Step Through Ebike for on/off road exploring

[rdkaz]

I need help deciding on two Ebikes for exploring when traveling with our RV.
Heights are 5'3"and 5'8" (leg lengths 29 and 31 inches)
Must have: class 2 with class 3 capable, step through, front suspension, integrated lights, fenders, rear rack, geared motor( hub or mid drive).
I have looked at just about every review on this site that fits.
Leaning toward Radrunner plus or Radmini step through. Also considering Rad Rover step through, Kost Drop, Evelo Aurora Ltd.; and others.
Having difficult decision with 20" vs. 26 vs. 27.5 inch wheels.
Thank You.

 

[Art Deco]

Welcome. I bought ebikes for my RV as well. My first question when I see a laundry list of must haves like you posted is always 'Have you ridden any ebikes? '
If not then you need to do so first. Go rent some bikes, take test rides, borrow a friend's bike, whatever you need to do to actually ride some bikes. Spend a few hours in the saddle and half your list will probably change dramatically.
I ride pavement and easy gravel and don't want the weight or cost of suspension, but require full sized wheels, hydraulic brakes, and balloon tires. Others ride serious single-tracks, snow, or off road and need suspension first. Only way to know is to ride some different bikes.

 

[rdkaz]

Welcome. I bought ebikes for my RV as well. My first question when I see a laundry list of must haves like you posted is always 'Have you ridden any ebikes? '
If not then you need to do so first. Go rent some bikes, take test rides, borrow a friend's bike, whatever you need to do to actually ride some bikes. Spend a few hours in the saddle and half your list will probably change dramatically.
I ride pavement and easy gravel and don't want the weight or cost of suspension, but require full sized wheels, hydraulic brakes, and balloon tires. Others ride serious single-tracks, snow, or off road and need suspension first. Only way to know is to ride some different bikes.

Thanks for your input. I did own a Moustache Starckbike Asphalt and loved it. It is with that experience and research that I developed the laundry list. I no longer require full suspension; but would like front suspension. Also I want a step through design for easy of entry. There are not any ebike stores near me with the type I am inquiring about.
I was hoping to get input from persons with experience with the models/types I mentioned.

 

[Art Deco]

Well, that's a good start. Since you mentioned class two and three, you should be aware that those may not be legal where you live ... or want to go in your rv. Your location matters, and is unknown to us. And pay attention to weight if you have to lift it into the rv or onto a rack. Many 20 inch wheel folding bikes are too heavy for me to lift, and I am still pretty strong.
I haven't ridden a Rad, but there are plenty of them on here. Check the Rad subforum, and someone else can chime in here that rides one. Good luck and happy hunting.

 

[indianajo]

I need help deciding on two Ebikes for exploring when traveling with our RV.

Leaning toward Radrunner plus or Radmini step through. Also considering Rad Rover step through,
Having difficult decision with 20" vs. 26 vs. 27.5 inch wheels.

Rad makes fine products if you don't need wheels that are round and rims that are one piece. See the "known problems" thread under that brand. 333 complaints last time I looked. Other threads on introductions and Parts & accessories forums. If a spoke gets loose they will be glad to send you another one. A spoke, not a wheel. Some lady in Scotland did that action 4 times in the first 2 months. 4 truing bills at her local bike shop.
20" tires are for places with perfect pavement like Germany or London UK, or children that can't feel the bumps. 27.5 wheels are a bit tall for a 63" person, but if the frame has low enough stepover who am I to complain? I have 28" pants inseam and I ride 26"x2.1" tires.

 

[kmccune]

Here goes nothing,I bought a $600 "Peacedove" and I love the thing . its 26"-36volt 10 Ah battery, the steel frame makes the thing pretty forgiving, comes with fenders ,rack and basket, seat tube battery( easy to upgrade) and its a class 2 ay 350 watts its climbs better than I expected, ah yes,its a stepthrough.

 

[TrevorB]

Moustache Xroad. I'd pay extra and go for Xroad 5 as Mobie fork is lot better especially for offroad riding. 2021 models have CX which is better for offroad steep climbs, in saying that 2 & 3 Performanceline is still great climbing motor. Only 2 & 3 are proper step throughs with 3 have wider 11-42 cassette which your'll appreciate offroad, can upgrade to 11-46t cassette if need be.

 

[kmccune]

I am going to start upgrading the "Peacedove" the 10 ah battery did pretty well so its getting a new 18 Ah battery and there are some funny things lying about-Whats this? There are two front end upgrades, wouldn't you know it( can't resist upgrading) I believe the "Warwagon lite" may be in the offing;
Step thru forever for this ol'Codger
I still recommend not breaking the bank till you really find what you are happy with" Brings to mind the old "C&T" song"You had better shop around" these Folks here are giving good advice, its a pity you cannot rent a bike ( rental purchase and no foul if you return at end of trial) You might keep the upgrade option in mind and just maybe you can find a good rental Bike to purchase I found one in WVa of all places and I am sure the owner would have let me rent it for the day with rental toward the acquisition.

 

[Alaskan]

If you liked the Moustache Starbike Asphalt, the only one I see on your list that I suspect you might not find very disappointing is the Evelo. With its step through, automatic shifting, ample battery, belt drive and good specs and relatively compact design, I would recommend you find a place where you can test ride one even if it means spending a whole day driving there and back to do it. The time will be well spend.

The rest of your list will likely feel clunky, hard to load on the RV, not great for exploring hilly country and just plain primitive by comparison to what you loved about the Moustache