Step-Through Frame
These ebikes are referred to by their frame design -- the frame is low enough that a rider can “step” easily to mount and ride. Step-through frames are a purpose-built shape that create a naturally low center of gravity, making the bikes strong, durable, and balanced. More importantly, it helps make the ride Rad. Almost all of Rad Power Bikes’ models offer step-through options because of the many benefits that a lower standover height provides for any rider and style.
By design, our step-through electric bikes come with removable batteries, an electric motor, and controllers, providing support up to 250 Watt of power through pedal assist. Our step-through models are also typically engineered with gears allowing you to shift your pedaling cadence across different terrains or elevations.
Benefits of a Step-Through Ebike
Step-through frames provide balance and stability, while the electric power helps support your ride. We hear from many customers that they are able to start riding again or ride even more with an accessible frame and optional power boost to their pedaling.
Because of their lower frame shape, these ebikes are especially comfortable for people who are shorter, seniors, or people with mobility or physical challenges. Step-through frames tend to offer a slightly more upright riding position while you’re pedaling which puts a little less pressure on wrists and lower back.
Carrying passengers, pets, groceries, or a quick run for take-out? No matter your cargo, the lower frame shape of a step-through frame offers additional stability when balancing a heavier rear load. One of our two cargo-style ebikes, the RadRunner, is designed solely in a step-through frame to help the rider easily balance its rear passenger or cargo weight.
Step-Through Frame Misperceptions
The term “step-through” seems obvious, but it is a newer label in the biking world. Bikes were traditionally defined as “men” and “women” bikes; a step-through frame design was a “women” or lady’s bike, invented in the 1800s to accommodate a lady’s long, pesky skirts.
Thus launched more than a century of the misperception and stereotype that step-through bikes are only for women. Happily, a frame design is simply that – a design: One that’s lower to the ground, easier to mount, and better for carrying rear loads. Any person can enjoy the advantages of this frame – simply step through, and ride proudly, Rad friends.
Ride Styles
Our step-through ebikes have the same power and terrain-tackling features as their high-step counterparts and are good for any ride type. Our models offer 125 - 158 kg (275 - 350 lbs) of cargo-carrying payload capacities. Rad Power Bikes’ customers often prefer a step-through frame to more easily put a foot down when stopping and starting with heavy loads. It’s also easier to mount a heavily-loaded ebike and keep control of the weight.
Step-throughs are ideal for city riding or jumping on and off frequently for deliveries. Our City and Commuter-style step-through models are popular for riding to work, running errands, or heading out on the town. With a step-through ebike, you’ll find riding in every type of attire – from casual to, yes, cocktail – is a breeze. What’s more, you arrive great at the office, party, or function, all your gear stowed neatly in bags or baskets.
Transporting Step-Through Ebikes
Taking your step-through ebike on the road? All Rad Power Bikes’ ebike step-through models work with a vehicle rack but a bike adapter bar is required for use with step-through frames. For fat tire bikes, make sure to order a rear rack that can hold the weight of the bike and has trays wide enough to fit the tires. You may need tire strap extenders depending on your wheel size.