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Messages - JimInPT

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1
I think the Cloud-9 would work just as well if it didn't have such a long-ish nose because that part isn't in contact with the rider most of the time.

And when it does, it hurts!   :o

2
The Sunlite Cloud-9 cruiser seat 11"L x 10"W x 8"H size has been my go to seat replacement since my first Radrover in 2016.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TD24VG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's the same seat I settled on, after trying four others in addition to the lousy factory seat.  The only thing I don't like about it is that too-long nose to climb over, but otherwise it's worked well for me.

I can recommend the Cloud 9 brand as well-made products, but my seat probably won't be the best for most, or even many.  Seats are like shoes; try a few on until you find the one that fits YOU best.

3
General Chat / Re: Why Ride Rad?
« on: March 17, 2024, 11:48:11 AM »
Looks like you've got some very pretty riding trails in your area!

4
Service & Repair / Re: Bottle thrown at me + wheel issue
« on: March 04, 2024, 11:14:59 AM »
This is a little out there, but maybe.......

If it was hit on the front wheel near the axle, on the (left, usually) brake side, there's a rubber boot that rides on the brake rotor and is designed to keep grease in and water/dust/dirt out of the wheel bearing.  Looks like a black cone with the pointy end cut off where the axle passes through.  I couldn't find a stupid front-end squeak until a Rad service tech tole me to put a drop of oil on that boot's lip where it contacts the rotor - squeak fixed.

That's not enough to cause significant resistance you're describing, but I'm wondering if maybe that bottle hit that boot just right to bung up and flip that rubber lip over and tucked in so that it's pressing a lot harder on the rotor than usual.

I sort of doubt this is even possible, but if a visual inspection doesn't show any bent spokes or other problems, take a closer look at that rubber boot.

Good luck!

5
I is most likely the controller.  The rectangular box on your bike.  Area13 has the upgraded version giving you a little more power and a new color LCD screen.

Actually, the 35A upgrade controller provides a LOT more power for better hill-climbing torque and acceleration (doesn't affect top speed).  On my MiniST2 I max out at about 1,600 watts at full power, over twice the stock unit, although even for demanding uphill climbs the power usually stays around 1,000w or less - I try not to stress the system by using the gears and pedaling.

One thing to note that I just learned recently....  unless the design of these new controllers has changed, you MUST stick with the puny, near-useless, crappy stock headlight, as the controller's headlight circuit can burn out when drawing more than 5 watts; they even warn against the Rad-branded headlight "upgrade" (which really isn't but it draws more power).  A very dumb design move for the upgrade, as the stock controller can handle much more power to an upgraded headlight without issue.  Annoying, but easily worked around with a handlebar accessory light.

6
RadRover / Re: What settings are you using on your Bolton controller?
« on: February 26, 2024, 12:25:46 PM »
Here are my settings, along with some older ones (latest stable settings are on the left; haven't felt the need to tweak further is almost 2 years).  Note that these are for a 2021 MiniST2 with 20" rims - YMMV depending on bike model:

7
General Chat / Re: Walk Mode
« on: February 24, 2024, 11:31:56 AM »
All the cool kids are doing it.

I wish my bike had a tiller.

8
RadExpand / Re: RadExpand 5 bike repair stand?
« on: February 24, 2024, 11:11:01 AM »
I use this one for my (similar) MiniST2:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R452R8K

Goes on sale now and then, and used ones are often available (with return options if you don't like it).  There's a good demo video on that linked page.  Works well, very strong (my Mini is about 90 lbs with battery and all locks/accessories), solid metal where it needs to be, legs that don't get in the way unlike simple tripods, clamp rotates/tilts to various angles - just make sure you have a place to grab the bike near its C.G.; not so easy on some folders.  I have a removable crossbar that goes between the handlebar stem and seatpost for carrying it on a car rack, so that works for me.

I think the best way to get it onto the rack, especially for us old people, is to set the grabbing mechanism where it needs to be and make sure its wide open, then stand on a box or stepladder and deadlift the bike straight up a few inches to drop it into place.  The first couple times, you'll probably have to fiddle with height and fore/aft positioning for best balance and access.

9
Great idea for this list...  My mini hosts many optional accessories but the best 2 by far were the suspension seat post and changing the handle bars to that of the Amazon procured RAD City 3 style.  I can ride all day comfortably now and I am 220 lbs.

I agree with the suspension seatpost; I added a Redshift model to my MiniST2 a couple years ago and love it.

Would you mind linking to the handlebar you like so much?  Thanks.

10
RadRover / Re: Riding up a big hill on my RR6+
« on: February 04, 2024, 12:09:51 PM »
I?m 65 and not very strong on the pedaling so most of the work will be done by the motor. I have an IR thermometer so I?ll give that a try along with taking some cool down breaks. Thanks for the replies.

If you find yourself wanting/needing to keep an eye on the motor temp with an IR thermometer, may I suggest this:  https://www.thermoworks.com/ir-pocket-20/ - I assume you have a larger dogleg handheld like the ones I use in my kitchen and pizza oven?  This little thing would carry easily in any bike bag or even pocket.

I don't own one of these, but if I needed it I wouldn't hesitate - I have about a dozen other Thermoworks products and they're just outstanding, as is their service.  If you get on their email list, you can watch for one of their frequent discounts on either products or the entire line, if you're not in a hurry.  If you're nice to them, you just might find a tiny little bag of Jelly Bellys in the box too.  Now you've got me thinking this might not be a bad idea to have available on my 1600w MiniST2 during the summer.....

Good luck!

11
Rad Power Bikes Classifieds / Re: 2016 Rad wagon for sale
« on: January 30, 2024, 09:54:53 AM »
Always a good idea to specify the bike's location.

12
General Chat / Re: I didn't fall off the earth...
« on: January 25, 2024, 11:14:37 AM »
Sounds like you've got a nice little pocket-rocket there; hope you enjoy it for another 8k miles at least.  I love my little 35A 2021 MiniST 2.

13
General Chat / Re: Rad's New Pricing
« on: January 25, 2024, 11:11:28 AM »
The Expand Contract still seems very overpriced, considering how much they stripped off of the MiniST 2 (which as I recall had sold as low as about $1,100 and has more features) to create it.

Every now and then I'm tempted to hug my 2021 MiniST 2 in appreciation for having it.  It's perfect for me and I've seen nothing better from Rad since.

14
RadRover / Re: Area 13 ver 2.1 35 amp controller
« on: January 07, 2024, 10:42:13 AM »
I had my controller installed by a shop and I don?t have a manual. How do you enter setup mode?

IIRC, you power it up, then within 5 seconds press Up and Down simultaneously.

Here's the manual:  https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2979751/Kunteng-Kt-Lcd8hp.html

15
RadRover / Re: Rad Rover 6+ upgrade advice needed
« on: January 07, 2024, 10:40:34 AM »
Took it out for a quick spin around the block. I like the new controller. It has good acceleration but not so powerful that it would ride out from under me.

If you don't have the manual for that controller, here's a link to view/download:  https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2979751/Kunteng-Kt-Lcd8hp.html?page=26#manual

I believe the C5 parameter controls how fast the power amps up when applying throttle, so you can adjust how lively it is off the line.  There are other settings that also affect power delivery and top speed.   I have mine maxed out to scoot through busy intersections from a stop.  Plus, it's fun having a stealthy, innocent-looking little pocket rocket that pulls pretty good at just under 1,600 watts.

Have fun!

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