With just a single frame size, the RadCity 5+ ST is designed to fit riders from 4’-8” to 6’-1”; taller riders will likely want to consider the standard high-step version of the bike which accommodates those up to 6’-5”. In our experience, the geometry worked better for those in the low and middle sections of the spectrum; with the seatpost fully extended, our testers around 6’ tall had less leg extension than expected.
The bike’s step-thru frame design makes mounting and dismounting a breeze; with a standover height of 16”, riders need only to lift a leg and pass it over the bottom bracket. Speaking of the frame, however, we absolutely adore the special edition’s Tiger Orange color! The most recent generation of the RadCity (and many of Rad’s e-bikes) has a unique, contemporary design with an industrial feel, but the new high-visibility paint job elevates and completes the design while making the bike stand out on the road.
We experienced a mostly-upright riding position (a slight forward lean) with the special edition’s fixed handlebar height and standard-style stem. The standard version offers greater customization in rider positioning with an adjustable stem that allows for changes to the handlebar height, reach, and overall verticality.
We liked the bike’s custom saddle and ergonomic grips, though operation of the bike took some getting used to. It is common for e-bikes to have their throttle on the left handlebar, but the limited edition of the RadCity places its over-the-bar Shimano Altus thumb shifter and half-twist throttle both on the right handlebar. These did not interfere with each other, though we did exercise a bit more care to avoid accidentally engaging the throttle. The standard version’s below-the-bar shifter felt a bit more natural.
On the special edition, the combination of 27.5”x2” tires and 730mm handlebars resulted in predictable and relatively precise handling, while the standard version’s Dutch-style handlebars felt more relaxed. For a commuter, we preferred the comfort and control of the wider, flatter handlebars in general, though both setups were fine – just different!
The bike’s ride was made relatively smooth due to the larger tires and suspension fork with 50mm of travel. We wouldn’t mind seeing a fork with greater travel, as the included fork bottomed out on a few occasions even with its preload set high.
