Like the former RadMini 4, this bike comes with a 7-speed drivetrain. It’s a Class 2 setup, so it’s got a throttle and several levels of pedal assist, all of which are capped at 20 mph. Powering the RadExpand is Rad’s trusty 750W rear hub motor and a 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) battery mounted near the bottom bracket. On a bike like this, where folding usually takes place for transport in the trunk of a sedan or stowing in the corner of a garage, I like that Rad is prioritizing the ride and doing away with some of the folding features that I’d argue only marginally improve portability but can dramatically affect handling. It still folds (just not quite as small) and the non-folding pedals feel a bit sturdier under your feet than their folding counterparts. Instead of a handlepost, which can be flexy and usually comes with very narrow and straight handlebars, the RadExpand comes with this really unique BMX-style handlebar that is comfortable and helps with handling quite a lot. ![]() ![]() Those are traditionally hallmark features of folders that help the bike get small, but in some instances do so to the detriment of the bike’s ride quality. What I mean by that is it’s missing some characteristics we normally see on folding e-bikes, such as a big tall handlepost and folding pedals. Among the many American-style electric folding bikes I’ve reviewed, this bike seems to be leaning the hardest into the idea that its folding function is second to its function as a normal e-bike. The RadExpand 5 is a relatively new release from Rad, and is the successor to the former RadMini 4. The Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 is a prime example of the American version of a folding bike. They’re for people who want an e-bike that’ll fit into the trunk of a car, or maybe into a tight RV. ![]() These are designed to ride and function much like their non-folding counterparts but with the added feature of a folding mechanism that allows the bike to collapse down to a more easily stowable size. The newschool, or rather the American version of electric folding bikes, are much larger, heavier and don’t fold quite as easily. Since the Europeans are the ones who long ago pioneered the folding bike, I think of their version as the old-school these folding e-bikes are typically light, fold very quickly and are designed for commuters who need to tote their bikes all day up stairs and into offices and onto public transport. The differences between the two styles are mainly weight, size and how the folding mechanism functions. Or, rather, a European variation and an American variation. When it comes to the electric folding bike, there seems to be an old-school variation and a new-school variation. So what’s the word on the RadExpand 5? In short, it appears to be a trimmed-down version of its predecessor, with a few notable features missing and a few notable improvements made. We test its handling, climbing, battery range and more to give you an idea of if this bike is worth your hard earned cash. In this review of the Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5, we put the Seattle-based brand’s new electric folding bike to the test to find out what’s new, what’s the same and why those details matter. Though the name has changed and the bike does look quite a bit different, the larger numeral at the end of the new bike’s title suggests there is some continuity between the folding bike formerly known as the Mini 4 and the new model, known as the Expand 5. In the case of Rad Power Bikes’ electric folding bike, some combination of all of the above appears to have happened: The RadMini 4 is out and the RadExpand 5 is in. In the world of electric bikes, specific models often get updated - sometimes yearly - and occasionally, models are sunsetted in favor of something new, better or just more in line with what consumers are asking for. Cargo Trailers for eBikes – The Complete Guide. ![]() Replacement Electric Bike Batteries Guide.Understanding the Differences Between Direct Drive & Geared Electric Bike Hub Motors.Why You Don’t Want a Superfast Electric Bicycle.A Guide to E-Bike Locks and Security Ratings.E-Bike Batteries: Volts, Amps, & Watt Hours Explained.Calculating Range on Electric Bikes: How To Find The Long-hauler For You.The Complete Guide to E-Bike Mid-Drive Motors.Electric Bike Modes: Throttle vs Pedal Assist (Pedelec).Best Car Racks For Electric Bikes – 2021.
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