Radexpand 5 Review – A Short Intro
Are you looking for an unbiased and detailed RadExpand 5 review to determine if this is the right electric hunting bike for you?
Well, my friend, you’ve come to the right place.
Keep on reading to uncover all the secrets of this feature-rich and very functional electric folding bike for hunting.
RadExpand 5 Review: How Well Does This Electric Hunting Bike Perform?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
The RadExpand 5 is another great electric hunting bike by RAD Power Bikes, the largest electric bike company in the US and North America.
I’d consider the RadExpand 5 the follow-up version of the RAD Mini 2 Step-Through but it’s actually much more than that.
This awesome hunting ebike combines many of the great features of other RAD Power Bikes models all in one very capable hunting machine.
Let’s look at it in more detail.
RadExpand 5 Review: A Foldable Electric Bike For Hunting
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RadExpand 5 was originally designed and built as a rugged outdoor companion that can handle all sorts of situations.
Unlike most other premium hunting electric bikes, the RadExpand 5 is an affordable folding electric bike. That’s a great feature to have if you want to transport your electric hunting bike in your SUV, for example.
But how well does the RadExpand 5 perform on a hunting trip? That’s what we want to find out in this in-depth RadExpand 5 review.
Let’s dive in and have a closer look at what’s most important to you as a hunter.
RadExpand 5 Review: Can This Electric Bike For Hunting Climb Hills?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
When put to the test by Ebike Escape on a hill with an 8.2% incline (174 ft of elevation over 0.4 miles / 53 meters of elevation over 0.64 km) the RadExpand 5 mastered the challenge without any complications.
The hill did not pose a serious challenge to the hill climbing capabilities of the RadExpand 5.
That was true when using the Pedal Assist Mode as well as the Throttle-Only mode.
When using only the throttle and starting at 20 mph at the bottom of the hill, the RadExpand 5 fat tire e bike was still traveling with a speed of 12 mph when reaching the top of the hill.
That’s an awesome result and showcases the off-road capabilities of this electric hunting bike. However, if you need to climb steeper hills I have reviewed stronger bikes in my post Best Electric Hunting Bike.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Motor?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RAD Power Bikes RadExpand 5 fat e bike comes with a powerful geared hub motor with 750 W and 5:1 planetary gear reduction. This unique hub motor is actually engineered by RAD itself and designed in-house.
This motor power combined with the 7-speed gearing system allows this electric hunting bike to “go steeper at lower speeds”.
Like all electric bikes from RAD Power Bikes the motor is controlled with a half twist grip throttle which is great for adjusting the power you need from the motor.
It also features a Low-Profile Cadence Sensing Pedal Assist system which makes the riding experience feel surprisingly natural.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Brakes?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
Unlike other ebikes from RAD Power Bike that have brakes from Tektro, the RadExpand 5 is equipped with mechanical disc brakes from Radius.
At the beginning of my Radexpand 5 review, I was initially concerned that these new brakes don’t give the hunter the same short braking distance as other RAD ebikes with hydraulic disc brakes but that concern seems unfounded.
Even though on some occasions, the brakes did not seem to have the same bite as other electric bikes by Rad Power Bikes, overall these brakes work just fine.
They come with 180 mm rotors and a very handy adjustment tool to tune the brakes after some time when the brake pads start to wear down a little.
RadExpand 5 Review: Can This Hunting eBike Handle Off-Road Terrain?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RadExpand 5 electric hunting bike performs equally well on off-rand terrain.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Tires?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
To achieve good off-roading capabilities, RAD Power Bikes have departed from their tradition and equipped the RadExpand 5 hunting ebike with 4 inch fat tires turning it into an awesome folding fat e bike.
Fat tires are an essential aspect of any successful hunting trip. They allow for much-improved traction on difficult ground and make for much better overall ride quality. You can even adjust the tire pressure to provide more cushion when riding off road and across more rugged and rough terrain.
When adjusting the tire pressure to accommodate different surfaces please know that they are rated for pressure between 15 – 30 psi.
Just remember that less air pressure might slightly reduce the efficiency of your ride while simultaneously adding extra comfort. So, it’s a trade-off you should be aware of.
The CST BFT 20 x 4.0” fat tires are e-bike rated with a puncture-resistant liner and a reflective strip for added safety.
The fat tires are put on nice aluminum alloy rims with 36 holes and a rim width of 60 mm.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Suspension?
The RadExpand 5 electric hunting bike comes with a rigid hard fork (Rad custom steel 135 mm hub width, 9 mm quick release) upfront. If you are looking for an electric hunting bike with front suspension please read my article Best Hunting eBike Under $2000.
Surprisingly, the lack of the front suspension fork is very well compensated for by the addition of the fat tires.
These tires help to make your ride much more comfortable and you might even forget about suspensions altogether.
If you do prefer more cushioning you can always opt to change to a suspension seat post at any time.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Seat?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
The stock seat that comes with the RadExpand 5 hunting ebike is comfortable enough for most situations and probably for most hunters.
Since the RadExpand 5 is a foldable electric hunting bike I especially like that the saddle comes with an additional handle at the back to help you lift or carry the ebike when it’s folded up.
It’s little details like that which showcase the intense thought process and experience that went into designing the RadExpand 5 hunting electric bike.
As a quick side note to my Radexpand 5 review, I’d recommend if you want a more cushioned seat you might want to start with a suspension seat post and maybe a seat by Cloud-9.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Gearing?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
For the RadExpand 5, Rad Power Bikes have opted to include a 7-Speed MicroShift RD-M26 gearing and shifting system instead of the Shimano 7-speed thumb shifter which is common on other RAD models.
I personally like how the MicroShift controls feel and where they’re located on the handlebar.
The 7-speed drivetrain allows you to run through the gears which is a different and better setup than the RadRunner 2 in my view.
In the front, the RadExpand 5 has a 48-tooth front chainring.
The Freewheel (not a cassette) in the rear has 14 – 32 teeth (in the literature it says “14-34” maybe some minor supply chain issue?) which is still above average compared to many other more affordable regular or folding e bikes that might only have 14 – 28 tooth freewheels.
Having that bigger ring gives you that mechanical advantage that will make climbing and starting from a standstill that much easier,
I also like that the derailleur is protected with a steel derailleur guard which comes in handy should your ebike accidentally fall over to the right side.
RadExpand 5 Review: How Good Is The Cockpit?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The alloy handlebar on the RadExpand 5 is also slightly different from other RAD ebike models.
With its 27″ width and 6.9″ rise it reminds me more of a BMX-style handlebar which I like.
One of the big advantages is that you can adjust the handlebar not just in vertical height but also around its horizontal axis.
Tilting it either forward (away from the rider) or backward (towards the rider) allows for a more personalized or customized seating position and fit depending on your upper body and arm length.
The STEM has a length of 45 mm and a rise of 3º.
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The ergonomically designed grip has also changed slightly. It’s now made of soft yet durable rubber (no longer the faux leather grips) which is fine for me.
A quick side note to this Radexpand 5 review: If you prefer, you can change the grips to Ergon locking grips, for example, that are compatible with a right-hand twist grip throttle.
The RadExpand 5 features a regular and reliable Rad Power Bikes controller with 48 V and 750 W.
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
On the RadExpand 5 foldable electric hunting bike RAD Power Bikes opted for the custom LED display, not the LCD display that you can find on many other RAD models.
The display is functional with a charge indicator, pedal assist levels, an error display, headlight and taillight indicator, and more.
It’s nothing to brag about but it gives you all the information you need (even though I would prefer an odometer to keep track of the mileage I’ve traveled).
If you prefer an LCD display, you can always upgrade to RAD’s LCD model for about 100 dollars.
If you don’t want to spend that kind of money why not mount your mobile phone to the horizontal middle section of the handlebar and then use an app like Speedometer App by Cool Niks or Google Maps to know your current speed and distance traveled.
As I’ve already mentioned, RAD Power Bikes equipped the RadExpand 5 with Radius brakes instead of the usual Tektro brakes.
That means, the RadExpand 5 uses different brake levers which no longer have the bell integrated.
Now, the bell is located separately on the handlebar but I am not a big fan because with this new set up the bell is almost impossible to reach without moving your left hand from the grip.
Radexpand 5 Review: Can This Hunting Electric Bike Carry Enough Weight?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
Given that the RadExpand 5 is a foldable hunting ebike it still has an impressive load capacity of 275 lbs. or 125 kg.
In other words, the RadExpand 5 top weight is probably more than enough for the average hunter to scout the land, check the trail cameras, etc.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Rack?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
I like RAD accessories because they are high quality and they get the job done.
Unlike its predecessor the RadMini, the RadExpand 5 comes with a rear cargo rack included with the bike.
That’s great news even though the rack is not integrated into the frame as is the case with the RadRunner. As a result, you cannot carry as much weight on that otherwise sturdy rear rack as you can on the RadRunner.
So, while you could easily fit a second seat on the rear rack of the RadRunner to carry a child or another adult RAD does not recommend using a (child) seat with the RadExpand 5 because when you’re peddling the back of your foot could hit the back seat or the person sitting on it.
If you have more gear to transport and the rear rack is not enough you can also attach a front rack for more storage room or add some Fremont Pannier Bags or other rear rack accessories.
Radexpand 5 Review: What Range Can This Electric Hunting Bike Cover?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
Next, in this RadExpand 5 review, I would like to focus on range and battery performance.
According to RAD Power Bikes, they estimate that the RadExpand 5 foldable electric hunting bike gives you a range of 25 – 45 miles per battery charge depending on how you ride and use this hunting ebike.
Radexpand 5 Review: What About The Battery?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RadExpand 5 is equipped with a removable battery that’s separated from the controller.
I like that idea because it protects both parts from excessive heat. It also allowed RAD to mount the battery almost vertically near the seat tube which makes accessing the battery for removal, for example, extremely easy.
According to RAD Power Bikes, the battery on the RadExpand 5 electric hunting bike has a total of 672 Wh of capacity.
Since RAD doesn’t seem to provide any additional information I can only assume that the battery pack has 48 V and 14 Ah.
As you probably know by now, to compare the range capabilities of different electric hunting bikes I simply divide the Wh (here: 672) by 20 (1 mile = 20 Wh) to obtain a theoretical distance on a single battery charge of 33.6 miles without any pedaling.
To recharge your battery, The RadExpand 5 hunting ebike is equipped with RAD Power Bikes 48 V 2 Amp smart charger that operates on 100V-240V AC power outlets.
RadExpand 5 Review: What Is The RadExpand 5 Top Max Speed?
The RadExpand 5 top speed is 20 mph.
RadExpand 5 Review: Available Upgrades And Addons
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
In this next section of my RadExpand 5 review, I want to focus on the pedals, the custom plastic fenders, and the integrated lights of this awesome electric bike for hunting.
For the RadExpand 5 hunting ebike, RAD Power Bikes decided on using a plastic pedal instead of a metal pedal that’s probably more common on other RAD models).
It’s a composite platform with a CrMo axle and reflectors and standard 9/16″ x 20 TPI threading.
However, even though the RadExpand 5 is a folding e bike, the pedals themselves cannot be folded up.
If you need these extra inches to transport your ebike you can always remove the pedals for the journey.
If you prefer metal pedals, there are some great upgrades available, too.
I very much like that on the RadExpand 5 the front and rear fenders are included for free. Who doesn’t like something for free, right?
The rear fender even comes with a reflector for added safety.
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RadExpand 5 also has an LED headlight included and, in my opinion, much improved rear lights that also turn on additional red lights when the brakes are engaged. These integrated lights and the bright braking activation add value especially if you also want to use the RAD Expand as a regular road bike on city streets and not just off road.
If I had to make a suggestion it would be that I’d prefer even brighter lights and maybe even a “flashing mode” to increase visibility and improve riders’ safety.
RadExpand 5 Review: How To Transport Your Hunting eBike
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
Unlike the RadRunner 2, the RadExpand 5 electric hunting bike is a folding ebike which makes transportation that much more convenient and simple.
I really like that you can fold up the entire hunting ebike or just the handlebar which is a great feature if you just want to slide your electric hunting bike between the seats of your SUV.
It has a 6061 aluminum frame and is slightly lighter than the RadRunner model.
RadExpand 5 Review: What Is The RadExpand 5 Electric Folding Bike Weight?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
The RadExpand 5 electric folding bike’s weight is 62.5 lbs.
That’s the total bike’s weight including the battery which already weighs 7.7 lbs on its own.
RadExpand 5 Review: What Are The RadExpand 5 Folded Dimensions?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com
When folded up completely, the RadExpand 5 has these dimensions: 29H x 25W x 41L.
As I mentioned earlier already, unlike other folding bikes, RAD engineers have not equipped the RadExpand 5 frame design with folding pedals.
However, I don’t think this is a problem because the overall folding mechanism is very efficient and the bike comes with a long enough Velcro strap to securely keep it in the folded position.
RadExpand 5 Review: Who Should Buy This Electric Bike For Hunting?
RadExpand 5 Review: What Sizes Are Available?
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
The RadExpand 5 electric hunting bike features a very convenient step-through frame that makes hopping on and off very easy and effortless indeed.
With a Stand Over Height of 16” RAD recommends it for hunters with an inseam of 24.5’’ – 32.5’’.
According to RAD, the RadExpand 5 is perfect for shorter riders with a height between 4’10’’ and 5’10’’ but I and some other riders are just over 6’ and there were no issues. However, a longer seat post might make this bike suitable for an even wider range of hunters who want a full leg extension.
RadExpand 5 Review: Does This Hunting eBike Comply With eBike Laws?
Equipped with a 750 W motor, a throttle, and a maximum speed of 20 mph, the RadExpand 5 hunting electric bike qualifies as a Class 2 ebike in many jurisdictions giving you more access to non-motorized trails, for example.
RadExpand 5 Review: Warranties And Financing
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
Your budget as well as any financing options are also important aspects to consider which is why I included them here in my Radexpand 5 review.
RadExpand 5 Review: What Warranties Are Included?
The RadExpand 5 is offered by RAD Power Bikes with a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
RadExpand 5 Review: Is There A Money Back Guarantee?
RAD Power Bikes also offers free returns within fourteen (14) days of delivery in case there’s any issue.
RadExpand 5 Review: What Financing Options Are Available?
Rad Power Bikes has partnered with Affirm to offer you convenient installment plan options that you can select during the checkout process on the merchant’s website.
RadExpand 5 Review: What I Like The Most
- Folding electric hunting bike makes transportation that much easier.
- US company based in Seattle, Washington
- Selling the most ebikes in North America
- Largest customer support staff of any electric bike brand
- Great value for money
- Free rear rack included
- New BMX-style handlebars with great adjustability
- Vertically mounted battery easy to remove and replace
RadExpand 5 Review: What I Like The Least
- No more LCD display
- No odometer to keep track of your mileage
- No front suspension fork (made up for slightly by the addition of fat tires)
- No more bell integrated into brake lever
- LED lights could be brighter
- No “flashing” mode for front and rear lighting
RadExpand 5 Review: My Conclusion
Image: ©RAD Power Bikes
I hope you found this Radexpand 5 Review helpful in discovering what exactly this amazing electric hunting bike brings to the hunting table.
If you’re a hunter looking to make your hunts more efficient and effective, this electric cycling solution is just what you need! Whether you’re out for big game or small game, the RADExpand 5 has you covered!
With a powerful 750 W motor, a top speed of up to 20 mph, a load capacity of 275 lbs, and an extended-range battery pack, it can take hunters further than ever before.
Its responsive pedal-assist makes pedaling up hills a breeze, so you won’t be left exhausted at the end of the day.
When combined with thoughtful accessories like rear racks, headlights, GPS tracking devices, and more, the RADExpand 5 provides hunters with the ultimate experience.
So don’t delay – invest in your own RadExpand 5 today and enjoy all the amazing benefits it has to offer!
Please let me know if I missed any important aspect so that I can further improve this Radexpand 5 Review to help more hunters along the way.
Happy Riding
Image Attribution
Featured Image: ©RAD Power Bikes