It’s proving a colourful period for Rad Power, the US’s biggest e-bike brand. The CEO stepped down last month, there’s been a third round of job cuts and they’ve just launched an electric three-wheeler, the RadTrike 1. They’ve also had to issue a recall due to a RadWagon tyre fault, while the website’s currently encouraging people to buy now ahead of January 3 price rises.
Mike Radenbaugh launched Rad Power with friend Ty Collins in 2015 off the back of an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign. He was replaced as CEO by Phil Molyneux, the former president of Sony Electronics, in November, but will remain as chairman.
Geek Wire reports that the firm has since laid off an undisclosed number of people after making 100 job cuts in April and another 63 in July.
That news came a full day after the launch of the RadTrike 1, which will be available in the US next year and “may” come to Europe and the UK a year later if there’s enough interest.
You’d think there would be if they’re truly claiming it to be, “the single most requested model in Rad’s history.”
“The journey to the RadTrike began with one of my first customers who couldn’t ride a traditional bike due to health issues,” explained Radenbaugh. “Since that early interaction, I’ve had countless conversations with customers looking to Rad for more solutions.
“Fast forward to now: we’ve honed our expertise to create a high-value, purpose-built three-wheel option that will popularise another micromobility category. The RadTrike is the next big acceleration in our mission to make transportation energy efficient, enjoyable, and accessible to all.”
The RadTrike features a low step-through frame, a 188kg load capacity and a 750W hub motor (which they say would become a 250W motor if a European version does materialise). The suggested range is “up to 55 miles,” which seems a tad optimistic given the 450Wh battery and 37kg weight. It’ll cost $2,499. More info here.
Earlier this year, we reported that Rad Power was trialling a monthly subscription option for its RadWagon and RadRunner e-cargo bikes.
The initial scheme was in Berlin, but it looks like it's since been expanded to Dusseldorf, Vienna and Pescara.
