Seattle-based Rad Power Bikes hopes to attract riders new to its e-bike lineup by introducing the RadKick step-through model, a Class 2 cargo-ready commuter with a chain drive and a clean and quiet belt drive for $1,200 or just $200 more.
This isn’t the first wallet-friendly ride from Rad that we’ve covered. The company introduced the entry-level RadMission in 2020 for under a thousand bucks at launch — but its production window only remained open for a few short years. Now, following rider feedback, its spiritual successor is here.
The relatively low-budget RadKick is described as a “simpler, more intuitive, and lighter ride that retains high-quality, rigorously tested components.” And the company offers the step-through as a version with a classic 7-speed chain drive or, in a first for Rad, a carbon belt drive. So riders can choose more flexibility when conquering hills, or opt for a smoother, quieter, and cleaner setup with responsive torque sensing for pedal assist.
Rad Power Bikes
The geared hub motor is the same either way, rated at 500 watts continuous (peak output not given) and offering five levels of pedal assist up to 20 mph (32 km/h) with a twist-grip throttle. Rad has also included its thermally resistant Safe Shield Battery here, certified to UL 2849 and UL 2271 standards. It’s not very large at 360Wh, but it’s good for more than 35 miles (56 km) of range per charge, and it’s removable for indoor plugs.
The RadKick includes a suspension fork with 80mm of travel to help smooth out rough terrain, and it rolls on 27.5-inch wheels wearing 2.25-inch tires. Stopping power is provided by hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors.
The rear cargo rack is ready and waiting to carry items or shopping weighing up to 25 kg (55 lb), and there are mounting points at the front and rear for attaching accessories such as bags and baskets. Integrated lighting at the front and rear should aid visibility in daytime traffic or illuminate the way home after dark. Full mudguards will help keep out splashes and dirt. A side stand is included for easy parking, and if you need to lift the e-bike up the stairs to the office or apartment, you’ll no doubt appreciate the 55 lb weight figure without cargo.
Rad Power Bikes
“Designed for riders who want a lighter, more affordable e-bike, the RadKick is a natural extension of our mission to make e-bikes accessible to everyone with its affordability and intuitive operation,” said Rad CEO Phil Molyneux. “We’ve stayed true to the Rad DNA with high-end features, but kept simplicity at the core to bring more riders into the e-bike community.”
The RadKick 7-Speed model is priced at $1,199, while the Belt Drive variant is a bit more expensive at $1,399. While they’re currently available for pre-order, it would be remiss of me not to point out a few other Rad e-bikes that are currently on sale — the RadRover 6 Plus High Step has been reduced by $500 to $1,099, the RadRunner 2 is available for $1,199, and the RadExpand 5 is available for $1,299. You can find out more about the new RadKick in the video below.
RadKick Tech Overview | Lightweight Electric Bike | Rad Power Bikes
Product page: RadKick