If you are in the market for a new electric bike, you may have come across Rad Power Bikes and SDream Bikes. In this electric bike review, we will give you an honest comparison between the two companies and their products.
About Rad Power Bikes
Rad Power Bikes is a US-based company specializing in building affordable electric bikes. They sell their products directly to the customer without a dealer network.
They have a wide range of electric bikes suitable for commuting, carrying cargo, and leisure time.
About SDREAM Bikes
SDREAM Bike is also based in the U.S. and has a very different style to Rad Power. They produce fantastic electric bikes with folding frames.
The company is based in Los Angeles, California, but SDREAM has certified distributors in both the U.S. and Asia.
Rad Power Vs SDREAM Bike Comparison Review
Rad Power has an extensive selection of electric bikes. They all have a utilitarian style, designed to be very practical and rugged. There is a good chance that you will find something that suits your needs within the Rad Power Bikes range.
SDREAM focuses on just two models. Their electric bikes are very stylish, thanks to their unique frame designs. These bikes have a sleek look to them, which may appeal to you more than the rugged style of the Rad Power Bikes.
Pro Vs. Cons Overview
The pros of Rad Power Bikes are that they have many different models to choose from. They offer features that no other manufacturer does in their price ranges.
Rad Power manages to keep the price of their bikes down by having no-frills designs. They also sell directly to the customer, which is another way they make their electric bikes more affordable.
All Rad Power bikes have a 750W motor. This is pretty powerful; however, many people complain that the motor doesn't have as much torque as it should do.
Another thing that you may want to consider before buying a Rad Power electric bike is that they don't use big-name component suppliers. Instead, Rad Power uses several component suppliers and custom builds their drivetrains.
Electric bike brands that work with household names such as Shimano, Bosch, and Yamaha give you peace of mind that you are buying a bike with quality components.
This is where SDREAM may appeal to you more, as they use Yamaha motors in both models. As the names suggest, the SDREAM X 750S has a 750W motor, while the Ur 500X has a 500W motor.
Both bikes have rear hub-mounted motors powered by excellent batteries from Samsung. These motors run through reliable 7-speed Shimano drivetrains.
The SDREAM bike's frame designs look great, but they are also practical. You can fold the bikes in just a few seconds, making them very compact. Their small size makes it very easy to store the bikes and carry them in your car or public transport.
The main downside of the SDREAM bike is that they are not the best choice if you want to carry lots of cargo. However, the X 750 S does have a robust rear-mounted cargo rack if you don't want to take all your stuff in a backpack.
Rad Power & SDREAM Bike Battery Power
The SDREAM UR 500 S is powered by a 36V/7.8Ah (280Wh) lithium-ion battery. This gives you an estimated range of about 38 mi (60 km), depending on how you use it and the profile of your journey.
This battery is made up of high-quality Samsung cells and is hidden in the frame. The advantage of an internally mounted battery is that it is protected and gives the bike a sleek look.
You can, of course, remove the battery to charge it or replace it with a charged spare one to extend your range.
If you opt for the more powerful SDREAM X 750S Fat Tire Electric Bike, you get a 48V/10.4Ah 500Wh with Samsung cells. It takes about 5 hours to fully charge the battery with the original 2A charger. However, you can buy a fast charger that fully charges it in 3.5 hours.
The Rad Power electric bikes 750W motors are powered by a 48V, 14 Ah (672 Wh) battery. These either have Lithium NMC Samsung or Panasonic cells.
Rad Power uses a battery mounting system that sees it semi-integrated into the frame. This makes it slightly more accessible, but the downside is that the bikes are less stylish, and the battery isn't as protected.
Rad Power & SDREAM Bike Brake System
Bikes from both Rad Power and SDREAM have hydraulic disc brakes. These are ideal for the extra weight and demands of an electric bike.
In fact, Rad Power and SDREAM have fitted their bikes with Tektro Hydraulic disc brakes. These are strong and responsive to ensure complete control while you ride.
Rad Power & SDREAM Bike Prices
The Rad Mini is the closest electric bike Rad Power made to the SDREAM X750 S. Both are folding bikes with fat tires that make it possible to ride on rougher surfaces. They also make your ride more comfortable.
The SDREAM X750 S is priced at $1,599.00, and the Rad Mini costs $1,299. Although the X750 S is more expensive, it isn't a massive leap in price. Therefore, which one you choose will be down to your personal preference.
Rad Power & SDREAM Bike Sizes
Both the Rad Bikes and SDREAM come in one size only per model. But they all have adjustable handlebars and seat posts. Therefore, you can fine-tune your riding position to be as comfortable as possible.
Rad Power & SDREAM Controller
Rad Power has recently updated its bike's display and control unit. The unit is now much easier to read and has a more modern style. It gives you the battery level, pedal-assist mode, wattage, speed, odometer, and time.
SDREAM's controller works well and looks great. They have ensured that it is protected from water and dirt while providing an easy-to-read display to keep an eye on ride metrics, battery information, and advanced settings. It also has an integrated USB charging port for your phone.
Do You Need a Driver's License for an Electric Bike?
The rules for riding an electric bike differ depending on where you live. Most countries and U.S. states allow Class 1 and 2 electric bicycles on their roads and cycle lanes without a license, but you need to check so you can stay on the right side of the law.
However, electric bikes that can go faster than 28mph will require a license to ride in the United States.
Final Thought
Which electric bike brand you go with will be determined by what you need and your personal preferences. If you need a practical electric bike for a particular purpose, a bike from Rad Power may suit you.
However, if you want a stylish and reliable folding electric bike with quality components, take a look at SDREAM bikes.
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