Way up in the Pacific Northwest, a bicycle manufacturer is quietly outfitting the nation with affordable e-bikes. Rad Power Bikes was founded in 2007 by two childhood friends in Seattle, Washington. The guys started retrofitting traditional bikes with electric motors and quickly grew into a full-fledged e-bike manufacturer. Today, Rad Power Bikes is one of the largest electric bike brands in the world, with a wide range of models and accessories.

The RadRover 6 Plus is their latest flagship model and has undergone some impressive upgrades, including a new frame, hydraulic brakes, and battery and drivetrain improvements.

The 6 Plus comes in both high-step and step-thru models. It retains wide 4-inch tires, providing excellent stability, traction, and float for navigating soft terrains like gravel, sand, and snow. The new, shorter stem, mid-rise handlebar, ergonomic grips, and adjustable suspension fork take the comfort equation to the next level.

The RadRover makes it easy to try, buy, and maintain. The bike’s mobile service vans and storefronts in the US, Canada, and Europe make it effortless to get service and support. In addition, it has excellent safety features like puncture-resistant reflective tires and motor-inhibiting brakes, two display panels with precise battery level indicators, and a brake-activated rear light.

The bike has also undergone some impressive improvements when it comes to its components. The new hydraulic disc brakes are easier to use and require less effort, while multiple rack attachment points and a wide range of quality accessories that are cross-compatible with other Rad models make this bike easily customizable.

The biggest news is the motor, controller, and battery are now designed in-house. The 750-watt geared hub motor offers 15 percent more torque than prior generations and a redesigned motor controller is now internally mounted for durability and improved aesthetics. Even though the new 6 Plus costs 17 percent more and weighs 4.8 lbs more than the old model, it’s still one of the highest-rated and most affordable e-bikes on market.

The new RadRover now has a semi-integrated 48V 14Ah battery that fits into the downtube, making it easy to remove for charging or carrying. It also features a 10 LED display showing the remaining battery life. It has a top speed of 20mph, a range of up to 45 miles, and can carry up to 275 lbs.

Electrified’s Take: At over 70-pounds, the RadRover 6 Plus is one big, heavy mother trucker. If you’re looking for a featherweight bike this isn’t it. But, at under $2100.00, it’s a great bike at a bargain price. Think of a sturdy, old-school Jeep reincarnated as an e-bicycle and you’ll get the idea. This latest version is a complete redesign but leverages the company’s experience building and selling over 100k Rovers. Not only does Rad offer great customer support and an extensive lineup of accessories, but they also have a deep library of how-to YouTube videos to walk you through troubleshooting and maintenance. Lastly, they also have a 14-day trial period so after living with the Plus 6 for a bit, you can decide if it’s the right e-bike for you. 

Check out more at Rad Power Bikes.