The Radwagon 5 Electric Cargo e-bike is one of the latest models in the Rad Power Rad lineup.
While several affiliated reviewers are talking about how this model delivers, we will do things differently and let you know the reasons to avoid this electrically assisted ride.
From there, you will have explored both worlds and be in a better position to make an informed purchasing decision.
These are the reasons to avoid the Radwagon 5 e-bike based on owner reviews about the ride and the brand:
This E-bike Is Bulky
Yes, we get it that this is a cargo electric bike and the rack might have added extra weight.
However, weighing a whopping 86 lbs adds to inconvenience to some riders in various ways.
To begin with, some users will find that this e-bike offers limited portability. See, if you stay upstairs and have to take your e-bike with you, the extra weight can be a significant hindrance to taking it there alone.
Again, depending on your size and tolerance to heights, you might find it hard to lift the Radwagon 5 e-bike onto a car rack alone.
If you are on the heavier side, it means that the weight of this e-bike along with yours will give you a shorter range per charge. In that case, you will have to complete more charging cycles in a shorter time compared to a big dawg who owns a lighter cargo e-bike such as the Senada GLADIATOR.
We have to mention that the carrying capacity of this e-bike’s rear rack is commendable. You can haul a whopping 120 lbs worth of weight (54kg) without breaking any sweat.
The Radwagon 5 Features A Half Twist Throttle
While we feel more comfortable when riding ebikes with twist throttles as they provide more precise control, there are disadvantages when riding models featuring the half-twist type.
See, such rides are best suited for relatively experienced riders as there is the possibility of a rider accidentally engaging it.
Again, we find that these throttle types require a firmer grip than what you would find in thumb or ergonomic trigger throttles.
Depending on the kind of rider you are and how you wish to accelerate, this type of throttle might be a deal breaker for you.
Also Read: Any reason to avoid the RadRunner 3 Plus?
The Motor Has A Relatively Low Wattage
I seriously don’t understand why Rad Power uses 750W rear hub motors in their recent rides.
For a beefy ride like this one, I expected them to use a 1000W hub motor.
See, this ride can produce 90 Nm of torque.
When you compare the 750W motor to the 15Ah 720Wh battery and the 95Nm worth of torque, you can deduce that component to torque ratio is high, which might place additional stress on components like the drivetrain, gears, and tires, leading to accelerated wear and potential damage.
While Rad Power says, “Actual power-to-ground wattage is under 750W to ensure ebike regulatory compliance,” it’s worth mentioning that most states don’t have capped motor ratings, meaning their sentiments here don’t hold water.
Lastly, based on the bike’s weight, the RadWagon might struggle on steeper hills or with heavy loads, making it less suitable for hilly terrains. All these are attributable to the motor wattage.
The Headlight Isn’t As Bright
While Rad Power made it their mission to include 200-lumen headlights for their Rad lineup, this headlight is unfortunately not bright enough for night riders.
As many mentioned on social, the Rad Premium Headlight which is 500 lumens isn’t worth it.
How about the stock 200-lumen headlight that is just 200 lumen? If you are a night rider, we find that you will have to spend some extra bucks as part of upgrading the Radwagon 5 to get a brighter headlight elsewhere.
The Rear Brakes Squeak
While some owners of electric bikes featuring hydraulic disc brakes from other brands report squeaks, most owners of Rad Power brakes in the past didn’t have this problem.
Unfortunately, this is now a common issue with the RadWagon 5 Electric Cargo Bike and many have shared this issue on Reddit.
Upon reaching out to the manufacturer, it seems like they used the wrong grease on these components. We’ll see if Rad Power will provide a new rear braking system under warranty.
Again, the issue of spokes that weren’t tensioned right might be a problem. If only Rad had a better QC here as seamless brakes promote the safest riding experience.