The RadRover 6 Plus reimagines one of the most popular ebikes in the US

Rad Power Bikes’ RadRover might be the most popular ebike in the US. In fact, according to the company, it’s ‘North America’s best-selling ebike,” and I see the fat-tire ebike all the time when riding around town.

Now the company has gone ahead and completely redesigned the bike, bringing a more premium design (and price) with the new RadRover 6 Plus.

For reference, here’s the old bike:

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And here’s the new one:

That’s a big improvement, if you ask me.

Long story short, here’s what’s new:

• Hydraulic disc brakes (instead of mechanical ones).
• A new 750W geared motor with 25 percent more torque.
• A new frame design.
• A slimmer, easier to carry 672 Wh battery that is partially integrated into the frame rather than sticking out like a wart.
• A two-part display with power output, mileage, speed, etc
• A revamped collection of accessories, including a new rear rack, battery terminal cover, battery travel case, and a USB charger that connects to your bike’s display.
• Fenders are now included.
• Internally routed cables that are now easier to access thanks to a removable cover on the downtube.
• The taillight is now neatly integrated into the rear fender.
• The controller doesn’t stick out behind the downtube awkwardly.
• A $2,000 price tag.

As with its predecessor, the bike still comes with a front suspension fork, 4-inch knobby fat tires, a throttle, and a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. It also comes in both mid-step and step-thru frames, which should help it fit a wide variety of riders, and range is estimated at 45 miles, although that will of course vary depending on your usage.

The biggest disappointment to me is that the bike is still using a basic 12-magnet cadence sensor. Granted, Rad has a better power-delivery curve than many, and cadence-only is understandable on more affordable bikes. But now that we’re pushing into the two-grand territory — especially from America’s largest e-bike seller — I would’ve liked to see a fancier torque sensor, especially when there are now have several bikes selling for under $1,500 that offer one.

The bike is available to pre-order from Rad Power Bike’s site now, with shipping estimated for September.