Addmotor Freetan M-368X Full-Sus Semi-Recumbent eTrike Review

Range is, of course, one of the most important factors in an electric mobility device. If you purchase a trike with too little range, you’re likely to be disappointed that you can’t stay out longer or frustrated that you can’t reach your destination.

Since electric tricycles aren’t known for their speed in their lowest PAS levels (as shown by the Speed Test above), we test each using only its highest power setting. This gives us a realistic floor; most riders should reach this benchmark and have the potential to exceed it.

Our test rider, my colleague Ryan, traveled 40.1 miles using the Freetan’s highest assist level, PAS 7. For context, other e-trikes we’ve reviewed covered an average of 37.2 miles, so the Freetan is in the same ballpark.

It certainly is ahead in both motor power and battery capacity. Most of the other models in our comparison group had 500W motors and batteries that averaged 717 Wh, while the Freetan carries a 750W motor and a 960 Wh battery.

With a larger-than-average motor, however, comes higher power demands (hence the larger battery). Case in point: the same group of other models used an average of 19.4 watt-hours per mile (Wh/mi), while the Freetan M-368X’s motor consumed a significantly higher 24 Wh/mi.

Still, a minimum of 40 miles of range should cover even relatively extreme use cases; it’s sure to be generous enough for most leisure, exercise, or errand-running rides. Many riders will likely get multiple trips before needing to recharge.

Of course, our test rider weighed 200 lbs, and we conducted this test without cargo, so potential buyers who are heavier or who plan to carry cargo should expect fewer miles.

The trike’s charger is one of our primary areas of critique. Given its remarkably large battery, which the included 2A charger will take roughly 10 hours to top up when completely depleted, we hoped to see something like a 4A charger to made recharging more manageable and less time consuming.

Ultimately, the Freetan gave us average to above-average results, so we consider it to be appropriately specced for the needs of most riders.

To test the Freetan M-368X’s uphill power, we tested both its throttle and pedal assist system on an extended climb (as explained in the graphic above). Our test rider, Justin, completed the throttle portion of the test in 2:15 with an average of 13.4 mph. His pedal time added a few seconds, with a result of 2:20 at 12.9 mph.

Overall, the trike performed very well here. Other trikes we’ve tested at the same hill averaged significantly longer times of 2:29 on throttle and 2:27 when pedaling. This is interesting because, while the Freetan has some clear advantages in terms of raw power, it also has a significant drawback.

As I mentioned in the section above, most of the other trikes in our comparison group had 500W motors that were less powerful than the Freetan’s 750W motor. On average, these motors could reach a peak of 1161W and produce 73 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, while the Addmotor tops out at 1400W and 90 Nm.

At face value, these differences could explain the Freetan’s faster climbing times, but its results are even more impressive when considering weight.

Trikes tend to be relatively heavy; models in our comparison group weighed an average of 95 pounds. Being significantly larger and bearing more complex construction than many of these models, the Freetan is advertised to weigh 148 lbs. We were unable to weigh the trike—it was too heavy for our scale—but we’re confident that it’s in that ballpark.

Even when exceeding our category average by roughly 50 lbs, the Freetan managed to complete its test successfully and climbed faster by a significant margin, making the job of reaching the top both relatively quick and low-effort.

I had a similar experience when testing the trike at our secondary location, Pilot Hill. On throttle, the trike moved both steadily and confidently, hardly losing steam. Under pedal power, the climb was slightly more active, but still remarkably easy—this was actually the faster of my two tests.

It’s worth noting that I tested the Freetan twice at this hill: once after a longer test ride and some filming, and again after a fresh charge. The experience above was my second attempt, performed after a full charge. The first time I attempted the test, the trike seemed to lose power and struggle somewhat as I climbed.

It’s entirely possible that the motor just needed to cool down after my other testing. As I explained above, after topping up and a few hours of rest, the experience was completely different.

Overall, based on the Freetan’s formal test results and my second trip to Pilot Hill, I feel I can confidently say that this is undoubtedly one of the more powerful and capable three-wheelers we’ve tested, and that this trike is built to handle hilly terrain.

As with its previous tests, the Addmotor Freetan M-368X performed well in our Brake Test.

Our method for testing the stopping power of trikes is as follows: our test rider, Michael, brings each to roughly 15 mph (a common speed limit shared by many models) before applying the brakes. He then measures how far the trike travels before stopping completely. We average the results of three tests for a final score.

While other trikes we’ve tested averaged a moving distance of 12’5″ after their brakes were applied, the Freetan averaged an even 13’0″.

This distance is somewhat beyond the average, but given the fact that this model exceeds the average weight of other trikes by roughly 50 pounds, we consider it both safe and impressive.

Comparing brake systems between electric tricycles can be somewhat difficult, as they tend to vary widely in style and type, but a majority rely on hydraulic systems with two calipers and rotors. In contrast, Addmotor equipped the Freetan with mechanical disc brakes that use 180mm rotors on all three wheels.

Mechanical brake systems are generally considered less effective than hydraulics, but in this case, the addition of a third rotor seems to have offset that to a large degree. As is common with this style of brake, the Freetan’s brake levers require fairly firm grip pressure to stop quickly, but overall, the system modulated speed with relative ease and brought the trike to a halt reliably.

Considering that electric tricycles are often used by aging riders with limited grip strength, we encourage Addmotor to switch to a hydraulic system in the future for increased ease of use. With its current setup, however, we’re satisfied with the Freetan’s overall braking capability. Despite being among the heaviest trikes we’ve tested, it performed consistently well.

While the Freetan M-368X has performed well in the sections detailed above, ride quality is perhaps its greatest strength. As I touched on in the introduction to this review, this trike is geared towards comfort, but the overall package is well-rounded.

Addmotor offers a single frame size with a recommended fit range between 5’1″ and 6’7″. With its relatively large footprint, this is understandable; shorter riders may be able to find a comfortable seating position and throttle around, but the Freetan is clearly designed with average to tall riders in mind.

At 5’11”, I felt perfectly accommodated, which was no shock given the trike’s huge range of adjustability. Riders can adjust the padded seat’s backrest angle and its longitudinal position (it moves forward and back on rails). It’s also possible to adjust the handlebars’ vertical positioning with a rotating adjustable stem, their longitudinal position via a telescoping function, and their sweep/angle by loosening the stem’s top plate and rotating their position.

As a semi-recumbent trike, the Freetan’s seating position is relatively uncommon; riders aren’t fully reclined, but tilted backward somewhere between a supine and upright position. With this design and the forward location of the bottom bracket, pedaling feels like more of a forward movement than a downward one.

The result is a relaxed, supported, and enjoyable ride. All in all, it’s one of the most adaptable and comfortable setups I’ve encountered, which means that it’s almost guaranteed that the majority of riders should be able to find a suitable fit. The Freetan’s remarkably low standover height of 11.4″ also makes it incredibly easy to get on and off – provided you can push or pull yourself up from the seat.

In terms of handling, the Freetan is relatively unique for a delta-style (one wheel in front, two in back) trike. More compact delta-style trikes tend to be tippy when cornering, but the Addmotor’s long wheelbase helps it to feel more stable in comparison; it’s still possible to tip up on two wheels when cornering sharply at higher speeds, but overall, the trike feels generally planted.

It’s worth mentioning the Freetan’s steering mechanism; there’s a noticeable angle in its steering column formed by a universal joint (shrouded by a removable cover plate). This allows the handlebars to rotate more vertically instead of horizontally. It’s a cool setup that makes this semi-recumbent design work.

Combined with the Freetan’s 20×4″ fat tires, it also has the benefit of giving this trike very responsive steering. Small movements of the handlebars translate to impactful (but still predictable) changes in direction. In my experience, this approach fits the Freetan’s relaxed vibe well.

Those tires are worth mentioning more about, too—they have a unique hybrid tread (I call them “city knobs”) that balance traction with low rolling resistance. They performed well on both paved surfaces and pea gravel, making the Freetan suitable for cruising streets, paved paths, and relatively smooth dirt or gravel multi-use trails.

The tires also work well in conjunction with the trike’s full suspension. It is equipped with a beefy 80mm suspension fork and two coil shocks beneath the seat. In my experience, larger dips and bumps were still noticeable, but the ride was generally smooth and comfortable most of the time.

As I touched on in the Speed Test section above, the Freetan’s 750W motor definitely puts some power behind the ride. There’s ample muscle for tackling hills and accelerating, though it generally stays controlled and easy to manage.

One thing I didn’t hit is how the motor engages. Addmotor’s website explains that the trike uses a combination of both torque and cadence sensors, though in my experience, the Freetan is much more cadence-based than torque-based.

While there did seem to be some responsiveness to power output based on my pedal pressure, most of the time, the motor delivered steady output as long as I turned the cranks. The result is an easy experience that’s suitable for new riders and those looking for a casual, low-effort feel.

In terms of its features and accessories, the Freetan M-368X is well-equipped without being overloaded. It includes fenders, a rear cargo basket, integrated lights and turn signals, an electronic horn, and side mirrors. It also has a button to deactivate the throttle, which can eliminate the possibility of accidentally engaging it, or instantly limit the trike to Class 1 functionality if riding in a location where throttles are not allowed.

I’ve mentioned a few areas with room for improvement, but I’d like to include a few more under the same overarching theme. Along with hydraulic brakes and a faster charger, I’d love to see a color display, lock-on grips, and a reverse throttle function to increase the Freetan’s overall value. These are relatively small upgrades that would greatly enhance the trike’s already great user experience.

A final word about the trike’s user interface; the black-and-white display, while basic, is well-organized and completely usable. There are a handful of customization options that can be accessed through a simple settings menu—things like speed, backlight brightness, etc.

The Freetan does not pair with Addmotor’s app, but it can still be used to get turn-by-turn navigation, to track rides, and to interact with other Addmotor riders via a social-media-like platform.

All in all, the Freetan M-368X offers a lot, including a remarkably adjustable and comfortable ride. Many of these features are above and beyond what we’re used to seeing on e-trikes, though with the Freetan’s price point of roughly $3,300 (at the time of writing), they are things that you should expect to pay more for.

Considering Addmotor’s reputation as an established maker of quality e-trikes for adults, we were excited for the opportunity to work with the brand—and hopeful that the Freetan M-368X would live up to the hype. As we’ve seen throughout this review, the trike delivered solid performance, great overall functionality, and a supremely comfortable ride.

I think it’s safe to say that, at least so far, we’re impressed.

Case in point: the Freetan scored well in all areas of our testing. It is both powerful and controlled, with intuitive programming and a wide range of assist levels to suit the needs of different riders. It also has great range potential, strong climbing capabilities, and safe braking. Ride quality was another strength—in our experience, the Freetan is fun, easy, and thoroughly enjoyable to ride.

We find the Addmotor Freetan M-368X easy to recommend for those seeking a plush, adaptable, and seriously capable electric tricycle. Its sizing and weight capacity makes it ideal for average and taller riders up to 280 lbs who don’t mind the trike’s relatively large footprint. In our experience, it’s equally ideal for leisure, exercise, and errand running.

Priced around $3,300, the Freetan is a mid-to-premium-tier product. In most areas, its feel and performance are reflected in its cost, but we feel there is still some room for improvement in terms of overall value and quality of life. Our wishlist for the future includes items such as a faster charger, a hydraulic brake system, a color display, lock-on grips, and a reverse-throttle function to enhance maneuverability.

Wishlist items aside, however, the Freetan’s greatest draws are its comfort and cool factors. Riding this trike feels extremely comfortable, but it’s also one of the more unique e-trikes out there—and for that reason, it’s sure to turn some heads. Getting out and about isn’t about drawing attention, but this trike is hard to miss, and there’s something about that element that also inspires some confidence.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Freetan M-368 Full-Suspension Semi-Recumbent eTrike down in our comments section.