Today, we’re comparing the Rad Power RadWagon 4 versus the Radio Flyer L885, to figure out
which cargo eBike you should consider buying.
We’ve tested both the Radio Flyer and the RadWagon 4, along with many of the accessories
they sell, like the kid and cargo carriers– so in this video we’ll be showing you the
different specs and features, along with the main differences you should know about between
these 2 cargo eBikes.
First, looking at the price.
They both start at $2,000 for the base models without accessories.
But, there’s some deals and coupons codes available so be sure to check the description
of this video where we’ll post the best deals.
Looking at the design of these bikes.
Both are long tail cargo bikes, however there are subtle differences which do make a difference.
The Radio Flyer has a more streamlined design, with the battery located inside the frame,
which can also be removed using a key lock.
Meanwhile the RadWagon has an external battery pack that can also be removed using a lock.
Both batteries on the Radio Flyer and RadWagon are 48v, 15 amp batteries.
For the frame size, The Radio Flyer is available in 3 different sizes, for riders as short
as 4 foot 10, and as tall as 6’6.
Whereas the Rad Wagon 4 is only available in one size, but it does have a telescoping
seatpost, which allows the seat to go either really low or much higher up, so it’s good
for riders as short as 5’1 and as tall as 6’4.
The Radio Flyer’s rear wheel is 20 inches, while the front wheel is larger at 26 inches.
The smaller wheel in the rear creates a lower center of gravity for better stability, while
also being more efficient for the motor.
Meanwhile, the tires are both 3 inch wide and also puncture resistant.
Looking at the RadWagon wheels, they are both 22” inches in diameter and 3 inches wide,
so overall it does feel like a smaller ride, especially for those tall riders.
Next, comparing the motor specs.
The Radio Flyer has a 500 watt hub motor in the rear wheel that gets you going up to 20mph.
There’s also a twist throttle for acceleration, and 5 different pedal assist modes.
There’s also a 7 speed derailleur and Shimano shifter so you can change the manual gears
of the bike.
Meanwhile the RadWagon 4 has a 750 watt motor in the rear wheel, so a little bit more powerful
– but it has the same top speed of 20mph, along with 5 pedal assist modes and a Shimano
7 speed shifter and derailleur.
It also has a twist throttle so you can accelerate from a start.
Next, looking at the accessories like the cargo and kid carriers - this is where there’s
big differences to consider.
The Radio Flyer comes included with the rear wood deck along with the 2 side steps, so
you can carry older kids and teens without any extra accessories.
The optional Kid & Cargo carrier is $300 and comes with the carrier and 2 padded foam seats.
It’s designed to be multi-functional, so you can use it in cargo mode to carry a bunch
of groceries, and the basket is extra large and tall.
The liner is made of a high quality fabric that's durable and easy to clean.
It also has a front zipper so you can put small items like your keys or cell phone.
Converting it to Kid mode, all you have to do is unzip each side and fold down the fabric,
which wraps under the side rails and clips in to hold.
It’s a well designed accessory that's super functional.
We also like the front and back fenders, and the fender in the rear gives full protection
even on both sides of the wheel.
For the RadWagon 4, it comes standard with the integrated rear wood deck, but no side
running boards– those will cost you an extra $100.
Looking at the Kid Carrier, it’s called the Caboose and it’s $200, but can be found
on sale.
It’s pretty simple and straightforward, and we like that you can adjust the side rails
to make it either wider or more narrow.
You can also easily fit a crate for storage, which you can put behind your Kiddo for a
snug fit.
However, it also doesn’t come with the Deckpads and those will run you $70 each.
So, another $140 if you want to provide cushion for 2 kids.
Both bikes also have the option of adding a Thule Yepp Maxi child seat, in either single
or dual configuration.
For protection from the wheel and components, the Rad Wagon has a clear plastic guard on
either side of the wheels.
It’s not as full coverage as the Radio Flyer, but it does the job.
Comparing the 2, we think that the Radio Flyer’s kid carrier is a better design, more multi
functional and better value compared to the RadWagon.
But, we do like that RadPower has a bunch of other accessories available.
For example, the Conestoga attaches to the Caboose and creates full protection from rain
or wind for your passengers.
It has front, back and side windows, which creates visibility in all directions.
You even have the ability to fold up the side doors to create more air flow.
There’s also simple accessories like the Deckhands, so your kid can hold on to a handlebar
while sitting on the rear seat.
So, if you have 1 kid and want to save money you can buy the Deckhands, one single cushion
and a set of passenger pegs, which makes for a good solution to carry your child on the
back.
Both companies offer cargo storage solutions with different size storage cases and baskets
that fit on the rear cargo.
For max payload, the RadWagon 4 comes in at 350 lbs total, with a rear rack limit of 120
lbs.
Meanwhile the Radio Flyer L885 has a higher max of 400 lbs total, with 150 lb limit on
the rear rack.
For warranties, both Radio Flyer and RadWagon offer a 1 year warranty on the eBike and all
components including the battery.
Rad Power also offers a risk free 14 day trial, while Radio Flyer has a 1 month trial– so
if you don’t like your new Bike you can return it for a refund.
Rad Power has been making eBikes since 2007, and are one the top eBike brands in the US,
while Radio Flyer is a 100 year old company– so you can trust you’re in good hands with
either of these eBikes.
So overall, we think that both eBikes are a solid choice, depending on what type of
configuration you’re looking for– how many kids you have or how much cargo you’re
carrying.
Next up, be sure to watch our individual reviews of the Radio Flyer L885 and RadPower RadWagon
4.