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March 6, 2024
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Rad Power Bikes, arguably the largest e-bike manufacturer in the United States, has just announced four new e-bikes. These are updates to models we’ve tested in the past, and from our experience so far we can say that each of these e-bikes has evolved in important ways.
The new e-bikes from Rad Power Bikes include the Radster Road. The Radster Road is a simple, single-speed commuter e-bike with mechanical disc brakes. It comes in two versions: the Radster Road, which we will discuss here, and the Radster Trail, which you can find here.
The Radster Road starts with a 750W (500W in Canada) brushless hub motor powered by a 720Wh battery. It now comes with an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes and hydraulic fork, and tires tailored to the needs of commuters.
Rad Power Bikes has also introduced new battery technology to make their batteries even safer. More on that in a moment.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Spec Review: Bike Overview
Rad Power Bikes is now adding another commuter option RadCity 5 Plus. The Power Bikes Radster Road is aimed at commuters and differs from the Radster Trail in the wheels and tires chosen by Rad Power Bikes. For the Radster Road, Rad Power Bikes opted for 29 inches. Wheels and 2.2-inch wide tires, while the Radster Trail received 27.5 inches. wheels and 3 inch wide tires; The outside diameter of both tires is almost the same. So what changes is the level of traction and cushioning that the off-road version has, while the road version rolls faster and more efficiently.
The Radster Road comes as a Class 2 e-bike with a maximum pedal assist speed of 20 mph and features a throttle to give tired legs a break. It can be unlocked for a Class 3 maximum assist speed of 28 miles per hour.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Specs and Features
frame and fork
The Power Bikes Radster Road is now available in two frame sizes to better accommodate a wide range of rider sizes. It comes with comprehensive accessories: mudguards, luggage rack, front and rear lights and a stand. The frame features a semi-step-thru design with a relatively low standover height.
The Radster Road is equipped with a suspension fork with 80mm of travel to smooth out road bumps, road edges and driveway edges. Since it is a hydraulic fork, it has oil damping and a steel coil spring that provides a smoother movement.
Motor and battery
With a 750W geared brushless hub motor delivering 100Nm of torque, this is an e-bike that will enjoy tremendous acceleration. This is a big improvement in engine performance.
The 720Wh battery features Rad Power Bikes’ new Safe Shield technology. With Safe Shield, the battery is “potted,” meaning each cell is surrounded by a heat-absorbing resin that protects against overheating and corrosion. In the event of an accident, it helps prevent thermal runaway, which results in fires starting. This new battery is UL 2271 certified. In addition, the entire electronic system is certified according to UL 2849.
Rad Power Bikes estimates the Radster Road will have a range of between 26 and 65 miles, depending on how much assistance they choose.
Components
Rad Power Bikes has given the Radster Road a nice component package. It is equipped with an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain with an easy-to-use trigger shifter under the handlebar. The freewheel now has a range of around 310 percent (11-34 t), making this e-bike suitable for mountain use.
Tektro hydraulic disc brakes feature 180mm front and rear disc brakes to provide easy control for the Radster Road’s pilot.
Since the Radster Road is intended as a commuter bike, the handlebars have a little more swing than the Radster Trail. This allows the driver to sit a little more upright. This makes it easier to look around traffic and keep an eye on both drivers and pedestrians.
The headlight has also been improved from other Rad Power models. The Radster Road is equipped with a Spanninga HALO+ 100 Lux (200 lumens) headlight.
First test report on the Power Bikes Radster Road from EBR:
Riders looking for an affordable commuter bike with a comfortable ride will definitely want to add the Power Bikes Radster Road bike to their shortlist. The frame design is definitely an upgrade, looks elegant and is easy to assemble.
Another new feature introduced with Rad Power’s new models is a security fob that allows owners to lock their e-bike’s electronics, adding an additional layer of security.
The more powerful motor, improved battery, and improvements to the drivetrain and brakes make this a great buy for anyone looking to keep their spending under $2,000.
Commuters looking for a zippy e-bike that has the power to reach Class 3 speeds and offers a safe and secure ride at high speeds should definitely consider the Power Bikes Radster Road look at it closer.
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