What E-Bikes Should Seniors Be Riding? And Rad Power Bikes Finds Its New CEO | TWR Ep 23

Rad Power Bikes Appoints Kathi Lentzsch As Its New Ceo Following The Departure Of Phil Molyneux

Following the recently announced departure of Phil Molyneux, ​Rad Power Bikes has appointed Kathi Lentzsch as its new CEO. Lentzsch brings over three decades of leadership experience, including executive roles at Bartell Drugs, Pottery Barn, Pier 1 Imports, and Cost Plus World Market. Her background in transforming consumer-facing businesses aligns with Rad Power Bikes’ mission to innovate and prioritize rider satisfaction. This leadership change comes as the company transitions a direct-to-consumer model to a more balanced retail-focused approach, aiming to reach more riders and strengthen customer relationships. ​

Rad has endured some rough headlines in recent years. The company had a meteroic rise to the top, was once the sales leader in e-bikes, and received several rounds of financial investment totaling more than $329 million. Since then, the company has had numerous rounds of layoffs, canceled expansion attempts into the European market, and faced lawsuits.

Still, they have some of the best brand equity of any e-bike maker, a promising lineup of recently released models, and an ever-growing group of retailers, so there are reasons for optimism that the brand could rally under new leadership.

The All-New Orbea Denna: Gravel E-bike With Custom-Tuned Shimano Mid-Drive

​Orbea has introduced the Denna, a mid-drive electric road bike optimized for gravel riding. Equipped with the RS Gen2 RC system—a customized version of Shimano’s EP platform—the Denna delivers up to 85 Nm of torque and offers two assist modes: Gravel and Gravel+, tailored for varying terrain conditions. Its OMR carbon frame accommodates tires up to 50c, enhancing versatility across different surfaces. A 420Wh battery supports significant elevation gains, with an optional 210Wh range extender available for extended rides. The Denna also features mounting points for fenders and dual water bottle cages, catering to long-distance adventures.

Compounding Tariffs Could Mean 70% Increases On Certain E-Bike Components

​The recent implementation of a 25% U.S. tariff on steel and aluminum imports affects various bicycle components, notably chains and certain cables. Importers of Chinese-made chains now face cumulative tariffs totaling 70%, combining previous and new duties. Additionally, some bike cables, particularly those without fittings, may be subject to these tariffs, though classifications remain ambiguous. These tariffs also extend to various hardware items utilized by bike shops and manufacturers.