magnetic drag) happening with the front wheel vs. a geared hub motor

Resources:

More Sun Seeker Reviews

Sun Seeker Fat Tad Electric Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,435
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A full suspension, fat tire, recumbent electric trike designed for off-road fun on trails, sand or snow, powerful 500 watt rear-motor with throttle and pedal assist modes. Adjustable length boom and tilting seat accommodate a range of riders, large backlit display offers…...

Sun Seeker T3 CX Electric Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,285
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A sleek, lightweight, recumbent electric trike with higher top speed and 24 gears, as a tadpole design your body and arms are more aerodynamic and laid back. Completely adjustable frame and mesh seat accommodate taller and shorter riders, those looking for a…...

Sun Seeker Eurus Electric Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,435
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A fast, highly adjustable electric trike in the Delta style (with two wheels in the rear and one up front), easy to mount and park, camber in rear wheels keep it stable. Beautiful large display is easy to read and offers on/off backlighting control, optional top speed…...

Sun Seeker Eco Tad Electric Trike Review

  • MSRP: $1,875
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

One of the most affordable recumbent tadpole trikes I've tested, you do have to pay an additional $350 for shipping but it comes "ready to ride" so you can hop right on. The 48 volt battery supports increased power and higher speeds for the 500 watt internally…...

Sun Seeker Eco Delta Electric Trike Review

  • MSRP: $1,835
  • MODEL YEAR: 2017

A recumbent electric trike with a higher seat, more relaxed bars and lower price point, the delta frame design positions one wheel in the front and two in the back. Highly adjustable seat angle and overall bike length for comfortable reach and pedaling, the chain…...


Comments (2) YouTube Comments

Mario Lagacé
1 year ago

I would like to recive the price for the sun seeker ez-3 HD bike tricycle with assistance électrique. The price must have all inclus with shippement to Chicoutimi Québec Canada priced in Canadien with the liste for option extra and all taxes applicables. I would like the same model with the same option in your vidéo i saw in description for this bike. I’m not sure for of dealer in Québec Canada. I’m sorry for my english isn’t good. The bike must be the year product. You have only one color available.

Thank have a good week-end.
Mario

  Reply
Court
1 year ago

Hi Mario, this review was conducted many years ago. I suspect the price has gone up, and this exact model and configuration may no longer be available. You can see other similar electric trikes by visiting this website. They have many models! I hope this helps, and I wish you luck. I am not sure if they ship to Canada.

  Reply

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.