Hi folks,
After 20-odd years without a bike, I picked up a RadRunner from the EU store about a month ago, and I've been using it to explore the byroads of County Galway ever since. The weather has been typically Irish, but it hasn't stopped me from going out! I opted for the storage console and passenger accessories (though I wish I'd held out for the Espresso package. Mmmm, brown...)
(https://i.imgur.com/pBrLfSp.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/1UX54L2.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/UaWQuhO.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/pkge4J2.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/sFfJseK.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/oEEmz02.jpg)
I've upgraded to a 35A motor controller and a KT-LCD3 screen, which allows me to do a couple of things, one to make the bike legal in Ireland, the other to make it faster. First off was to only allow the throttle to work while pedalling (anything that can run under its own power without pedalling is classified as a Mechanically Propelled Vehicle, so I would have to register, tax and insure it as a moped) and the other was to derestrict it, as there's no 250W limit here. I'm still fine tuning the settings on the display, but it's an interesting learning experience!
I also picked up a decent lock and cable, and waterproof clothing After all, there's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong gear. I also bought a set of fatbike mudguards/fender from Urban Drivestyle in Berlin, but after trying and failing to fit them with zipties and the included hardware, I've realised I'll have to drop the rear wheel to get the sedon one on. Luckily the seat pad and battery box do a pretty good job of keep the muck off me.
I've ordered a sprung saddle from a local MTB store, and I'm on the lookout for a decent plug and play headlight upgrade and a pair of canvas panniers. And some handlebar grips to go with the seat. And a horn.
Beginning to think this might be addictive...
Very nice! And what an awesome place to ride. Enjoy the ride, brother!
What a beautiful country!. Enjoy your bike!
Welcome and thanks for sharing the awesome pictures! Would you mind sharing links to where you sourced both the screen and the controller? Several folks have asked how they can upgrade the EU Rad Power Bikes versions. Does it now top out at 750 watts or more?
Looks perfect roads and landscape :) Ireland would be a great country for visit in the future. Greetings from Finland!
Thanks everyone!
I ordered both of them from EBW after seeing them recommended on Reddit. These look similar to the Bolton kits ,but I have NO idea if they are the same. Though I did find it interesting that both incorporated brake lights around the same time...
I've seen power peak at 1400W at the display, and it sustains 600W, so I'm _guessing_ it's the same as the US 750W?
https://electrobikeworld.com/products/35a-controller-rad
https://electrobikeworld.com/products/kt-lcd3-with-usb-rad
I was worried that I would lose the tail light control (I had read that the 35A didn't support it without splicing cables) but this revision of the controller does support it.
It's a good size, larger than the OEM controller:
(https://i.imgur.com/r17EL7V.jpeg)
After pulling the wiring harness out, it was easy to see what went where, no two plugs are the same, and they're all designed to only connect one way.
The hardest part was fishing the display cable out of the frame (despiste reading numerous warnings to be Very Careful when removing it).
You can see I've wrapped tape around the connection in case I need to get the cable out again.
(https://i.imgur.com/dvmfPi4.jpeg)
I clipped off the tie holding the motor cable in place.
(https://i.imgur.com/DrGmHTe.jpeg)
The skid plate makes a handy mounting plate, I did have to cut a notch out of the tab at the front so everything lined up.
(https://i.imgur.com/szqjkQA.jpeg)
I gathered the cables back up, running the display and front brake cables along the downtube, and folding and squeezing the rest of the cables under the gap between the Vee of the rear arms and the battery case.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q6aZjLe.jpeg)
Display bolts on easily enough, it's nice and clear, and green!
(https://i.imgur.com/7Yk1f6F.jpeg)
When setting the display & controller, I used these values. I use 24" as the tyre diameter, (the total diameter including the tyre)and metric settings.
I used the following P & C settings. Mr. Bolton's excellent guide is a great explainer of what each does: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0F6x8V0NZQ&
Listing them here for my reference, use at your own risk, E&OE, values may fall as well as rise, if you continue to experience symptoms after 14 days, seek professional advice.
https://880b28d3d003e6b1c176-ee9159906b823979ce618332e73bec87.ssl.cf4.rackcdn.com/other/en_KT-LCD3.pdf
P1 - 100 (this is standard for a Bafang motor with 20 magnets, and a controller with 5 PAS levels, 20*5=100)
P2 - 5 (pulse settings for calibrating speedo, this took trial and error)
P3 - 1 (full power assistance from throttle, regardless of PAS level. 0 gives a relative ramp up in assistance, depends on PAS level selected) .
P4 - 1 (pedals must be moving before throttle twist gives power. Setting to 0 allows throttle regardless of pedal or PAS level)
P5 - 15 (battery bar calibration. Set to 00: bars indicate instantaneous voltage (these flutter a lot depending on power draw) or use a higher value for smarter metering. (12 for 24V batteries, 15 for 36 & 48V batteries. This controller is not suitable for 52V packs afaik)
C1 - 3 (Pedal assist sensitivity, other values may work here)
C2 - 0 (Sine wave phase settings, you can leave this at zero for a Bafang 750W motor)
C3 - 8 (Power level on startup, 0-5 or 8 to remember what you left it as when you switched it off)
C4 - 1 (0: All the throttle, all the time 1: throttle to 6kph only without pedalling, for EU compliance. 2: Throttle up to a level you can set (MXS Speed flashes to set this) The rest of these are in the PDF linked.
C5 - 10 (Max power limit 10= 100%. 9 = 90%, 8 = 80% etc. )
C6 - 5 (backlight, 5 is max brightness)
C7 - 1 (Cruise Control, 0 is off, 1 is on)
C8 - 0 (1: Display motor temp. This only works if your motor has a temp sensor. Mine doesn't)
C9 - 0 (1: enable a PIN)
C10 - n (Reset to default settings)
C11 - 0 (protocol mode for communitcating with USB programmer)
C12 - 4 (Minimum battery cutoff: 40V. Refer to the PDF linked)
C13 - 0 (Regeneration level - not supported by my geared motor, left it at 0)
C14 - 3 (special sauce. PAS fine tuning. default is 2, 3 is mo powah, baby. Expect range to tumble)
Great Adventures and great pics.
I have a new Expresso Package (less handlebar grips) available for 1/2 price plus shipping if your still wishing. Just posted in classifieds.
I've been trying to see what impact on range the upgrades have made. So far I've managed a 40km run on full power, and a more sedate run (PAS 2 or 3) for 50km, (to collect this sweet Brookes saddle!) and came back with a bar of battery left each time.
Please excuse the wrong hand mirror, it usually lives below the bars. I had to raise the seat to fit the box and it kept banging my knee!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200722/4d65209f96cd14a54dde9c69be6af031.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Quote from: FortunatelyTheMilk on July 22, 2020, 02:05:01 PM
I've been trying to see what impact on range the upgrades have made. So far I've managed a 40km run on full power, and a more sedate run (PAS 2 or 3) for 50km, (to collect this sweet Brookes saddle!) and came back with a bar of battery left each time.
Please excuse the wrong hand mirror, it usually lives below the bars. I had to raise the seat to fit the box and it kept banging my knee!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200722/4d65209f96cd14a54dde9c69be6af031.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Are you putting the Brooks on your ebike? I've heard so many good things about their saddles, are they really that superior? They sure do look great.
That's the plan, a buddy of mine is sending me a used seat post. I had one on a bike years ago and they're a lovely thing, with a little care they last for years and get better as they age.
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Minor update, I'm at 500km with the new controller, I've dialled the power down about 15% in the interests of range, (cruising speed is about 35kph now, so still plenty!) and I'm on my second seat post, as the freebie I got lasted about 3 km before it gave away underneath me. Seat position is still too far forward on the layback seat post I got to replace it, so I'm looking at cruiser posts, which is more complicated than I expected because its all in American, and the post diameters are different.
I also picked up a locking collar for the seat, which was the wrong size, and an Airzounds XL style airhorn, which is hilarious, and loud enough to wake the dead!
We've had a spell of fine weather this week, so I've been roaming the byroads, and dining out in style!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/14fce37d47e40af4cfb65b1ab0018b29.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200816/3ed6f636dc272d9c8ecf90092ec6e997.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Here's what the airhorn sounds like https://www.instagram.com/p/CDoOuUXHqAE9cQaKamcUuJziKfLdaUUlG7EQqg0/?igshid=4mqynl0lwrxs
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Great info on the controller. I'm holding off on modding mine, but if I do, the controller will be first. Mine is the US spec version, and it pulls pretty firmly all the way from 0 to top speed, so I'm not really in need of more right now. The horn is hilarious!
First tumble today! All my own fault, I was distracted by a classic car parked over the wall I was cycling past. (A pristine 1970 Reliant Scimitar SE6 for those interested!) Missed the ramp onto the path, bounced off the curb, and landed on gravel. Handlebars took most of the impact, scratching up my new lamp, and the brake levers, but I was lucky to escape with scratches. And I'd only taken off my gloves a couple of kilometres up the road when I checked my phone!
Wear your safety gear, folks!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200928/ac90be3f2e27adc698f5ccf1739bad8a.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
The crash on Monday took out my tail light. While the front worked fine, the rear doesn't light up off the switch or by pressing the brakes.
Thought I'd have to trace the loom back to see where the break was, but then I realized I could use the front lamp to test instead!
I can't find the lights listed in either the EU or NA Radpower sites, does anyone know where I could source one?(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201003/88bc94385110e5ca726518d5278d024e.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Glad you're ok albeit with a little damage. I'd email Rad. Even though it isn't on their website maybe they have one they will sell you.
Rad replied overnight, a replacement light is on the way!
A small addition today, but worth sharing. I ordered a handmade canvas pannier from a Belgian craftsman on Etsy (https://www.etsy.com/ie/shop/treesizeverse) and it's arrived today. I think it's a beautifully made piece, and a great fit on the bike.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201008/7ca877a05a419a53676e3b1fbd09725e.jpg)
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Days are getting shorter here, so I'm not getting as many miles on the bike, though i passed the 1000km mark recently. It's a matter of getting the right window in the weather and making the most of it.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201101/f1d391913f558bb4ce9ebf961a43459f.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201101/38ed901f59bd7f96b99ba8f5e905f1eb.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201101/47b11458e3dd184e1577da715faeb1be.jpg)
Posting my updated settings here for reference:
P1 = 100 (this is standard for a Bafang motor with 20 magnets, and a controller with 5 PAS levels, 20*5=100)
P2 = 5 (pulse settings for calibrating speedo, this took trial and error, but gives the correct speedometer readout)
P3 = 0 (1= full power assistance from throttle, regardless of PAS level. 0 gives a relative ramp up in assistance, depends on PAS level selected) .
P4 = 1 (Throttle disabled, PAS only when pedalling)
P5 = 15 (Battery bar calibration, 15 is recommended for 48V batteries)
C1 = 3 (Pedal assist sensitivity, other values may work here)
C2 = 0 (Sine wave phase settings, you can leave this at zero for a Bafang 750W motor)
C3 = 8 (Power level on startup, 0-5 or 8 to remember what you left it as when you switched it off)
C4 = 0 (0: All the throttle, all the time 1: throttle to 6kph only without pedalling, for EU compliance. Since P4 is set to 1, this setting has no effect)
C5 = 10 (Maximum power output of controller)
C6 = 1 (Screen backlight settings. 5 is max brightness, but it's a bit distracting in the dark)
C7 = 1 (Cruise Control enabled)
C8 = 0 (motor temperature. This only works if the motor has a built in temp sensor, mine doesn't)
C9 = 0 (require PIN on startup)
C10 = n (reset factory default)
C11 = 0 ((protocol mode for communicating with USB programmer)
C12 = 4 (Minimum battery cutoff: 4 = 40V)
C13 = 0 (Regeneration level - not supported by my geared motor, left it at 0)
C14 = 3 (special sauce. PAS fine tuning. default is 2, 3 is mo powah, baby. Expect range to tumble)
I've over 1500km done on the bike by now. I've been able to do a few longer spins (50-60km) on the dry nights, as well a few trips into Galway city, where it has no problem keeping up with urban traffic, and lets me slip through the worst of the jams.
(https://i.imgur.com/KA5FmHP.png) (https://i.imgur.com/OTvXepp.png)
I took a spin to Clarinbridge to check out a singletrack loop at Kilcornan, where I discovered in this order:
a) this is not a mountainbike
b) this is heavy as f*ck
c) mud is coold at this time of year
d) I'd do much better on an MTB
e) hosing down an electric bike is risky.
f) jeans and runners are not suitable attire for offroad biking.
(https://i.imgur.com/o3FPPWY.png) (https://i.imgur.com/CmhosuK.png)
I got overenthusiastic with the hose cleaning the bike after Friday's trails, and blew the upgraded controller. The display reported a short-circuit and hall sensor error. I dried it out, but the damage has been done. So I Reinstalled the OEM controller, and cleaned the rest of the muck out. It's running again, but at less power.
(https://i.imgur.com/4GUW1Li.png)
I might have a go at repairing the controller, (cheapest replacement is £200...) but at least I'm back in action!
My next plan is to see if I can use the KT LCD3 display with the stock controller, and keep the odometer and speedometer functions.
The upgraded display doesn't log the distance I'm doing, which myain reason for using it, so I've reverted back to the stock RR1 display and controller (though I did tape over the connector to the motor so it doesn't, eh, cut out on me while I'm pedalling.)
I also caved in on payday and ordered another 35a kit from Big Game Bikes, but given they're on backorder, I'm not sure how long I'll be waiting. This comes with the colour display, so if anyone needs a KT LCD display, let me know!
First thing I'll do when I get it is waterproof the whole thing!
I've also had a second rear light fail, possibly also due to moisture (it's been fading over the past few weeks) but rather than get a second replacement, I've also ordered an Exposure rear light. I'll lose the brake light function, but I'm ok with just being visible at night.
I've also found the pedals aren't holding my paws in place as well as I'd like, especially in the wet, so I've also ordered a set of Nukeproof flat pedals which were highly rated by a few MTB friends.
It's gotten pretty cold here in Ireland, so finding opportunities to cycle when the backroads aren't iced up can be a challenge, but it's been a great way to escape from the house occasionally!(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210125/6a2478b99c1c18117ca410c8c4247c12.jpg)
Nice Ride,
Its fun to read your post and see how much you are into the customizing.
I just got my first bike, and have not done a thing yet.
Keep up the good fun.
I've been to Ireland a couple of times. The thought of riding the Connemara Loop on a Rad is heavenly. All of the mountains, sheep and loughs (lochs). Just beautiful! Be careful and enjoy!
Thanks for sharing, always good to get an update on how things are going :D
I'm still pedalling! I've about 2500km on the bike now, and going strong since the weather has improved.
I got the bike serviced, which included replacement of the rear pads, which were down to the metal.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/8ebdf26b2a16832993d62748ac90ec18.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/2b5773d473f0253295eb9c630514d63e.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/32c9d801afa423cda790261b584c29a7.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/17d9436aa0fcc0adb869d5979a30d418.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/b47be61973e95de3d55a0b7ee301fbc3.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210512/2465f810c5aebe742337b01e1e7ba0cb.jpg)
Quote from: FortunatelyTheMilk on July 09, 2020, 06:50:09 AM
Hi folks, I've been using it to explore the byroads of County Galway ever since.
Hi, I love Love LOVE the west coast of Ireland and Galway it a treat! Ate near the Spanish bridge and just had a grand time in Galway, WestPort, and roaming around Achill Islands. I'm fortunate I have friends there. It would be neat to ride the Wild Atlantic Way.. Can you take an electric bike on the trail there?
mitch
Glad you liked it! It's a great corner of the world, I'm very lucky to get to live here.
Most of the WAW is regular road, so it's definitely cyclable.
There's also the Great Western Greenway from Westport out to Achill, which is on my list for the summer. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Western_Greenway
Are you putting the Brooks on your ebike? I've heard so many good things about their saddles, are they really that superior? They sure do look great.
[/quote]
I love my Brooks saddles. I had one on my Cannondale for over a year and after only 2 rides on my Rad Rover I ordered one for my Rover. I installed it last week and I'm so happy I did. They look uncomfortable but there isn't a better one available in my opinion and I've tried many!
Hi
I think i spotted your bike parked up in Galway City recently (unless there's another v.similiar one about).
Anyway, I'm looking to get one (maybe a RadMission) for the school run but your comment about having to change the controller to be legal in Ireland has me concerned.
Is it difficult or expensive to do?
Thanks
Quote from: new_to_ebikes on September 01, 2021, 09:32:31 AM
Hi
I think i spotted your bike parked up in Galway City recently (unless there's another v.similiar one about).
Anyway, I'm looking to get one (maybe a RadMission) for the school run but your comment about having to change the controller to be legal in Ireland has me concerned.
Is it difficult or expensive to do?
Thanks
Haven;'t logged in in a while, that could well have been me, though I've seen at least one other RR on the roads around town.
TBH, I wouldn't update the controller now, as the latest set of ebike regulations will mean the RR is compliant out of the box : https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40725216.html
Still commuting on the RR, over the winter break I finally got around to fitting the Vee Speedsters, Urban Drivestyle metal fenders, and flat MTB handlebar.
(https://i.imgur.com/LW8slOG.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/XnkNwys.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/1sKbeNb.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/3jbhlVX.png)
The new tyres are far more comfortable on tarmac, and provide more grip in wet than I expected. New bar is more responsive than the BMX bars, though I'm more hunched over but I'm happy with the trade off.
I'm also working on replacing the stock light with a motorcycle style light, I'd like to mount the bracket to the front rack, but I need to find someone locally who can cut and fold one for me. The current plan is to connect a separate 12V Lithium pack (which I'm also building) to power it.
https://imgur.com/ePlJ9t7
If that works, I'll run a 12V rear light as well. If not, then I'll look into 48V-12V DC converters.
just beautiful! I am also addicted to my scooter. I've put almost 100 miles on the scooter and
I've carried a lot of weight in groceries. There (https://www.bikethesites.com/gravel-handlebars/) are reusable bags on the handlebars. Literally about 30+ pounds. Your pictures insist I go for an adventure with my gravel bike.
That looks like an old school Cafe racer. Beautiful.
Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk
Lost another controller to the rain, cycling through Storm Franklin took its toll. About 2000km done on that controller over the year. In hindsight, having such critical hardware slung low on the bike might not have been the best idea after all!
Big shout out to Gareth in Big Game Bikes in the UK for helping me troubleshoot and ordering the replacement!
(https://i.imgur.com/SuPsCfZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nrXw4cj.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CMZGIpN.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/V9V3vNB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4O1nQ91.mp4)
[VIDEO]https://i.imgur.com/4O1nQ91.mp4[/VIDEO]
I had also been trying to find a way to run this 12V light form the controller: My solution was to extract the board from a cheap 6-60V LED light on Amazon.
It fought me every step of the way, but I made it work...
(https://i.imgur.com/Q43HBf7.png) (https://i.imgur.com/1ZCAavH.png) (https://i.imgur.com/8g64igy.png)
I have totally enjoyed reading this thread. Keep on posting as it's informative and entertaining.
Very sorry you have had so many controller issues.
I'm in a valley in South Tipp and while we have a nice Blueway along the river Suir it can get flooded easy enough, last month I went through a flooded path, I had visions of me pushing the bike out of the flood and stripping it down and drying it out but the bike held up ok!
:D
hello
I am a fan of Radpower. i want to order a same model of radpower as you ordered . but I have a little worry, i dont know if the bike arrive as flat pack or completed build bike . if anybody knows ,please let me know. also I wonder any service partner in Dublin for Radpower
Quote from: meiwangir on August 02, 2022, 08:19:33 AM
hello
I am a fan of Radpower. i want to order a same model of radpower as you ordered . but I have a little worry, i dont know if the bike arrive as flat pack or completed build bike . if anybody knows ,please let me know. also I wonder any service partner in Dublin for Radpower
Hi,
I'm not sure which model you are thinking of, the one I got was a Rad Rhino 6 plus.
The bike ships from the Nederlands it comes in a big box the assembly is simple enough it has all the tools to do it, the front wheel has to be attached and the pedals and the front mudguard and light, thats about it.
Sorry don't know of any bike places in Dublin.
We?ll Lads ordered radcity 5 on the weekend and as yea know all videos online are us spec 750w. How is the eu motor to go? Have seen videos where you can override the speed limit so plan on doing that. I?m about 95kg so slightly nervous the bike will crawl. Fionn how do you find your rhino 6? Also they estimated up to 15 days shipping but haven?t got a shipping email since order confirmation
The EU controller is fine, up to the 25kmh limit. the motor is the same as the NA model, and produces the same 90nm of torque.
Assembly just involved attaching the front wheel and adjusting the handlebar. It's a simple DIY job, though any bike shop should be able to help if you need it.
Sound, did you use a torque wrench as suggested in the vids? Or just go by hand? Got tracking number yesterday and label created but no estimated date yet.
I was thinking of buying 2022 Rad Rhino 750W motor. You mentioned that your bike became legal in Ireland after the controller upgrade & new display. Please explain why! Does your bike require number plate, tax & insurance?
No plate/tax/insurance, it's still a bicycle.
I disabled the 6kph walk mode. Current legislation in Ireland does not stipulate max power level, only that pedalling is required, otherwise it's classed as a "mechanically propelled vehicle" under the Road Traffic Act.
That said, there are new regs in the pipeline to bring Irish law in line with the rest of the EU. That will limit max output to 250W.
Seems kind of silly to promote "cleaner" transportation methods then limit them to power that makes them virtually useless