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Table of contents
Introduction
The RadRover 6 Plus from Rad Power Bikes is a game-changer for those seeking a comfortable, smooth ride on their commute. This e-bike comes in two frame styles: Step Thru or High Step, we prefer the Step Thru so that it’s easier to let a friend borrow the e-bike. It boasts fat tires, a longer wheelbase, and hydraulic brakes, among other features, making it a top contender for anyone in the market for an e-bike. This post will provide a brief overview of the pros and cons, followed by a more in-depth review of the RadRover 6 Plus.
Key e-bike details
Basics
- Base Price: $2,099
- Class: 2
- Max Speed: 20 mph
- Estimated Range: 25 to 45 miles
- Weight: 73.4 lbs
Motor & Electronics
- Motor: 750W brushless geared hub motor
- Motor location: Rear hub
- Battery: 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) semi-integrated battery
- PAS Sensor: Cadence
- Throttle: Yes, half twist
- Display: Backlit LCD Display
Components
- Brakes: Nutt hydraulic disc brakes,
- Drivetrain: 7-Speed Shimano Altus
- Belt Drive: No
- Tires: Kenda Juggernaut 26” x 4”
Misc
- Recommended Rider Height:
- Step-thru: 5’2″ – 6’2″
- High-step: 5’7″ – 6’2″
- Max Rider Weight: not given
- Payload Capacity: 275 lbs
What we like about it
- Fat tires provide a super smooth ride
- Hydraulic brakes for improved stopping power
- Rear geared hub 750-watt motor
- Good range of 25-45 miles
- Easy-to-read LCD screen
- Throttle for added convenience
- Rain fenders with great coverage
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Where it falls short
- Lacks an integrated rear rack (but, add-on available)
- Front-suspension fork is pretty stiff
- Heavy at 73 pounds
- Cadence sensor rather than torque sensor
In-depth review
The RadRover 6 Plus is a Class 2 e-bike with a throttle and pedal assist up to 20mph.
It’s most distinctive feature is its large fat tires, which provide a remarkably smooth ride. These tires make short work of potholes and speed bumps, offering a comfortable commute no matter the terrain. However, the larger tires do slightly reduce the maximum range compared to the RadCity model, with a maximum range of 45 miles versus the RadCity’s 50-mile range. This difference is primarily due to increased rolling resistance from the larger tires, but it’s minimal.
The RadRover 6 Plus comes with hydraulic brakes, ensuring smooth and responsive braking. This is an upgrade from previous models which had mechanical disc brakes.
Rad has also upgraded the rear hub 750-watt motor. It’s now a geared hub motor. This means it can provide more torque at lower speeds. This makes a noticeable difference on the hills. While some riders (myself included) may prefer a mid-drive motor for a more natural pedaling feel, the RadRover’s rear-hub motor still provides ample power for a fun ride.
The battery on the RadRover 6 Plus is well-integrated, and the LCD screen is easy to read, displaying essential information such as speed, power output, odometer, and time of day. With a throttle and 25-45 mile range, the RadRover 6 Plus is a versatile option for various riding scenarios.
In addition to its impressive performance features, the RadRover 6 Plus also includes practical elements such as rain fenders with excellent coverage, making it suitable for rainy commutes. Rad Power Bikes also backs their products with a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Some drawbacks of the RadRover 6 Plus include the lack of an integrated rear rack, although an add-on option is available. The front-suspension fork is of lower quality and feels very stiff. Even adjusting the suspension damping didn’t change it much.
Lastly, the RadRover 6 Plus is relatively heavy at 73 pounds, which may be challenging for those needing to carry the bike up flights of stairs.
In summary, the RadRover 6 Plus is an impressive e-bike that prioritizes rider comfort with its fat tires and smooth ride. Although it has a few drawbacks, such as its weight and lack of an integrated rear rack, the RadRover 6 Plus is a solid choice for riders looking for a comfortable and powerful e-bike with a decent range. This is our top pick for a commuter e-bike from Rad Power’s lineup.
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