Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Review

Last Updated on July 23, 2024 by Kristina Grant

The Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus is more than just an electric bike; it’s a versatile, all-terrain companion designed to elevate your outdoor adventures. This Class 2 e-bike seamlessly blends comfort and capability, making it an ideal choice for both urban commuters and off-road explorers.

Built upon the foundation of its predecessor, the RadRover 6 Plus incorporates significant upgrades to deliver an enhanced riding experience. From its powerful motor and long-lasting battery to its comfortable geometry and robust construction, the RadRover 6 Plus is engineered to tackle a wide range of terrains with ease. Whether you’re navigating city streets, cruising along paved bike paths, or conquering rugged trails, this e-bike is up to the challenge.

With a focus on delivering exceptional value, the RadRover 6 Plus offers a compelling package of features and performance at an accessible price point. Its combination of style, comfort, and power makes it a standout option in the competitive e-bike market.

Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Specifications

Specification	Value
Bike Category	Fat Tire/Hybrid Path
Bike Class	Class 2 (PAS/Throttle assist up to 20 mph)
Motor	750W brushless geared hub motor
Battery	48V, 14Ah (672Wh)
Display	Dual LCD displays
Range	25-45 miles (claimed)
Brakes	Nutt hydraulic disc brakes, 180mm rotors
Fork	60mm RST spring fork
Drivetrain	7-speed Shimano Altus
Tires	Kenda Juggernaut 26” x 4”, puncture resistant liner
Weight	73.4 lbs
Max Rider Weight	275 lbs
Max Load on Rear Rack	50 lbs

Pros

• Powerful and efficient motor: The 750W geared hub motor delivers impressive acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities while maintaining a smooth and quiet operation.
• Comfortable ride: The combination of a plush seat, wide handlebars, and suspension fork creates a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience, even over rough terrain.
• Versatile performance: The RadRover 6 Plus excels both on paved roads and unpaved trails, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of riders.
• Durable build: The sturdy frame and components are designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Attractive design: The sleek and modern aesthetics of the RadRover 6 Plus make it visually appealing to a broad audience.
• Good value: Offering a competitive price point without compromising on quality, the RadRover 6 Plus provides excellent value for money.

Cons

• Heavier weight: The RadRover 6 Plus is notably heavier than some other e-bikes, which may present challenges for certain riders, especially when lifting or maneuvering the bike.
• Limited suspension travel: While the suspension fork provides some comfort, the 60mm travel may not be sufficient for aggressive off-road riding.
• Secondary display brightness: The secondary display can be difficult to read in bright sunlight, potentially impacting visibility and safety.
• Overbar shifter: Some riders may prefer an underbar shifter for improved ergonomics and shifting efficiency.

The RadRover 6 Plus prioritizes stability and comfort, making it a confident and predictable ride. The wide, 4-inch fat tires provide excellent traction and absorb shocks effectively, resulting in a smooth experience over various terrains. The bike’s geometry contributes to a relaxed and upright riding position, making it suitable for riders of different skill levels.

On paved surfaces, the RadRover 6 Plus feels stable and composed, with the fat tires providing a cushioned ride. While it’s not as nimble as a dedicated road bike, it handles well in urban environments and bike lanes.

Off-road, the RadRover 6 Plus truly shines. The generous tire clearance and suspension fork allow it to tackle a variety of trails with ease. Whether it’s gravel paths, sandy beaches, or light trails, the bike maintains good traction and stability. However, for aggressive mountain biking, the suspension travel might be limited.

The wide handlebars provide ample leverage, making it easy to maneuver the bike at low speeds and when navigating tight spaces. The bike’s weight becomes more noticeable when making sharp turns or performing quick maneuvers, but it’s generally manageable.

Overall, the RadRover 6 Plus offers a balanced handling experience, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright agility. It’s a versatile bike that can handle a wide range of riding conditions without compromising rider confidence.

Speed and Performance of the RadRover 6 Plus

As a Class 2 e-bike, the RadRover 6 Plus is capable of reaching a top speed of 20 mph with both pedal assist and throttle. The 750W motor provides ample power to achieve this speed with relative ease, even when carrying cargo or riding uphill.

Acceleration is notably brisk, thanks to the powerful motor. The bike quickly picks up speed from a standstill, making it responsive in traffic or when merging into bike lanes. The five pedal assist levels offer flexibility, allowing riders to tailor acceleration to their preferences.

Hill climbing is where the RadRover 6 Plus truly shines. The combination of the powerful motor and the lower gearing makes tackling steep inclines a manageable task. While you’ll still need to pedal, the motor provides substantial support, reducing rider fatigue.

The RadRover 6 Plus glides effortlessly on flat terrain, maintaining a comfortable cruising speed. While its weight and fat tire design make it less nimble than some dedicated speed bikes, it delivers a balanced performance that prioritizes comfort and versatility.

The RadRover 6 Plus is designed with comfort in mind. Its ergonomic features contribute significantly to a pleasant riding experience.

• Seat: The saddle is designed to provide ample cushioning and support, reducing pressure points and fatigue during longer rides. The upright riding position further enhances comfort by distributing weight evenly.
• Handlebars: The wide, slightly raised handlebars promote a relaxed posture, reducing strain on the wrists and upper body. The grip design is comfortable for extended use.
• Suspension: While the front suspension is relatively modest, it effectively absorbs shocks and vibrations, making the ride smoother on uneven surfaces. The fat tires also contribute significantly to vibration dampening.
• Overall Posture: The RadRover 6 Plus encourages an upright riding position, which can be beneficial for riders with back issues or those who prefer a more relaxed riding style.

While the RadRover 6 Plus is generally comfortable, individual preferences may vary. Factors such as rider weight, riding style, and terrain can influence the perceived comfort level. However, Rad Power Bikes has made a concerted effort to create a bike that prioritizes rider well-being.

The RadRover 6 Plus Motor

The heart of the RadRover 6 Plus is its 750-watt geared hub motor. This powerful unit delivers impressive performance across various terrains.

• Power and Torque: The motor provides ample power for swift acceleration and confident hill climbing. Its torque is sufficient to handle challenging inclines with ease, even when carrying cargo or passengers.
• Smoothness: The motor’s output is generally smooth and consistent, contributing to a comfortable riding experience. There’s minimal jerkiness or vibration, enhancing overall enjoyment.
• Noise: The motor operates quietly, allowing riders to appreciate their surroundings without excessive noise pollution. This is particularly beneficial in residential areas or during early morning or late evening rides.
• Efficiency: While specific efficiency ratings might not be readily available, the motor seems to deliver a good balance of power and energy consumption. However, factors like riding conditions, terrain, and rider weight can influence overall efficiency.

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The RadRover 6 Plus Battery

The RadRover 6 Plus comes equipped with a 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) battery pack. This battery is designed to provide a balance of power and range for various riding conditions.

• Capacity: The 14Ah capacity offers a decent amount of energy storage, allowing for reasonable distances between charges. Real-world range will vary depending on factors such as pedal assist level, terrain, rider weight, and tire pressure.
• Charging Time: The battery typically requires several hours to fully charge, depending on the charger’s output. It’s advisable to consult the user manual for accurate charging times.
• Range: Rad Power Bikes claims a range of 25-45 miles, but actual range will depend on various factors. Using lower pedal assist levels, conserving energy, and avoiding excessive throttle use can help extend the range.
• Battery Management System (BMS): The battery incorporates a BMS to protect the cells from overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

While the battery provides adequate performance for most riders, those seeking extended range may consider additional battery packs or range-extending accessories.

Pedal Assist and Throttle on the RadRover 6 Plus

The RadRover 6 Plus offers both pedal assist and throttle modes, providing riders with flexibility and control over their riding experience.

Pedal Assist

The pedal assist system on the RadRover 6 Plus features five levels, allowing riders to adjust the level of electric assistance based on terrain, fitness level, and personal preference. Lower levels offer subtle support, while higher levels provide a significant boost.

• Smoothness: The pedal assist transitions smoothly between levels, ensuring a seamless riding experience.
• Sensor Sensitivity: The cadence sensor accurately detects pedal input, providing timely and responsive assistance.
• Customization: The ability to choose from five levels of pedal assist allows riders to tailor the bike’s performance to their specific needs and riding conditions.

Throttle

The half-twist throttle provides an on-demand power boost without pedaling. It’s particularly useful for starting from a standstill, climbing steep hills, or taking a break from pedaling.

• Responsiveness: The throttle offers a responsive and consistent power delivery, allowing riders to accelerate smoothly.
• Ergonomics: The half-twist throttle is conveniently located on the right handlebar, providing easy access and control.

By combining pedal assist and throttle, the RadRover 6 Plus caters to a wide range of rider preferences, making it a versatile choice for commuting, recreational riding, and light off-road adventures.

The RadRover 6 Plus Display

The RadRover 6 Plus features a dual display system that provides essential riding information at a glance.

Primary Display

The primary display is centrally located on the handlebars and offers clear visibility. It typically displays:

• Current speed
• Battery level
• Pedal assist level
• Odometer reading
• Trip distance
• Time
• Walk assist mode (if applicable)

This display provides essential data for the rider to make informed decisions about their ride.

Secondary Display

The secondary display is usually positioned on the left handlebar and complements the primary display. It often includes:

• Additional battery level indicators
• Lights control
• Walk assist activation (if applicable)

While the secondary display provides supplementary information, its visibility can be compromised in bright sunlight, which may be a minor drawback.

The dual display setup on the RadRover 6 Plus offers a convenient way to access important riding data. While the primary display is generally sufficient for most riders, the secondary display provides additional functionality.

Brakes on the RadRover 6 Plus

The RadRover 6 Plus comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which offer superior stopping power and modulation compared to mechanical disc or rim brakes.

• Stopping Power: The hydraulic disc brakes provide ample stopping power, ensuring that the bike can be brought to a controlled stop in various riding conditions.
• Modulation: The brakes offer good modulation, allowing riders to gradually apply braking force or engage full stopping power as needed.
• Rotor Size: The 180mm rotors contribute to effective braking performance, providing sufficient stopping power for the bike’s weight and speed capabilities.
• Maintenance: Hydraulic disc brakes require less maintenance compared to mechanical brakes, but regular inspection and pad replacement are essential for optimal performance.

While the brakes on the RadRover 6 Plus are generally adequate, some riders may prefer upgraded brake components for enhanced stopping power or modulation. However, for most riders, the standard hydraulic disc brakes provide sufficient performance for safe and confident riding.

The RadRover 6 Plus Frame

The RadRover 6 Plus features an aluminum alloy frame that combines durability with a relatively lightweight design.

• Material: Aluminum alloy is a popular choice for bike frames due to its strength-to-weight ratio. It provides a good balance of rigidity and flexibility, helping to absorb vibrations and impacts.
• Geometry: The frame geometry is designed to offer a comfortable and upright riding position, making it suitable for riders of various heights and experience levels. The relaxed geometry contributes to the bike’s stability and control.
• Integration: The frame is designed to accommodate the battery and motor seamlessly, resulting in a clean and integrated look. The battery is typically integrated into the downtube for protection and aesthetic appeal.
• Durability: The frame is built to withstand the rigors of everyday use, including exposure to various weather conditions. However, proper care and maintenance are essential to prolong its lifespan.

The RadRover 6 Plus Fork

The RadRover 6 Plus features a 60mm RST spring suspension fork, designed to enhance comfort and control on various terrains.

• Suspension Travel: The 60mm of travel provides sufficient damping for absorbing bumps and vibrations encountered on city streets, gravel paths, and light trails. While it may not be ideal for aggressive off-road riding, it offers a good balance of comfort and performance for most riders.
• Lockout Feature: The inclusion of a lockout feature allows riders to stiffen the fork for paved surfaces or when climbing hills, improving pedaling efficiency.
• Preload Adjustment: The preload adjustment enables riders to fine-tune the fork’s performance based on their weight and riding style, ensuring optimal comfort and handling.
• Durability: The fork is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, providing reliable performance in various conditions.

The RadRover 6 Plus Drivetrain

The drivetrain on the RadRover 6 Plus is designed to complement the bike’s versatile nature, offering a suitable gear range for various riding conditions.

• Shifter: The Shimano Altus shifter provides crisp and reliable gear changes, allowing riders to select the appropriate gear for different terrains and riding styles. While an underbar shifter might be preferred by some riders for improved ergonomics, the thumb shifter does the job effectively.
• Derailleur: The Shimano Altus derailleur ensures smooth and accurate shifting between gears, helping to maintain optimal pedaling cadence.
• Chainring: The 42T chainring offers a good balance of power and pedaling cadence. It provides sufficient torque for hill climbing while allowing for a reasonable cadence on flat terrain.
• Cassette: The 7-speed cassette provides a suitable gear range for most riders. The spread of gears is adequate for tackling various inclines and maintaining a comfortable pedaling cadence.

Contact Points on the RadRover 6 Plus

The contact points between rider and bike are crucial for comfort and control. The RadRover 6 Plus focuses on providing a comfortable and ergonomic riding experience.

• Saddle: The saddle is designed to offer adequate cushioning and support, reducing pressure points and fatigue during extended rides. The shape and contour of the saddle contribute to overall comfort and prevent discomfort in sensitive areas.
• Grips: The handlebar grips provide a secure and comfortable hold, minimizing hand fatigue. The grip material should be chosen for optimal comfort and durability.
• Pedals: The pedals are the interface between the rider’s feet and the bike. They should offer a secure platform for efficient pedaling and prevent foot slippage. Pedal design can vary, with some models offering additional features like reflectivity or traction pads.

Tires on the RadRover 6 Plus

The RadRover 6 Plus comes equipped with Kenda Juggernaut 26 x 4-inch fat tires, specifically designed to enhance the bike’s versatility and performance.

• Size and Width: The 4-inch width of the tires significantly impacts the bike’s handling, comfort, and traction. The wider contact patch provides increased stability, especially on loose surfaces or in challenging conditions.
• Puncture Resistance: The tires often incorporate puncture-resistant liners to help protect against flats, enhancing durability and reducing the risk of roadside emergencies.
• Tread Pattern: The tread pattern is designed to offer a balance of traction and rolling efficiency. The aggressive tread provides grip on various surfaces, while the spacing between the lugs helps to reduce rolling resistance.
• Tire Pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for optimal performance and comfort. Overinflated tires can reduce traction and comfort, while underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance and the risk of punctures.

Accessories for the RadRover 6 Plus

The RadRover 6 Plus offers a wide range of accessory options to enhance its functionality and cater to individual preferences.

• Cargo and Storage: Rear racks, pannier bags, and baskets provide ample storage space for carrying groceries, gear, or personal belongings. These accessories transform the bike into a versatile transportation solution.
• Protection: Fenders help to keep riders dry in wet conditions, while frame and fork protectors shield the bike from scratches and damage.
• Lighting: Additional lights, such as headlights and taillights, improve visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing safety.
• Comfort and Ergonomics: Gel seats, ergonomic grips, and handlebar extensions can be used to customize the bike’s fit and comfort to individual preferences.
• Safety: Locks, helmets, and reflective gear are essential safety accessories for protecting both the bike and the rider.
• Electronics: Phone mounts, GPS devices, and bike computers can be added to enhance the riding experience and provide additional information.

Overall Buying Summary: Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus

The Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus is a versatile electric bike that excels in both comfort and capability. Its powerful motor, comfortable riding position, and robust build make it a suitable choice for a wide range of riders. Whether you’re commuting, exploring trails, or simply enjoying leisurely rides, the RadRover 6 Plus offers a satisfying experience.

Key strengths of the RadRover 6 Plus include:

• Versatility: The bike’s combination of power, comfort, and off-road capability makes it suitable for various riding conditions.
• Comfort: The ergonomic design, plush seat, and suspension fork contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience.
• Power: The 750W motor provides ample power for acceleration, hill climbing, and maintaining speed.
• Durability: The robust build and high-quality components ensure the bike can withstand the rigors of everyday use.

While the RadRover 6 Plus offers many advantages, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a purchase. If you prioritize lightweight agility or aggressive off-road performance, other e-bike models might be better suited. However, for riders seeking a comfortable, versatile, and capable electric bike, the RadRover 6 Plus is a strong contender.

Potential buyers should consider the following factors:

• Riding style: Assess whether you primarily ride on paved roads, trails, or a combination of both.
• Terrain: Consider the types of terrain you’ll encounter, such as hills, rough roads, or sandy conditions.
• Budget: Determine your budget and compare the RadRover 6 Plus to other e-bike options within your price range.
• Rider weight and height: Ensure the bike’s specifications and dimensions are compatible with your physical attributes.

Alternative E-bike Options

To provide a broader perspective, consider these alternative e-bike models:

• Specialized Turbo Vado: For riders prioritizing speed and performance, the Specialized Turbo Vado offers a higher top speed, a more advanced motor, and a sleeker design. It’s well-suited for urban commuting and fast-paced riding.
• Trek Rail: If off-road adventures are your primary focus, the Trek Rail is a full-suspension e-bike designed to handle challenging trails. Its powerful motor and suspension system make it a capable choice for mountain biking enthusiasts.

By carefully considering your needs and comparing different e-bike models, you can find the perfect bike to enhance your riding experience.