Just a few thoughts...
The changes to the Wagon seem to make good sense to me. The smaller diameter wheels create extra torque, even without the upgraded geared hub motor. That torque is essential for a heavily laden cargo bike. Plus the lower stance means lower center of gravity which is also important for a heavy bike... less "tippy". It would have been nice if the controller was also upgraded to send more amps to the motor. Following the theme of heavy bike requirements... that extra amperage/power is a boon for this segment. But I know that has to be weighed with the various legal restrictions in different states and different countries.
I'm assuming the "new" motor is really just the same one currently used in the "Rover". If true, it is not 750w but rather is really 500w (continuous). Something I wish Rad would do in general for all of their geared motors is either upgrade to the real Bafang 750w motor (fits inside the same case they are currently using), or just be more honest with what the current motor really is and call it a 500w motor. Of course, I vote for the former... give us the bigger motor.
Hopefully Rad will upgrade the RadCity with the same motor. I think the direct-drive is getting long in the tooth. There are times when I wish I had the extra torque in my City that the current motors just do not have. Even for "city riding" that torque is welcome for those of us who live in hill/mountain country. Just keep the same 26 inch tires on the City.
The changes to the Wagon seem to make good sense to me. The smaller diameter wheels create extra torque, even without the upgraded geared hub motor. That torque is essential for a heavily laden cargo bike. Plus the lower stance means lower center of gravity which is also important for a heavy bike... less "tippy". It would have been nice if the controller was also upgraded to send more amps to the motor. Following the theme of heavy bike requirements... that extra amperage/power is a boon for this segment. But I know that has to be weighed with the various legal restrictions in different states and different countries.
I'm assuming the "new" motor is really just the same one currently used in the "Rover". If true, it is not 750w but rather is really 500w (continuous). Something I wish Rad would do in general for all of their geared motors is either upgrade to the real Bafang 750w motor (fits inside the same case they are currently using), or just be more honest with what the current motor really is and call it a 500w motor. Of course, I vote for the former... give us the bigger motor.
Hopefully Rad will upgrade the RadCity with the same motor. I think the direct-drive is getting long in the tooth. There are times when I wish I had the extra torque in my City that the current motors just do not have. Even for "city riding" that torque is welcome for those of us who live in hill/mountain country. Just keep the same 26 inch tires on the City.