Fewer names are bigger in the electrified bike world than Rad Power Bikes. They were able to take a lot of experience into their first Trike design, and it hits a lot of high notes.
Rad designed the RadTrike using smaller 18-inch wheels and a simplified powerband that uses a front wheel hub motor. Riders can appreciate the ease of stepping on and off this low-sitting bike, along with its easy-to-maneuver, light frame.
The 750 watt front-hub motor generates up to 85 Nm of torque, making it powerful enough to carry heavy loads and climb steep hills. The weight capacity is 325 lbs for the rider, rear basket up to 60 lbs, and front basket 30 lbs, with total payload capacity not to exceed 415 lbs.
Handling the RadTrike is also made nice since it’s rear wheel base is as long as you can go while still sitting through a door frame, and the smaller tire size keeps center of gravity low for better balance. It’s easy to hop on and off the RadTrike too, and the fold-down handlebar makes it easier to transport and store when not in use.
Powering the motor is the 10 Ah (480 Wh) battery that gave us a range of 58 miles on our test ride. Stopping power comes from a simplified brake system, using a mechanical front disc brake, with 180mm rotor, and a rear coaster brake. Also making the RadTrike simple to operate is the single-speed drivetrain.
Keeping safety in mind, Rad caps the top speed at 14 mph for its e-trike. And you get good peace of mind knowing that RadTrike’s engineering meets the safety certification guidelines with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Rad offers three different kits so you can get the rack/basket combo that fits your hauling needs.
It’s not quite as affordable as the XP Trike, but it’s a little more solid and refined feeling, and still less expensive than most electric trikes on the market today which might make it the best value electric trike.
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