This study investigates the influence of the composite secondary with the solid and laminated back iron on the thrust, vertical force, secondary losses and efficiency in the prototype single-sided linear induction motor for metro by space harmonic method. First, a 3-D space harmonic analytical model, which can consider the skin effects, secondary constructions as well as end and edge effects, is proposed. Second, the air-gap flux and secondary eddy current density distributions along longitudinal and transverse directions are presented. Then, variations of secondary losses and efficiency with a specific number of secondary back iron laminations are comprehensively compared in the full slip, and the optimal number of laminations is obtained. Third, the propulsive and vertical forces are analytically calculated under full slip, and the efficiency in a range of rated speed is presented. Finally, these results are verified by measurements on an experimental rig of the linear motor.