In the vibrant streets of the Philippines, one vehicle rules the road in small towns and bustling barangays: the tricycle. It’s not just a ride—it’s a symbol of Filipino resilience and ingenuity. From ferrying passengers to carrying sacks of rice, the humble tricycle does it all. Let’s take a deeper look into how this three-wheeled workhorse powers the everyday lives of millions of Filipinos.

A tricycle, or traysikel, is a motorcycle fitted with a sidecar that can seat anywhere from 2 to 7 passengers, depending on its size and customization. It’s a uniquely Filipino evolution of the motorbike, born out of necessity and refined by practicality.

There’s no one-size-fits-all design. In fact, each town or region often has its own tricycle style—from the boxy sidecars of Cavite to the spacious rear-entrance builds in Davao. No matter the shape, they serve the same purpose: affordable, short-distance transport.

Tricycle: a ride for everyjuan

1. Daily CommuteWhether you’re headed to school, the market, or the barangay hall, tricycles are the go-to ride. For as little as ₱10 to ₱30, you can hop on and off your local trike and be dropped off just steps from your door.

2. Barangay Delivery TruckNeed to transport gallons of water, a sack of rice, or even a new appliance? Just call your friendly neighborhood tricycle driver. These bikes are often modified with extended sidecars or roof racks to carry almost anything.

3. Emergency ShuttleIn many rural areas, when there’s no ambulance or taxi available, the tricycle becomes an emergency transport for those rushing to clinics or hospitals.

Popular Tricycle Motorcycle Models

1. Honda

Honda is arguably the most dominant motorcycle brand in the world. Known for its legendary reliability and innovation, Honda’s low-displacement lineup is as broad as it is trusted.

Honda TMX Supremo

The 3rd Generation TMX Supremo now boasts of enhanced features, such as its new and improved engine that maintains its fuel efficiency at 62km/L. It also comes with 18-inch tires, as well as a high ground clearance and a seat height that ensures the riders’ comfort despite the impact of rough roads. This makes the 3rd Generation TMX Supremo better suited for heavy-duty rides and climbs on demanding roads, even when carrying loads.

SRP: Php 78,900

Why Riders Choose Honda:

Honda bikes are celebrated for being low-maintenance, highly fuel-efficient, and built with impeccable Japanese engineering. Whether you’re commuting through traffic or learning the ropes, Honda makes the experience safe, smooth, and reliable.

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2. Yamaha

Yamaha is known for injecting excitement and sharp design into every motorcycle they build. Their low-cc bikes are popular with new riders looking for quality and versatility.

YTX (125cc)

Anchored around its tagline “Lakas! Tibay! Ginhawa!” the YTX 125 is the first ever Yamaha motorcycle exclusively made for the Philippines specifically designed for business. It boasts a new engine and frame, plus fuel efficiency and features that cater to the tricycle business.– It boasts a new engine and frame, plus fuel effieciency and features that cater to the tricycle business.

SRP: Php 57,900

Why Riders Choose Yamaha:

Yamaha offers a refined ride with great performance across the board. The MT and R series appeal to those wanting both practicality and sportiness. Their styling is also a notch above the rest, even in entry-level models.

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3. Kawasaki

Kawasaki is a name often associated with sport performance, and it holds true even in the lower displacement range. Their models are sleek, fast, and confidence-inspiring.

Kawasaki Barako 175

The Kawasaki Barako 175 is a heavy-duty, 175cc, 4-stroke SOHC engine motorcycle, known for its reliability as a tricycle and sidecar-equipped vehicle. It comes in different variants, including the Barako II (Kick Start and Electric Start) and Barako III (Kick Start and Electric Start). The Barako III also features a FI (Fuel Injection) model. Key Features:Engine: 175cc, 4-stroke, Single Overhead Camshaft, Single Cylinder. Maximum Power: 12.74 HP @ 7,500 rpm. Maximum Torque: 1.34 KGF.m. Transmission: 4-speed manual (Barako II Kick Start), 5-speed semi-manual (Barako II Electric Start), 4-speed semi-automatic (Barako III Kick Start and Electric Start). Kawasaki Automatic Compression Release System (KACR): Makes kick starting easier and reduces rider pressure. Sidecar Compatibility: Designed for use with a sidecar. Fuel Injection: The Barako III FI model improves stability, idle, and fuel efficiency. Improved Design: The Barako III features an updated instrument panel, larger fuel tank, and a more rigid frame. Pricing and Availability:The Kawasaki Barako II Kick Start starts at around P91,000. The Kawasaki Barako II Electric Start starts at around P95,000. The Kawasaki Barako III Kick Start starts at around P96,500. The Kawasaki Barako III Electric Start starts at around P100,500. Prices may vary depending on the dealership and specific model. .

Why Riders Choose Kawasaki:

If you’re into performance and want your first bike to feel like a race machine, Kawasaki delivers. The Ninja 400 in particular is a fan favorite for those wanting track capability in an approachable package.

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4. Suzuki

Suzuki takes a more understated approach but remains a favorite among budget-conscious riders who still want quality and performance.

Suzuki Thunder 125

Due to the combination of its powerful 125cc engine, convenient handling and stylish form, the new Suzuki Thunder 125 is perfect as an on-road street bike for leisure/club riding. It is targeted at experienced male riders between 30-40 years old, who have the riding maturity to handle the Suzuki Thunder 125’s relatively larger size, and is expected to appeal to solo riders who wish to upgrade from a standard underbone model.

Why Riders Choose Suzuki:

Suzuki offers reliable, fuel-saving machines with decent styling and performance. The Raider is legendary in the Philippines and surrounding regions for its speed and agility in a compact package.

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5. Rusi

RUSI motorcycles is a relatively new brand in the Filipino motorcycle circuit. It stands for Ramas Uypitching and Sons Inc. … In fact, it has been accounted that lower middle class people use a motorcycle which belongs to a native company in Philippines.

RUSI TC 150

The Rusi TC 150 price in the Philippines can vary. Based on available listings, a Rusi 150cc engine can be found for around ₱8,500 to ₱9,000 on Shopee. A used, complete Rusi 150 motorcycle with papers is listed for ₱19,500, though it may be negotiable. Additionally, a Rusi Flash 150i, which is a fuel-injected model, is listed at ₱70,000, with cash and installment options available.

6. Mitsukoshi/Euro

Mitsukoshi Motors Phils., Inc. (MMPI) has a history dating back to 1997, when it was founded by a group of individuals dedicated to providing affordable and durable motorcycles to Filipinos. They started as a small company, but have grown to become a leading importer, assembler, and distributor of SYM, Euro Motors, and Euro Keeway Motors in the Philippines. The company has focused on providing quality and affordable motorcycles for over 20 years, expanding its market through hard work and dedication.

Euro Daan Hari 150

Euro Motor Daan Hari 150 Cash Amount | ₱44,800.00 *For Luzon, Prices may vary in other areas. You may visit any of our 400+ Mitsukoshi …

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7. Skygo

Skygo is a brand of motorcycles sold in the Philippines, known for its affordable and accessible options. They offer a range of models including the Skygo Prince 125, Wizard 125, and King 150, with prices starting around P39,000 to P43,000. Skygo is manufactured by Lifan Group, a Chinese motorcycle and automobile manufacturer.

Skygo Earl 150.

The Earl 150 is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled 150cc engine, which makes 13 PS of maximum power and 10 Nm peak torque paired with a 4-speed …

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8. Kawasaki Bajaj

Kawasaki and Bajaj are motorcycle manufacturers that have a business relationship, particularly in the Philippines. Kawasaki Heavy Industries is the parent company of Kawasaki motorcycles, while Bajaj Auto is an Indian company. In the Philippines, Kawasaki Motors Corporation distributes both Kawasaki and Bajaj models, including the CT100, CT125, Pulsar N250, and Dominar 400.

CT100 is the flagship model of the CT series. It sports a 100cc engine with 4-stroke and SOHC. This design is brought to you by Bajaj technology.e RTR 160 4V – A favorite for urban and semi-sporty riding.

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9. Motorstar

MotorStar is a well-known motorcycle brand in the Philippines, recognized for offering affordable, practical, and versatile motorcycles and scooters designed for Filipino riders. Manufactured by Eastworld Motor Industries Corporation (EMIC), MotorStar imports and assembles motorcycles sourced mainly from China, then customizes them to meet local riding conditions and market demands.

Star X 125S

This budget-friendly motorcycle gets a circular headlamp with turn indicators as well as a front fender with a chrome finish and a pair of 17-inch wheels. At the back, it gets a chrome fender, tubular grab rail for mounting cargo, and a pillion seat. Other features include a pass switch and an instrument console that displays a speedometer and odometer.

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10. Motoposh ( for tricycle)

Motoposh is a leading Filipino motorcycle brand and distributor, known for its affordable and diverse range of motorcycles, including the “Vintage 170i” and “Evo 170 EFI” models. They have over 300 branches nationwide and are a proud part of the Exponent-Konka Group, Inc, which is a leading end-to-end motorcycle and Japanese used trucks company in the Philippines. They are known for their focus on providing Filipino riders with quality and affordable transportation options.

MOTOPOSH PINOY 155

Engine, 155cc Motoposh Brand, 4 Stroke, 1 Cylinder. Displacement, 155cc. Fuel System, Carburetor System.

SRP: Php 46,000

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Tips for Choosing the Right Motorcycle For your Tricycle build.

1. Define Your Purpose: Are you riding daily, just learning, or weekend cruising?

2. Consider Engine Size: 125cc for city riding. 150cc for power and loading.

3. Check Comfort and Fit: Seat height, riding position, and weight matter.

4. Stick to Your Budget: Always test ride and compare before buying.

5. Size and weight: Consider the size of sidecar you are planning to install to your motorcycle carrier.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a commuter bike, a beginner sportbike, or something stylish for your weekend adventures, these 10 low-displacement motorcycle brands are delivering the best in value and performance across the globe.

Which one’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this article with fellow riders! For more motorcycle guides, reviews, and tips, subscribe to our Blog Site: A rider’s Perspective. and learn more.

For travel and budgetarian ride ideas in the Philippines visit ditokayshellan.com.

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