Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 Review | The Iconic Cargo Ride

On the highest assistance level (Level 5, “Speed” setting), the battery lasted 27.9 miles, with an average speed of just over 16 mph. This range test was conducted with a 170-pound rider pedaling continuously. Over nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain spread across the ride, the RadWagon 4 handled numerous climbs with ease. On full assist, you can expect a range of at least 25 miles on a full charge, which is quite impressive given the bike’s size and power.

The RadWagon 4’s 48V 14Ah battery performed exceptionally well, staying cool even under heavy use. Despite the high ambient temperatures—averaging in the high 90s during testing—we didn’t experience any overheating issues. The battery exceeded our expectations, lasting much longer than anticipated for its capacity. Typically, you can estimate range by doubling the amp hours, which would suggest a maximum range of just under 21 miles. However, in our test, the battery delivered nearly 28 miles, far surpassing expectations.

The battery’s placement on the bike makes it easy to access, whether turning it on and off or inserting and twisting the key. Charging is also straightforward with the included charger, which connects to a standard wall outlet and resembles a laptop charger in design.

The RadWagon 4 is equipped with a 750W geared hub motor mounted on the rear wheel. As noted earlier, this motor delivers impressive power, allowing you to load the bike to its 350 lb weight capacity and still cruise comfortably. The motor runs quietly and stays cool, even during extended use. Whether carrying heavy loads or tackling steep hills, it never felt overworked or out of its element. The 750W motor is an excellent match for the RadWagon 4, providing reliable power and maintaining speed effectively.

The RadWagon 4 features five pedal assist levels, supporting speeds of up to 20 mph, and uses a cadence sensor to measure pedaling speed. These five assist levels offer versatile options, ensuring a suitable setting for any terrain or load. In our experience, pedal assist levels 4 and 5 are ideal for climbing hills and carrying cargo.

The bike’s drivetrain is a seven-speed Shimano Acera, offering a good range of gears to manage pedal cadence and torque alongside motor assistance. The seven gears make it easy to maintain a smooth pedal stroke, even on steep inclines, while hauling cargo.

The RadWagon 4 has a twist throttle on the right handlebar that will propel you up to 20mph. It has fast acceleration and will work on demand so you can use it to get the bike going as well as maintain speed while riding. Having the throttle option is great for getting the bike up and moving from a standstill, especially with cargo. It’s also really handy for letting the bike do the work when tackling a large hill.

The RadWagon 4 features Tektro 180mm rotors paired with Tektro Aries calipers, delivering solid stopping power. Even when carrying heavier loads or riding at higher speeds, the bike stops confidently and relatively quickly.

For its price range, Rad Power’s choice of mechanical disc brakes is acceptable, and it’s nice that they’re cheaper to maintain. They’re reliable, low-profile, and offer smooth modulation, making them suitable for a wide variety of riders. Additionally, replacement Tektro brake parts are widely available at most local bike shops, ensuring easy maintenance and longevity.

For a bike of its size, we were extremely impressed with how well the RadWagon 4 handled. The combination of 22×3.0 tires, a lower standover height, and a comfortable pedaling position allowed us to navigate tight alleyways and climb steep inclines with ease. Even when carrying passengers, the bike felt balanced and in control, even through corners.

The unique tire size caught our attention during testing. Developed specifically for the RadWagon 4 by Vee Tire Co., the 22×3.0 tires were designed to enhance stability and reduce the standover height. These tires perform as intended, offering a great balance of traction and rolling efficiency. The 22-inch size also provides a tight turning radius, while the 3.0-inch width keeps heavier cargo loads stable and balanced. However, because this size isn’t standard, replacement tubes may be hard to find. We recommend ordering extra 22” tubes and tires along with your RadWagon 4 for added convenience.

The comfortable pedaling position stood out, even during extended rides. A feature that significantly aids handling is the “deflopulator,” a spring connecting the front fork to the frame. This clever addition keeps the front wheel stable and improves cornering control, especially when carrying cargo or passengers.

RadPower Bikes has clearly prioritized rider comfort. The saddle, handlebars, and grips all contribute to an enjoyable experience, even on longer rides. The Velo Plush Saddle strikes an ideal balance—it’s firm enough to maintain its shape on long trips but soft enough for all-day comfort. Combined with the 13.5-inch seat tube, the saddle offers a wide range of adjustments to accommodate different rider inseams, ensuring the perfect fit.

That said, we found that bumps could feel harsh, even at lower tire pressures. While the RadWagon 4 excels in many areas, a suspension fork or suspension seat post would be a valuable optional upgrade for those seeking an even smoother ride.

The adjustable handlebars, with 80 degrees of adjustment, are another nice feature. They allow riders to fine-tune their positioning, which is especially helpful on longer commutes if your lower back starts to feel strained. Paired with the Velo Comfort Grips, which evenly distribute weight across your palms to reduce numbness, you can easily set up the bike for optimal comfort and ergonomics.

The RadWagon 4 also comes equipped with integrated front and rear lights. The headlight, rated at 200 lumens, will make you visible to others, such as oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and other riders. However, it doesn’t provide substantial illumination for night riding. For those who frequently ride in darker conditions, Rad Power Bikes offers a premium 500-lumen headlight for $49, which significantly improves visibility.

The taillight is another practical feature, with an integrated brake light indicator to increase safety and visibility when stopping.

In conclusion, Rad Power Bikes has done an excellent job of delivering a cargo electric bike at a fantastic price. The RadWagon 4 combines modular design, solid performance, and impressive battery range, making it a versatile and reliable option. While cost-saving components like the Shimano Acera 1×7 derailleur and cassette are used, they perform surprisingly well under the demands of heavy loads. As previously mentioned, the unique 22×3-inch tires and wheels are an ideal fit for the bike, though replacements may be hard to find in a pinch.

One of the standout features of the RadWagon 4 is its customizability. With a wide range of accessories available, no two bikes will be the same. Riders can tailor their RadWagon 4 to fit their specific needs, whether for commuting, cargo hauling, or family rides.

Rad Power Bikes makes the purchasing process simple and convenient. The RadWagon 4 can be shipped directly to your door, with flexible payment options, including paying in full or monthly installments.

The RadWagon 4 is available in three color options—orange, black, and white—allowing riders to choose a style that suits them. Combined with the extensive accessory options, Rad Power Bikes offers a high degree of customization to meet various needs.

Overall, the RadWagon 4 strikes a remarkable balance between functionality, affordability, and customization. Whether you’re looking for a car replacement or a fun, powerful cargo/commuter bike, we highly recommend giving the RadWagon 4 a try. We think you’ll be impressed—and have a blast!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 down in our comments section.