RadCity 3 Step Thru vs 5 Plus Step-Thru: Detailed Comparison!

In the fast-evolving world of electric bikes, Rad Power Bikes continues to raise the bar with its innovative designs. Today, we pit two of their notable models against each other in the ultimate commuter showdown: the RadCity 3 Step-Thru and the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru.

Join us as we dissect the key features, improvements, and nuances that distinguish these e-bikes, helping you make an informed choice for your urban commuting needs.

Let the battle of the cities begin!

Comparison Table Of RadCity 3 Step Thru vs 5 Plus Step-Thru

Feature	RadCity Step-Thru 3	RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru
Motor	750W geared hub motor	750W geared rear hub motor
Battery	48V 14Ah high-capacity lithium-ion	48V, 14Ah (672Wh) semi-integrated battery
Range	45-plus miles	50-plus miles
Weight	65 lbs	64 lbs
Maximum Rider Weight	275 lb (125 kg)	275 lb (total payload capacity)
Brakes	Mechanical disc brakes	Nutt hydraulic disk brakes with 180mm rotors
Frame Material	6061 aluminum	Aluminum step-thru
Handlebar	Custom formed aluminum	Aluminum, slightly swept-back riser bar
Saddle	Velo Plush with lifting handle	Rad Power Bikes saddle
Display	LCD display with speedometer, wattmeter, and odometer	Two LED displays
Headlight and Taillights	Integrated	Integrated
Drivetrain	Shimano 7-speed (MicroSHIFT Mezzu)	MicroSHIFT Mezzu 7-speed (or Shimano Altus 7-speed)
Fenders	Included	Front and rear
Throttle	Twist throttle, right side	Twist throttle, right side
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

RadCity 3 Step-Thru

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru electric bike from Rad Power Bikes boasts a range of features designed to enhance the commuting experience. Here’s an in-depth exploration of its key attributes:

Key Features

1. Frame Design

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru features a frame constructed from 6061 aluminum, providing a sturdy yet lightweight foundation. The step-thru design ensures easy accessibility, making it convenient for riders of various heights. The frame design is optimized for urban commuting, combining functionality with an aesthetically pleasing form.

2. Motor and Power

Equipped with a 750W geared hub motor, the RadCity 3 Step-Thru delivers a reliable and efficient power source for your daily rides. The motor is tailored to urban commuting needs, offering a balance of power and efficiency suitable for various paved environments.

3. Battery performance

The high-capacity 48V, 14Ah lithium-ion battery is a standout feature, providing ample power for extended rides. With a claimed range of 45+ miles on a single charge, the RadCity 3 ensures you can cover significant distances without worrying about battery life. This robust battery is a crucial component for users relying on the bike for daily commuting.

4. Gearing System

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru incorporates a Shimano 7-speed gearing system, offering versatility for tackling different terrains. The gearing system allows riders to navigate urban landscapes with ease while providing ample options for speed adjustments.

5. Braking System

Featuring mechanical disc brakes, the RadCity 3 provides reliable stopping power, enhancing rider safety. The braking system is crucial for urban environments where quick stops may be necessary, and mechanical disc brakes are known for their consistent performance.

6. Comfort and Ergonomics

The bike prioritizes rider comfort with its ergonomic design elements. The step-thru frame ensures easy mounting and dismounting, catering to commuters in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, the Velo Plush saddle with a lifting handle enhances convenience and comfort during longer rides.

Pros and Cons

1. Advantages of RadCity 3 Step-Thru

• The Shimano 7-speed gearing system provides adaptability for various riding conditions.
• The frame design ensures easy access, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
• The high-capacity battery offers an impressive range, suitable for daily commuting needs.

2. Limitations and Drawbacks

• While effective, mechanical disc brakes do not provide the same level of precision as hydraulic disc brakes.

RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru

Building upon the success of its predecessor, the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru introduces several enhancements and refinements. Let’s delve into the key features of this upgraded electric commuter bike:

Key Features

1. Frame Design

The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru showcases a redesigned frame, featuring an authoritative and angular shape. The semi-integrated 672Wh battery contributes to a mature and streamlined appearance. The step-thru design maintains accessibility while exuding a more sophisticated aesthetic.

2. Motor and Power

Powered by a retooled 750W geared rear hub motor, the RadCity 5 Plus emphasizes hill-climbing capabilities, comfort, and urban functionality. The motor’s tuning ensures a responsive and efficient riding experience, particularly in challenging terrain.

3. Battery performance

The 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) semi-integrated battery is a notable improvement, both in performance and aesthetics. The range testing indicates impressive results, surpassing 50 miles on a single charge. This enhanced battery efficiency is a significant asset for commuters relying on sustained power.

4. Gearing System

Equipped with a 7-speed drivetrain, the RadCity 5 Plus adapts to various riding conditions. While the MicroSHIFT Mezzu 7-speed is the specified drivetrain, it’s worth noting potential variations, such as the Shimano Altus 7-speed, depending on the bike received.

5. Braking System

An upgrade to Nutt hydraulic disk brakes with 180mm rotors enhances the braking performance of the RadCity 5 Plus. The transition from mechanical to hydraulic brakes contributes to quicker and more responsive stops, a crucial aspect of urban commuting safety.

6. Comfort and Ergonomics

The bike maintains a stable and predictable handling characteristic, aligning with the Dutch-inspired commuter design. The addition of dual LED displays for a user-friendly interface and the inclusion of Rad Power Bikes-branded tires further contribute to the overall comfort and performance.

Pros and Cons

1. Advantages of RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru

• The angular frame and semi-integrated battery provide a more mature and sophisticated appearance.
• The Nutt hydraulic disk brakes offer superior stopping power compared to mechanical brakes.
• Range tests confirm the efficiency of the upgraded 672Wh battery, surpassing 50 miles.

2. Limitations and Drawbacks

• Taller individuals find the step-thru design limiting, emphasizing the importance of checking the bike’s compatibility with individual heights.

RadCity 3 Step-Thru vs. RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Frame Design

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru boasts a frame constructed from durable 6061 aluminum, ensuring a sturdy yet lightweight build. The step-thru design enhances accessibility, making it suitable for a diverse range of riders.

In contrast, the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru introduces a redesigned frame with an authoritative and angular shape, coupled with a semi-integrated 672Wh battery. The aesthetics convey a more mature and sophisticated look.

Verdict: The RadCity 5 Plus takes the lead in frame design, offering a more refined and visually appealing structure.

Motor and Power

Both models feature a powerful 750W geared hub motor, providing reliable assistance for urban commuting.

The RadCity 5 Plus, however, emphasizes hill-climbing capabilities, comfort, and urban functionality with its retooled motor. This tuning is designed to deliver enhanced performance in challenging terrain.

Verdict: The RadCity 5 Plus takes a slight edge for its motor refinements, especially in hill-climbing scenarios.

Battery Performance

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru impresses with a high-capacity 48V, 14Ah lithium-ion battery, offering a claimed range of 45+ miles on a single charge.

On the other hand, the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru introduces a semi-integrated 672Wh battery, surpassing 50 miles in range tests. This improvement signifies enhanced battery efficiency.

Verdict: The RadCity 5 Plus secures the win with improved battery performance, providing extended range and efficiency.

Gearing System

Both models are equipped with a 7-speed gearing system, offering versatility for various riding conditions. The RadCity 3 Step-Thru features a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain, providing reliable and smooth gear shifts.

In comparison, the RadCity 5 Plus comes with a 7-speed drivetrain, with potential variations like the MicroSHIFT Mezzu or Shimano Altus.

Verdict: It’s a tie in the gearing system department, as both models offer comparable versatility for urban commuting.

Braking System

The RadCity 3 Step-Thru features mechanical disc brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power.

In contrast, the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru upgrades to Nutt hydraulic disk brakes with 180mm rotors, providing superior braking performance. This enhancement contributes to quicker and more responsive stops, a crucial safety aspect in urban environments.

Verdict: The RadCity 5 Plus takes a significant lead with its advanced Nutt hydraulic disk brakes, offering improved safety and control.

Comfort and ergonomics

Both models prioritize rider comfort with ergonomic design elements. The RadCity 3 Step-Thru’s step-thru design ensures easy mounting and dismounting, while the Velo Plush saddle enhances overall comfort.

The RadCity 5 Plus maintains stable and predictable handling, with dual LED displays for a user-friendly interface.

Verdict: It’s a close call, with both models excelling in comfort and ergonomics, catering to the needs of urban commuters.

Winner of the comparison?

The winner of the comparison between the RadCity 3 Step-Thru and the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru is the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru.

The RadCity 5 Plus demonstrates superior features in key areas such as frame design, battery performance, and braking system.

While the RadCity 3 Step-Thru offers a reliable motor and a versatile gearing system, the refinements and enhancements introduced in the RadCity 5 Plus make it the preferable choice for riders seeking an upgraded and more sophisticated electric commuter bike.