RAD Power Bikes announced the beginning of “an innovative chapter” with the launch of four versatile new eBikes, The Radster Trail, Radster Road, RadExpand 5 Plus, and the RadWagon 5. More than just new models, these four new bikes will have the newly engineered Safe Shield Battery that uses thermal-resistant technology. That technology promises to be the next big step in creating safer ebike batteries industry-wide.
Rad Power Bikes has had a rough time in recent years with a major recall and multiple lawsuits, but the brand seems to be committed to learning from those mistakes and improving. That includes reaching beyond the current industry requirements for safety to offer bikes with industry-leading battery safety, quality, and certifications.
New Safe Shield Battery
Thermal-resistant technology has been designed from the ground up to advance the safety of eBike batteries. In addition, the new battery is available as both an external and semi-integrated 15Ah battery pack.
Tte battery packs are UL Certified to UL 2271. Further advancing current standards, the new battery packs are potted with a unique heat-absorbing resin that protects against corrosion and overheating.
Internal potting encapsulates each battery cell, and if overheating were to occur, the resin is designed to stop the thermal event from spreading. That spreading, or thermal runaway with intense heat is what makes battery fires so difficult to put out.
Rad Power says the internal potting can also prevent an accident, like a puncture, or significant collision, from escalating. into a full-on battery fire. Importantly, these batteries are also available for existing Rad Power ebikes that use their semi-integrated battery design.
The new battery packs are recyclable through RAD’s partnership with Redwood Materials and other qualified battery recycling programs.
The new Safe Shield battery tech is available on the all-new Radster family, which consists of the Radster Trail, and Radster Road, and added to the fan favorites, the RadWagon 5, and RadExpand 5 Plus. All of the new eBikes have been UL Certified to UL 2849.
Other Safety Features
Other safety features of these new eBikes include hydraulic disc brakes to improve stopping power over prior models. The new eBikes have turn signals, brighter front headlights to enhance visibility, as well as revamped frame designs and torque sensors for more responsive rides. Plus, for all-weather eBiking the new bikes carry an IPX6 rating for water resistance.
In addition, Rad Riders wanted the option to move faster. To enable that, Rad Power Bikes intentionally designed and engineered the RadWagon 5, Radster Trail, and Radster Road to easily toggle between class 2 and class 3 safely.
“With even greater versatility in our fleet and new, innovative eBike battery technology that will elevate the industry entirety, we’re taking a significant step towards a world where eBikes are built for everyone and have the power to do just about anything,” said Phil Molyneux, CEO of Rad Power Bikes.
Molyneux continues, “Over the last two years, I have worked closely with our supply chain and quality leaders, overhauling our processes to make this next generation of eBikes the very best for our riders. This launch marks the latest step we’ve taken to ensure the long-term success of both the eBike space and Rad“.
Radster Trail and Radster Road
The Radster and Radster Road are the latest additions to the Rad’s lineup and include the Radster Trail and Radster Road. Designed for the rider that likes adventure, weekend joyrides, or longer commutes. They come in two sizes, regular (4’11” – 5’8″), and large (5’7″ – 6’4″)
Radster Trail
Capable of both off, and on-road riding, the Radster Trail’s mid-fat tires allow for traction and comfort. With its comfortable upright riding position and front suspension fork, the Radster Trail instills confidence no matter the adventure. This bike comes in two colors, Fir Green, and Copper Red.
Radster Road
The Radster Road sports narrower tires, suspension fork, and handlebars with a decent sweep to offer a comfortable and efficient commuting companion. It has full coverage fenders and a chainguard for protection against the elements, keeping you fresh for the 8:30 am meeting. You can get the Radster Road in Bay Blue or Lunar White
RadWagon 5
The RadWagon 5 has been completely redesigned from the ground up. It builds on the heritage of Rad’s fan-favorite minivan alternative, but sports better handling, more comfort, and increased payload capacity. Rad condensed the frame and lowered its center of gravity.
The new geometry now accommodates a wider range of riders. It also comes with a suspension fork to smooth out the bumps. The RadWagon 5 is also getting updated accessories with a redesigned deck pad and running boards. It’s available in Black and Metallic Blue. Another huge change – the bike now rolls on 20 x 3.3″ Kenda tires instead of the proprietary 22″ fat bike tires that were made for them by Vee Tire Co. That means wider availability for replacements for tires and tubes.
RadExpand 5 Plus
Listening to their users, Rad has added several highly requested features to the RadWxpand 5 Plus. High payload capacity, and a more visible color display that delivers stats in real-time, for starters. They also added a suspension fork to the foldable, fan-favorite, helping it remain a great choice for city-dwellers and suburbanites who are short on space. Choose from colors, Stone Tan and Slate Blue.
Retail and Availablity
Radster Trail: US $1999, CA $2699
Radster Road: US $1999, CA $2699
RadWagon 5: US $2999, CA $2949
RadExpand 5 Plus: US $1899, CA $2499
All of the above bikes are available for pre-order and are expected to start shipping between April 10th (US market), and May 15th (Canadian market)
Safe Shield Battery w/ thermal resistant tech: US $599, CA $799 (comes standard on Radster Road and Radster Trail. Compatible as an upgrade for all models that use Rad Power Bikes semi-integrated battery.
