Electric Bike Report’s take
The RadKick looks like an exciting bike for a variety of reasons.
First—and especially after the expiration of Section 301 tariffs back in June—we’re thrilled to see a new entry-level model in Rad’s lineup. You usually get what you pay for when it comes to e-bikes, but Rad’s recent models have landed on the pricey side when compared to many other DTC brands. The RadKick’s base price is a welcome change.
Second, while additional sizes and color options would be nice, we’re pleased that buyers can upgrade to the belt drive and torque sensor. Considering that the aforementioned Lectric XPress includes a torque sensor for $999, we hoped for the same on both RadKick models, but it’s a good fit to help offset the limitations of a single-speed drivetrain.
For $1,399, the RadKick sports a single-speed belt drive and a torque sensor.
The base model features a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain with a traditional chain.
Wide 710mm handlebars should provide excellent steering and stability.
The RadKick includes a cargo rack with a bamboo deck, a tail/brake light, and 55 lbs of capacity.
The belt drive provides additional benefits, too—most importantly, it’s low maintenance. Belts typically last at least twice as long as chains, and with no cassette, there are fewer parts that will wear (and need to be replaced). Belts don’t require grease, so they won’t mess up your pants or hands. They’re also remarkably quiet!
Third, we’re also happy to see Rad embrace the clean look of a fully integrated battery; their previous models have carried external or semi-integrated power packs that simply don’t look as sleek. With the RadKick, the brand seems to be fully up-to-date in the visual department.
Some of Rad’s decisions with the RadKick, however, may not be quite as praise-worthy. The bike’s 36V battery limits both its total capacity/range and the amount of power delivered to the motor. We expect this will add to the RadKick’s analog-like feel, but it may leave some riders wanting more.
There’s also the raw speed and power aspects. The RadKick carries a 500W motor that doesn’t peak above its nominal wattage and a Class 2 limit of 20 mph.
At 55 lbs, the RadKick is firmly on the lighter side among others in the Rad Power Bikes lineup.
From experience, we know this choice is intentional; Rad leans heavily into safety and approachability. The RadKick’s 20 mph speed limit should ensure it never feels out of control. We appreciate the brand’s philosophy, which is perhaps best exemplified by the RadKick’s potted battery, UL 2271 & 2849 certification, and its IPX6 waterproof rating.
But that’s not all! The RadKick is the first of the brand’s e-bikes that will include maintenance reminders for brake checks and other services every 300 miles. We’re not yet sure what these reminders will look like, but considering how busy life can get, we’re excited that a brand has taken this extra step.
Chalk the following up to personal preference, but I’m stoked about the RadKick’s full-color, handlebar-mounted display and flat handlebars. Rad’s new generation of displays looks great, and I think it’s nice to see a break from the convention of swept-back cruiser-style handlebars on this style of urban e-bike.
We haven’t yet had the chance to get our hands on the RadKick, but we intend to put it through our series of standardized performance tests as soon as we do. We expect excellent results in most areas of our testing, but we’re especially curious to know how the RadKick will do in our Range Test.
If you’re interested in learning how the bike performs and compares with similar models, stay tuned! Sign up for our mailing list so you don’t miss the full review and in the meantime, be sure to check out our reviews of other Rad Power Bikes.
