Rad Power Bikes RadTrike Review: An E-Trike Built for Stability and Affordability
Last Updated on September 3, 2024 by Kristina Grant
The Rad Power Bikes RadTrike is a purpose-built electric tricycle designed for riders who prioritize stability and comfort over speed. It boasts a powerful 750W motor, a comfortable riding position, and a low center of gravity, making it a great option for seniors, people with mobility limitations, or anyone who wants a relaxing and enjoyable way to get around.
Pros:
- Stable and secure: The low center of gravity and three-wheeled design make the RadTrike incredibly stable, even at higher speeds.
- Comfortable: The adjustable seat, backrest, and high-rise handlebars ensure a comfortable riding position for riders of all heights.
- Affordable: Compared to other electric trikes on the market, the RadTrike is a very affordable option.
- Powerful motor: The 750W motor can easily handle hills and provide enough power for most riders.
- Long range: The 480Wh battery offers a range of 25-59 miles on a single charge.
- Easy to maneuver: The reverse throttle makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Portable: The removable seatpost, folding handlebars, and split-frame design make the RadTrike relatively portable for an e-trike.
- Safety features: The RadTrike comes equipped with a bright LED headlight, taillight, fenders with reflectors, and a parking brake.
Cons:
- No speed readout: The display only shows battery level and PAS level. You’ll need a phone mount and app to see your speed.
- No gears: The single-speed drivetrain may not be ideal for riders who encounter very steep hills.
- Limited top speed: The RadTrike’s top speed is capped at 14 mph, which may be too slow for some riders.
Who is it good for?
The RadTrike is a great option for:
- Seniors or people with mobility limitations who want a safe and stable way to get around.
- Riders who prioritize comfort and ease of use over speed.
- People who live in urban areas and need a practical and affordable mode of transportation.
- Anyone who wants a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors.
Performance in Various Conditions
The RadTrike’s performance can vary depending on the riding conditions:
- Urban Environments: Its compact size and maneuverability make it well-suited for navigating city streets and crowded areas. The pedal assist feature can help you navigate traffic and hills with ease.
- Hills: The powerful 750W motor can handle moderate hills with ease. However, steep inclines may require more effort from the rider, especially in higher gears.
- Trails: While the RadTrike can handle light trails, it’s not designed for rugged off-road terrain. Its wider tires and stable design provide good traction on paved surfaces and gentle trails.
- Weather: The RadTrike is equipped with weather-resistant components, allowing you to ride in most conditions. However, extreme weather such as heavy rain or snow may affect performance.
Key Considerations
- Single-Speed Drivetrain: While the single-speed drivetrain simplifies maintenance, it may limit your ability to adjust to different terrain or riding styles. Riders who frequently encounter steep hills may find a geared hub motor more suitable.
- Top Speed: The RadTrike’s top speed is capped at 14 mph, which may be too slow for some riders who prefer higher speeds.
- Weight: The RadTrike’s weight can make it more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or lift onto a carrier.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Bike Category | Electric Tricycle |
| Class 2 E-Bike | Throttle and Pedal Assist up to 14 MPH |
| Battery | 48V, 10Ah (480Wh) |
| Motor | 750W brushless Rad Power Bikes geared hub motor, 5:1 planetary gear reduction |
| Weight | 82lb, 73.6 w/battery removed |
| Ideal Rider Heights | 4’10” – 6’4″ (Bike inseam between 25″ and 35″) |
| Maximum rider weight | 325 lbs |
| Maximum load on rear rack | 60 lbs on rear rack, 30 lbs on optional front rack |
| Total payload capacity | 415 lbs |
| Brakes | Mechanical disk brake, 180mm rotor; foot-operated rear coaster brake; orange parking brake on the brake lever |
| Fenders | Included, full coverage front and rear |
| Frame | Chromoly steel |
| Drivetrain | Single speed chain; PYC 120 links, PYC 35 links |
| Grips | Ergonomic rubber grips |
| Saddle | Cushioned saddle with adjustable height backrest |
| Handlebar | Aluminum alloy high rise, 680 mm wide, 10.3″ rise, 20 degree handlebar sweep |
| Kickstand | N/A, orange parking brake on the brake lever |
| Pedals | Wellgo composite platform with reflectors |
| Tires | Kenda Kontact 18″ x 2.25″, K-Shield puncture-resistant liner |
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Design and Comfort
- Low Center of Gravity: The RadTrike’s design ensures exceptional stability, making it ideal for riders who may feel less confident on two wheels.
- Adjustable Components: The adjustable seat, backrest, and handlebars allow for a personalized fit, ensuring maximum comfort during rides.
- Ergonomic Design: The RadTrike’s ergonomic design promotes a relaxed and upright riding position, reducing strain on the back and neck.
Performance and Range
- Powerful Motor: The 750W motor provides ample power for hills and city riding, making the RadTrike a versatile option for various terrains.
- Efficient Battery: The 480Wh battery delivers impressive range, allowing riders to cover long distances on a single charge.
- Pedal Assist Levels: The five-level pedal assist system enables riders to customize their experience, offering assistance when needed without overwhelming them.
Safety and Features
- Safety Features: The RadTrike is equipped with essential safety features like a bright LED headlight, taillight, fenders with reflectors, and a parking brake, ensuring visibility and security.
- Reverse Throttle: This feature makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier, enhancing convenience and safety.
- Coaster Brake: The inclusion of a coaster brake provides an additional braking option, offering flexibility and redundancy.
Versatility and Portability
- Cargo Capacity: The RadTrike’s ability to carry a significant load makes it a practical choice for transporting groceries, luggage, or other items.
- Portability: The removable seatpost and folding handlebars allow for easier storage and transportation, making it convenient for those with limited space.
Should You Buy the Rad Power RadTrike?
The Rad Power Bikes RadTrike is a versatile and reliable electric trike that offers exceptional stability, comfort, and performance. Its low center of gravity, adjustable components, and powerful motor make it suitable for a wide range of riders, including seniors, beginners, people with disabilities, commuters, and leisure riders.
Key Strengths:
- Exceptional Stability: The RadTrike’s design ensures exceptional stability, making it ideal for riders who may feel less confident on two wheels.
- Comfort and Customization: The adjustable seat, backrest, and handlebars allow for a personalized fit, ensuring maximum comfort during rides.
- Powerful Performance: The 750W motor provides ample power for hills and city riding, while the 480Wh battery delivers impressive range.
- Versatility: The RadTrike’s cargo capacity and portability make it suitable for various uses, from commuting to leisure rides.
- Safety Features: The RadTrike is equipped with essential safety features like a bright LED headlight, taillight, fenders with reflectors, and a parking brake.
Considerations:
- Single-Speed Drivetrain: While the single-speed drivetrain simplifies maintenance, it may limit your ability to adjust to different terrain or riding styles.
- Top Speed: The RadTrike’s top speed is capped at 14 mph, which may be too slow for some riders who prefer higher speeds.
- Weight: The RadTrike’s weight can make it more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or lift onto a carrier.
Alternative Options:
If you’re seeking a trike with a geared hub motor or a higher top speed, you may want to consider these alternative options:
- Lectric XP Trike: This trike offers a similar level of comfort and stability as the RadTrike but features a dual-motor setup for improved performance on hills. It also has a slightly higher top speed and a more affordable price point.
- Yut Kai Dolomite: This trike provides a higher top speed and a geared hub motor for more versatility. It’s also equipped with a larger battery for extended range.
Price Disclaimer:
Please note that prices for the Rad Power Bikes RadTrike may vary depending on your location, retailer, and any ongoing promotions or discounts. It’s always recommended to check with your local Rad Power Bikes dealer or their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
