Rad Power Bikes vs. Juiced Bikes vs. Pedego: Electric (2023)

Electric bikes have taken certain segments of society by storm. Sure, they are nice to have during a pandemic when your family needs a reason to get out of the house and hit the local greenways, but they are so much more versatile than that. Rad Power Bikes, Pedego, and Juiced are some of the best on the market, but each serves a slightly different segment. We will explore the differences to help you decide which brand might be best for your needs.

Electric bikes offer a crowd-free way of commuting in urban areas and small towns alike, and for outdoor enthusiasts, several of the more prominent bands now sell e-bikes built for off-roading. These modern machines will take your journeys further, faster.

In the age of door dash and other delivery services, there are also a surprising number of side hustlers using cargo bikes to get the job done. Electric bikes are efficient, effective, and fun. They are also earth-friendly compared to vehicular transportation.

Rad Power Bikes, Pedego, or Juiced?

We understand why buying a new electric bike might feel overwhelming, so here is a reassuring thought: The top brands are all relatively reliable. Rather than focus on the minutia such as the pros and cons of mechanical disc brakes compared to hydraulic disc brakes, we recommend that you focus on how you plan to use your new bike.

Do you plan to most joy-ride? Pedego might be for you. Do you plan to pick up the kids from school? We recommend you go with a Rad Power Bike? Do you plan to cover adventurous distances on off-road trails? There is no better choice than a Juiced Bike. Once you define how you plan to use your new ride, it will be much easier to make a decision. Here is where we see the value in each brand:

Of course, we understand you might want a little more information before making a decision. Check out the side-by-side comparison table, and read the detailed reviews below.

Do You Need A Driver’s License For An Electric Bike?

The short answer is that electric bike regulation varies by state and local law, but there are some helpful resources online to help kickstart your research. We recommend checking out

The guidance regarding driver’s licenses will be the same for e-bikes and electric mountain bikes, but some trails do not allow electric mountain bikes at all. Naturally, if a route is open to both motorized and non-motorized traffic, then an electric mountain bike will be acceptable. States may have specific trails designated for electric mountain bikes, while federal rules are a little more cut and dry. Electric mountain bikes are considered motorized vehicles by the US Forest Service, so they are allowed on trails open to motorized vehicles.

Is It Worth Getting An Electric Bike?

Electric bicycles provide many of the same benefits as old-school bikes but provide additional capabilities, making the bicycles useful to a broader audience. For example, if you live in a hilly area or your best fitness days are still ahead of you 😉, e-bikes will give you a little extra power and speed to get where you need to go. This is the primary reason they are useful for commuting as well.

Electric bikes can also be configured in countless ways, so if you want to use your electric bike for local errands or local food delivery, you can do so. You can also configure your electric bike with extra seating so you can take your kids over to the local park.

New models get more sophisticated every year as more and more companies enter the market. In fact, Car and Driver magazine once wrote that “The ride into our electric future will be led by bikes.” Electric bikes are so versatile that they are expected to outpace automobile sales in the future.

So, if you are asking us, an electric bicycle is an excellent investment.

Rad Power Bikes Review

If you know much about the e-bike movement in North America, then you probably have heard of Mike Radenbaugh and Rad Power Bikes. I am a big fan of NPR’s How I Built This and Guy Raz’s interview with Mike Radenbaugh is one of my favorites. Mike had quite a hike to school each day and started tinkering with bikes to convert them to electric bikes.

Through trial and error and a few unsuccessful trips to school, Mike eventually became very good at what he was doing. His first venture was converting standard bicycles into electric bikes for people in his hometown. Today, Rad Power Bikes is North America’s largest electric bicycle brand, with bikes so popular they are often sold out.

What started with Mike’s tinkering has grown into a brand with around ten different models of e-bikes, which might be grouped into three main categories: Off-road, Utility & Cargo, and City E-bikes. In addition to these three main categories, Rad Power Bikes also makes bikes that fold so they are easier to store and carry, and step-thru bikes that are easier for some to mount and dismount. The step-thru models also have a nice stylistic look, regardless of whether it is easier to mount.

Rad Power Bikes Products

Off-Road E-Bikes

Sometimes, you hear rumblings that riding an e-bike is kind of like cheating, and to hard-core snobs, you might hear straight derision toward e-bikes, but Rad Power Bikes off-road series aims to set the record straight. The RadRover Electric Fat Bike sports 4” fat tires that will conquer the most rugged terrain. And if you are looking for a ride that will stow and go, the RadMini Electric Folding Fat Bikes is a competent fat tire bike that will fit nicely in your vehicle as you are trying to get where you are going.

Rad Power Bikes off-road electric bicycles have batteries ranging from 25-45+ miles on a charge, but few other features make these bikes great off-road companions. The off-road e-bikes have puncture-resistant fat tires and front suspension forks so that you can keep moving through any terrain. Adding a rear rack will completely change your outdoor adventures. Throw some gear on your ride, and get off the grid for your camping or fishing excursion.

Cargo & Utility E-Bikes

If you are fond of your car, you might want to skip down a little bit because the RadWagon Electric Cargo Bike turns two-car families into one-car families. While these bikes look a bit different than traditional frame bicycles, they pack crazy versatility. The best part of the RadWagon Electric Cargo Bike is that you can add running boards, deckhands, a caboose, or a full seat to keep your kiddos safe and comfortable on the back of your ride.

Of course, if you don’t have kids to chauffeur around, the RadRunner Electric Utility Bike is perfect for local deliveries and other small businesses (a center console and rearview mirrors are even available!), while the RadRunner Plus Electric Utility Bike offers a premium passenger seat.

City E-Bikes

While the off-road e-bikes and cargo/utility bikes offer surprising functionality, the city electric bikes have a range of 25-45+ miles, providing plenty of capacity for commuting or weekend fun. The RadMission Electric Metro Bike is Rad Power Bikes’ most affordable option, and it is an excellent option if you want the versatility of an e-bike but don’t plan to use it every day.

The RadCity Electric Commuter Bicycle and RadCity Step-Thru Electric Commuter Bicycle provide optional features such as wheel locks and a little more comfort than models meant for rugged adventures. We particularly like the step-thru variety because of the extra-sleek styling.

Best Rad Power Bike Accessories

Rad Power Bikes might be best known for the wide range of accessories and customization that are available. Many bikes have standard features such as puncture-resistant tires and front suspension forks. Still, this type of practical quality is just a signal toward how functional Rad Power Bikes are, and the accessories are geared towards enhanced functionality.

We mentioned the RadWagon Electric Cargo Bike has running boards and a compatible Thule Yepp Maxi Child Seat, which helps transform the e-bike into family-style transportation. And the RadRunner Passenger package includes a passenger seat, retractable footpegs, and a transparent protective wheel skirt. Not unexpectedly, front and rear racks are available for most bikes too.

Is a Rad Power Bike Worth It?

When you consider there are ten models of

There is a reason Rad Power Bikes have thousands of 5-star reviews from their customers. Whether this will be your first e-bike or your tenth, Rad Power Bikes make high-quality and versatile bikes you will be proud to own.

Pedego Electric Bikes Review

Pedego’s origin story is significant because it directly impacts its quality and vision to this day. Don DiCostanzo loved riding bicycles from his house to the local beach, but one large hill took all of the joy out of the experience. After purchasing one electric bicycle that he loved, electric bikes became such a passion that he eventually purchased seven.

This infatuation inspired Don to open his own store in Newport Beach, which was so successful it became the largest electric bicycle retailer in the United States. It was based on this passion and in-depth knowledge of the market that Don became dissatisfied. He felt the entire market was the same, dull, and lacking quality. Rather than quietly complain in disappointment, Don teamed up with his good friend Terry Shaw to start Pedego.

Today Pedego Electric Bikes builds premium quality bicycles with eye-catching designs because that was the real inspiration behind starting the company. No compromises here. Pedegos are made to be the best.

The Pedego portfolio now includes nearly 20 premium quality electric bicycle models, which, in addition to being sold online, are available through a network of over 100 locally-owned Pedego stores focused on customer satisfaction. Pedego Electric Bikes are so popular that Navigant Research named Pedego the number one brand sold in the United States.

Pedego Electric Bikes Products

There is undoubtedly a model that will be perfect for your needs with so many quality bike models. Here is an overview of their product line-up.

Off-Road E-Bikes

Pedego is partially defined by the wide range of models fit for anyone, and their off-road series is an excellent example of this. The most expensive off-road model is the Elevate, a full-suspension eMTB. The Elevate model is more than 3.5X as expensive as its most affordable eMTB model (The Element), but the Elevate is loaded with cutting-edge technology that justifies the bike's price.

The Pedego Elevate model includes a best-in-class Shimano mid-drive system and the same lithium-ion battery technology used in full-size electric cars. The Elevate features both front and rear suspension, advanced software connecting to an app via Bluetooth, and a computerized display. This top-of-the-line off-road series gets up to 20 MPH with motor assistance only.

If the Pedego Elevate is too much bike for you, the Element, Trail Tracker, and Ridge Rider are all capable off-road models available from the Pedego team. While the Element and Trail Tracker are both fat tire models, we are particularly fond of the Ridge Rider. The Pedego Ridge Rider Electric Mountain Bike features an advanced 48 Volt battery that can take you up to a whopping 56 miles on 10 cents worth of electricity. That’s an exceptional performance.

Crusier E-Bikes

While electric mountain bikes require premium performance for off-roading, cruisers need completely different performance features. The Comfort Cruiser, Interceptor, and Boomerang are the main Pedego cruiser models, and each provides distinct styling that will stand out in a sea of bike frames that look just alike.

Our favorite cruiser is the Pedego Interceptor Electric Cruiser Bike. It is available in a classic frame, but we prefer the sophisticated step-thru frame available in many colors. The Interceptor has kevlar-belted balloon tires that help prevent flats, five levels of ‘twist-and-go’ pedal-assist in the handle, and bright front and rear lights for enhanced safety. All of this is in addition to a beautiful display and a battery that will take you 60 miles on 10 cents of electricity.

The City Electric Bike line includes e-bikes designed for commuters and a stretch cargo bike, but the most exciting bike in the collection is the Conveyor Belt Drive Electric Bike. Instead of the greasy metal chain, the Conveyor utilizes a carbon belt drive, which makes very little noise at all. It’s durable too. Pedego’s testing has shown it can last up to 10,000 miles. The Pedego Conveyor is both innovative and understated and works unlike any other electric bike you have seen. This bike is the commuter’s dream, including bright lights and a GPS anti-theft tracking, crash detection, and emergency alert system.

Speciality E-Bikes

It’s worth mentioning that Pedego also has a pretty cool series of specialty bikes, like the Trike Electric Adult Tricycle and the Tandem Electric Bicycle Built For Two. Still, we really like the Ford Super Cruiser. It carries the Ford badge, along with lines and curves reminiscent of early Ford cars. Fittingly, the Pedego battery system makes it one of the most powerful electric bikes money can buy.

Best Pedego Accessories

While Pedego doesn’t offer as many racks and other accessories as the competition, they still have plenty of accessory options to customize your new Pedego for your specific needs. Pedego focuses on baskets and bags for cargo, rather than racks, including trunk bags, pannier bags, and handlebar bags. Unless you plan to strap on a heavy-duty load, these accessories are sufficiently functional and stylish.

Is A Pedego Worth It?

Pedego makes it pretty clear that they don’t sell the cheapest electric bikes. That’s not a game they plan on chasing. Instead, the company focuses on value, and in fact, every product page proudly displays, “Pedego Electric Bikes are not the highest or lowest price. They are the greatest value.” We are generally hesitant with self-proclamations, but this time the shoe fits. The bottom line is that Pedego electric bicycles are high-quality and uniquely designed bicycles you will be proud to own.

Juiced Bikes Review

Where Rad Power Bikes focuses on versatility and Pedego Electric Bikes on top-tier quality and style, Juiced Bikes focuses on performance. For evidence of this, look no further than the battery platform. While many e-bike platforms are based on 36 Volt or 48 Volt platforms, Juiced Bikes are built on a 52 Volt platform.

The last thing you want is to find yourself on a hill with insufficient juice, or worse, at the end of a dirt trail with a dead battery. Battery matters and Juiced Bikes is hyper-focused on performance metrics that matter. The 52 Volt platform enhances power, speed, range, and efficiency. The obvious downside to the 52 Volt platform is that the battery is more prominent, heavier, and less discrete than competitor batteries.

Of course, under the right conditions, some of the Juiced Bikes’ e-bike/battery combinations will make it over 100 miles, which is nothing to scoff at. If you are looking for an e-bike that will take you the furthest distance and the fastest speed, then Juiced Bikes is where you want to start your search.

Juiced Bikes Product Categories

But which Juiced model is right for you? There are a few models worth considering.

Moped Style E-Bikes

The Juiced Bikes Scorpion and HyperScoprion are electric moped-style bikes with a range of up to 70+ miles. The Juiced HyperScorpion features a bright headlight, twist throttle handle, and rear rack. Stylistically, the HyperScorpion is one of the coolest looking electric bikes you can find. While traditional mopeds have a very tame look, the HyperScorpion sports a mean look you might pair with a leather jacket.

Adventure E-Bikes

Juiced Bikes Scrambler and HyperScrambler look as tough as dirt bikes, and if you weren’t paying attention, these bikes might pass for performance dirt bikes too. The HyperScrambler is particularly interesting because it has a dual battery capacity that extends the range of your electric bike to over 100+ miles. I’ve never even considered riding a bike close to that far, but the Juiced HyperScrambler has me dreaming of epic adventures, and that's what Juiced Bikes is all about.

Commuter E-Bikes

Juiced Bikes CrossCurrent series is their ultimate commuter series. The CrossCurrent X hits 28+ MPH with an 80+ miles range, which is more than capable of getting you to the office and back home. The Juiced CrossCurrent series sports a streamlined design compared to Juiced Bikes' more aggressively styled bikes but packs the same performance and character you would expect.

Fat Tire E-Bikes

The RipCurrent series is Juiced Bikes’ electric fat-tire bike, which might be their most versatile e-bike. The Juiced RipCurrent hits 28+ MPH and has a 70+ mile range, and works as well on the beach as it does on the road. If you don’t have a particular need for your electric bike and aren’t quite sure where to start, the RipCurrent series is a good place to start.

Best Juiced Bike Accessories

Juiced Bikes platform is pretty straightforward. Rather than try to be everything to everyone, Juiced Bikes make high-performance bikes for individuals looking for adventure. Maybe, for this reason, the Juiced Bikes accessories line-up isn’t as expansive as the competition. That said, they do sell some pannier bags, helmets, and other vital necessities.

Is a Juiced Bike Worth It?

The one significant advantage Juiced Bikes has over the competition is their 52 Volt battery platform. While the bike offers a smooth ride, is also packs significant torque. The battery is bigger than the batteries you will find on most electric bikes, which produces more power, range, speed, and efficiency. Juiced Bikes might be the right choice for someone that considers themselves an adventure junky. If high speeds, distance, and a little adrenaline are the name of your game, go with Juiced.

Not Sold? Considering A Traditional Bike?

If you are not completely sold on Rad Power Bikes, Pedego Electric Bikes, or Juiced Bikes, we recommend you consider a Turboant electric bike. The Turboant brand is mostly associated with electric scooters, but they recently entered the electric bike market, and its bikes are worth considering. We completed an entire review of the Turboant bikes if you want a detailed overview.

Turboant now offers a mini folding bike, and an electric fat tire bike. We are particularly big fans of the Turboant Thunder T1 Electric Fat Tire Bike. Its sold at an affordable price, with an excellent combination of features and performance. The Turboant fat tire bike has a max range of 65 miles and a max speed of just under 20 miles per hour.

Plus, the front hydraulic fork locks and unlocks depending on your chosen terrain. The fat tire adds traction and cushion, making it great for slick streets and uneven trails alike. A Turboant bike is worth considering if you are looking a bike with versatile performance.

If you aren't sure about an electric bike, Retrospec is a brand that offers quality and style at an affordable price. For a performance bike, you might consider comparing Trek vs Specialized vs Giant, as each of these sell performance road and mountain bikes ridden by professionals and weekend warriors alike.

What is the Best Electric Bike?

Electric bicycles are set to change everything from leisure to off-road adventuring to commuting. Some are enticed by the idea of riding next to the ocean with the wind in their hair. In contrast, others dream of alternative commuting that skips uncomfortable public transportation and inefficient car travel. Still, others daydream about going deeper into the woods than previously possible because of the rugged build modern electric mountain bikes represent.

So as reminder, here are where we see each brand shining.

• Best Overall Quality - Pedego Electric Bikes

• Most Versatility - Rad Power Bikes

• Best Battery & Performance - Juiced Bikes

Still, some of you might be looking for a more specific recommendation. And regardless of what fills your daydreams, you want to make a quality investment with friendly customer service and locally owned service shops. The only e-bike from this motley crew that fits that mold is Pedego.

We’re big believers in buying the highest quality products at a reasonable price, and Pedego Electric Bikes fits this philosophy well. With 20 e-bike models, Pedego has a bike for every occasion, most in multiple body frames and color options. And while it is easy to say, “Pedego is higher quality and a better value,” the Pedego team puts their belief to action with the Pedego Care 5-Year Warranty. Pedego also has over 100 storefronts and service centers through their network of operators.

With all of that said, Rad Power Bikes are great if you prioritize versatility, and Juiced Bikes are excellent if you need high-end performance. So while Pedego is an industry leader, we understand why you might consider one of these alternative brands. Regardless of which brand you choose, hit the pedals hard, and live life large.