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Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Review | A Classic Made Current?

The base model of Rad’s quintessential utility e-bike rides as good as ever while boasting new safety, security, and ride-enhancing features.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Review

The RadRunner line of short-tail cargo/utility e-bikes is iconic.

Since the first model was released in 2019, the series has featured heavy-duty, accessory-compatible cargo racks and manageably-sized, easy-to-mount frames. When combined with the steady and approachable pedal assist Rad Power Bikes is known for, these features make all RadRunner models capable, reliable, and extremely versatile.

Along with the brand itself, Rad Power’s RadRunner line has gone through quite an evolution. Most recently, the company simplified its naming conventions and re-released its three utility models: the basic RadRunner we’ll focus on in this review, the upgraded RadRunner Plus, and the high-tech RadRunner Max.

Most similar to the former RadRunner 2, the RadRunner is an entry-level e-bike that prioritizes affordability; its roughly $1,500 price point makes it one of Rad’s lowest-priced e-bikes. Still, with a respectable 320-lb payload capacity, a robust 750W motor, and an easy-to-use interface & pedal assist system, it doesn’t sacrifice functionality.

With its re-release, Rad Power Bikes included a handful of performance, safety, and experience-enhancing upgrades on the RadRunner. The bike features a color display with a clean and straightforward interface, a Gemma hydraulic disc brake system, a fire-resistant SafeShield battery, and a new set of custom all-terrain tires.

We tested the RadRunner’s Class 2 speed capability, its maximum and minimum range potential, its hill-climbing performance, and its new brake system in a series of standardized tests. See our full review below to get the full scoop on Rad’s latest family- and budget-friendly utility e-bike!

[Read more…] about Rad Power Bikes RadRunner Review | A Classic Made Current?

Cikada Touring E-Bike Review | In It For The Long Haul?

The Touring is a comfortable, responsive hybrid commuter/cargo carrier that’s well suited for a wide range of uses.

Cikada Touring E-Bike Review

E-bikes are often relatively specialized, meaning that they are engineered to fulfill a specific role related to their style or category. This focused design commonly results in bikes that can perform one or two tasks exceptionally well while also having some glaring weaknesses in other areas.

For example, an electric mountain bike (eMTB) might offer extreme agility, traction, and shock absorption for rocky trails, while suffering some loss of energy efficiency when riding on paved surfaces. In another case, folding e-bikes often sacrifice some comfort and steering control for increased portability and compactness.

The Cikada Touring E-Bike occupies a relatively unique middle ground between a commuter e-bike and a cargo hauler. As its name might suggest, it’s intended for comfortable, long-distance rides on streets and paved paths.

As such, it’s more versatile than most e-bikes of a single style. The Touring’s design makes it suitable for getting to the office, grabbing dinner or groceries on the way home, and loading up for a long day of sightseeing and adventuring on the weekend.

The bike’s biggest strengths are its 350W mid-drive motor, sizable 720 Wh battery, and extended rear cargo rack. The torque-sensing motor delivers power naturally in response to the rider’s effort while the battery fuels the mid-drive on long rides. The rack offers a long platform that can be equipped with a handful of accessories and can carry up to 77 lbs.

The Touring impressed us with its overall comfort, responsive pedal assist system (PAS), and range capabilities, but as with any e-bike, it’s not perfect. Keep reading to find out how the bike performed in our real world tests, how it compares to similar models we’ve tested, and what areas have room for improvement.

[Read more…] about Cikada Touring E-Bike Review | In It For The Long Haul?

Rad Opposes CPSC Battery Warning, Aventon Plans European Debut, New Upway/Aventon Trade-In Program | TWR Ep 59

Plus New Salsa Confluence Gravel E-Bikes, Onewheel’s Self-Balancing Wheelie Motorbike, Griffin & John’s Personal E-Bikes, & More!

More big stories in this week’s e-bike news!

The CPSC released a warning regarding the safety of some of Rad Power Bikes’ older batteries. Rad responded with a statement defending its products and explaining that a recall could force its closure.

California-based e-bike brand Aventon announces a 2026 expansion into the European market. It plans to release a new line of e-bikes to meet tighter EU regulations; we have some details on Aventon’s new custom mid-drive motor.

The refurbished e-bike seller Upway has partnered with Aventon on a new trade-in program. Riders trading in their old e-bikes on new Aventon models can receive a bonus when visiting one of the program’s locations before Christmas!

Keep reading below for more details on these stories. If you’d prefer to watch or listen to the news, see (or hear) our weekly news and entertainment show using the links above.

[Read more…] about Rad Opposes CPSC Battery Warning, Aventon Plans European Debut, New Upway/Aventon Trade-In Program | TWR Ep 59

Jupiter Bike Defiant Review | An Out of This World Folding Bike?

A straightforward, relatively lightweight folding e-bike with a peppy motor and a comfy ride.

Jupiter Defiant Review

In recent years, we’ve seen many folding e-bikes in the US market creep up in weight, sometimes exceeding 70 lbs. In rare cases, they’ve even tipped the scales at 80+ lbs, making them as hefty as many full size e-bikes on the heavy end of the spectrum.

Considering that their hinged frames are often marketed as making folding e-bikes easier to transport and smaller to store, this relatively high weight might seem counterintuitive.

That’s why we were pleased to note that the Defiant, a folding e-bike from the Tampa-based brand Jupiter Bike, weighed in under 60 lbs. This comparatively low weight drops to around 52 lbs once the battery is removed. With or without the power pack, it’s one of the more portable folding e-bikes we’ve tested in recent years.

You might expect a lighter-weight folding bike to sacrifice power, but the Defiant is equipped to go toe-to-toe with many of its heavier peers. The bike features a powerful 750W rear-hub motor with a cadence sensor. With a maximum pedal-assisted speed of 20 mph, it pedals easily and can make short work of hills.

Another thing that sets the Defiant apart from many other folding e-bikes is that it rolls on 4-inch knobby fat tires. While similar models often feature similar tread to provide grip on loose unpaved terrain, few bikes feature such wide tires. This means the Defiant’s ride feels extra stable—and the added cushion helps smooth any bumps you might encounter.

Clearly, the bike goes against the grain in some areas, suggesting that it lives up to its bold, rebellious name. But how does the Defiant compare to similar bikes we’ve tested in terms of performance? See our full review below to find out!


*Note: Use Code: EBREPORT10 to save 10%

[Read more…] about Jupiter Bike Defiant Review | An Out of This World Folding Bike?

Urtopia’s Owners Buy Pedego, Trek’s Brake Recall, D.C. E-Bike Speeds Reduced | TWR Ep 58

Plus Black Friday Deals, Meepo V3 Max Longboard, E-Bike Comparisons, & More!

This week in e-bike news, we cover the acquisition of a veteran brand by the owners of an up-and-comer. We also discuss an important recall and lower speed limits on some e-bikes in Washington D.C.

The headlining story is Pedego’s purchase; the brick-and-mortar retailer has been acquired by the same group that owns Hong-Kong-based e-bike maker Urtopia. Pedego’s CEO hopes the partnership will allow it to expand its physical presence to pandemic-era highs and beyond.

Trek announces a recall on roughly 68,000 bikes with faulty coaster brakes. An online tool can help identify whether your bike is affected—see below.

Additionally, bike share companies Lime and Veo have agreed to lower the speeds of their rental fleets in the nation’s capital. The goal of this decision is to increase public safety and encourage responsible e-bike use.

For more information on these stories, continue reading below. Otherwise, for more news, entertainment, and e-bike info, check out the video or audio versions of our weekly podcast above!

[Read more…] about Urtopia’s Owners Buy Pedego, Trek’s Brake Recall, D.C. E-Bike Speeds Reduced | TWR Ep 58

Can Rad Power Bikes Be Saved? + Scott’s Fastlane E-Road Bike, Upway Plans Expansion | TWR Ep 57

Plus Updates on Super73’s MZFT, Aventon Pace 4 vs Velotric Breeze 1 Comparison, Mokwheel Basalt 1.0 vs 2.0, & More!

In this week’s e-bike news, another major US-based e-bike brand announced its possible shutdown in January if its leadership is unable to source additional funding. Could this mean the end for Rad Power Bikes?

One of the most eye-catching new releases we’ve seen from the past week is Scott’s Fastlane electric road bike. With a carbon fiber frame and fork, a stealthy TQ mid-drive, and a fully internal battery, it’s tough to tell this model is even an e-bike!

Additionally, the e-bike refurbisher Upway has acquired a new round of funding to expand its operations and presence. The company plans to establish new brick and mortar refurbishment centers in Denver and other cities.

See or listen to our weekly news and entertainment show above for more information. Alternatively, keep reading below for more details on these news stories and some early black friday deals!

[Read more…] about Can Rad Power Bikes Be Saved? + Scott’s Fastlane E-Road Bike, Upway Plans Expansion | TWR Ep 57

AIMA Santa Monica Review | Contemporary California Cruising

This hybrid cruiser/commuter e-bike blends responsive pedal assist with a comfortable ride and a robust, user-friendly feature package.

AIMA Santa Monica Review

Here at Electric Bike Report, we’re lucky to have a community of smart, trustworthy, and experienced readers and viewers. That’s why we listen when you speak up!

For years, the AIMA Santa Monica has been one of the most requested e-bikes our audience has asked us to review. After such a long time, we were excited to finally get the bike in for testing, and at first glance, it was clear why the bike was so popular.

As a cruiser/commuter hybrid, the Santa Monica is well-equipped for both functionality and comfort. It features an accessible step-thru frame, an accommodating saddle, and swept-back handlebars that keep the rider upright. It also includes wide, stable tires, integrated lights and turn signals, a suspension fork, and an MIK-compatible cargo rack.

The bike was also highly impressive in practice; as with every model we’ve reviewed, we conducted extensive performance tests, but even a short test ride was enough to reveal the Santa Monica’s lively, responsive feel. Its powerful motor delivered assistance smoothly and quietly, making short work of hills and adapting its output to match our pedal effort.

Looks are certainly subjective, but we couldn’t help but dig the Santa Monica’s classic yet refined aesthetic. Our test bike’s glossy cornflower blue color reminded us of an automobile’s paint job, while its brown faux leather saddle/grips and tan-wall tires added a retro vibe to the whole package.

The bike ultimately delivered in looks, ride feel, and on-paper specs, but how did its performance compare with similar cruiser and commuter-style e-bikes we’ve tested? See our full review below to find out!

[Read more…] about AIMA Santa Monica Review | Contemporary California Cruising

Fiido Nomads Review | Your Cycling Endurance Booster

A more realistic bike riding experience. A solid and versatile platform with fitness and endurance benefits for those simply looking to take longer rides than they’re able to on non-motorized ones.

Fiido Nomads Review

Many e-bikes advertise raw speed and brute power, but what often gets overlooked is how well they can extend a cyclist’s own effort. The Fiido Nomads leans into that strength. Instead of trying to feel like a motorbike, it provides a ride experience that’s closer to your current acoustic bike, just easier, fresher, and longer lasting, and making hills far less daunting of a task.

With its modest 250W motor, lower top speed, and efficient use of battery power, the Nomads emphasizes endurance over pure adrenaline. Riders who want to push their cardiovascular efforts a little further, or cover ground they couldn’t before, will find it an appealing option. Add in hybrid tires for mixed terrain, a 120mm suspension fork, and a wide 9-speed gear range, and you get a bike built for comfort across a variety of settings.

Fiido also takes its trekking potential seriously: the Nomads can run up to three batteries (two rack-mounted spares, plus the main frame unit) without sacrificing cargo space. That flexibility, paired with multiple frame sizes and an adjustable stem, makes it a surprisingly adaptable and affordable endurance-focused e-bike. While a U.S.-specific version with higher speeds would unlock broader audience appeal, the Nomads still shines as a natural-feeling, go-farther machine for commuters, trekkers, and casual cyclists alike.

[Read more…] about Fiido Nomads Review | Your Cycling Endurance Booster

Eurobike’s Future Threatened, California’s Voucher Program Retired, New Gravel E-Bike From Marin | TWR Ep 56

Plus the Tenways Wayfarer, Slime vs. FlatOut, the 440+ Mile Natchez Trace Parkway, E-Bike Recommendations, & More!

In this week’s e-bike news, the future of one of the largest bike industry’s trade shows is uncertain after major brands and two trade associations break ties. Will this development mean the end of Eurobike or simply an evolution for the show?

Additionally, California’s e-bike incentive program was quietly retired in favor of a hybrid/EV car initiative. The end of the state’s voucher program means low-income residents will no longer receive support for purchasing e-bikes.

Finally, Marin Bikes announced an electric version of its versatile, multi-surface Lombard road/gravel bike. The E Lombard will be offered in two spec tiers, both boasting a Bosch drive system.

For more details on these stories, continue reading below. If you’d rather watch or listen to find out more information, see episode 56 of our video or audio podcast, the Weekly Recharge, above instead!

[Read more…] about Eurobike’s Future Threatened, California’s Voucher Program Retired, New Gravel E-Bike From Marin | TWR Ep 56

Urtopia Carbon Classic Review | Carbon Benefits Galore

Urtopia’s Carbon Classic trims away some of the high-tech features of the Pro model to make it more affordable,but the core concept remains as sharp as ever. This version offers greater value, improved fit adjustability, and a refined take on a lightweight, all-around strong city e-bike experience.

Urtopia Carbon Classic Review

I was an early adopter of Amazon’s Echo when it first hit the scene. I even bought Smart Plugs so I could turn lamps on and off with just my voice. To me, that was magic. To my wife, it was a strange way to spend money when we could just flip a switch ourselves. Point being, the latest and greatest tech doesn’t appeal to everyone, and, to some, can sometimes distract from products that already work perfectly well without it.

Urtopia made waves with its first-to-do-it AI integration on an e-bike, but that approach might not be appealing for everybody. With the new Carbon Classic, Urtopia has streamlined the experience keeping to a more traditional e-bike format while maintaining the brand’s standout “regular e-bike” features front and center.

The Carbon Classic plays to Urtopia’s strengths. Its carbon fiber frame is lightweight, stiff, and confidence-inspiring, giving the bike its signature sculpted look and agile handling. The motor and battery combo match the theme: quick, natural-feeling assist from a torque sensor, a wide gear range to fit your cadence, and enough range capacity for longer rides or quick city bursts.

Unlike the Carbon 1 Pro, this model opts for a simpler display wit no oversized tech unit with extra frills, just a clean, functional screen showing the essentials. That swap also allows for an adjustable stem with 90 degrees of range, letting riders fine-tune between upright comfort or a more aggressive body posture.

Overall, the Carbon Classic feels savvy, sleek, and approachable; it’s a well-balanced urban commuter that stays true to Urtopia’s modern aesthetic. Utopia’s been championing carbon fiber affordability, but by trimming the bleeding-edge tech, it furthers that goal making it even more accessible to riders who just want a lightweight, great-handling city bike without the extra gadgetry.

For all our thoughts—and to see what it can really do—check out the full Urtopia Carbon Classic review below or watch our video.

[Read more…] about Urtopia Carbon Classic Review | Carbon Benefits Galore

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