The RadExpand 5 Plus adds even more practical features to a utility e-bike already popular with city dwellers and errand riders. The convenient foldable design won’t hold back this versatile electric bike designed to ride, carry, transport and commute. I recently tested this Plus version to find out if the RadExpand 5 Plus has an ace up its sleeve or forces a kink – continue reading the full review below.

Rad Expand 5 Plus Electric Bike – Pros and Cons

Advantages and disadvantages

Benefits :

• Significant improvements: hydraulic disc brakes, front suspension and a torque sensor make the difference
• Easily foldable: Although it is still a heavy e-bike, it can collapse to fit in a trunk
• Smooth pedal assist: well-distributed pedal assist levels and zesty throttle mode
• Robust design: knobby tires, better brakes and 50mm of travel can handle bumpy routes

Disadvantages:

• Outdated SiS Thumbsticks: Reliable but traditional thumb shifters feel out of place
• Compact frame for smaller riders: Taller riders may feel cramped on such a compact e-bike

Practicality and versatility

It’s hard for a sequel to top the original, but this Plus version of RadExpand 5 brings a host of upgrades in all the right places. New changes include front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, turn signals, folding pedals, torque sensor and color display. It is an accessible electric bike thanks to its low step-over height and its stable but quick handling. I also really liked the elegant stone beige color scheme and slate blue frame.

The folding mechanism worked very well, with hinges on the head tube and frame, and is easy to use. There’s no doubt that the big tires and electric parts make the RadExpand 5 Plus a big bike, even when folded, but that means you can easily carry it in your trunk. This portability can be a huge advantage, saving you from having to purchase an e-bike specific rack for your vehicle.

Front suspension

A major upgrade over its predecessorThe RadExpand 5 Plus comes with a short travel front suspension. 50mm of travel helps absorb road buzz and potholes and smooths out rough terrain. This isn’t mountain bike territory at all when it comes to specs, but this e-bike isn’t designed anywhere for serious trails. The added suspension provides a high level of cushion that improves comfort and reduces fatigue.

Maximum speed of 20 mph

This zesty folding electric bike is powered by a 750W rear hub motor with 64Nm of torque, including an all-new torque sensor for smoother, more natural power transmission. The Plus version and its upgrade over the old cadence sensor offers smooth acceleration that seems to be a step ahead of many other e-bike models.

The RadExpand 5 Plus has your typical five pedal assist levels and a walk mode, but my test ride revealed the excellent distribution of these assist levels. Many e-bikes overshoot their settings, especially in the lower pedal assist range, meaning it’s almost impossible to ride slowly.

This e-bike has well-spaced assist levels and gradually increases up to the top speed of 20 mph, which is fast enough for recreational and urban riding. During testing, I noticed that I would prefer a slightly larger front chainring to maintain that top speed while pedaling, but I still had no issues with ghost pedaling. There’s also a right-turn throttle for pedal-less cruising.

Battery capacity

The externally mounted battery sits front and center, but the design makes sense and doesn’t detract from the overall look of the e-bike. It’s a 720Wh battery with a range of between 20 and 60 miles on a single charge, depending on factors like rider weight, cargo, and riding conditions. The 2 amp charger is slower than other included chargers on the market, but not a deal breaker.

It is worth mentioning that the battery meets UL certification standards and features Rad Power Bikes’ Safety Shield technology, making it even safer when exposed to extreme heat or fire. The controller housing is behind the battery, which isn’t very clean, but the external mounting of these parts makes them easy to remove for charging or servicing if something goes wrong.

Weight

The entire bike weighs 72.5 lbs and has a maximum payload capacity of 315 lbs, including the rider. That’s plenty of room to load this utility bike with gear and cargo, whether it’s grocery shopping or a backcountry excursion. Rad Power Bikes offers a ton of compatible accessories like saddlebags, racks, and other items to further enhance your ride.

The low frame makes getting on and off easy and quick. electric utility style electric bike. A great option for shorter riders, the RadExpand 5 Plus is recommended for riders between 4’10” and 5’10” tall.

Components

Mechanically, the RadExpand 5 Plus rides on a set of large 20×4” tires from CST. They are decently knotted for improved off-road performance that matches the other upgraded components of this Plus version. The gearing is Shimano Altus 7 speed, which does a great job, but I wish Rad Power would go with a higher quality shifter than the outdated SiS design. The upgraded hydraulic brakes are a welcome addition to such a powerful and premium e-bike.

The electric bike has plastic mudguards on both wheels and plastic pedals that fold inwards to save a little more space. The sturdy rear rack allows you to easily transport all kinds of equipment, but is not designed to carry an additional passenger. Another detail I like is the lifting handle built into the rear of the saddle, making it easier to rotate the heavy bike.

Technology

There are a handful of smart tech touches that improve the RadExpand 5 Plus’s performance, like the integrated turn signals that are new to this model. The included front and rear lights are connected to the battery and are quite bright. I was pleased with the relatively clean cable management, which can be a challenge for e-bikes, especially given the folding design. The central vertical screen shows the remaining range, which is handy and there’s a built-in USB port for charging smaller devices.

Verdict

Some model upgrades fail with only minor updates, but the RadExpand 5 Plus successfully expands the practicality and performance of the e-bike. If you are looking for a high-performance fat tire folding electric bike, this model is a great choice that is worth the money. Currently priced at $1,899riders will benefit from reliable support from the Rad Power Bikes brand and an improved utility e-bike that perfectly balances softness and chunkiness – and no, I’m not talking about peanut butter. Whether it’s a picnic, commuting, or off-road detours, the RadExpand 5 Plus is ready to roll.

Other e-bikes we test in the Tetons with utility styling

1. Fiido T1 Cargo Electric Bike
2. Heybike Hauler Cargo Electric Bike
3. Quercus Rattan Electric Bike