Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review, 2024
A Peppy, Powerful, and Responsive Commuter with New Safety and Security Tech!
One of the major differences between this new generation of Rad bikes and the company’s previous models is a more powerful, far more responsive motor. The Radster Road’s 750W rear hub relies on a torque sensor to engage, which allows it to adapt its output to match the rider’s effort. In our experience, this made for a smooth, natural feeling ride. The upgrade to 100 Newton-meters of torque also gave the bike fast acceleration and plenty of oomph.
To alleviate any potential concerns about its battery and electrical system, the Radster Road is both UL 2271 and UL 2849 certified. Rad also raised the bar for safety in the industry by using a “potted” battery pack, wherein the individual cells are sealed and surrounded by a heat-resistant resin to reduce the likelihood of thermal runaway.
We were thrilled about all of the Radster’s upgrades, but we were also relieved to note that it still had the heart and soul of a Rad Power bike. Here at Electric Bike Report, we have maintained the opinion that Rad makes some of the most dependable, safe, and well-put-together e-bikes in their price range; these things are often suggested by our test data, but more apparent in feel alone.
With that in mind, we identified some aspects of the bike that certain potential buyers should consider. We found the riding position of the Road to be somewhat awkward with its styling/geometry and Dutch-style handlebars – though the Trail version felt great. Additionally, while we think the bike is well-suited for seniors, its weight of 78 lbs (including the battery) is relatively heavy when compared to other commuter e-bikes we have tested. We think the Radster’s benefits far outweigh its cons, however, as its overall feel and performance exceeded our expectations.
Our full Rad Power Bikes Radster Road review continues below.
*Editor’s Note: Updated 3/27/2024 to add video review
- A more powerful and more responsive motor than we’ve seen on any previous Rad bikes! The Radster’s 750W hub motor features a torque sensor and 100 Nm of torque.
- Impressive safety features including a potted Safe Shield battery, UL2271 and UL2849 certification, turn signals, and more.
- The Radster maintains Rad’s trademark feel with steady, reliable motor output and thoughtful design.
- An ergonomic, comfortable riding position with great visibility – all benefits of the bike’s Dutch influence.
- Good ride stability and predictable handling with 29”x2.2” Kenda Kwick tires.
- An uncommon extra layer of security with a keycard fob or password lock.
- Offers speed/Class customization; can be adjusted between Class 1, Class 2, and limited or full Class 3 modes.
- Looks are subjective, but we like the Radster Road’s signature, industrial-feeling aesthetic.
- We found the Radster Road’s handlebar type and height to be somewhat mismatched, but this can be corrected (if needed) with a different stem and/or handlebars.
- Something to be aware of: at 78 lbs with the battery installed (67.5 lbs without), the Radster Road is relatively heavy when compared to similar e-bikes.
- Battery:15Ah 720 Wh Safe Shield Advanced Semi-Integrated Battery, Samsung 50GB or LG M50LT cells, UL Certified to UL-2271
- Display: Rad custom color display.
- Motor: Rear hub 750W, 100 Nm torque. Stated wattage is the manufacturer’s rated power capacity. Actual power-to-ground wattage is under 750W to ensure ebike regulatory compliance and may vary depending on riding conditions.
- Charger: 48VDC, 2 Amp Rad Power Bikes smart charger, operates on 100V-240V AC power outlets
- Headlight:~200 lumens LED headlight with built-in reflector
- Taillights:Integrated taillight with brake light and turn signals
- Pedal Assist: Torque sensor, 5 PAS Levels, plus a zero assist option
- Range:Estimated 25-65 miles per charge
- Throttle:Half twist throttle
- UL Certification:UL2271 and UL2849 Certified
- Claimed weight: 75 lbs (34 kg), 66.5 lbs (30.2 kg) with battery removed (actual 85.7 lbs, 75.1 lbs with battery removed)
- Rider height range: 4’11”-5’8″ (Regular), 5’7″-6’4″ (Large)
- Maximum rider weight: 290 lbs
- Maximum load on the rear rack: 55 lbs
- Total payload capacity:320 lbs
- Brakes:Tektro Hydraulic Disc E350
- Fenders: Full coverage aluminum alloy fenders with chain guard
- Fork: SR Suntour hydraulic suspension fork, 80mm travel, tapered steerer tube, thru axle
- Frame: Aluminum
- Drivetrain: Shimano 8-speed, 11-34T cassette, 50T chainring
- Grips: Ergonomic rubber comfort grips
- Saddle: Padded sport saddle with shallow anatomic cut-out and contoured sides
- Handlebar: Aluminum, 710 mm wide
- Kickstand: Side mounted, adjustable angle kickstand
- Pedals: Alloy Platform, Boron axle with reflectors, standard 9/16″ X 20 TPI threading
- Tires: Kenda Kwick Series 29″ X 2.2″ with Puncture Protection and reflective strip
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Speed Test
The Radster Road performed every bit as well as we expected in our Speed Test. I recorded my maximum speed in each pedal assist setting as I rode the bike along a flat test course. My goal was to maintain a consistent level of effort throughout the test with the hope of removing the variability of the bike’s torque sensor as a variable.
As it ships, the bike has a Class 2 speed limit of 20 mph with its throttle and pedal assist system (PAS), but it can be adjusted to a Class 3 max speed of 28 mph. I tested the bike both in its standard and maximum speed settings.
With Class 2 limits, I pedaled comfortably up to 11.2 mph; this was slower than I expected, but the bike’s weight was noticeable. The motor engaged quietly with subtle power in PAS 1, allowing me to reach 11.9 mph while still feeling extremely natural and reserved. Pedaling in PAS 2 felt noticeably easier; my max speed was 14.5 mph. The motor’s power was on full display in the higher assist settings – I reached 16.8 mph in PAS 3, 19.0 mph in PAS 4, and 20.1 mph in PAS 5.
In Class 3 mode, my speed of 11.5 mph in PAS 1 was similar to the Class 2 result, but all of my other results were faster. I pedaled to 14.9 mph in PAS 2, 18.3 mph in PAS 3, 22.2 mph in PAS 4, and 25.8 mph in PAS 5.
Both settings showed a more or less ideal distribution of speed, with consistent incremental increases in power across each of the 5 PAS settings. Such a distribution results in distinct, meaningful differences in feel. The 20 mph maximum seemed to limit the Radster slightly in Class 2 mode, as is visible in the graph above, but in Class 3 mode, this was not a problem.
I was also satisfied with the Raster’s gearing in Class 3 mode; this is where bikes that can reach 28 miles per hour often fail. Even with the maximum level of pedal assist, I did not find myself going above 7th gear, and my pedaling was always engaging with the drivetrain and adding to my speed.
The bike’s throttle felt peppy but not overpowered. I could tell that this motor was more torquey than on previous Rad bikes (like the RadCity 5+ ST, which we previously reviewed) but its power remained controlled and manageable; I never felt like the bike was getting away from me.
Overall I was impressed with the Radster Road’s performance in this test, but I expected no less based on our previous experiences.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Range Test
In most cases, we find that e-bikes with rear-hub motors and torque sensors display great efficiency and range. The Radster Road continued this pattern in our Range Test, where we rode the bike with its maximum and minimum (practical) power levels until the battery expired.
We tested this version of the Radster in PAS 5 and PAS 2 with Class 2 speed limits to determine reasonable limits for its minimum and maximum range. Our results were 36.3 and 53.3 miles respectively.
We selected PAS 2 for the low power test for two reasons. First, for more data; we are simultaneously reviewing the off-road capable Radster Trail, which uses the same motor and battery. We performed our low power Range Test for that bike in PAS 1, assuming that the Radster Road would have nearly identical results (more on that later).
Second, some may find the power in PAS 2 to be more practical; we believe the Radster Road to be one of the best electric bikes for seniors, but we also understand that many aging riders choose an e-bike to alleviate the strain from pedaling. The bike’s power in PAS 1 is well-suited for those who can pedal an analog bike without issue, but the motor output of PAS 2 may be more appropriate for an older audience.
The average Range Test results for all of the commuter e-bikes we have tested are 29.7 and 56.4 miles at the time of writing. In comparison, the Radster Road could be considered slightly above average in its max-PAS result, and slightly below average in its low-PAS result — at least at face value.
It is important to also consider our Range Test results for the Radster Trail: 34.0 miles in PAS 5 and 75.5 miles in PAS 1. Our results from the Radster Road’s PAS 5 test showed slightly better range in PAS 5, so we would expect it to perform similarly well in PAS 1.
Assuming that the Radster Road could meet (and potentially exceed) the Radster Trail’s results, it could reach beyond the current longest distance we have recorded from a commuter e-bike with a rear hub motor. This distance is currently 78.9 miles.
We believe it is possible that the bike’s max-assist results could be equally impressive under the right conditions. I personally performed the Radster Road’s PAS 5 test, and found that the bike could be extremely efficient when riding continuously without stopping at 20 mph; once I reached the Class 2 limit, the motor required only a small fraction of its maximum wattage to maintain speed. I intentionally reduced my speed for the purposes of our test to draw a more significant amount of power, but I suspect the bike could have traveled a greater distance if I had maintained 20 mph.
We attribute the Radster Road’s efficiency partially to its programming, but also its torque sensor; with the ability to vary the motor’s output, it did not need to dispense the maximum amount of power at all times. We estimated the bike’s PAS 5 results would be 16.7 miles with only 58 minutes of ride time; our actual results of 36 miles and over 2 hours showed over 110% more time and distance.
With such an efficient system, we think the Radster Road is well-suited to its role as a commuter; those with long rides will likely be able to get at least a full round trip from one charge. In the future, we hope to see a faster 3 amp charger to reduce the Radster Road’s charge time from 7.5 hours to 5 hours, but otherwise, the bike’s ability to make the most of its 720 Wh battery is worthy of praise.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Hill Test
Our tester Justin throttled to the top of the paved path in 1:33 with an average speed of 11.7 miles per hour. His time and speed improved significantly when pedaling in PAS 5; he completed the second portion of the test in 1:16 while pedaling at 14.3 mph on average.
At the time of writing, our data shows average times for other commuter e-bikes with 750W rear-hub motors to be 1:42 (throttle) and 1:23 (max PAS), showing that the Radster Road was 7-9 seconds faster than average!
To understand these results in context, it is worth discussing the Hill Test results for the RadCity 5+ ST. We consider the Radster Road to be at least the spiritual successor to this older model; the two bikes are similar in design and power. The RadCity we tested was also equipped with a 750W rear hub motor, though its torque output differed and it used a cadence sensor. This older model completed the throttle test successfully in 1:54 at 9.5 mph, while its PAS 5 results were 1:30 at 12.1 mph.
Prior to the release of the Radster, Rad’s bikes were consistently capable at conquering hills, but landed low on our list of test results with slower speeds. This was due to the brand’s approach: where a majority of e-bikes with 750W motors from other brands peak well above that limit, Rad specs motors that do not exceed their stated nominal wattage.
On the Radster Road, the brand made up for this difference with more torque. Where the RadCity 5+ ST’s motor produced only 60 Nm of torque, the Radster’s output was increased to 100 Nm. This made a clear difference in climbing power and speed, though with the same peak wattage, the Radster Road maintained a similar feel.
The effect was clear: instead of being low on the list of results, the Radster landed near the top. As such, we once again find ourselves impressed. Kudos to Rad Power Bikes for a job well done!
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Brake Test
The Radster Road performed well in our Brake Test, where we evaluated the performance of its Tektro hydraulic disc brake system using the process above. We calculated the bike’s average stopping distance to be 22’1” using our three sets of test data.
Compared to other commuter e-bikes we have tested, this result places the Radster Road slightly below average (currently 21’9”) but only by a small margin. In my personal testing of the bike, I found its braking to be more than adequate in real use scenarios.
We attribute the Radster’s result in this test to one main factor: the bike’s overall weight.
The Tektro HD-E350 brake system is rated specifically for e-bikes, and as such, appears regularly on our test bikes. The performance of this system is generally decent, though it does vary based on weight, geometry, etc. We do not feel that the brake system is mismatched for the Radster, but at 78 lbs, the bike takes longer to slow down than some other commuters at 60-65 lbs.
Additionally, we noticed that the bike had a tendency to “skate” on its 29”x2.2” Kenda Kwick tires when braking hard, though this is not unusual with this style of tire. With a light tread pattern, the Radster’s tires have low rolling resistance, but also less grip.
I found that the bike felt stable both when riding and braking, and generally performed well. As such, we consider it to be well-specced with brakes that are safe and effective.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Ride Quality
I found the Radster’s motor to be one of its best features; with 750W of power, the ride felt exhilarating! The torque sensor was remarkably responsive, which created a smooth, fun, and natural experience.
I also liked that the bike had such flexibility in its speeds; where the previous generation of Rad’s bikes were limited to a Class 2 setting, the Radster offers the ability to switch between Class 1 (no throttle), Class 2 (throttle and PAS up to 20 mph), Class 3 Limited (PAS up to 25), and full Class 3 (PAS up to 28) speeds. In Class 3 settings, the throttle functions up to 20 mph.
The Radster Road is offered in two frame sizes: a Regular that fits riders from 4’11” to 5’8” and a Large for those between 5’7” and 6’4”. In terms of comfort, the bike checked most of the boxes that we look for. Our test riders (who are mostly in the 6’ range) were generally comfortable on the Large frame; we thought the saddle felt soft and supportive, while the handlebars and grips themselves were shaped well. With that in mind, the handlebar height and riding position felt somewhat awkward, blending Dutch/commuter styling in an unexpected way. To compensate for this, I found myself lowering the saddle and reducing my leg extension to balance out the fit, but this was not ideal.
For the record, we tested the Radster Road and the Radster Trail simultaneously, and found that the Trail’s low-rise handlebars felt much better, and more suited to the bike’s geometry. Fit and comfort are personal factors, so we recommend trying the bike to determine if changes are needed; the Radster Road’s stem and handlebars can be replaced if needed with relatively minimal cost and effort (though this is still an extra step).
The Radster’s frame design varies between sizes. The Regular offers a true step-thru design and a sub-20” standover height, while the Large features what I would dub a mid-step frame with a 24” standover. Prospective owners using a bike rack should consider its weight, as even with the battery removed, the bike’s 67.5 lbs is above average for a commuter. We liked the bike’s design overall, however, as it follows the industrial styling of 2023’s RadRunner 3 Plus.
I found the Radster’s handling to be predictable; with 29” wheels it is well-suited for acceleration and comfort but trades some agility. The 2.2” tires added stability to the ride and performed well when cornering. I appreciated the Suntour suspension fork with 80 mm of travel, though with most of my weight on the saddle, it did not greatly impact the feel of the ride.
The Radster includes all of the commuter essentials: lights, fenders, and a 55-lb capacity cargo rack. Rad’s website currently lists 43 optional accessories that can also be added to upgrade the bike further.
Another feature that stood out was the new display. Its clean lettering, simple layout, and fantastic readability felt contemporary and high-tech. This was enhanced by the faceted 6-button control panel and Rad’s inclusion of turn signals (a feature I personally feel should be on every commuter e-bike)!
A final element worthy of discussion is the Radster’s uncommon suite of security features. The bike comes with a security keycard that can be used to unlock it on startup; alternatively, users can choose a 4-digit passcode (or no security at all). We recommend the optional cafe wheel lock to round out the bike’s theft protection.
Rad Power Bikes Radster Road Review: Summary / Where to Buy
Thanks to a powerful motor and a responsive torque sensor, the Radster felt great to ride. These upgrades boosted the bike’s performance, with excellent Speed and Range Test results — and one of the best Hill Test results we’ve seen from a Rad Power bike.
We commend Rad for their advances in ride and road safety; the adoption of Safe Shield battery technology, full UL certification, and the integration of turn signals are steps that we hope other e-bike brands will follow in.
Without modification, the Radster Road seems best-suited for shorter riders and aging cyclists planning for long rides; taller riders may need to change out the stem and/or handlebars to find a good fit (or consider the Radster Trail). Additionally, those needing to lift the bike regularly should be aware of its weight.
But overall, we feel that the Radster is a significant leap forward for Rad Power Bikes. With upgrades to speed, power, ride feel, safety, and security, the Radster Road is a contemporary commuter with the features we expect for an e-bike in its price range (around $2k at the time of writing). We think it will serve commuters and leisure riders well, in addition to serving as a reassertion of Rad’s force as an industry leader.
Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Rad Power Bikes Radster Road down in our comments section.
Dan d says
Curious how this fares vs the Velotric Discover 2- when does that review come out ?
John S. Bozick says
I’m not sure of the exact date that will go live, but it’s in the queue. I’d say stay tuned over the next couple of weeks.
Marcelo says
Just bought a Large Radster Road, and I am relieved to see that my test drive evaluation match your review.
Great and well detailed review. Thank you so much!
John S. Bozick says
Thanks for reading (and for the kudos)!
François Bertin says
Hi,
Are the Envo d50 and Rize MD (hub or mid-drive) in your planned tests?
Regards,
François Bertin, Canada