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Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 review: Here’s what’s hidden in Rad’s new fat tire folding electric bike

by Micah Toll

When the RadExpand 5 was first unveiled, I was surprised to see the company go in this direction and replace the RadMini with a new model.

But now that I’ve spent some good time in the saddle, I see exactly what Rad was thinking, because the folding RadExpand 5 e-bike draws on some of the best parts of every other e-bike in the company’s wide lineup.

RadExpand 5 Tech Specs • Motor: 750W rear geared hub motor • Top speed: 32 km/h (20 mph) • Range: 45-72 km (25-45 mi) depending on user input • Battery: 48V 14Ah (672 Wh) • Weight: 28.3 kg (62.5 lb) • Max load: 125 kg (275 lb)

RadExpand 5 Tech Specs (Cont'd) • Rear rack max load: 27 kg (59 lb) • Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes • Extras: Sturdy kickstand, LED display, 7-speed shifter, integrated head/tail/brake LED lights, bell, 4 pedal assist settings, half-twist throttle, mounting for front and rear racks/accessories

I’ll start by saying that it’s going to be hard for Rad Power Bikes to top their own RadRunner e-bike, which holds a special place in my heart as such an innovative and high utility design.

The RadExpand 5 of course brings the same Rad performance we know and love from the company’s other e-bikes. That means 20 mph (32 km/h) on either throttle or pedal assist, and 25-45 miles (40-72 km) of range per charge.

I’m definitely glad to see the built-in lights stick around for this model, as do the fenders and the rear rack. All of that equipment comes standard so you don’t have to start adding accessories.

Plus the handlebars even fold down, which makes it easy to stick the bike against a wall or behind a couch and have it take up less room since the bars lay flat against the fork instead of sticking out sideways like, well, bicycle handlebars.

To get a down-and-dirty sense of the new e-bike, check out my video review and join me on my rides. Then read on for my complete thoughts on this new electric bike model!