How to Position Your Hands on Your E-Trike Handlebars

Better Control. Safer Braking. More Confident Rides.

If you’re new to electric trikes — or getting back on after years away — here’s something that might surprise you: your hand position can make a real difference.

It’s not just about comfort. Where and how you place your hands on the handlebars directly affects how safely and confidently you ride — especially when you’re sharing paths, navigating driveways, or reacting to the unexpected.

Let’s walk through some simple habits that every Aussie e-trike rider should build from day one.

🛑 Start With Brake Awareness

On most electric trikes sold in Australia:

• Left lever = front brake

• Right lever = rear brake

That may be new if you’re used to coaster brakes (where you stop by pedalling backward). And it becomes critical in emergencies. A sudden dog, a reversing car, or a wayward magpie can put you in a situation where you need to stop fast.

But if your fingers aren’t in the right spot — or you grab the wrong brake — things can go south quickly.

✋ The “Ready Grip” for Safer Riding

There are two basic ways to hold your e-trike handlebars. Both have their place, but one is far safer when riding in public areas.

1. Relaxed Cruise Grip

Great for bike paths, caravan parks, or open shared trails. Your whole hand wraps around the grip, arms relaxed, posture upright. Easy does it.

2. Ready Position (Use This in Traffic, Driveways, or Busy Areas)

Here’s what this looks like:

• Thumbs wrapped under the grips

• Palms resting lightly

• Fingers gently touching the brake levers

You’re not braking — just hovering, ready to act. Whether your fingers rest on the lever with two fingers or four depends on the trike, but the principle is the same:

✅ Fast reaction. Less fumbling. More control.

⚠️ A Word on Braking Sequence

Here’s something that catches new riders out:

If you brake hard with the front (left) lever only — especially downhill or while turning — your front wheel may lock up and the whole trike can tip forward.

It’s rare, but it happens. And when it does, it’s dangerous.

✅ So always brake in this order:

1. Rear brake first (right hand) – slows the trike and stabilises it

2. Then front brake (left hand) – add gently if needed for a quicker stop

This smooth combo helps your trike stay balanced and avoids sudden jerks or tipping.

💡 Build Good Habits From the Start

Before you roll out on any ride, take a second:

• Are your fingers where they need to be?

• Are your hands loose but controlled?

• Can you reach both brakes easily?

On an electric trike, speed builds faster than on a regular tricycle. So these small habits make a big difference when it comes to reacting in time.

Think of it like driving: in traffic, your foot naturally hovers over the brake pedal. You’re not braking — but you’re ready.

Same idea here.

🚴 Bonus: Your Brakes Disable the Motor

Most modern electric trikes — including models commonly sold in Australia — come with motor cut-off sensors. That means:

When you pull the brake levers, the motor stops pushing.

Even if your hand is still lightly on the throttle or you’re pedalling, the assist will cut out. That’s a built-in safety layer — but only if your fingers are in position to brake.

✅ Final Advice for Aussie Riders

If you’ve made it this far, good on you — it means you care about riding smart, not just riding fast.

You don’t need to overthink every ride. But developing strong hand position habits now will save you panic later. It’s one of those things that becomes second nature — but only if you start consciously.

So before your next ride:

• Look at your grip

• Touch the brake levers

• Stay loose, stay ready

You’ll feel more confident, more in control — and that’s what makes riding your e-trike truly enjoyable.