It’s inspiring to see that the company not only went for something value-priced but managed to create something special and really useful and fun. The compact size makes it easier to fit into elevators and apartments, the mid-fat tires make it stable and provide comfort as well as off-road capability, the optional passenger kit places a pad on the rear rack, a pair of pegs, and skirt guard so you can carry a passenger up to 120lbs! These are all great features, and yet this is also the most affordable e-bike model in the Rad Power Bikes lineup. While it’s difficult to pin down exactly what type of bike the RadRunner is, you could use it for all sorts of riding. It even has a blinking mode, which is very unique and desirable for safety, at least to me. The bike comes with integrated lights, and the rear light goes bright anytime you pull the brake levers. There’s also an optional plastic console box with cover that really looks good and keeps weight low and center for improved balance and control while riding. And, there are specially sized fenders for the RadRunner, which are sure to come in handy during winter months… though they do not go quite as low as some commuter ebikes I’ve covered recently from companies like Specialized. These models also share a complete line of optional accessories like racks and bags, that can be used to carry additional batteries, the charger, and other personal gear. The RadRunner uses the same battery pack as the RadRhino and RadWagon EU Version. Anyway, Rad Power Bikes has been around for many years now and has demonstrated quality of product as well as high levels of customer service, perhaps we will see the EU version refined in the future, but the current loadout is still heaps of fun, versatile, and very affordable. You’ll have an easier time with a multi-speed electric bike, and especially with mid-drive models that leverage gears to empower the rider as well as the motor. The EU version is weaker and slower… but it’s still fun and capable with some pedaling :) Given that all versions of the RadRunner currently use a single speed drivetrain, this may be a no-go for heavier riders or those expecting a lot of hilly terrain who only have access to the EU version. However, having tried both bikes back to back (the US and EU versions), I want to acknowledge that there is a noticeable difference in power and climbing ability between the two. I got to spend more time with that product because I was visiting the US headquarters in Ballard, Washington. Before we really dig in, I want to call out a more complete video review, which accompanies the US version of the bike here. The Class 2 / L1e-A products erquire licensing fees and a little plate be added to the bike frame… but that is not the case with the brand new RadRunner EU Version. I’ve followed Rad Power Bikes since 2015, when the RadRover and RadWagon were the only bikes on offer, before any models were available in Europe! Since that time, the company has expanded internationally with the introduction of two Class 2 / L1e-A models called the RadRhino and RadWagon EU Version. In most cases, the bike will be shipped out and require light assembly, but Rad Power Bikes does have a showroom in Utrecht, Netherlands where you can take test rides or pickup the bike fully assembled. Neat! I was very impressed with this feature because it adds a level of flexibility and control that many other European electric bikes lack, while still complying with local regulations. That said, walk assist has been implemented in such a way that it will boost lower levels of assist while pedaling! Think of it like this, if you’re riding with assist level 1 but activate the twist mechanism, the bike will go faster, as if you were using level 2, 3, or 4 depending on how far you twist. full throttle mode… In short, you have to pedal for the motor to activate beyond 6km/h. The RadRunner is a compact mid-fat electric bike model that is launching in the US, Canada, and 29 European countries in September 2019! In order to comply with local regulations for Class 1 pedelecs, the EU version comes with a 250 watt motor and walk assist vs. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and written review are not meant to be an endorsement of Rad Power Bikes. This review was sponsored by Rad Power Bikes. To run the forums, host the website, and travel, I charge a universal service fee for my reviews.
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