Thanks Andy! This is good to know. I have the 2017 as well and actually quite happy with it but was wondering about upgrading to the 18. I've upgraded by seat post on the 17 with the shocks and have been quite happy with it and now have over 700 miles logged so far with no issues.
I know this is a fairly old vid now but the throttle delay can be removed by going into the settings of the cycle display as it is this that controls the behavior and not the controller.
Nice review ! I just got a Rad Rover myself, and absolutely love it. One suggestion I have is to raise your seat to the proper height for pedaling. That low position you have does not allow full extension of the leg, and can actually injure your legs and knees. Ask any bike shop or experienced road biker to confirm.
Nice review. You'd think the manufacturer would notice the anomaly in the 2018. They must have lost the recipe. The Haibike Xduro All Mtn 6.0 for $3500-$4000 is a great combination of power and mountain bike, full suspension. However it does not include throttle assist, only pedal assist. So fun.
My vote, and recommendation is for the Surface 604 "Rook". Here's why: Being a shorter person, you likely have a shorter person's "inseam". The step-thru design of the Rook will allow for a comfortable "stand-over", when you are off the saddle and standing on the grown. Best thing for you to do: Measure your inseam (or look at a pair of your pants for the size) and consult Court's excellent reviews on EBR for the "stand-over height" for each of the bikes...Court is ALWAYS very careful to note this particular demension of each bike. When you're at a stop, and perhaps talking with a friend, you .DON'T want to be basically sitting on your whatchamacallits!
The Gadget Guru hello again Andy, I called Friday but I think it was to late in the day , I got their answering machine . A gentleman named Jason called back but of course I missed the call, said he would call back Monday. I was interested in the rad mini for a while and was going to order but then I found this veego with step through which will be much easier for me to get on and off, also this bike has everything up to date with power and suspension, comfortable seat, strong battery. I can't wait to get more info on it. You can get the number on line under ride Scoozy.
I would highly recommend the 2018 Rad Rover if you don't need a folding bike. Contrary to what Rad Power is claiming, the 2018 Rad Rover throttle is smooth as silk, as I own the 2018 Rad Rover, and just bought the 2018 Rad Mini to complement it. You are not alone! Jerky throttle on the 2018 Rad Mini when using pedal assist in first gear at very low speed on steep hills, which is exactly when you need the throttle so you don't lose momentum and fall over! Throttle only riding works fine and is not jerky, but pedal assisted 1st gear, combined with the throttle use is very jerky and annoying. I can live with it, but would like to see them use the same algorithm used on the 2018 Rad Rover, and apparently, the 2017 Rad Mini, which I have never tried. Only problem with throttle only on steep hills that require 1st gear to ride with pedal assist is that the motor will overheat and burn out using all 750W, without pedaling. Workarounds include using 2nd gear instead of first (keeps the speed out of the 0-100W range) and pedal assist of 4 instead of 1 or 2. Pedal Assist of 4 in most gears on hills keeps the power in the safe zone of 500-550W, instead of 750W with throttle only.
Have you tried the 2018 Voltbike Mariner? Thanks to their Ambassador program, Voltbike put me in touch with an owner a few miles away that let me ride his new bike and I have to say I was very impressed. I originally contacted the Ambassador to ride his 2018 Voltbike Yukon and didn't realize he had a Mariner too until I arrived at his home. I'm leaning more towards the Mariner after the test rides.
True, it only has a 500w (nominal) motor, but it performed better than I had expected during my test ride, which included hauling my 214# carcass up a 12% paved road grade. Yes, I had to pedal too but it was a lot easier than doing the same grade on my 24-speed Trek FX with pedal power only. As for the brake rotor size, Voltbike's website does not list this spec but ElectricBikeReview lists the front rotor at 180 mm and 160 mm for the rear on the 2016-17 models. I don't know if that's changed for 2018 and I didn't check when I test rode it. I can tell you that the brakes performed nicely as I cautiously descended that 12% grade I mentioned earlier. The Shimano Acera derailleur is two steps up from their entry level Turney (Shimano MTD derailleur heirarchy: Tourney, Altus, Acera, Alivio, Deore, SLX, XT, and XTR), which Voltbike was equipping their bikes with pre-2018. I appreciate that they're making improvements.
I have a very similarly specced fat folding as the Voltbike and Rad Mini, just with a 15.6 Ah battery and some other improvements, but the motor on mine is the same, 500W Bafang. When I hit the throttle on it, it jumps to 750w+ really fast anyways. Also looking at the Bafang website, it seems they list the specs and parts exactly the same for both, their 500W and 750W fat bike geared rear hub motors (RM G060.500.DC and RM G060.750.DC). So to me it seems they're the same motor, but just given different continuous wattage rates for legal reasons in different countries. They have the same maximum rpm, same 80nm+ torque, same everything, except for a 0.3g weight difference, probably due to the 750w having slightly tougher gauge wires. If I use maximum throttle 90% of the time, I get around 70km of range, but if I go with PAS level 2 or 1 at 15mph, it should be easily over 100km (or 62 miles) on a single charge.
It sounds like they have adjusted the slew rate in the programming. I would be curious to know if they reprogrammed the PCM with the same TQ control slew rate as the 2017 model if it would help, if not eliminate, the dead band jerking that you are experiencing. Thank you for the video.
if you like the super 73 s1 go take a look at the juiced bikes scrambler, i think they still have a few available from indygogo, i ordered the hyper scrambler, it seems they have good components. I also have the super 73 rose ave, it is nice, but basic if you ask me.
Thanks for the comparison review. I am SO glad I have the older model with smooth low speed throttle. Is there any way they could put the older programming to the 2018 speed controller? I understand the safety legality of insurance cost but there has to be a middle ground for a progressive throttle. If when you twist the throttle it suddenly lifts the front wheel of the ground as mentioned below, how safe is that? On the differences, I notice they added a gusset in front of the seat post. A slight change in the frame.
Hi Andy and thanks for great videos! I have a question on where you bought the old padded seat on the 2017 model? Looked great! I am waiting in line for the next shipment to arrive of the next batch to come in stock.
My friend has thee 17 and sent back the 18, Something happened with the company and they switched alot of things. First, for the 17, you can buy non OEM batteries for half the price, and they go farther than the RM brand. You can buy high capacity batteries, On the 18, the power regulater figures out if its a coded RM battery or not. Hey, 48 volts is 48 volts right? No matter who makes it,, If I buy something that takes AA Batteries, I can use any brand batteries. And even if you try to bypass that and install a HC battery, they made the housing different so it can only accept RM batteries,, They want you to buy 2 RM batteries instead of one High capacity battery for less than one price of RM. Sometimes companies also have to pay certain people for design rights,, so they fire the person and change it just enough so they dont have to pay him anymore. Either way,, the 17s are the best.. buy another 2017 used for 1000 bucks and then get used shocks.. Plus, those higher handlebars are dangerous. They seem easier to steer but they are not so well in an emergency, any little turn here or there and its a big difference. Also they can snap easier when crashing or hitting a curb. Id rather destroy my bike at the bottom and still be able to brace, then my handlebars snapping and go flying in any direction.. PS, I ride a big Ruckus, its a huge scooter, besides an ebike, you should look into the Big ruckus,, its great for people who want a really reliable easy high powered scooter.
I would exercise caution buying non OEM batteries with all the exploding battery issues you read about in the news coming from China. From my perspective, safety is a primary concern over saving a few dollars. Unless, I can be certain the manufacturer and the particular brand i'm getting has been certified in the US market I'll stick to the brand that does. Just my humble opinion.
absolutely right, you have to stick with a well known oem brand. The really cheapo ones turn into fire dragons when you are either stickng your face in it, or far enough away to have your entire house burn down.
Nice "review". Wasted 10+ minutes of my time listening to advertisement for Buena Vista and complaining that the throttle doesn't work well for low speeds. If you want a weaker bike, there are many cheaper options. Seems like you don't even need a "fat tire" style anyway, since you don't ride anywhere but sidewalks.
Thanks Andy! This is good to know. I have the 2017 as well and actually quite happy with it but was wondering about upgrading to the 18. I've upgraded by seat post on the 17 with the shocks and have been quite happy with it and now have over 700 miles logged so far with no issues.
I know this is a fairly old vid now but the throttle delay can be removed by going into the settings of the cycle display as it is this that controls the behavior and not the controller.
Nice review ! I just got a Rad Rover myself, and absolutely love it. One suggestion I have is to raise your seat to the proper height for pedaling. That low position you have does not allow full extension of the leg, and can actually injure your legs and knees. Ask any bike shop or experienced road biker to confirm.
My new rad rover I think has the same delay on throttle ... but it’s still a great ride ... I’m not sending it back it’s a keeper !! Get review!
Nice review. You'd think the manufacturer would notice the anomaly in the 2018. They must have lost the recipe. The Haibike Xduro All Mtn 6.0 for $3500-$4000 is a great combination of power and mountain bike, full suspension. However it does not include throttle assist, only pedal assist. So fun.
too expensive for what it is
My vote, and recommendation is for the Surface 604 "Rook". Here's why: Being a shorter person, you likely have a shorter person's "inseam". The step-thru design of the Rook will allow for a comfortable "stand-over", when you are off the saddle and standing on the grown. Best thing for you to do: Measure your inseam (or look at a pair of your pants for the size) and consult Court's excellent reviews on EBR for the "stand-over height" for each of the bikes...Court is ALWAYS very careful to note this particular demension of each bike. When you're at a stop, and perhaps talking with a friend, you .DON'T want to be basically sitting on your whatchamacallits!
Hello Andy, also look up the veego 750 from Ride Scoozy, it's a step through model with the same size tires. I am considering it myself.
Thank You! I'll definitely look into that bike!
How's their customer service? Do they have phone support?
The Gadget Guru hello again Andy, I called Friday but I think it was to late in the day , I got their answering machine . A gentleman named Jason called back but of course I missed the call, said he would call back Monday. I was interested in the rad mini for a while and was going to order but then I found this veego with step through which will be much easier for me to get on and off, also this bike has everything up to date with power and suspension, comfortable seat, strong battery. I can't wait to get more info on it. You can get the number on line under ride Scoozy.
@@mikecinone2699 The Veego 750 rocks! Jason is awesome. I bought the 750 and have sold one or two for them. What great people and bike.
I would highly recommend the 2018 Rad Rover if you don't need a folding bike. Contrary to what Rad Power is claiming, the 2018 Rad Rover throttle is smooth as silk, as I own the 2018 Rad Rover, and just bought the 2018 Rad Mini to complement it. You are not alone! Jerky throttle on the 2018 Rad Mini when using pedal assist in first gear at very low speed on steep hills, which is exactly when you need the throttle so you don't lose momentum and fall over! Throttle only riding works fine and is not jerky, but pedal assisted 1st gear, combined with the throttle use is very jerky and annoying. I can live with it, but would like to see them use the same algorithm used on the 2018 Rad Rover, and apparently, the 2017 Rad Mini, which I have never tried. Only problem with throttle only on steep hills that require 1st gear to ride with pedal assist is that the motor will overheat and burn out using all 750W, without pedaling. Workarounds include using 2nd gear instead of first (keeps the speed out of the 0-100W range) and pedal assist of 4 instead of 1 or 2. Pedal Assist of 4 in most gears on hills keeps the power in the safe zone of 500-550W, instead of 750W with throttle only.
Marathon coach? I wanna see a review of that beast!
Comfort, style and power!
I own the rad power city, other than having to buy a seat post suspension I love it. I am a not a fat tire fan but would rather go full suspension.
Excellent review.
Thank You!
Have you tried the 2018 Voltbike Mariner? Thanks to their Ambassador program, Voltbike put me in touch with an owner a few miles away that let me ride his new bike and I have to say I was very impressed. I originally contacted the Ambassador to ride his 2018 Voltbike Yukon and didn't realize he had a Mariner too until I arrived at his home. I'm leaning more towards the Mariner after the test rides.
True, it only has a 500w (nominal) motor, but it performed better than I had expected during my test ride, which included hauling my 214# carcass up a 12% paved road grade. Yes, I had to pedal too but it was a lot easier than doing the same grade on my 24-speed Trek FX with pedal power only. As for the brake rotor size, Voltbike's website does not list this spec but ElectricBikeReview lists the front rotor at 180 mm and 160 mm for the rear on the 2016-17 models. I don't know if that's changed for 2018 and I didn't check when I test rode it. I can tell you that the brakes performed nicely as I cautiously descended that 12% grade I mentioned earlier. The Shimano Acera derailleur is two steps up from their entry level Turney (Shimano MTD derailleur heirarchy: Tourney, Altus, Acera, Alivio, Deore, SLX, XT, and XTR), which Voltbike was equipping their bikes with pre-2018. I appreciate that they're making improvements.
I have a very similarly specced fat folding as the Voltbike and Rad Mini, just with a 15.6 Ah battery and some other improvements, but the motor on mine is the same, 500W Bafang. When I hit the throttle on it, it jumps to 750w+ really fast anyways. Also looking at the Bafang website, it seems they list the specs and parts exactly the same for both, their 500W and 750W fat bike geared rear hub motors (RM G060.500.DC and RM G060.750.DC). So to me it seems they're the same motor, but just given different continuous wattage rates for legal reasons in different countries. They have the same maximum rpm, same 80nm+ torque, same everything, except for a 0.3g weight difference, probably due to the 750w having slightly tougher gauge wires. If I use maximum throttle 90% of the time, I get around 70km of range, but if I go with PAS level 2 or 1 at 15mph, it should be easily over 100km (or 62 miles) on a single charge.
@@4nlimited3dition_4n3d did you build it yourself?
@@fuzetsu I chose the parts and let a factory do the building.
@@4nlimited3dition_4n3d Where/how did you procure this service? If you don't mind me asking.
It sounds like they have adjusted the slew rate in the programming. I would be curious to know if they reprogrammed the PCM with the same TQ control slew rate as the 2017 model if it would help, if not eliminate, the dead band jerking that you are experiencing. Thank you for the video.
if you like the super 73 s1 go take a look at the juiced bikes scrambler, i think they still have a few available from indygogo, i ordered the hyper scrambler, it seems they have good components. I also have the super 73 rose ave, it is nice, but basic if you ask me.
Great video ! !!!!!
Thank you so much
Thanks for the comparison review. I am SO glad I have the older model with smooth low speed throttle. Is there any way they could put the older programming to the 2018 speed controller? I understand the safety legality of insurance cost but there has to be a middle ground for a progressive throttle. If when you twist the throttle it suddenly lifts the front wheel of the ground as mentioned below, how safe is that? On the differences, I notice they added a gusset in front of the seat post. A slight change in the frame.
Hi Andy and thanks for great videos! I have a question on where you bought the old padded seat on the 2017 model? Looked great! I am waiting in line for the next shipment to arrive of the next batch to come in stock.
It's a Schwinn padded and spring seat from Amazon. $15. It fits me well! amzn.to/2uJaSse
Excellent. thnx so much Andy. Hope my RadMini will not have this problem your had... Best wishes from Norway
Great review.
Cool video. I am a fan!
Can I buy the fenders from you please?
OK GREAT..
NOW ...Where IS the Auxiliary Battery Connection located on these bikes?
damaged out of box and they send touch up paint? screw that
Although I've never had a chain drive, I think I would stay with the direct drive
andy, can i buy your rad mini?
is the 2017 bigger than the 2018???
I’m in agreement with you gadget guru send it back with that jerking motion is not worth having
Sounds like that’s the way that they made it
The Mate X e-bike !!
My friend has thee 17 and sent back the 18,
Something happened with the company and they switched alot of things.
First, for the 17, you can buy non OEM batteries for half the price, and they go farther than the RM brand.
You can buy high capacity batteries,
On the 18, the power regulater figures out if its a coded RM battery or not.
Hey, 48 volts is 48 volts right? No matter who makes it,, If I buy something that takes AA Batteries, I can use any brand batteries.
And even if you try to bypass that and install a HC battery, they made the housing different so it can only accept RM batteries,,
They want you to buy 2 RM batteries instead of one High capacity battery for less than one price of RM.
Sometimes companies also have to pay certain people for design rights,, so they fire the person and change it just enough so they dont have to pay him anymore.
Either way,, the 17s are the best.. buy another 2017 used for 1000 bucks and then get used shocks..
Plus, those higher handlebars are dangerous. They seem easier to steer but they are not so well in an emergency, any little turn here or there and its a big difference. Also they can snap easier when crashing or hitting a curb. Id rather destroy my bike at the bottom and still be able to brace, then my handlebars snapping and go flying in any direction..
PS, I ride a big Ruckus, its a huge scooter, besides an ebike, you should look into the Big ruckus,, its great for people who want a really reliable easy high powered scooter.
I would exercise caution buying non OEM batteries with all the exploding battery issues you read about in the news coming from China. From my perspective, safety is a primary concern over saving a few dollars. Unless, I can be certain the manufacturer and the particular brand i'm getting has been certified in the US market I'll stick to the brand that does. Just my humble opinion.
absolutely right, you have to stick with a well known oem brand.
The really cheapo ones turn into fire dragons when you are either stickng your face in it, or far enough away to have your entire house burn down.
Get another 2017 Rad from Craig's list or Ebay.
Nice "review". Wasted 10+ minutes of my time listening to advertisement for Buena Vista and complaining that the throttle doesn't work well for low speeds. If you want a weaker bike, there are many cheaper options. Seems like you don't even need a "fat tire" style anyway, since you don't ride anywhere but sidewalks.
SONDERS fold
why waste time with outdated hub motor e-bikes. Go with mid-drive ebikes .
Mid-drives look hokey.
1700$ is expensive for a bike ( official site )
Cheap for a quality eBike. Check out the Veego 750...