Trident Stowaway II vs TerraTrike Gran Turismo: When it comes to choosing a recumbent trike, two models often stand out to riders who value comfort, versatility, and long-distance capability: the Trident Stowaway II and the TerraTrike Gran Turismo. Both have strong reputations in the cycling community, but they appeal to slightly different riders depending on priorities like portability, performance, and comfort. Below, we’ll break down the key aspects to help you decide which trike might be the better fit for your riding style.
Design and Build Quality
Frame Materials and Durability
The Trident Stowaway II is known for its robust chromoly steel frame, offering a solid and slightly forgiving ride. Steel provides natural vibration absorption, which can be especially helpful on rougher paths. Meanwhile, the Gran Turismo uses a 7000-series aluminum frame, which is both lightweight and rigid. This means better responsiveness and efficiency, though it doesn’t offer quite the same shock absorption as steel.
Weight and Portability
One of the biggest differences lies in portability. The Stowaway II is designed with folding in mind. Its hinge system allows the trike to fold down quickly, making it easier to store in apartments or transport in smaller vehicles. On the other hand, the Gran Turismo doesn’t fold, which might be a drawback for riders who travel often. However, its lighter aluminum frame does make it easier to lift and maneuver when needed.
Aesthetic Appeal and Style
Both trikes have a modern and appealing look. The Stowaway II emphasizes practicality with a compact yet sleek design, while the Gran Turismo leans toward sporty lines and a more performance-oriented appearance. Riders who care about the “feel” of their ride may notice the Gran Turismo’s sleek build conveys a sense of speed, even when standing still.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Seat Design and Adjustability
Comfort is where both trikes shine. The Stowaway II offers a well-padded mesh seat with adjustable recline, giving riders the flexibility to find their preferred angle. The Gran Turismo, however, takes it further with an ergonomically designed seat that distributes pressure evenly across the back, reducing fatigue on long rides.
Riding Position and Back Support
The Stowaway II provides a slightly more upright seating position, which can feel less intimidating for beginners and casual riders. The Gran Turismo, with its lower and more reclined position, caters to riders who want aerodynamic efficiency and a sportier feel. Both prioritize lumbar support, but the Gran Turismo has a slight edge in ergonomics for endurance rides.
Suspension and Vibration Dampening
Neither trike includes suspension systems by default, but the steel frame of the Stowaway II naturally absorbs more road buzz. For those riding on uneven terrain, this can be a noticeable advantage. The Gran Turismo relies on its rigid aluminum frame, which transmits more vibration, though the seat design compensates somewhat by minimizing discomfort.
Performance on the Road
Speed and Gear Range
The Gran Turismo was designed with performance in mind. Its 24-speed drivetrain and aerodynamic build give it a clear edge in speed and efficiency, making it better suited for riders who enjoy covering long distances at a brisk pace. The Stowaway II isn’t slow by any means, but its gearing and design lean more toward balanced touring rather than pure speed.
Handling and Stability
Both trikes offer excellent stability thanks to their three-wheel designs. The Stowaway II provides a confident ride with predictable handling, especially at moderate speeds. The Gran Turismo, with its lower center of gravity and rigid frame, offers sharper handling, especially when cornering at higher speeds. Riders who prioritize stability at speed will likely prefer the Gran Turismo.
Climbing and Touring Capabilities
For hill climbs, the Gran Turismo’s lighter frame and wider gear range give it an advantage. However, the Stowaway II is still a strong touring companion, especially for those carrying gear. Its steel frame can handle weight well, and combined with the foldability, it becomes a practical choice for multi-day tours that involve travel.
Practical Features and Accessories
Storage Options and Racks
The Stowaway II comes with a rear rack as standard, ready to haul panniers for touring or commuting. The Gran Turismo doesn’t always include a rack, but compatible accessories are available. Riders focused on carrying gear may find the Stowaway II more immediately ready for adventure.
Folding and Transport Convenience
This is one of the clearest distinctions. The folding ability of the Stowaway II is a major selling point for urban dwellers or travelers. The Gran Turismo sacrifices this convenience in favor of a lighter, performance-focused design. For riders with limited storage space, the Stowaway II wins this category hands down.
Compatibility with Upgrades
Both models allow for customization with lights, fenders, racks, and electronic shifting options. However, the Gran Turismo has more appeal for riders who like to tweak their trikes for speed and performance, while the Stowaway II is easier to kit out for comfort and utility.
Price, Value, and Target Riders
Price-wise, the Stowaway II generally comes in at a more affordable level, especially considering it includes accessories like racks and fenders right out of the box. The Gran Turismo is priced higher, reflecting its advanced frame design, lighter weight, and performance orientation.
The Stowaway II is ideal for riders who value practicality, touring capability, and foldability at a reasonable cost. The Gran Turismo, on the other hand, appeals to riders looking for speed, sleek design, and a sportier feel—even if it means paying more and sacrificing portability.
Final Thoughts
Both the Trident Stowaway II and the TerraTrike Gran Turismo are excellent trikes, but they cater to slightly different needs. If you want affordable comfort, portability, and touring practicality, the Stowaway II is a fantastic choice. If you prefer performance, speed, and a sleek ride for long road adventures, the Gran Turismo will be more your style.
In the end, the better trike depends on your riding goals—whether you’re focused on convenience and travel or pushing performance on the open road.
