In this comprehensive Rad Power Bikes Radster Road review, we’ll dive deep into the components of the Radster Road, tell you everything you need to know, and finally, give you some concluding thoughts along with pros and cons on the brand-new Radster Road.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Video Review
Introduction
The release of the Radster Road, alongside the Radster Trail, marks a significant departure from what Rad Power Bikes has done previously. These new models introduce unique frame designs and, for the first time, Class 3 models with torque sensors and color LCD displays. While the battery looks the same as their other semi-integrated battery, it now sports a larger size. There are also some cool safety features which we’ll discuss shortly, but first, let’s talk about the price.
The Radster Road comes in at $1999, which I believe is a fair price.
Why the $2000 Price Point is Justified
For the first time, we have two frame options in a Rad Power Bikes model: size regular on the Radster Road, which equates to riders down to 4’11” up to 5’8″, and a large for riders 5’7″ to 6’4″. The crossbar differs depending on the regular or large size, coming up a little bit higher on the large size (24 inches) and down to 22 inches on the size regular. We’re still going to call this a step-through even with the top bars, likely added to increase the rigidity of the frame and enhance aesthetics while keeping the bike accessible.
Color Options and Build
The bike is offered in two different colors: Bay Blue and Lunar White. It has a 320 lb capacity, is IPX6 rated, and the weight of the bike is 74.2 lbs with the battery installed (65.2 lbs with the battery removed). If Rad is a new brand to you, you should know that they are one of the largest sellers of ebikes in North America, and they offer a 2-year warranty on their electric bikes. Rad Power Bikes also boasts a flourishing community of riders, with the Rad Owners Forum serving as a vibrant example where enthusiasts share tips, experiences, and support for one another.
Components Overview
- Brakes: Tektro hydraulic disc brakes paired with 180 mm rotors.
- Tires: Kenda tires, 29 x 2.2 inches wide, road tread, reflective sidewalls, and a front wheel with a through-axle.
- Fork: SR Suntour suspension fork, hydraulic, with pre-load adjustment on the left and lockout on the right. 80mm of travel.
- Fenders: Aluminum fenders with extra coverage, including a long mud flap on the rear.
- Lights: 200-lumen auto-on headlight and rear light with brake actuation and turn signals.
- Cockpit: Tektro hydraulic disc brake levers with motor cutoffs, locking ergonomic rubber grips, right-hand twist grip throttle, Shimano 8-speed trigger shifter, and a bell.
- Handlebars: Unique sweepback handlebars with a bit of a BMX feel, allowing for accessory mounts and housing the Rad Power Bikes display.
- Display: Color LCD with various functionalities including RFID tags for security, wattage display, battery percentage, odometer, speed, pedal assist levels, walk mode, and class level adjustments.
- Battery: 15 Ah battery with Safe Shield technology, resin-filled for fire prevention, UL 2271 certified, and the entire bike’s electronics are UL 2849 certified.
- Motor: 750 watt peak motor with 100 Nm of torque.
- Gears: Shimano Acera derailleur with an 8-speed setup (11-34 teeth) and a 50T front chainring with a chain guard.
First-Person Riding Experience
The Radster Road’s torque sensor with Class 3 speeds provides a sporty ride. In Pedal Assist Level 0, you still have throttle access, and in higher pedal assist levels, the torque sensor provides a natural riding experience. Pedal assist levels 1 through 5 vary in effort and speed, with Level 5 reaching up to 28 mph when changed in the display.
With Class 3 speeds enabled, we were easily able to cruise into the low to mid 20s for speed without much effort. The torque sensor was responsive and some effort was needed to hit the top speed of 28 mph.
On steep hills, we found it more difficult to get the full power out of the motor. Thus, our recommendation is to use the throttle up steep hills if you’re looking for full motor output. While 750 watts may seem like a lower peak output, (and it is!) the motor performed surprisingly well up our hill climb test thanks to the 100 Nm of torque.
Display and Security Features
One of the standout features of the Radster Road is its versatile color LCD display. This display allows riders to easily switch between four different class settings:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a top speed of 20 mph and no throttle.
- Class 2: Pedal-assist with throttle, maintaining a top speed of 20 mph.
- Class 3 (25 mph): Pedal-assist with a top speed of 25 mph.
- Class 3 (28 mph): Pedal-assist with a top speed of 28 mph.
Changing between these classes is straightforward through the display settings, allowing for quick adjustments based on your riding needs and local regulations. Besides being easy to navigate, the display is also easy to read even on bright days. A USB-C port located on the remote allows you to charge up your device.
What is Rad’s Safe Shield Battery?
Rad Power Bikes’ Safe Shield battery technology is designed to enhance the safety of their ebike batteries. The Safe Shield battery is resin-filled, which helps to prevent fires by stopping a fire from spreading from one cell to another. Additionally, these batteries are UL 2271 certified, providing an extra layer of assurance regarding their safety and performance standards. The entire electronics system is also UL 2849 certified.
The new 15 Ah battery is estimated to get between 25-65 miles of range.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road vs Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus
When comparing the Radster Road to the Rad Power Bikes RadCity 5 Plus, several key differences stand out, making each bike suited for different rider needs. The Radster Road is a Class 3 ebike with a top speed of 28 mph, thanks to its torque sensor and more powerful 750 watt peak motor with 100 Nm of torque. This makes it ideal for faster commutes and those looking for a sportier ride.
In contrast, the RadCity 5 Plus is a Class 2 ebike, limited to a top speed of 20 mph with both pedal assist and throttle, making it more suitable for relaxed city riding and adhering to stricter ebike regulations in some areas. Plus it has a cadence sensor which gives you power in the pedal assist level selected no matter how hard you pedal.
The Radster Road benefits from a larger Safe Shield 15 Ah battery compared to the RadCity 5 Plus’s 14 Ah battery, offering longer rides between charges. The Radster Road also includes advanced security features such as RFID tags and passcode protection, enhancing theft prevention. In terms of design, the Radster Road offers two frame sizes and a more rugged build, while the RadCity 5 Plus is designed with a single frame size focused on comfort and practicality for urban environments. However, the RadCity 5 Plus is also offered in a traditional high step frame. Both RadCity 5 Plus frames have adjustable stems and swept-back handlebars.
Both displays are easy to use though the Radster Road offers more information compared to the RadCity 5 Plus dual displays. Gearing is upgraded on the Radster road with the Acera derailleur with 8-speeds compared to 7 speeds and an Altus derailleur on the RadCity 5 Plus.
Ultimately, the choice between the Radster Road and the RadCity 5 Plus will depend on your riding preferences—whether you prioritize speed and advanced features or prefer a more relaxed, straightforward city commuting experience.
Conclusion
Rad Power Bikes has finally delivered features that were deal-breakers for some, namely Class 3 speeds and torque sensors. At $1999, the Radster Road offers unique features like the Safe Shield battery, user-friendly display, RFID tags for security, and two size options. The 750 W peak motor with 100 NM of torque, along with the 15 Ah battery, provides a capable ride. The bike includes a hydraulic suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes, full fenders, rear rack, bright lights, and turn signals.
Overall, the Radster Road offers a great ride experience, though the seat might be firm for some, and bottle cage placement could be tricky on the large size. Compared to the RadCity 5 Plus, another city-oriented bike from Rad Power Bikes, the Radster Road stands out with its Class 3 capability, making it ideal for faster commutes and leisure rides.
Rad Power Bikes remains one of the largest ebike brands, and the Radster Road is a great option for those seeking a Class 3 capable ebike for leisurely paved path riding or commuting.
Interested in other Rad ebikes? Check out all of our Rad Power Bikes reviews.
