2018 Harley-Davidson Trike Freewheeler

Harvard poet T.S. Eliot wrote this famous line way back in 1915. But like, 103 years ago, how could he possibly have predicted the Harley-Davidson Freewheeler trike? Search us. But let’s make our visit anyway. The Freewheeler uses H-D’s latest counterbalanced Milwaukee-Eight 107ci engine, a special frame with, naturally, a belt-driven dual rear-wheel setup. Because bikes don’t have power steering, the chunky (claimed 1,118 pounds wet) Freewheeler has a wide and tall apehanger handlebar that grants extra steering leverage, plus a damper to quell steering shake. Extra-potent six-piston front brake calipers help get this triceratops stopped.

A lockable 2.0-cubic-foot trunk nestles between the rear wheels, which are controlled by air shocks adjustable for different loads. Hey! Secret intel for your next office party: The Freewheeler’s 205/65R-15 rear tires are the same size as a Citroën Picasso’s. (Sorry, bad car joke.) In operation, like other trikes, the Freewheeler takes adaptation by the rider, primarily because it doesn’t lean into corners, but also because the wide rear end makes tagging curbs, cars, buildings, or other hazards possible.

Likes: The Freewheeler allows riders with disabilities to enjoy motorcycling. Well done, H-D.

Dislikes: Too wide. Too heavy. Too tippy. Too unwieldy. Too many wheels…

Verdict: Harley says the Freewheeler builds "confidence." To us, that would be in a very limited role, such as riding on a long, straight road.