The $1,299 RadRunner By Rad Power Bikes Redefines The Electric Utility Bike
Credit to Author: Kyle Field| Date: Thu, 22 Aug 2019 16:00:56 +0000
Published on August 22nd, 2019 | by Kyle Field
August 22nd, 2019 by Kyle Field
Today, Rad Power Bikes is launching an all new electric bike (ebike) that’s aimed at the sweet spot between a classic moped and an ultra-functional cargo bike. The new RadRunner does all this while shirking the high prices of ebikes, offering an affordable, quality ebike for just $1,299.
The Rad Power Bikes RadRunner in a delivery configuration (left) and with a rear seat (right) with foot pegs. Image credit: Rad Power Bikes
The RadRunner takes the best of the Rad Power Bikes family and packs all the functionality, the durable build quality, the comfortable grippy fat tires, and a flexible extended deck and melds them into a new low–step frame bike platform. Underpinning all this functionality is Rad Power Bikes’ proven modular electric bike powertrain that propels riders anywhere from 25–45 miles (40–72 km) per charge depending on the load, terrain, and riding style. Up top, the BMX-style swoop handlebars immediately steer riders back into their childhood, when bikes represented freedom, friends, and frolicking about town.
Complementing the 750 watt Bafang motor, a single-speed drivetrain makes riding the RadRunner a breeze. Just get on and pedal. When a lower gear would normally be needed, the electric motor steps in to fill the gap with four levels of pedal assist and a throttle to really get things moving.
“Sitting in the car is frustrating, bad for your health and bad for the environment. We know that people want an easier, faster, and greener way to get around, but cost and practicality are their biggest roadblocks,” said Mike Radenbaugh, Co-Founder and CEO of Rad Power Bikes. “We built the RadRunner to be effective and fun at a price point that will introduce more people to ebikes.”
The RadRunner with the optional rear seat (and passenger). Image credit: Rad Power Bikes
In our testing here at CleanTechnica, we’ve put hundreds of miles on different ebike builds from Rad Power Bikes and, put simply, they deliver. These bikes are built to last, with robust frames and a seamlessly integrated electric powertrain that makes biking fun again. They seem to have an ebike for everyone from weekend trail warriors (the RadRover) to delivery riders (the RadMini Step-Thru), even supporting daily commuters with kids via the RadWagon.
From the factory, the all new RadRunner comes with Rad Power Bikes’ standard 4-bolt accessory mount up front and an integrated extended rack in the rear. The extended rear deck can be fitted with a handful of different accessories to suit the needs of the owner, including my favorite, the Passenger Package, which includes a rear seat, retractable foot pegs, and wheel skirts that instantly convert the RadRunner into what is effectively an electric moped for two.
The rear deck can also be fitted with a more traditional basket or a platform that can be fitted with one of Rad Power Bikes’ insulated delivery bags. Rad Power Bikes is also introducing a new accessory alongside the new ebike called the Center Console. The new storage cubby sits between the seat post and the drop tube and gives riders a place to store their gear while also hanging onto a drink and a phone.
Fitted with an insulated delivery bag, the RadRunner can deliver more than just pizza. Image credit: Rad Power Bikes.
Before we go any further, let’s have a look at that price, because $1,299 is absurd. That puts the RadRunner at $200 less than any of Rad Power Bikes’ other ebikes while delivering what is arguably one of the most flexible ebike platforms on the market. For everything the RadRunner brings to the market, it is a staggering value at just $1,299, and with a healthy line of accessories that let owners build it out for their lifestyle.
“We don’t just build ebikes, we build problem-solvers. Our approach to product development is to find ways to add value in new places while tweaking existing features based on years of experience and direct rider feedback,” said Radenbaugh. “The RadRunner is the culmination of everything we’ve done and stand for, and is a stepping stone to even more radical designs in the future.”
The RadRunner. Image credit: Rad Power Bikes
When it came to the rubber, Rad Power Bikes again partnered with Kenda to develop what is their first brand-exclusive tire. The new 20-inch diameter by 3.3-inch wide tire gives riders needed traction and a nice bit of shock absorption when cruising around town. “We needed a completely new tire to support the different functions of the RadRunner,” said Radenbaugh. “The tires have an extra ply of material and higher load rating than a standard bike tire, plus a built in tire liner and reflective sidewall striping.”
Rounding out the package, an integrated headlight and taillight that doubles as a brake light keep riders safe, day or night. A new LED control readout puts control of the motor and lights into reach with just a touch of a finger.
The RadRunner will be available in the US on September 10th for $1,299. In Canada and Europe, it will be priced at $1,699 CAD and €1,199, respectively, when it is made available in late September. The Rad Power Bikes Passenger Package and Center Console accessories for the RadRunner can be picked up for $99 USD each. For all the juicy details, head over to www.radpowerbikes.com.
Kyle Field I’m a tech geek passionately in search of actionable ways to reduce the negative impact my life has on the planet, save money and reduce stress. Live intentionally, make conscious decisions, love more, act responsibly, play. The more you know, the less you need. TSLA investor.