How to Store an Electric Recumbent Trike — Garage, Apartment & RV Guide

An electric recumbent trike measures 68–80 inches long and 28–36 inches wide — larger than most people expect when they first see the dimensions on paper. But with the right storage setup, this size is entirely manageable — in a garage, apartment, RV, or even the back of an SUV. This guide covers every option with real dimensions.

Trike Dimensions

Storage Option 1: Garage

A single-car garage space (typically 10–12 ft wide) accommodates a recumbent trike comfortably alongside a wall. The most space-efficient garage setup:

• Wall hooks: Mount two J-hooks at the right height to hang the trike nose-in against the wall. The trike’s length becomes its “depth” from the wall, not its footprint in your driving space.
• Floor stand: A dedicated trike floor stand holds the trike upright in a 36″ × 36″ footprint — smaller than most road bikes on kickstands.
• Boom removal: Removing the front boom (the tube connecting the pedals to the frame) reduces length from 72–76″ to 42–44″. Takes 2 minutes with a single quick-release lever. The two pieces store side by side against a wall in a 44″ × 36″ total footprint.

Storage Option 2: Apartment / Indoor Storage

For apartment or condo storage without a garage:

• Hallway storage: A 76″ trike fits in most apartment hallways when stored lengthwise. Remove the boom to reduce to 44″ for tighter spaces.
• Corner storage: In a bedroom corner or home office, boom removed takes a 44″ × 34″ footprint — the size of two large suitcases.
• Elevator access: Most standard residential elevators (48″ × 60″ minimum) accommodate a recumbent trike with boom removed.
• Balcony storage: Most balconies (8+ feet deep) accommodate boom-removed storage. Use a weatherproof trike cover ($45–$85) for outdoor storage.

Storage Option 3: Vehicle Transport

Hitch-Mounted Carrier (Recommended)

A 2″ hitch-mounted platform carrier (rated 300+ lbs) is the easiest way to transport an LBR trike. The trike rolls onto the platform and is secured with straps. No lifting required — just wheel it up a ramp and strap it down. Compatible with any vehicle with a 2″ hitch receiver. Carrier cost: $150–$400.

SUV / Minivan Interior

With rear seats folded: most SUVs and minivans have 48–72″ of cargo length. A boom-removed LBR Glide or Ease fits in most midsize SUVs (RAV4, CR-V, Pilot) with the front passenger seat forward. Lay the trike on its side with a moving blanket protecting the components. The Venture’s fat tires make it slightly harder to fit — hitch carrier recommended.

Pickup Truck Bed

Full-size truck bed (6.5–8 ft): trike fits assembled. Mid-size truck bed (5–6 ft): boom removal required. Use a tailgate pad or extension and secure with ratchet straps at the frame (not the cables or brake lines).

Storage Option 4: RV / Travel Trailer

Many LBR customers are RV travelers. Boom-removed storage in RV pass-through compartments (typically 24–36″ height) works for the Glide (36″ height assembled — marginal). For guaranteed RV pass-through fit, remove the boom and lay the trike on its side. The cargo compartment of most Class A and Class C motorhomes accommodates boom-removed storage comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does boom removal take?

2–3 minutes once you’re familiar with it. The front boom is secured with a quick-release pinch bolt. Loosen the bolt, slide out the boom, slide out the front wheel assembly. No tools required after the initial assembly. Many riders do this routinely for vehicle transport.

Do I need a cover for outdoor storage?

Yes for extended outdoor storage (more than a week). UV exposure degrades the seat mesh and plastic components over time. Rain is fine (the trike is IP65 rated) but prolonged dampness in the battery connector area should be avoided. A fitted trike cover ($45–$85) protects all components and takes 30 seconds to put on.

Can I lock my trike outdoors at a park or cafe?

Yes. Use a high-quality U-lock through the rear frame and a fixed object. A secondary cable lock through one of the front wheels deters casual theft. Remove the battery pack and take it with you for stops over 15 minutes — it’s the most valuable component and takes 30 seconds to detach. Never leave the trike unsecured outdoors overnight.