The world of e-bikes is evolving, and Rad Power Bikes is at the forefront of this revolution with its latest offering: the RadTrike. This isn’t just another e-bike; it’s an e-trike designed to redefine mobility and accessibility.
With three wheels for added stability and a host of unique features, the RadTrike is not just a mode of transportation—it’s a lifeline for those who find traditional two-wheelers intimidating. Whether you have mobility issues or simply want a more stable ride, this trike promises to deliver. In this comprehensive Rad Power Trike Review, we’ll dive into the key features, assembly process, and riding experience to help you decide if the RadTrike is the right fit for you.
The RadTrike is perfect for those with stability or mobility issues, offering a user-friendly, safe, e-trike experience.
Rad Power Trike Pros:
- Stability: Three-wheel design offers unparalleled stability, making it almost impossible to tip over.
- Ease of Use: Low frame for easy mounting and dismounting, suitable for riders of all ages and physical abilities.
- Unique Features: Includes a reverse button for easy maneuvering in tight spaces.
- User-Friendly Display: Simple display shows battery level and pedal assist, making it easy for anyone to use.
- Versatility: With over 400 lbs of payload capacity, it’s ideal for running errands or carrying supplies.
- Mobility-Friendly: Designed with the needs of those with mobility issues in mind.
- Optional Professional Assembly: Offers the option for professional assembly through partners like Velofix.
Rad Power Trike Cons:
- Limited Speed: Averages a speed of 7-10 mph (lists 20 MPH as limited speed – I got up to 16 MPH), which may not be suitable for speed enthusiasts.
- No Passenger Capacity: Despite its high payload, it’s not designed to carry passengers.
- Limited Display Information: Lacks a dedicated mph display, requiring external devices for precise speed tracking.
- Single Front Brake: Comes with only one front brake, which may not be everyone’s preference.
- Assembly Required: Some assembly is needed, which might be challenging for those not comfortable with tools or with mobility issues.
Key Features
When it comes to e-bikes, features can make or break your riding experience. The RadTrike is packed with a range of features designed to make your ride as comfortable, safe, and enjoyable as possible. Let’s delve into some of the standout features that set this e-trike apart from the rest.
750-Watt Front Motor
The RadTrike is powered by a robust 750-watt front motor, providing ample power for various terrains. Whether you’re tackling hills or cruising through city streets, this motor ensures a smooth and reliable ride. The front motor placement is particularly noteworthy, as it offers a different riding sensation—pulling rather than pushing you along, which we’ll discuss more in the ‘Riding Experience’ section.
Three Wheels for Stability
One of the most defining features of the RadTrike is its three-wheel design. This not only adds an extra layer of stability but also makes it an ideal choice for those who may have balance or mobility issues. The trike design significantly reduces the risk of tipping over, offering a secure and stable ride.
Ease of Use
Getting on and off a bike can be a challenge for some, but the RadTrike makes it incredibly easy. Its low frame allows for effortless mounting and dismounting, making it accessible for riders of all ages and physical abilities.
Can your e-bike go…. backwards?
A unique feature that sets the RadTrike apart is its reverse button. This function allows the trike to move backward, a feature not commonly found in e-bikes. It’s particularly useful for those with mobility issues who may need to maneuver in tight spaces without dismounting.
Display and Controls
The RadTrike comes with a straightforward display and control system. While it doesn’t have a gear system, it does offer various pedal assist levels, allowing you to customize your ride. The display is simple but effective, showing essential information without overwhelming the rider.
Additional Features
- Front Twist Throttle: For those moments when you want to take a break from pedaling.
- Single Front Brake: Designed for effective stopping power.
- Small Bell: A simple but useful feature for alerting pedestrians or other riders.
- Fold-Down Handle: For easier storage and transport.
Each of these features contributes to making the RadTrike a versatile and user-friendly e-trike, suitable for a wide range of riders. Whether you’re new to e-biking or looking for a more stable alternative, the RadTrike has something to offer. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the assembly process, riding experience, and practical uses of this innovative e-trike.
Assembly and Setup
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and get yourself a RadTrike. But before you can hit the road, there’s the small matter of assembly. While the thought of assembling an e-bike—or in this case, an e-trike—might seem daunting, the RadTrike makes it as straightforward as possible. Here’s what you can expect.
What’s in the Box
Upon receiving your RadTrike, you’ll find it neatly packed in a square box. Inside, you’ll find all the components you need, including the frame, wheels, handlebars, and additional accessories like the bell and front brake.
The Assembly Process
The RadTrike comes partially assembled, so you won’t be starting entirely from scratch. The main frame and wheels are usually pre-assembled, leaving you to attach the handlebars, front brake, and any additional accessories you may have purchased, like the optional rear rack.
Tools Required
While the RadTrike comes with most of the essential tools for assembly, there are some additional items that can make the process smoother and ensure your trike is safe to ride. Here’s a list of helpful additions:
- Flat-Side Cutters: Useful for safely snipping zip ties, offering a safer alternative to box cutters.
- Torque Wrench or Wrenches with Allen Bits: Necessary for assembly and maintenance, these tools help you torque hardware across a range of values (0 Nm to 60 Nm) to ensure the trike’s safety.
- 15 mm Pedal Wrench or Crowfoot Bit: Standard wrenches may be too wide to fit between the pedal and crank. A 15 mm pedal wrench or crowfoot bit ensures you can properly secure your pedals without causing damage.
- Bicycle Grease: Important for lubricating certain parts and preventing corrosion.
- Bike Pump with Schrader Valve and Pressure Gauge: Essential for maintaining properly inflated tires, which is crucial for safety, comfort, and performance.
- A Strong Friend: Some steps in the assembly process are easier with an extra pair of hands.
Having these additional tools on hand will not only make the assembly process easier but also ensure that your RadTrike is assembled safely and correctly.
Professional Help
If the idea of assembling the trike yourself is overwhelming, you have options. Rad Power Bikes offers professional assembly services through partners like Velofix. These services can be particularly helpful for ensuring that everything is set up correctly and safely.
Personal Experience
In our case, the assembly was relatively straightforward. However, we did encounter an issue with the front wheel bearings. Rad Power Bikes was quick to offer assistance, even proposing to send a Velofix mechanic to fix the issue. We opted to handle it ourselves and found the process educational, but it’s reassuring to know that professional help is readily available.
Final Checks
Once the assembly is complete, it’s highly recommended to have your RadTrike checked by a professional, especially if you’ve done the assembly yourself. This ensures that everything is tightened, aligned, and ready for a safe ride.
The assembly and setup process for the RadTrike are designed to be user-friendly, but it’s always good to have options for professional help. Once you’ve got your RadTrike assembled and checked, you’re all set to enjoy the unique riding experience it offers.
Rad Power Trike Review: Riding Experience
Once the assembly is behind you, the real fun begins: taking your RadTrike out for its inaugural ride. The RadTrike offers a unique riding experience that combines stability, ease of use, and a set of features tailored for a broad range of riders. Let’s dive into what you can expect when you hit the road.
Initial Impressions
Mounting the RadTrike is a breeze, thanks to its low frame. As you either pedal or engage the front twist throttle, the 750-watt front motor activates, pulling you forward. This sensation of being pulled is a departure from the pushing feeling you get from rear-motor e-bikes, and it’s one of the RadTrike’s defining features.
Handling and Stability
The trike’s three-wheel design provides an unparalleled level of stability, making it virtually impossible to tip over under normal conditions. However, the handling, especially during turns, may require some getting used to. The design ensures stability, but you might find yourself instinctively leaning into turns at first.
By the way, if you want a great helmet, like the one I’m wearing, check out our Thousand Helmet Review. Also, check out the best eBike accessories we’ve tested.
Speed and Performance
The RadTrike doesn’t come with a traditional gear system, but it does offer various pedal assist levels to help you navigate different terrains. During our tests, the trike’s performance was steady, maintaining an average speed of 7-10 mph. Don’t expect this to be a hot rod; it’s designed for a stable and reliable ride.
Braking
Equipped with a single front brake, the RadTrike might seem underpowered in the braking department, but it’s surprisingly effective. The brake provides adequate stopping power for a safe and secure ride.
Reverse Functionality
One unique feature is the reverse button, which allows the trike to move backward. This is particularly useful for maneuvering in tight spaces or for those with mobility issues.
Display Limitations
The RadTrike’s display is simple, showing only the battery level in terms of “bars” and the pedal assist level. It doesn’t have a dedicated display for mph. To get an accurate speed reading, I had to rely on my Apple Watch, using the outdoor bike workout as the activity. While this might be a limitation for some, it’s a minor inconvenience given the trike’s other benefits.
Battery Life
The battery is conveniently located at the bottom of the frame and provides a bar-based indicator to show the remaining charge. While we didn’t conduct an exhaustive battery life test, the indicator and overall performance suggest that the battery is reliable for short to medium-length journeys.
Unique Sensations
The combination of a front motor and a three-wheel design results in a unique riding experience. It’s a refreshing change, especially if you’re accustomed to traditional two-wheelers or rear-motor e-bikes.
In summary, the RadTrike offers a riding experience that is both unique and accessible, making it an excellent choice for a wide variety of riders. Whether you have mobility issues or are simply looking for a more stable, easy-to-use option, the RadTrike has you covered.
Practical Uses
Now that we’ve covered the assembly and riding experience, let’s talk about the practical applications of the RadTrike. After all, an e-trike isn’t just for leisurely rides; it can serve multiple purposes that can make your life easier and more enjoyable. Here are some scenarios where the RadTrike shines.
Running Errands
The RadTrike is perfect for quick trips to the grocery store or local market. With its stable design and optional rear rack, you can easily carry bags and other items without worrying about balance.
Outdoor Activities
Planning a day at the pool or a picnic in the park? The RadTrike can carry all your essentials, from towels and snacks to outdoor games. Its steady speed of 7-10 mph ensures you’ll get there safely and without breaking a sweat.
Mobility Assistance
For those with mobility issues, the RadTrike can be a game-changer. Its stable design and ease of mounting and dismounting make it a reliable option for getting around, whether it’s a trip to the doctor’s office or a visit to a friend’s house.
Checking the Mail
It might sound trivial, but even simple tasks like checking the mail can be a hassle for some. The RadTrike makes it easy to zip down the driveway or even a few blocks to your community mailbox.
Neighborhood Commute
If you live in a community where everything is within a short distance, the RadTrike can be your go-to vehicle for daily commuting. Its battery life is more than sufficient for short trips, and the simple display keeps you informed of your battery status and pedal assist level.
In conclusion, the RadTrike is not just a novel e-bike; it’s a versatile vehicle with a range of practical uses. Whether you’re running errands, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply need a reliable means of transportation, the RadTrike has got you covered.
Who Is the RadTrike Not For?
While the RadTrike offers a range of benefits for various riders, it’s essential to recognize that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some scenarios where the RadTrike might not be the best fit.
Speed Enthusiasts
If you’re someone who enjoys the thrill of speed, the RadTrike may not meet your expectations. With an average speed of 7-10 mph, it’s designed for stability and ease of use rather than high-speed performance. If you’re comfortable riding a bike at higher speeds, you might find the RadTrike’s pace limiting.
Comparison to RadWagon 4
We love Rad Power Bikes and if you have been on the trails, you’ve probably seen this unique eBike with a kiddo or two on the bike. We love this ebike for shorts trips to the pool or a nearby playground.
The RadTrike serves as a great alternative to other e-bikes like the RadWagon 4, especially for those who struggle with balance. My wife, for instance, has fallen off her RadWagon 4 before. She’s not a steady rider, and the RadTrike’s three-wheel design offers the stability she needs.
Read our full RadWagon 4 Review.
No Passenger Capacity
While the RadTrike has an impressive total payload of over 400 lbs, it’s worth noting that it’s not designed to carry passengers. If you’re looking for an e-bike to share the ride with someone else, you’ll need to look elsewhere. However, the substantial payload does mean you can haul a lot of cargo, making it ideal for running errands or carrying supplies.
In summary, the RadTrike is not for everyone. If you’re seeking high speeds, need to carry passengers, or are already comfortable with more traditional e-bikes, you might want to explore other options. However, if stability, ease of use, and cargo capacity are high on your list, the RadTrike is an excellent choice.
Rad Trike: Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this comprehensive review, it’s clear that the RadTrike is more than just another e-bike on the market. It’s a thoughtfully designed e-trike that addresses a range of needs, from mobility challenges to the simple desire for a stable and enjoyable ride.
Who Is It For?
The RadTrike is ideal for people who prioritize stability and ease of use in their e-bike experience. Whether you have mobility issues, are an older rider, or simply prefer the added stability of a three-wheel design, this e-trike is tailored for you.
Ease of Use
One of the standout features of the RadTrike is its user-friendliness. From the assembly process to the actual riding experience, everything is designed to be as straightforward as possible. The simple display, while limited, provides just enough information for a hassle-free ride.
Versatility
The RadTrike is not a one-trick pony. Its range of practical uses makes it a versatile choice for anyone looking to make their daily routine more convenient and enjoyable.
Limitations
While the RadTrike has many strengths, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. The absence of a dedicated mph display might be a drawback for some, and the single front brake, although effective, may not be everyone’s preference.
Personal Plans
As for me, I see the RadTrike becoming a regular part of my daily activities, from running errands to enjoying leisurely rides. Its unique features and practical benefits make it a welcome addition to my range of transportation options.
The Trike: Conclusion
The RadTrike is perfect for those with stability or mobility issues, offering a user-friendly, safe, e-trike experience.
The RadTrike is a well-rounded e-trike that offers a unique blend of stability, ease of use, and versatility. While it has some limitations, they are easily outweighed by its numerous benefits. If you’re in the market for an e-bike that offers more than just a way to get from point A to point B, the RadTrike is worth considering. It’s not just a mode of transportation; it’s a vehicle that can genuinely enhance your quality of life.
Also, be sure to check out our full Rad Power Bikes Review.