To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews. This in-depth review was sponsored by Rad Power Bikes. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased, this video and written review are not meant to be an endorsement of RAD products.
For 2019, Rad Power Bikes is releasing a new and improved version of the RadMini. They were kind enough to invite us up to Seattle for some real life road testing featuring some gorgeous views, varied terrain, and of course, some famous showers and sprinkles to keep us on our toes. Improvements over the 2018 model year include both lights being integrated, rear brake light activation, reflective tire sidewalls, as well as many small tweaks and improvements that make for a smoother and safer overall user experience. As our testing went underway, many of the refinements began to prove their usefulness. The main folding latch on the step over frame is thinner overall, making for a much easier pedaling experience. The rear disc brake caliper is mounted lower and slightly more toward the rider, giving you not only some improved smoothness and noise reduction, but the ability to add racks and other accessories in a once overcrowded area. As we journeyed through the drizzle, the front suspension fork and the knobby tires really absorbed the bumps, making it a smooth ride for such a small package. Those tires came in handy in more ways than one, they’re not just good for dirt paths and off-road, the reflective sidewall helped us stand out in the dark overcast weather and rain while riding in the city. When paired with the integrated brake light (that goes bright when you pull either brake lever), there’s a feeling of confidence and security because you’re extra visible. Along with the improvements are some familiar features we have come to expect from the RadMini. Features such as its sturdy frame, backlight LCD, competitive price point, and it’s powerful 750 watt rear hub motor. To help keep it affordable, the RadMini still uses mechanical disc brakes instead of hydraulic but they upgraded the drivetrain with Shimano Altus derailleur and Nickel plated cassette that has an even wider 11-34 tooth range.
The 2019 RadMini features a custom tuned fat bike specific geared hub motor from Bafang. It’s housed in an extra wide casing with provides a sturdy bracing angle for the thick 12-gauge spokes while permitting a wider stater and magnet configuration inside. This motor delivers consistently high power without producing a lot of noise or being physically large. Notice how the motor basically hides behind the largest 34 tooth cog on the right side and the 180mm disc brake rotor on the left side. Rad Power Bikes upgraded the drivetrain on all of their e-bikes for 2019 with an 11-34 tooth DNP freewheel that allows for easier climbing and a more comfortable cadence at the maximum supported 20mph top speed. It’s a big improvement over 2018, which had a 14-28 tooth cassette that was not nickel coated and used a cheaper Shimano Tourney derailleur vs. the Altus here (which is one step higher). Getting back to the motor, it’s rated at 750 watts continuous output which is the upper legal limit for the United States, and I believe it’s specced down slightly for Canada to comply with different regulations. It’s fairly lightweight at ~8.7lbs compared to the ~10.5 pound gearless motors on the RadWagon and RadCity models, and it freewheels without any magnetic drag… thought it does not offer regenerative braking. Because the RadMini uses smaller 20″ wheels, the hub motor gets a mechanical advantage. In order to make pedaling feel right for the rider, given the smaller wheels, a large 48 tooth chainring was chosen. I think Rad Power did an excellent job creating a comfortable ride feel with this product, and was able to spec traditional 170mm crank arms because the fat tires elevate the bike more than comparable non-fat folding ebikes. The big trade-off is weight. Thankfully, the ~7.7lb battery pack and front wheel are easily removable. You shouldn’t have a problem with chain derailments while riding, folding, or transporting, because the RadMini comes with an alloy chain guide. Furthermore, the chain stay is well protected from chips by a neoprene slap guard, and the derailleur and motor power cable are protected by a steel guard. This guard is relevant in the initial post-purchase shipping process and anytime the bike is folded and loaded for personal transport. RAD even provides a strap to keep the bike from coming unfolded, which is something a lot of other brands overlook or struggle to accomplish with magnets. A few have rubber band straps, which I like because they stay with the bike… but you could always keep the strap with your RadMini too. All things considered, this motor feels smooth and natural when riding with pedal assist, and offers excellent power for starts and climbs when activating the twist throttle.
Compared to the first generation of Rad Power Bikes, the current generation battery pack offers ~20% higher capacity and only weighs 0.5lbs more. It allows you to go further, use the throttle or higher levels of assist without as much range anxiety, and is cross compatible between all RAD models dating back to 2018. It mounts securely to a plastic track that’s attached to the frame with three bolts and secures with a keyed locking core. Notice how the battery is positioned at the center of the frame at a low point for improved balance and bike handling. It’s protected on both sides by additional aluminum tubing, which doubles as a frame support – reducing frame flex. The battery pack has two fuses built in for safety, and is physically separate from the motor controller. Notice the little black box behind the seat tube, that’s the controller unit. I was told that separating it out reduces heat exposure and makes replacement batteries less expensive. At $550 per pack, you get a lot of bang for your buck here compared with $800+ for many competing offerings from leading battery systems. I also like the physical design of this battery, being smooth and rounded, though it does not include a handle or loop for secure carrying. Since the battery is more of a short thick design, it’s likely easier to stuff into trunk bags, panniers, and backpacks for extended rides. This is not the case with many of the new internally mounted ebike batteries. The big trade-off is aesthetics, with two black boxes tacked onto the frame here vs. completely hidden power systems. Rated at 48 volts and 14 amp hours, this pack offers a total of 672 watt hours, which is above average for this generation of ebike batteries. And, I’m told that it contains high quality Samsung 35E high capacity lithium-ion cells. The battery casing has an LED charge level indicator built into the top edge, allowing you to determine roughly how full it is whether it’s on the bike or not, and you can charge the pack while mounted or separated from the RadMini frame. This battery powers the backlit LCD display panel and both lights, which is another upgrade from previous models. The rear light used to run off of two AA batteries, which was easier to forget and leave on after rides while also producing more waste. To maximize the lifespan of this and other lithium-ion battery packs, I’ve been taught to store them in a cool dry location and avoid complete discharge. In fact, it’s best to stay between 20% and 80% and aim for 50% if you know you won’t be riding for an extended period of time. One interesting difference between the RadMini high-step here and the new step-thru is where the battery is positioned. On this model, it’s behind the seat post and further back, making the bike more rear heavy. It’s not a big deal, it’s still protected by frame tubing, and you still add a rear rack and fenders, but you might have to remove the seat each time you take the battery off… and that’s a bit inconvenient. Thankfully, the new extra large seat clamp lever makes this easier than ever.
Once the battery pack is mounted and locked, simply hold the mode button located at the center of the control pad, which is mounted within reach of the left grip. The large grayscale LCD unit blinks to life showing your battery level, odometer, current speed, assist level (starting in 1 by default), and watts being used. You can cycle from odometer to trip distance by tapping the mode button, cycle from current speed to average and max speed by holding the up arrow, activate the lights by holding up and mode simultaneously, and initiate walk mode by holding the down arrow. Walk mode is especially useful if the bike is loaded with gear, or maybe you’re in a park where it’s not appropriate to ride, maybe the terrain is too steep and unstable for the slick tires, or you’ve got a flat. With the upgraded Kenda puncture resistant tires, hopefully you won’t end up in that situation too often. For those who want to adjust more settings, hold the up and down arrows simultaneously. This allows you to change the wheel size, backlit brightness (1-3), and units (mph or km/h). Press mode to navigate through the settings menus and hold mode to exit settings. Finally, the most common interaction with the display is to press up or down to navigate from 0-5 assist levels. The higher the level, the more power and speed you’ll get, but you can always override the current level by activating the twist throttle on the right. And I love that RAD has included an on/off button for the throttle! This, combined with the brake lever motor inhibitors, provides maximum control over all modes of operation. With a responsive 12-magnet cadence sensor and the variable speed twist throttle, this ebike is setup very well, though not as immediately responsive as the high end multi-sensors now seen on many mid-drive ebikes. Even though the display panel is now branded as Rad Power Bikes, it is actually a very common SW-LCD from King Meter; the same display used on many prior models (in case you wish to look it up). Rad Power Bikes has a great video overview of their display here but it doesn’t go quite as deep as I’ve described above. I love that the company has included a full sized USB Type-A port built into the base of the display, and increased the power output to 5 volt 1 amp for 2019 while prior versions were 5 volt 500 milliamp and wouldn’t maintain or charge electronic accessories as consistently or quickly. The display can be swiveled forward and back to reduce glare if you don’t over-tighten the clamp, but it is not removable. Given the positioning, above the stem at the cent of the handlebar, this display should be fairly protected from scratches at bike racks and tips, but will still take sun and weather damage over time. Just like the rest of the electronics here, this display is water resistant, and I noticed that RAD opted for a nicer threaded connector point for the display while other connections are plastic press fit. I was told that the this and other parts can be replaced through the company, and are warrantied for one year as a part of the comprehensive warranty. I’ve noticed that some owners will secure their helmets over the display and others will use plastic bags to protect from rain. Anyway, I really like being able to activate the the lights through the display, being able to adjust backlighting, and even being able to change the rear light from off or solid to blinking mode. To do this however, you must reach down and press a little rubber button on the lower left edge of the rear light. This step cannot be completed through the display. Most ebikes I see only offer lights off or solid on, but a blinking rear light can generate more awareness and is a unique upgrade. Note that both brake levers have motor inhibitor switches built in to safely disabling the motor when you want to stop but now they also activate the rear light! This works even when lights are disabled. Finally, the headlight has a light sensor built into the back so it goes extra bright when riding during the daytime and dims slightly when it’s very dark out. Both lights are designed to be re-mounted to racks if you purchase them aftermarket, and Rad Power Bikes includes extender cables to make it easy. Note that if you do get a front rack and reposition the light, it will no longer point where you steer, because the rack is frame mounted for extra strength.
You may assume the RadMini holds a niche spot in the ebike world; that of a folding electric bike that also has big fat off-road tires. However the RadMini is able to break out of this box and into mainstream appeal by proving itself so useful (with lots of amazing accessory upgrades) and safe (with integrated lights and reflective tires). I could really tell that they scrutinized the details of this bike and improved it in some meaningful ways over 2018. Coupled with the hardware improvements and completeness here, you get excellent customer service… even considering that they mainly sell online and ship direct. However, there are some compromises to be made. Although the folding of the bike is certainly a convenience, the larger tires, sturdy frame, and overall weight of the bike may hinder your folding needs in tight pinch. Also, it may look sort of small when folded, but it’s kind of heavy. I usually remove the battery before lifting, which knocks off about 7.7lbs. Note that the high step RadMini here weighs 67lbs verses the step-thru version which is one pound heavier at 68lbs. This ebike has a raw tough look to it you can see it in the high step frame and exposed cables, but ultimately, you do have to lift your leg higher to mount the frame. I keep saying hight step, but the top tube isn’t as high as a full sized ebike (stand over height is just 28″ vs. 30+”). And finally, we have Henry Fords famous quote to apply here: “You can have any color, as long as its black” and that’s true of the RadMini because it only comes in black if you get the high-step frame. Fans of the white color RadMini will simply have to opt for the RadMini Step-Thru if they wish for a brighter bike… which might actually stand out more for safety at night. Ultimately, the RadMini checks off a multiplicity of boxes, making it a wonderful ebike if it falls under your consideration.
It was fun to visit the company’s headquarters for this review, even though we got a little wet. As always, it’s great to hear your thoughts in the comments below and I welcome your stories, personal review, pictures, and connection in the Rad Power Bikes forums!
Pros:
- A fully battery integrated rear brake light that also gets brighter as you grip the brakes, this light maintains is flashing mode as well with the press of a button on the light unit itself
- A custom Kenda knobby tire complete with reflective sidewall and K-Shield puncture protection adding purpose and backing up the muscular look
- I love the sturdy Wellgo platform pedals they chose here, many other folding pedals are plastic and offer less surface area and rigidity, the quality alloy chain guide and steel derailleur guard also keep it running smoothly and protected when folding and unfolding, the chain shouldn’t drop off and you’ll be less likely to get a snag or bend in the derailleur cable and motor power cable
- The battery design is awesome, it’s slim, can be locked to the frame in an off position to prevent tampering with the display, can be charged on or off the bike, is using energy dense Samsung 35E cells that take up less space and weigh less, and it’s only $499 to replace because the controller unit is separate, it’s also cross-compatible with other second generation Rad Power Bike models
- This folding fat bike has tons of optional accessories that look great and provide massive utility such as wide plastic fenders, reflective pannier bags that fit onto the rear rack, a front platform rack and basket, a phone mount, and a suspension seat post upgrade
- The display is large and easy to read, it angles slightly to help you reduce glare, and I love that it has a standard sized USB port on the bottom so you can maintain a phone or other portable electronics as you ride, interacting with the display while riding is easy and pretty safe because the button pad is mounted within reach of the left grip
- The RadMini has a high-resolution 12-magnet cadence sensors which makes starting and stopping more predictable, I love that they also included motor inhibitors on both brake levers and that you can disable the throttle with the on/off toggle button near the right grip, I always turn the bike completely off before hopping on or off and folding just to be safe
- The kickstand is adjustable, has a wide platform at the bottom to keep it from sinking in to soft terrain, and it works pretty well if you’re loading the bike with gear, I love that the front rack is frame-mounted so it won’t interfere with steering or tip the bike sideways when parked like fork mounted racks (the first generation of RadMini models did have a fork mounted rack that wasn’t nearly as nice as this)
- Both wheels are built with thicker 12 gauge spokes for increased durability and weight capacity on the bike, the official max weight rating is 275 pounds (~125 kilograms) which is outstanding for a folding model
- The folding points at the steering tube and mid-frame have a two-step lock to ensure that there are no accidental unfolding situations while riding
- The geared hub motor is zippy and powerful, it gets a big mechanical advantage because of the smaller 20″ wheels and can produce more torque than the RadWagon and RadCity models which use gearless hub motors… so the geared motor doesn’t offer regeneration and it does produce some more noise, but it’s more capable at low speeds and can power through snow and soft sand if you bring down the tire PSI to the 5-10 range
- The rear rack is bolt-on but I like that they color matched it and that it stays out of the way so you can really lower the saddle height if you want and still have a trunk bag!
- Some folding bikes skip the bungee cord, magnet, or a Velcro strap to keep them from coming unfolded but the RadMini does not, it comes with a Velcro strap! But you could still use your own bungee cords or get an adjustable one like this to keep the frame extra secure when transporting in a car, boat, plane, RV, etc.
Cons:
- If color is a deciding factor in your purchase, you may be disappointed. The RadMini comes in just black for the 2019 year. If you are looking for white, you will have to get the RadMini Step-Thru version, which is also limited to just the one color.
- The battery and controller box are mounted externally vs. combined and hidden (the controller box is just below the bottom bracket where the battery sits and is surrounded by an Aluminum box), wires aren’t internally routed like some of the other Rad models, but weight distribution is good and I appreciate the support arm below the controller box that protects the chainring and gives the bike a stable resting position when folded, it’s possible that external cables will be less prone to damage when folding so that could be why they aren’t as hidden
- Only one frame size for the RadMini but that’s part of what keeps the price down, the top tube is more angled than before and this helps to lower stand-over height
- I’m not a huge fan of the big thumb shifter design for the gears because it seems like I have to stretch my right hand to reach it and the gears don’t shift as quickly or crisply, but the team at RPB told me this part was chosen to make room for their throttle on/off switch which is a great safety feature… so it makes sense, and the larger shifter pieces can be easier to interact with when wearing gloves
- The 180 mm mechanical disc brakes worked well during my ride test, especially with the smaller 20″ wheels, but I definitely prefer hydraulic because the levers are easier to pull and can be reach-adjusted for small and large hands, this is one part on the bike that seems to be a compromise in order to keep the price lower and the folks at Rad told me that they are easier for people to work on themselves vs. needing help from a shop
- Earlier RadMini products shipped with the rear rack included and it was paint matched (black or white) but starting in 2019 you have to pay $80 extra for it and it only comes in black (but the same rack works for both high-step and step-thru models)
- One consideration with the spring fork is that it’s heavier than an air fork, I love that it has a lockout adjust and that they included it compared to Gen 1 which used a rigid fork
- The display is large and easy to read but not removable, so it could take extra weather wear and possibly get scratched at a bike rack, if the bike gets crashed, or if you’re folding it
- Minor gripe here, there doesn’t appear to be any bottle cage mounting points, you might have to use a trunk bag with a bottle holster like this or maybe wear a hydration pack or something, I can see why they skipped bosses because the frame is compact and the folding could bend an accessory
- Minor consideration, the 2018 RadMini used a different controller that was built into an alloy box located just behind the bottom bracket. The 2019 version appears to use the same controller as the full sized RAD models and it is positioned in a more exposed spot below the downtube. This part may be easier to service now, more standardized across the line, but it may also take more water and dirt contact if you don’t get the fenders. It appears to be high enough to not take rock strikes (being protected by the chainring)
- There are some advantages to the new rear brake caliper position (wires aren’t in the path of the optional rear rack) but the way it’s tipped back, it seems like water and dust could collect on the wire and get pulled down into the cable housing over time, creating some friction and drag in the brake system and more work for your right hand pulling the rear brake lever, this would not be an issue if it used a hydraulic brake line vs. mechanical
Resources:
Bill
6 years agoYou left out what I consider the most important change in the 2019 Radmini, and that being the frame was redesigned to hold the controller in front of the seat tube making it very vulnerable to damage when the bike is folded or when you hit a rock. You didn’t mention that, and in fact you erroneously stated the controller was inside the metal box like the old model. I was hoping to hear your opinion on whether the bike was as strong (or stronger) with this new design and what your opinion of the exposed controller was.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoThat’s a really great point, Bill. I’m still refining these written reviews and will include this information. It didn’t strike me during the video review, we were packing a lot in that day and I just missed it. Thanks again for pointing it out here!
ReplyTom
6 years agoHi Court, nice review as always. Another thing though that you didn’t mention is that it appears the 2019 version will NOT come with the rear rack as standard equipment, as the 2018 did (at least your two review models did not have the rear rack). No one mentioned why the rear rack was removed as standard equipment. Perhaps weight? Perhaps to keep the initial price point down given the price increase? Maybe you can comment on that. I notice the rear rack is an $80 accessory, but still, why leave it off? Thanks.
ReplyCourt
6 years agoGood catch Tom! I think I caught this on the step-thru RadMini in the video. We definitely talked about it while I was there with the RAD guys and you’re correct, they aren’t including the rear rack anymore. It’s great that you can get it aftermarket and the same rack works with both of these trikes, but maybe they left it off to save money and weight. I know the price jump from $1.5 due to tariffs has made a lot of companies re-think how they can keep the price point low. I really appreciate your comment here, great attention to detail ;)
ReplyMax
6 years agoThanks for your review, I watched your video review of the step thru version last night. I was considering getting a new Rad Mini but ended up pre-ordering a Veego 500W while Rad had raised their prices to $1699 from the tariff situation. Tempted to rethink but honestly I can’t help going for the blue frame color. I do wish Rad was more clear about the wattage of their motors. I assumed it was a 500W Bafang with peak output of 750, but I think you said the 750 is continuous? And hearing that Rad developed a custom Bafang, it’s difficult to know what to think. I guess most people aren’t focused on wattage though.
One thing that had me second guessing myself was Rad saying they upgraded to a freewheel rather than a cassette, but after doing some research I don’t really get why that’s an upgrade. Do you have any insight there?
Still going to gamble on the Veego despite their lacking info/pictures compared to Rad. Would be great if you get a chance to review their bikes sometime.
ReplyJose Goyco
6 years agoyes I’ve been trying to see if I can find out how much is the tires of the 2019 tires for the rod many bicycle the black one and I want I want to know how much are the price for those tires so I can order a pair of the Kendall …
ReplyCourt
6 years agoHi Jose, I believe that the tires used on RAD ebikes are custom, but they might sell them directly through the website. I suggest contacting Rad Power Bikes directly :)
ReplyJohn green
6 years agoI’m British and have been looking for a UK legal fat folding bike. The Rad mini is perfect but not legal in the UK, the company suggest a Rad rhino which is new to Europe and is legal but looks too different to the Rad mini. Can you suggest a 250W e bike similar to the Rad mini?
ReplyCourt
6 years agoHi, John! Perhaps you could buy something like a Rad Power Bikes RadMini or VoltBike Mariner and then disconnect and remove the throttle. I think that would make it legal where you live… but I’m not super familiar with the laws. Maybe the motor would still be too powerful? Also, it could be difficult having one shipped to the UK. At least this is a starting place, maybe others will chime in, or you could ask for advice and ideas in the EBR forums where other UK residents may respond :)
ReplyPopi
6 years agoHey Court… First, let me say that your reviews and shared knowledge is a huge reason why I have transitioned from standard cycling to E-Bike cycling! Without your reviews and channel I would heave never crossed over… Thank you Sir.
I bought the 2017 OHM Sport after watching your review on it and although I still LOVE this bike, I had many issues with it and problems getting the OHM company
to fix the problems I was having with it. After much hassle and many many phone calls to the folks up in Canada, they finally fixed the bike. And, as I said, I Still LOVE this bike. When running properly it is quit amazing really.
The reason I am contacting is I would really appreciate your opinion on if buying a folding bike which one would you buy for yourself if it came down to only 2. The new 2019 RadMini or The New Tern Vektron S10 Gen 2?
Just a quick answer right off the cuff… which would you buy for yourself? My main concern about these smaller wheel size folding bikes is which one has a more stable and less squirrel front end? I appreciate your help and Highly value your opinion my friend!
Kindest regards
Replyb
Court
6 years agoHey! That feels great, thanks for the compliments and encouragement :)
Yeah, I think OHM had a difficult year and a half with the BionX bankruptcy. All of their bikes use BionX systems and even though they are reliable and well built in many ways, when the parent company is in transition like that, it’s probably distracting and might have made it difficult. I don’t know your situation exactly, but I’m glad to hear that you stuck with it, were patient, and have a working ebike at the end of the day. Awesome!
As for folding ebikes, between the two that you shared, I’d go with the RadRover if I was never going to fold it because I like the big comfy tires and throttle. The Tern Vektron is the better bike in almost every way… quality, reliability, range performance, cargo integration. It’s really an awesome bike, and might still be my choice if price were no consideration. I feel like this is a very situational decision, and since my back and neck are sensitive I like comfort… but Tern is like one of the best folding ebike manufacturers out there and Bosch has such a great track record and excellent battery/display technology. I prefer the Performance Line motors vs. Active Line (used on this Vektron) but it’s still a solid bike.
ReplyLarry
5 years agoThis site is an excellent source of information for a newbie. I don’t see much in the way of height recommendations. I’m 6’4″ and 250 lbs and looking for a folding bike to take in my van. Do you think this would work for me?
Thanks
ReplyRick
5 years agoI think Rad Power took peoples recommendations to heart. The newer Radmini has the controller behind the seattube now.
ReplyCourt
5 years agoOh, sweet! Thanks for the update. I’m in touch with their team and planning to do some reviews in early 2020 so I’ll keep an eye on this ;)
ReplyDon
5 years agoHello, this is my first review of my Rad Mini: I took delivery in early February and got one of the last 2019’s on sale. I am 64 years old and weigh more than I should, with gout and arthritis in my feet, this makes walking / running out of the question, hence the purchase. As of 4/6/20 I have put 160k or 100 miles on “The Beast”. Keep in mind I live in Dartmouth Nova Scotia and we had snow three days ago. “The Beast” performed well in -10C or 13F in 4CM (1.5 in) of snow, with the battery staying well within my comfort zone.
Mine is the high-step, not step thru model. I bought this model as it folds saving me the purchase of a trailer hitch and bike rack, just pop it in the hatchback. This is not a light bike by any means, but if you remove the battery, front tire and seat the weight is okay for loading. It arrived in good shape and was delivered on time, setup is minimal and requires little mechanical knowledge. If you can use a combination wrench, allen wrench and screwdriver you are good to go. I found the plug ends and plugged them in, it may be nice to put a color coded piece of tape on connections for the mechanically challenged, I had no issues.
The steering is quicker than I expected, it is best not to lean like a bike or motorcycle, just use the handle bars. Plan your turns a bit as the assist can and will kick in while turning, either pedal through or coast through the turn. I found that if I lowered the handle bars a bit the steering improved. As for the mechanical brakes, have no fear, they work great. If you have hand issues and think you need hydraulic brakes, maybe biking is not your thing.
I purchased a hand pump and a small under seat tool bag. All of the bike hand pumps I looked at required they be mounted under the water bottle holder, my bike has none. So a couple of black zip ties and wha laa, tire pump mounted. The “universal” tool bag did not work on the saddle. It is meant to mount on the steel bars that go front to back (springs) on the saddle. The provided saddle is a 1 off. The cure was to use the grab handle on the back of the seat, drill 2 holes and replace the mounting hardware with the proper length bolt. Mine required about a ¼ inch longer bolt. Bike pump and tool bag mounted and I have not had any issues.
For comfort I run a softer (lower) rear tire pressure to help with the bumps and use about a middle setting on the front adjustable forks. This keeps my wrists and shoulders happy. I find the instrument panel does all I need, just want to track how far I have ridden and battery life. BUY the fenders if the bike does not come with them. I did not and have returned home with a wet who who more than once. The rear rack I did not order as I have a large messenger bag that will haul what I need.
All in all the bike lives up to my expectations and was not over sold by RAD in my opinion.
ReplyCourt
5 years agoHi Don, what a great review! Thanks for spending some of your time to share with us. I love your saddle bag solution, using the handle on the saddle as a mounting point. I also completely agree with lower rear tire pressure for comfort. Good call with lifting, I’m glad you take the time to remove the battery, front wheel, and seat+post to reduce frame weight… no use getting hurt! It sounds like the bike is holding up well for you with continued use, even in cold temperatures. That’s wonderful to hear, and I’m glad you’ve found it to be of good value in terms of price. Enjoy the ride! Thanks again :)
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