RAD Power Bikes RadRunner Plus Review

My In-Depth And Unbiased Radrunner Plus Review

Are you looking for an in-depth and unbiased Radrunner Plus review to learn more about this exceptional and versatile electric bike for hunting?

If you do, you’ve come to the right place.

Keep reading to uncover the secrets that make the RadRunner Plus electric utility bike by RAD Power Bikes such an indispensable hunting tool.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Well Does This Electric Hunting Bike Perform In The Wild?

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

The RadRunner Plus is the upgraded version of its predecessor the RadRunner 1.

It’s one of the few moped-style e bikes that are actually comfortable to pedal as well.

This hunting ebike is extremely versatile and was originally designed as an electric utility bike with many use cases.

But, as you will see in a moment in my Radrunner Plus review, it’s surprisingly useful for the hunting lifestyle.

RadRunner 1 vs RadRunner Plus Review

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

With the RadRunner Plus, RAD Power Bikes successfully innovated or re-invented the electric utility bike. It’s a true hybrid utility ebike that’s much better equipped than its predecessor the RadRunner 1.

The RadRunner Plus comes with a passenger kit or passenger package that includes the footpegs, a backbench, and clear wheel protectors, to prevent the passenger’s feet from accidentally touching the rear wheel. It also has a better display, a front suspension fork, and a 7-speed gear shift.

Thanks to the front suspension fork and the wide, high volume tires the RadRunner Plus provides a very good and very stable ride experience.

Handling is good, too. It’s not the same as an electric bicycle with skinny tires but for what it is it’s actually pretty good. It can take corners with no problems.

Maybe even more importantly, the RAD Power Bikes RadRunner Plus can climb hills just fine.

One note though: To assemble the bike you might be better of doing it with 2 people instead of one. It can be done alone but it’ll be much quicker and easier if you’ve got someone to help you.

But, enough of that. I’m sure you’re reading this RadRunner Plus review because you want to find out how well the RadRunner Plus performs when hunting, so lets dive in.

Radrunner Plus Review: Is This Electric Bike For Hunting A Good Hill Climber?

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

As I’ve already mentioned, the RadRunner Plus is a pretty good hill climber.

It’s not the fastest bike uphill but it managed a 15-degree uphill climb without any issues even though it’s a slightly heavier ebike.

In one of their electric bike reviews, ElectricBikeReport tested how well the RadRunner Plus can climb a specific hill and found the following:

On a hill that has an incline of approximately 12 degrees over a 1/3 of a mile distance:

When riding the RadRunner Plus using the “throttle only” mode they reached the top of the hill in 1 min and 53 seconds with an average speed of 9.6 miles per hour.
When riding the RadRunner Plus using Pedal Assist level 5 they climbed the same hill in 1 minute and 27 seconds with an average speed of 12.5 miles per hour.

If you want to tackle even steeper inclines with ease I have reviewed some more powerful hunting ebikes in my post Best Electric Hunting Bike for your perusal.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Motor

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

Those are impressive numbers but they’re not really surprising given the technical setup of the RadRunner Plus.

It’s equipped with a capable 750 W RAD Power Bikes designed and engineered geared rear hub motor.

It has an Intelligent 5 level pedal assist system with low profile cadence sensor.

It’s capable of producing an incredible 80 Nm of torque which is probably enough power to flatten most hills that come your way.

The 7-speed Shimano Altis drivetrain also helps to keep the legs fresh while letting the motor do its thing and keeping the cadence the same.

The RadRunner Plus also has a “walk-assist” mode that can be accessed by pressing and holding the “down” button. It’s an awesome feature that can be especially useful for hunters when recovering their hunt across challenging terrain they don’t feel comfortable riding across.

With the “walk” mode, the motor of the RadRunner Plus runs at a relatively slow, constant speed, allowing the hunter to comfortably walk next to the bike. While the hunter keeps both hands on the handlebar, the motor does most of the heavy lifting by pulling the cargo along.

The motor is controlled via a throttle that can be used from a complete stand still and it will get the bike moving quickly and effortlessly.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Brakes

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

The RadRunner Plus comes with effective Tektro mechanical disc brakes called Aries with 180 mm rotors in the front and the rear. These brakes work just fine and get the bike to a complete standstill without any problems.

However, since this is an unbiased Radrunner Plus review, I also want to point out that considering the RadRunner Plus is the upgraded version of the original RadRunner 1, I think hydraulic disc brakes would have worked better within that “upgraded” theme.

I prefer hydraulic brakes over mechanical ones but these Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes have more than adequate stopping power, too.

One detail I really like, though, is the brake light at the rear which gets activated when the brakes are being engaged. You can actually set this integrated taillight to flash by pressing a button on the back of it.

I think that’s a great additional safety feature that comes as standard on the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Good Is This Hunting eBike Off-Road?

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

Even though the RadRunner Plus was originally designed by RAD Power Bikes as a very versatile utility bike it’s definitely capable of more than that.

RAD Power Bikes themselves claim that the RadRunner Plus can “go steeper at lower speeds”.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Tires

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

The RadRunner Plus comes with its own custom made large volume tires.

They’re branded as “Exclusive Rad Power Bikes by Kenda K-Rad” with a 20” diameter and 3.3” width.

They are not yet fat tires but they provide much more stability to this hunting ebike. They also offer lots of air volume and make for a nicer ride.

They also come with a K-Shield puncture-resistant liner (K Shield-puncture protection), a detail that’s pretty important for any hunting trip.

When ElectricBikeReport tested the RadRunner Plus over 150 miles they did not encounter any punctured tires which is comforting to know.

The tires are protected and held in place by double-wall aluminum rims with 36 holes and a width of 55 mm.

They have a really good hybrid tread that’s very efficient on paved streets but also capable of off-road adventures.

Indeed that’s actually great if you intend to use your electric hunting bike for more than just hunting.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Suspension

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

The RadRunner Plus comes fully equipped with a durable RST front-suspension spring fork with 60 mm travel and lockout and preload adjustments. If you are looking for a beginner-friendly electric hunting bike without suspension please read my article Best Hunting eBike Under $2000.

It’s a spring suspension, not a fancy air suspension and it has no rebound adjust but with compression adjustment and preload adjustment. This is a welcomed upgrade compared to the predecessor the RadRunner 1.

It’s a good adjustable suspension with the ability to lock it completely if you want a very stiff ride.

Having good suspension helps to keep a lot of strain off the wrists when riding off-road.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Seat

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

The next item I want to cover in this Radrunner Plus review is the seating.

The RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike features a custom RAD Power Bikes moped style e bike seat that has an integrated steel seat post or seat tube and is fixed in a flat angle.

That means it’s an adjustable seat that can be height adjusted for taller riders but you cannot change its angle.

That decision was probably made because when lowered down completely the seat lines up perfectly with the long rear seat, i.e. the passenger seat or bench.

As a result, it offers a typical long bench which I personally really like.

However, the seat can be raised to allow longer-legged riders to get a better leg extension.

The seat itself is fine for normal use but can get a little bit hard which can get slightly uncomfortable on long rides.

For that reason, you might want to consider a third-party replacement seat.

The bench is good to carry additional stuff or even an adult or 2 kids in case you want to use the RadRunner Plus to access some remote camping or hiking areas, for example.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Gearing

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

Even though the RadRunner Plus is a moped-style electric bike, thanks to the very efficient 7-speed Shimano Acera transmission this hunting ebike is surprisingly pedal friendly.

It’s another welcomed addition that was not included on the RadRunner 1 the predecessor of the RadRunner Plus. The former had a single-speed drivetrain.

The drivetrain is controlled via a thumb shifter on the right side of the handlebar which is very crisp when changing gears.

The only criticism I would have is that you have to move your thumb up and over to reach the thumb shifter each time you want to shift gears.

I think, having the shifter under the handlebar would have made its usage easier and more convenient, but maybe that’s just my personal preference.

This very capable gearing system makes it very easy to get up hills without having to pedal a lot.

However, in any case, I’d recommend you help the motor by pedaling when climbing especially steep hills.

it’s actually better for the motor if you also pedal when going uphills because it puts less strain on the motor.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Cockpit

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

The RadRunner Plus has a very exciting BMX-style handlebar that looks very cool indeed. These high rise handlebars also help to keep the rider in an upright riding position and looking forward without putting additional strain on the rider’s neck or back.

It’s an Aluminum high rise handlebar with 686 mm in width and a 10 rise which allows even tall riders to ride this bike comfortably.

It’s mounted on a stem of 50 mm + 30º (15 mm rise).

The grips on the RadRunner electric bike are made from durable imitation leather.

They are color-matched with the faux leather of the seat and the passenger bench which give the RAD Power RadRunner bike additional optical appeal in my opinion.

The grips have a nice ergonomic shape and they feel soft and comfortable on the hands.

The only issue I have with faux leather grips is that they can become slightly slippery once your hands start sweating. To avoid that problem you might want to wear special gloves that can absorb the sweat before it can cause any issues.

The motor of the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike is controlled via a half twist throttle on the right side of the handlebar.

I like that RAD Power Bikes have provided a small gap between the grip and the twist throttle to minimize the risk of accidentally twisting the throttle, especially when using walk assist mode, for example.

It’s a small detail but one that can have a big impact, which is why I included it here in my Rad Power Bike Radrunner Plus review.

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

The backlit and center mounted LCD display allows for convenient access to a lot of information during your hunting trip.

It displays the current battery charge indicator and a speedometer to show how fast you’re going or your average speed and max speed reached overall.

It also has an odometer showing you your total mileage or your trip mileage (trip odometer) depending on how you want to set it up. I think having an odometer is fun because after thousands of miles traveled it gives you a sense of accomplishment.

The LCD display which is controlled via a separate control unit mounted on the left side of the handlebar close to your left thumb also shows you your current pedal assist level (PAS). You can easily change the amount of pedal motor assistance you receive via the just mentioned thumb controller unit.

The thumb controller is very straight forward to use and easy to operate to change not just the PAS level but also to turn on the headlight or to change the settings of the LCD display.

The display also has a wattmeter showing you how many of the 750 W of the motor you’re currently using. I think this is a very useful feature allowing you to moderate how you’re using the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike in order to conserve as much battery power as possible without compromising on performance.

It’s also very helpful when you’re trying to find a good gear-to-PAS ratio.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Much Weight Can This Electric Hunting Bike Handle?

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

The RadRunner Plus has a load capacity that’s comparable to that of a premium electric hunting bike.

This impressive hunting ebike that comes with a much more economical price tag can carry a total weight of up to 300 lbs which is not just impressive but also more than sufficient for most hunting applications.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Rack

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

If you require additional storage, you can very easily add additional accessories since there’s already mounting all over the bike frame to add baskets, a front rack, and other racks on the main tube as well as in the rear.

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

I especially love the RadRunner center console that’s quite unique to RAD Power Bikes and perfect for extra storage. It looks and feels more like storage you’d expect to find on a motorcycle, for example. I love it.

You can also purchase additional water resistant Panier bags that can be hung at the rear rack or add a child seat if you go camping, for example.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Much Range Does This Hunting Electric Bike Have?

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes edited by Electric-Hunting-Bike.com

RAD Power Bikes estimates that the RadRunner Plus gives you 25-45+ miles (40-72+ km) in range on a single battery charge.

Justin Daniels from Random Tech Videos who weighs about 150 lbs tested the range of the RadRunner Plus in Throttle-only mode and stated that a rider of similar weight should be able to ride for more than 20 miles on a single battery charge.

Using the Pedal Assist mode, he estimates that a range of maybe even 50+ miles could be possible.

ElectricBikeReport also tested the range of the RadRunner Plus and they had these findings:

Riding in the lowest Pedal Assist Level (PAS) they covered a distance of more than 70 miles with an average speed of 13.4 mph.
Using the highest Pedal Assist Level (PAS) they were still able to travel for 26.22 miles with an average speed of 17.2 mph.

In either case, the RadRunner Plus has proven it provides the hunter with an excellent range especially considering the more affordable price tag.

Radrunner Plus Review: A Close Look At The Battery

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

The RadRunner Plus has a 48 V 14 Ah battery that produces a total of 672 Wh in output.

This gives a theoretical range of 33.6 miles (if 1 mile consumes 20 WH) on a single battery charge without any pedaling.

That range is comparable to the range of other electric hunting bikes even some of the more premium models.

Image: ©Nick Linnen

I think it’s worth mentioning in this in-depth Radrunner Plus review that the battery is turned on with a key and it can also be unlocked and completely removed from the frame if you want to but you can also recharge the battery without removing it from the bike frame.

It can also be “turned off” with the same key so that someone else cannot just drive the ebike away.

The RadRunner Plus also comes with a 48V 2 Amp Rad Power Bikes smart charger, that operates on 100 V – 240 V AC power outlets and can be plugged into the USB charging port.

I especially like that the 48 V 750 W high power controller was located separately from the battery which makes handling the battery much easier and it also protects both parts from excessive heat damage.

If you intend on riding your RadRunner Plus for an extended period, for example, on a night hunting trip, I’d recommend you purchase and bring along a second battery to extend your range, just in case.

According to RAD Power Bikes, their batteries should last for many years.

Battery life, of course, depends on many factors such as how often the battery gets discharged and recharged.

If you charge and discharge your battery every single day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, RAD Power Bikes estimates a battery life of approximately 2.5 years.

At the other end of the spectrum, for casual riders, they expect a battery life of approximately 6-7 years.

Most hunters will probably find themselves somewhere within that range.

Based on the numbers provided by RAD Power Bikes you might be able to expect about 900 charging cycles in total for your battery: 365 x 2.5 = 912.50.

Radrunner Plus Review: What RadRunner Plus Upgrades And Addons Are Available?

Image: ©Electric Bike Review

Since the RadRunner Plus is the upgraded version of the RadRunner 1 there are a few upgrades that I haven’t mentioned yet.

Image: ©RAD Power Bikes

Let’s start with the pedals.

They are Wellgo B087 CR-MO Axle BMX pedals with a forged aluminum platform with integrated reflectors for more visibility and safety.

They come with standard 9/16″ x 20 TPI threading.

The RadRunner Plus also comes with front and rear plastic fenders that help protect against splashing rainwater, mud, etc.

The upgraded headlight is very bright and comes with a removable rock guard and additional cutouts on the side for more visibility.

Unfortunately, the headlight only illuminates a circular area a few feet in front of the bike. It does not illuminate what’s directly in front so you might want to consider adding an extra headlight.

The RadRunner Plus comes with a tool kit so you can do some basic repairs on the side of the road if necessary.

I’d recommend you keep this tool kit with you when you ride. The best place to put it is in the center console, which adds a tremendous amount of storage

This center console is an accessory sold by RAD that I strongly recommend.

I also recommend you purchase a second battery as a backup just in case.

Another useful add-on that I think should be included as standard is the rear view mirror. It adds more safety especially if you intend to use your RadRunner Plus not just off road but also for your daily commute for example. However, it’s not included in the standard package and must be purchased separately as an add-on.

Lastly, I’d recommend you also buy the phone holder which can be mounted to the handlebar.

That way you can easily see your navigation, for example, which you might find very helpful while in the backcountry.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Easy Is This Electric Hunting Bike To Transport

The RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike is made from 6061 aluminum just as many other hunting ebikes are, too.

It’s slightly heavier with a battery weight of 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg) and a total weight of 77 lbs (34.9 kg).

That makes this ebike a little bit heavy to lift but on the flip side, this bike is very sturdy and solid.

Radrunner Plus Review: Customer Service, Financing, And eBike Laws

Good customer service, especially if you run into any problems, is an important aspect of your experience which is why I have included it in this Radrunner Plus review.

Radrunner Plus Review: How Good Is The After-Sales Service?

Justin Daniels from Random Tech Videos reported about a few issues he had after receiving his RadRunner Plus.

There was shipping damage to the box, minor scratches on the bike, the chain was off the gears and the derailleur was out of adjustment.

After contacting RAD Power Bikes they gave him a USD 20 credit to have things repaired at a local shop.

Sometime later, the display on his RadRunner Plus got all foggy after riding in the rain and then stopped working completely.

RAD Power Bikes sent him a replacement display and he has ridden in the rain since then without any more problems.

Justin found shipping times to be less than perfect since he had to wait about 1 month for some replacement parts to arrive.

After being involved in an accident with his RadRunner Plus he needed to repair a lot of parts and now the bike rides like new again.

RAD Power Bikes was very helpful during that time and accommodated him and even gave him some discounts.

Overall, the experience with the RAD Power Bikes customer service was pleasant.

Radrunner Plus Review: What I Like The Most

The little gap between grip and throttle to avoid accidentally activating the throttle

Comes with Walk Assist Mode

The brake light that can be set to “flashing”

Radrunner Plus Review: What I Like The Least

Faux leather grips can get slippery

Position of thumb shifter on top instead of below the handlebar.

Radrunner Plus Review: Who Should Buy This Electric Hunting Bike

Radrunner Plus Review: Is This Electric Hunting Bike eBike Law Compliant?

The RadRunner Plus ships as a Class 2 electric bicycle, which means it has a throttle and a top speed of not more than 20 mph.

As such it doesn’t require registration or insurance in many states.

In many jurisdictions, it can also go on bike paths, etc because it would be classified as a road legal bike.

However, you should always check the laws and regulations before riding the RadRunner Plus or any other electric hunting bike.

Laws governing the usage of electric bicycles for hunting are constantly evolving and therefore you should stay informed.

Radrunner Plus Review: In What Sizes Is This Hunting eBike Available?

“The RadRunner Plus has a frame size of 18″ (46 cm) and a Stand Over Height of 16.5″ (42 cm).

RAD Power Bikes recommends the RadRunner Plus for riders with a height between 4’11” – 6’2”, and an approximate bike inseam between 26″ and 36.25”.

Radrunner Plus Review: What Are Customers Saying About This Electric Hunting Bike

Here are a few reviews from others who share their experiences with the RadRunner Plus.

“You just get so much for the money.” – Electric Bike Review
“A true hybrid utility ebike that all types of riders can enjoy using.” – Best Electric Bikes
“The RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike has a powerful motor and is a great way to get around outdoors efficiently.”
“The brakes on the RadRunner Plus are very responsive and have given me lots of confidence when out in the woods.”
“The bike is lightweight and has great suspension, making it easy to traverse uneven terrain.”
“The battery life of the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike makes it perfect for long days out in the bush.”
“It’s easy to customize your RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike with the many accessories available.”
“I love how quickly I can reach my destination with the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike!”
“The handlebar display on the RadRunner Plus electric hunting bike is really useful for tracking your speed and route.”
“I’m always amazed at how quiet this bike runs – you barely even hear the motor running!”
“The ride quality on my RadRunner Plus is second to none; I’m so glad I got one!”
“This electric hunting bike from RadRunner was absolutely worth every penny – it’s exceeded all my expectations!”

RadRunner Plus Review: My Conclusion

I hope you found this RadRunner Plus Review helpful in discovering what exactly this amazing electric hunting bike brings to the hunting table.

Even though the RadRunner Plus was originally designed as the perfect utility bike and not an electric hunting bike, it is easy to see why so many hunters are choosing to use it.

The very functional design combined with a powerful motor, capable suspension, and a tremendous load capacity together with the walk assist function give the passionate hunter a quality hunting companion that’s available at a very attractive price point.

Its versatility and customization options make the RadRunner Plus an electric hunting bike that’s also perfect for all-day excursions into the bush or for those seeking a leisurely and enjoyable experience out in nature.

All in all, the RadRunner Plus is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an electric hunting bike that won’t let them down.

Please let me know if I missed any important aspects so that I can further improve this RadRunner Plus Review to help more hunters along the way.

Happy Riding