Top 6 Rad Power Bikes Reviewed

by Ruaan Nel 

June 1, 2023

The table below our top results for:
Top 6 Rad Power Bikes Reviewed 

You can use the filter on the left (or above if you're on mobile) to narrow down the results even further.

Image
Name
Price range
Score
Rad Power RadCity Step-thru 5 tiger orange
$1500 to $2000
95/100
0 user reviews
RadRover-6-Plus-Review
$1500 to $2000
93/100
0 user reviews
Rad Power Expand 5 folding fat tire e-bike
$1500 to $2000
90/100
1 user reviews
rad power radrunner 2 review
$1000 to $1500
90/100
0 user reviews
Unbiased Rad Power RadWagon Review (Updated 2020)
$1500 to $2000
87/100
1 user reviews

Each score is calculated by combining our professional review rating with user reviews, for a final score out of 100. You can read more about how we calculate our scores here.

If you own any of the e-bikes in this review, feel free to leave a user rating by following the link to the bike's in depth review. 

Introduction

Rad Power is a Seattle based consumer-direct e-bike company that offers high-quality e-bikes at a relatively low price.

In 2007, when he was just a high-schooler, Mike Radenbaugh built his first e-bike as he need a convenient way to get to school.

From there on he would locally work on people's bikes, converting traidtional bikes into e-bikes and would continue doing so until 2015.

Around that time he joins forces with college roommate Ty Collins in order to transition RabPower from a local brand to an international goliath.

A trusted bike manufacturing company like Rad Power Bikes will give you the best value for your money.

One of the main reasons as to why you get such a high quality e-bike at such an affordable price is because RadPower deal directly with the consumer.

In order to help you make a well-informed decision, in this article we share with you some basic but fundemental info you need to be aware of before making a purchase.

We also go through 5 of the best Rad Power Bikes and their features and specifications.

In a hurry? After 35 hours of research we recommend:

This awesome e-bike is also complete with basic and important components such as full-coverage plastic fenders, hybrid tires, LED front and tail lights, and an upgraded rear rack and added with an adjustable suspension fork. What more would you want for? 

Rad Power Expand 5

Our Budget Pick

RadExpand 5

RadExpand 5 from Rad Power bikes is a compact and fat tire foldable e-bike choice which is perfect for saving space in your garage. 

Rad Power Bikes RadRover

Off-Road Pick

Rad Power RadRover 6

If you want a powerful and good quality electric bike without sacrificing your budget, then this RadRover Bike from Rad Power Bikes can be your best choice. 

Quick Comparison Table

Best for Off-Road
Rad Power RadRover 6

Rad Power Bikes RadRover

Powerful and good quality electric bike

  • Adjustable handleba
  • Pedal assist with 12-magnet sensor
  • Affordable price
Budget Pick
Rad Power Expand 5
Rad Power Expand 5 e-bike

Compact and fat tire foldable e-bike

  • 7 Speed Micro-Shift
  • Compact 
  • 750W Motor

Things you should know before purchasing a Rad Power Electric bike

  • Who are they for?

    Electric bikes are designed based on different people with different purposes which. 

    It's important to know what you'll be using your e-bike for and purchase a model accordingly.

    E-bikes can be used in different kinds of outdoor activities including but not limited to:

    child transportation, cargo hauling, road biking, fat tire off-road biking, trail riding, mountain biking, urban commuting, downhill riding, or even just traveling.

  • What kind of Drive?

    Electric bikes also come in two different types  ‘Pedelec’ and ‘Twist-n-go’.

    Pedelec is the most common type of system attached into an electric bike. It monitors the pedaling of the rider and helps them to have an extra kick-off by automatically adding a certain amount of resistance in the motor that commonly depends on the rate, speed, and force.

    The maximum speed in some places is limited to 25 km/h and motors are limited to 250W.

    Some e-bike models can reach a top speed of 45k/h however, the rider still needs a special driver’s license, insurance, as well as plates.

    On the other hand, the other type of e-bike system is the ‘twist-n-go’usually uses a switch and allows the rider to trigger motor assistance.

  • What kind of Motor?

    The most crucial and important component is usually the motor.

    There's two types of motors, Mid-drive motors and Hub Motors.

    The Hub Motor is the most common type of e-bike motor, the motor is placed in the center of the bike wheel.

    Mid-drive motors are placed closer to the center of the e-bike and are becoming much more common.

    Both types of motors have their own sets of pros and cons.

    Hub motors are far easier to maintain, however they're most commonly far heavier than mid-drive motors

    Hub Motors can be placed on both the front or the rear of the bike

    Mid Drive Motors were designed to have a better gear ratio than hub motors and are commonly lighter.

    Mid Drive motors can, however, be very hard on the bike's components.

  • What kind of Battery?

    Most models or average electric bikes use lithium-ion batteries. However, pricey e-bikes can have advanced tech batteries with lighter materials, quick-charge, and commonly lasts longer.

    The life and effectiveness of the battery usually hold less energy and degrades over time.

    So we strongly recommend purchasing from the reputable battery brands that offer at least two years warranty.

    Lithium-ion batteries are known for its long-lasting life specifically lasts for 800 full charge cycles or 3 years of weekday commuting.

    With careful use, it could survive for up to 2,000 half-charge cycles.

    As I mentioned earlier, a full charge battery typically takes between 2 ½ to 6 hours depending on the battery’s manufacturer, chemistry, as well as its capacity.

  • How far could it go?

    The most important specification of the best e-bike is the range, or how far the bike could go in a single battery charge.

    Uphill riding can commonly run out the battery power halfway up which is why it is important to fully charge the battery before using it.

    There are many different factors that can affect the range of an e-bike including, its battery capacity, the weight of the driver or luggage, frequent changes in speed, and tons of other factors.

    For example, if you are going to a 10km of daily commuting, you don’t actually need a 70km range.

    You should choose an e-bike with a range that suits your commuting tour profile.

  • How much does it cost?

    The cost of an e-bike can vary greatly due to a number of factors.

    RadPower's circumvents the traditional dealership practice and deals directly with consumers, skipping the process of selling to distributors and retailers, which ultimately means higher-quality and lower prices for the consumer.

  • Always test drive.

    When buying electric bikes, you should, if possible, ask the retailer for a test drive.

    This allows you to see if the bike fits you physically, as well as checking out the quality of it. 

    If you often traverse hilly/mountian  terrains, find yourself a more off-road focused bike, raher than a city commuter.

So now that we all know the things to consider before purchasing a good quality electric bike, here are some of the best and the hottest electric bikes from Rad Power Bikes.

rad power rad rover electric bike

Top 5 Rad Power E-Bikes for 2024


1. Rad Power Radrover 6 Plus - Rad Top Pick

The Radrover 6 plus has proven itself as one of, if not the best Class 2 fat tire electric bikes currently available within that spectrum.

Overcoming all obstacles, especially those during the winter, is made possible with its fat tires, first-class suspension, and the RST spring fork fixed on the front - all of them guarantee stability.

Most Class 2 e-bikes can’t boast about the comfort level present with the saddle or the reliability of the handlebar - unlike the Radrover 6 plus, which offers a comfortable and adjustable seat alongside a soft but firm grip on the handlebar.

RadRover 6 new Electric Bike

Rad Power Radrover 6 Plus Soruce: radpowerebikes.com

An integrated taillight, brake-light indicator, and a LED headlight will ensure the rider’s safety during all late-night cycling sessions.

No matter what type of weather you encounter - the hydraulic disc brakes will effortlessly stop the bike in its tracks in a matter of seconds when the time comes.

The secondary LCD has also proven itself a tad inconvenient during sunny days, as it gets quite difficult to point out every bit of information present on the display.

Also, the Essential Kit Rad bundle features front and back fenders that are primarily made of plastic - heavier items shouldn’t be placed into them as it may cause some issues.

Still, with a 750W geared hub motor, a Lithium Rad battery, aluminum-alloy rims, and a durable front-suspension fork - you can effortlessly take on any terrain.

Read our full Rad Power Radrover 6 Plus Review here.

What we like:

  • Superb brakes
  • Excellent geared hub motor
  • Long-lasting semi-integrated battery
  • Front-suspension fork
  • Unparalleled stability
  • Comfortable and adjustable saddle
  • LED headlight
  • Integrated taillight

What we didn't like:

  • Direct sunlight hinders the visibility of the secondary LCD.
  • Front and back fenders are made from plastic.

2. Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru

First one on the list is the RadCity Step-thru bike from Rad Power Bikes. This bike is ideal for city riding and offers comfortable components such as city style design, one frame size, handlebars, and an adjustable stem for improving fit range.

This awesome e-bike is also complete with basic and important components such as full-coverage plastic fenders, hybrid tires, LED front and tail lights, and an upgraded rear rack and added with an adjustable suspension fork. What more would you want for? 

Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru

Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru

With this RadCity Step-thru bike, you are always ready for the ride in any conditions and applications.

Read our full Rad Power RadCity Review here.

What we like:

  • Puncture Resistant Tires
  • Adjustable stem to fit range
  • Adjustable spring suspension fork with lockout
  • Integrated rear rack
  • Half-twist Throttle
  • 5 Level Pedal assist with 12-magnet sensor
  • Safety motors in brake levers (180 mm brake rotors)
  • 750W Brushless Motor
  • 7- Speed Shimano Shifter
  • AAA Batteries for rear lights
  • Affordable price

What we didn't like:

  • Can be heavy without power
  • 20 mph speed
  • Seat Can be iffy

Rad Power Bikes RadCity Step-Thru


3. RadExpand 5 Electric Folding Bike

E-biking enthusiasts eagerly waited for an affordable unit capable of conquering all types of terrain, regardless of how unfavorable they might be, while simultaneously proving little difficulties when trying to transport that type of e-bike.

Luckily, the time came, sooner rather than later, when Rad Power Bikes launched their definitive answer to our prayers - the RadExpand 5.


Rad-Power-Expand-5

Rad Expand 5

With exceptionally fat tires and an incorporated folding system - you won’t have any problems transporting your e-bike while traveling to a designated area. This combination has proven itself numerous times, even though the RadExpand 5 isn’t a particularly old e-bike.

On the contrary, with many different accessories that you can choose from, such as the large or medium front-mounted basket, a saddle with enhanced levels of comfort, the Rad mirror, or a GUB PRO-3 phone mount - this e-bike truly sits at an affordable price tag.

The list of possible accessories goes on and on. Still, we guarantee that all of them have proven themselves reliable, except for the Premium Headlights, which aren’t necessary as the standard headlights provide plenty of light whenever you decide to take a ride during the night.

On the topic of safety - the Rad frames effortlessly met the European Committee for Standardizations guidelines, as well as the U.S. Customer Product Safety Commission standards - the RadExpand 5 guarantees a safe and comfortable ride.

Did someone mention comfort?

With the adjustable riser bar that can move in or out, you are left with a fat-tired foldable e-bike that can be tailored to meet your length criteria.

Not to mention the 750W brushless geared hub motor, 672Wh battery that comes with the Rad Power Bikes smart charger, custom LED, front and rear integrated lights, 6061 aluminum frame, and Rad Power 180mm disc brakes - an all in all complete e-bike.

Read full Rad Expand 5 Review:

What we like:

  • Foldable design
  • Easy to transport
  • Exceptional fat tires
  • A wide range of additional accessories
  • Affordable price tag
  • Excellent motor
  • Durable frame
  • Long Lasting battery

What we didn't like:

  • The Premium Headlights accessory doesn’t provide a premium-like advantage.
  • A larger LED would be nicer, as this one is quite small.
Rad Power Expand 5 folding fat tire e-bike

RadExpand 5 E-Bike


4. Rad Power Bikes RadWagon

RadWagon e-bike from Rad Power Bikes is probably the most feature-rich electric bike among the list. 

It offers better control and operation thanks to its cadence sensing pedal assist and throttle. 

You can also enjoy comfortable riding thanks to its adjustable bars, gearless direct-drive hub motor, integrated headlights, skirt guard, and other accessories.

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon

In addition, the gearless hub motor is also capable of regenerative braking which captures or recharge more energy while braking. Pretty impressive.

Read our full Rad Power RadWagon Review here.

What we like:

  • Cargo rack with wood panels
  • Adjustable handlebar, pedal kickstand, and saddle
  • Suspension fork with lockout
  • Pedal assist with cadence sensor
  • Lithium-ion battery for longer battery life
  • Integrated headlights
  • Lots of compatible accessories
  • Affordable price

What we didn't like:

  • Tires could be better
  • 20 mph
  • The bike stand can sometimes tip

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon


5. Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

RadPower's Radrunner is yet another affordable e-bike, at the cost of around $1200. 

It's a very big and heavy utility bike equipped with an aluminum frame. The bike itself weighs around 65lbs.

The fat tire wheels, the brushless motor and the battery all undoubtedly contribute to the weight of this bike. 

The Motor is a 750W Brushless motor and the batter is a 48V/14Ah Lithium Battery.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

This bike is jam packed with features, such as a dual leg kickstand, LED display and a ton of other features which we're going to list down bellow.

Another important thing to note is there's 300+ accessories available for this bike so you can customize it as you see fit!

Read our full Rad Power RadRadrunner Review here.

What we like:

  • Heavy-duty materials
  • Adjustable seat
  • 4 Levels of Pedal Assist
  • Up to 45 Miles of Range
  • Excellent strength and durability
  • Puncture Resistant Tires
  • Tektro Brakes
  • 12 Gauge Spokes
  • Twist throttle for instant power
  • 750W Brushless Motor
  • Double Wall Rims
  • Very customizable
  • Affordable price

What we didn't like:

  • Very Heavy
  • Hard to maneouver off-road

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner


6. RadMission Electric Metro Bike

Rad Power makes more affordable models, and RadMission is the most budget-friendly option of all. Associating this bike with subpar specs would be the worst mistake out there!

The first notable thing about this bike is how light it is. Weighing 50 pounds, RadMission weighs well under the industry standard of 70-80 pounds!

The Design

The first thing we can say about this bike is that the design is very simple. It’s designed to be an affordable commuter and to make the user’s life easier. RadMission is available in four color options: red, black, white, and grey.

RadMission

The 6061 aluminum frame, rigid steel fork,durable rubber round grips, and an aluminum swept-back handlebar make RadMission very durable. Also, the 27.5” x 1.95” Kenda Kontact tires make the strolls around the city as comfortable as possible.

Specs

RadMission packs a slightly smaller motor than the Rad Power’s usual. Don’t let that bother you - with the 500W hub motor (instead of 750W), this Class-2 bike can still easily reach 20mph with the twist throttle.

The drivetrain is a single-speed, so it’s super easy to ride, even if you’re just a beginner. Single-speed drivetrains also require little to no maintenance, which is also a plus.

The battery is slightly smaller - a 504 Wh instead of 674 Wh. The battery specs are 10.5Ah, 48V and they give you a mile range of 45 and more miles.

The control panel is very simple, with a small LED screen and few controls. The buttons on the panel are to switch between the pedal-assist modes and turn on lights. The flaw of the control panel is that you cannot check out battery life - so you have to plug it in based on your hunch.

Read our full RadMission Electric Metro Bike Review here.


Conclusion

All of the electric bikes from Rad Power Bikes I have mentioned above offer different features from each other. The decision is still on you, choose the best and suited one for your needs, purposes, and budget as well.Have you chosen the best electric bikes for you?

Our best choice would be the RadWagon electric bike, mainly because it offers tons of essential features that every best e-bike should have included easy control operations, pedal assist, adjustable components, and gearless direct-drive hub motor for regenerative braking.

Riding a bike does definitely provides benefits in our daily lives that includes keeping us healthy and fit, saving transportation costs, exploring anew place, and of course, it helps on saving our planet as well by reducing pollution from diesel cars.

Happy Riding!

About the author

Ruaan is an electrical engineer born in South Africa and currently working in Oslo, Norway. He loves tech and gadgets and owns an electric car (Tesla) as well a front-wheel-drive electric bike. He rides his bike all year, even through snow and ice covered roads in the cold winter.

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