Rad Power RadTrike

Images from manufacturer's website

30 mi

RANGE

14 mph

TOP SPEED

5 hrs

CHARGE TIME

80 lbs

WEIGHT

Front Hub

MOTOR TYPE

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Rad Power RadTrike Review: Takeaway

Ideal for those with mobility issues, the Rad Power RadTrike is a low-cost and very comfortable e-bike for a variety of uses. From getting to your local stores to visiting friends or doing a bit of boardwalk cruising on a sunny evening, the RadTrike should significantly expand your horizons.

Ideal for...

Getting into town to see friends

Shopping

If taken by car, as a mobility scooter

Family rides

Camping or RVing

Overview of the RadTrike

When it comes to electric bikes, not everyone can ride them. They may not have the power in their legs to keep balance, or they may be unable to get their legs over a crossbar. The Rad Power Bikes RadTrike is a low-priced, highly effective answer to both of these issues.

With its three wheels, it can come to a complete stop without falling over. Thanks to its low-step design, you only need to lift your feet eight inches or so to mount it. And for heavier riders, the RadTrike can comfortably transport 325 lbs of rider weight.

Ideal for getting into town and exploring the world around you, the RadTrike could well be a car killer thanks to its relatively low price ($2,499). The powerful, 750W front-hub motor and half-twist throttle allow it to be ridden over most hills you’ll likely encounter with minimal effort.

It can be ridden in fair and foul weather thanks to its foot pedal rear brakes, fenders, and lights. Short of not being able to carry a companion, there is very little this e-trike can’t do that a car can.

Reasons to Buy

You may have mobility issues or health problems that prevent you from riding a two-wheeled e-bike. The stability and comfort of the RadTrike make it ideal for someone in this situation. It’ll be great for shopping thanks to its payload capacity of over 400 lbs (60 lbs on the rear rack). Even if you don’t pedal at all, it will get you out in the fresh air.

The RadTrike also folds down, allowing you to put it in the trunk of an SUV. This adds to the potential things you can enjoy on this machine, as it can act as a mobility scooter.

Things to Consider

Due to the inherent design of the electric trike, it’ll try to lean into curves at speed. To get around this, you’ll find yourself leaning outward on higher-speed turns to maintain stability. There are e-trikes out there with articulated frames that allow this maneuver and will prevent you from lifting a rear wheel for a higher price.

A second issue is that if you put the throttle on full power too quickly, the front wheel may spin. This could impact the longevity of the front tire.

Specs & Components

Motor

Front hub, 750W

Battery

480 Wh

Display

LED Display

Power delivery

Half twist throttle, Pedal assist

Front Brake

Mechanical disc

Rear Brake

Coaster Brake

Wheels / Tires

18” x 2.25” Kenda road tires

Accessories

Rack, fenders, lights, bell

The specs above come from the manufacturer and may vary from what you’ve experienced. Notice something that needs correcting? Let us know.

Ratings

Power

 4.5/5

4.5

With up to 750 watts of peak power, the motor is as powerful as you can get legally in the U.S. The speed is limited to 14 mph — six miles an hour less than most Rad Power’s e-bikes — but for its designed use, this is an ample speed.

The e-trike lacks a pedal gear system, which will mean you’re reliant on the motor to get up hills. On steeper ones and with a heavier load, you may find yourself trundling very slowly by the top unless you pedal.

Range

 4/5

On throttle alone, we believe that Rad Power’s advertised 20-mile range is a little generous. Heavier riders and those living in cities with bigger hills will find that you can get far less.

Range is impacted by how much you pedal. You can double the range using pedal assist instead of throttle. The gradient of hills will demand more power, as will the weight of the rider and adverse weather conditions.

Comfort

 5/5

With its big, comfortable saddle and backrest, you’ll soon find that you can ride the RadTrike for miles and miles with minimal discomfort. The upright, city bike riding position will mean minimal pressure on your arms. Lacking suspension of any kind, the saddle and 18” x 2.25” Kenda tires will handle most lumps and bumps in the road.

Durability

 4.5/5

4.5

Used for its designed purpose, there’s every reason to believe this is an e-bike that’ll require minimal maintenance. Keep the chain oiled and check the brake pads twice a year if in regular use. Rad Power offers a one-year warranty on all its e-bikes. This is subject to fair wear and tear.

Style

 4/5

With its funky looks, the RadTrike differs from mobility scooters, and as such, could be an option for a rider who doesn’t quite feel ready for one of those. We like the color scheme and lines that make for a great-looking electric trike.

Our Research Methodology

We personally research and test every e-bike featured in our reviews and guides to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn how we review.

About Our Editorial Team

Written by Robb Dorr

Co-founder

Robb is a massive cycling enthusiast who has more than 20 years of non-motorized cycling experience. He started eBikes.org to lower the barrier of entry to cycling and reduce the intimidation people can experience when getting into the cycling world.

Edited by Kristy Snyder

Professional Editor

Kristy Snyder is a professional writer and editor living in Pittsburgh with over 10 years of content creation experience. When she's not contributing to eBikes.org, Kristy enjoys reading, practicing yoga, drinking beer, and hitting up rail trails.

Meet Our Editorial Team