eBike FAQ: eBike Operation

What kinds of eBikes are available in the Lending Library?

At launch, the HADCO Admin Office will have one eBike (two wheels) and one eTrike (three wheels). The Vine Street Apartments will have one eTrike. 

Available Lending Library eBikes

HADCO Admin Office Vine Street Apartments

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2 eBike

Rad Power Bikes RadTrike

Rad Power Bikes RadTrike

 

 

What are the minimum and maximum rider heights?

Minimum and Maximum Rider Heights
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike

Minimum Rider Height: 4' 11"

Maximum Rider Height: 6' 2"

Minimum Rider Height: 4' 10"

Maximum Rider Height: 6' 4"

 

What is the maximum rider weight?

Maximum Rider Weight
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike
300 lbs. minus any cargo weight 325 lbs. (does not include cargo weight)

 

I have physical limitations. Can I still use an eBike?

HADCO cannot guarantee that all residents will be able to use the available eBikes. Participants must meet certain height and weight requirements and be physically able to pedal and steer the eBike safely. Both eBike locations will have electrified tricycles which may help with accessibility. If you’re not sure if you can ride the eBike, you’ll have a chance to test one during the orientation meeting test ride.

How much does the eBike weigh?

eBike Weight
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike
65 lbs. with battery 82 lbs. with battery

 

What is the maximum load weight for the eBike?

Maximum Load Weight
RadRunner eBike RadTrike

Total Maximum Load: 300 lbs. including the rider and any cargo.

Rear Basket Maximum Load: 120 lbs.

Kickstand Maximum Load: 100 lbs. 

Maximum Rider Weight: 300 lbs. minus any cargo weight.

Total Maximum Load: 415 lbs. including the rider and any cargo.

Rear Basket Maximum Load: 60 lbs. 

Maximum Rider Weight: 325 lbs.

 

 

How much storage does the eBike hold?

Lending Library eBikes have at least one cargo basket attached. The maximum load weights are posted below. These load weights should be strictly followed along with the total maximum load weight for the eBike. 

Storage Capacity
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike

Rear Basket Maximum Load Weight: 120 lbs. 

Front Basket Maximum Load Weight: 30 lbs. 

Total Maximum Weight: 300 lbs.

Rear Basket Maximum Load Weight: 60 lbs.

Front Basket Maximum Load Weight: 30 lbs. 

Total Maximum Weight: 415 lbs.

 

Is there anything I should do before starting a ride?

First, check the eBike for any obvious issues with battery charge, tire inflation, wheel spin, front and rear lights, or brakes. HADCO eBikes are inspected and maintained on a regular basis, but it’s always good to double-check.

Next, adjust the seat to the right height.

Finally, make sure your helmet is securely fastened before starting your ride.

How fast does the eBike go?

Maximum Speed
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike
20 MPH 14 MPH

 

How do I control the speed of the eBike?

Pedal and Throttle Assist
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike

The Rad Power eTrike speed can be controlled by how fast you pedal and the Pedal Assistance (PAS) level. The higher the PAS level (1-4), the more the electric motor will add speed as you pedal. 

Speed can also be increased by twisting the throttle on the right-side of the handlebars. Always have one hand on the brake lever when using the throttle. Releasing the throttle or applying the brakes will disengage the throttle.

WARNING: Be careful not to accidentally twist the throttle, which can cause sudden acceleration. If you’re not prepared for this acceleration, you can lose control of the bike, which can lead to serious injury or death. 

The RadTrike speed can be controlled by how fast you pedal and the Pedal Assistance (PAS) level. The higher the PAS level (1-5), the more the electric motor will add speed as you pedal. 

Speed can also be increased by twisting the throttle on the right-side of the handlebars. Always have one hand on the front brake lever when using the throttle. Releasing the throttle or applying the hand brake will disengage the throttle.

** The rear (foot) brakes do NOT disengage the throttle ** 

WARNING: Be careful not to accidentally twist the throttle, which can cause sudden acceleration. If you’re not prepared for this acceleration, you can lose control of the bike, which can lead to serious injury or death. 

 

How do I slow down or stop?

Braking
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike

The RadRunner 2 has front and rear brakes which are controlled by brake levers on the handlebars. The left leaver controls the front brakes; the right leaver controls the rear brakes. It is recommended to use both brakes, starting with the rear brakes (right lever), whenever you need to slow down or stop. 

 

 

The RadTrike has two types of brakes: a lever brake on the handle bars and a rear brake on the pedals. You brake by squeezing the front brake and/or applying backward pressure on the rear brakes. For rapid braking, use both front and rear brakes simultaneously. 

WARNING: Never attempt to stop by putting your feet on the ground. Doing so risks running over your feet with the rear wheels and causing serious injury. 

 

How long does the eBike battery last?

The battery range depends on how much Pedal Assistance (PAS) and throttle boost is being used. Below are the range estimates for the Lending Library eBike and eTrike. 

Estimated Battery Life
RadRunner 2 eBike RadTrike

25-45+ miles per charge

The handlebar display has a battery life gauge.

20-55+ miles per charge

The handlebar display has a battery life gauge.

 

Does the eBike still work if the battery dies?

Yes, both eBike models can be operated without battery power. However, pedaling an eBike is different than pedaling a standard bicycle due to its weight. HADCO recommends ensuring there’s enough battery power to return the eBike to the Lending Library location at the end of your ride time.

How do I adjust the eBike seat to my height?

Both eBike models have a quick-release lever under the seat to allow for height adjustments. When adjusting the height, you should be able to pedal and stand over the eBike frame comfortably. 

It is very important to ensure the quick-release lever is properly secured before starting a ride.

Do you offer trailers, tag-alongs, or car seat attachments for the eBikes?

No, HADCO does not currently offer trailers or tag-alongs for the Lending Library eBikes. Please keep in mind that HADCO prohibits transporting another person, including a child, on the eBike. It is for single-rider use only. 

Where can I use the eBike? Are there any areas where eBike use is prohibited?

Residents may use the eBike anywhere eBikes are legally permitted and may go as far out as the eBike battery and checkout time will allow. Residents should plan their trip in advance to make sure they have enough time and battery power to return the eBike to the eBike station.

Use of eBikes is prohibited on sidewalks and on the freeway. Residents are prohibited from using an eBike for off-roading, racing, trick riding, or in any other way which could damage the eBike, damage personal property, or cause injury.

Can I ride the eBike on the sidewalk?

No, Oregon law prohibits the operation of an eBike on the sidewalk.

Can I ride the eBike in a crosswalk?

Yes, Oregon law allows the operation of an eBike in crosswalks. However, in some cases it may not be safe to do so. Check out the Safety FAQs for more information. 

Can I put an eBike in my car or on my car bike rack?

HADCO eBikes can only be picked up and pedaled away from the HADCO eBike station. They cannot be transported to another location.

How do I (or can I) bring an eBike on the UTRANS bus?

Per the UTRANS website, eBikes do not fit on the bike racks on the UTRANS bus. 

How do I secure the eBike if I need to make a stop?

The HADCO eBike comes with an attached locking mechanism that loops through the wheel spokes. It also comes with a locking chain which tethers the eBike to a bike rack or other secure structure. The eBike user must wrap the chain around the bike rack and secure it to the locking mechanism.

What is the best way to report an issue with an eBike?

If you can bring the eBike back to the HADCO office, please return it and report the issue during the return. However, if the eBike cannot be returned because of an issue, please properly lock and secure the eBike and call the HADCO office.

Is there a way I can see my usage history (total miles, calories burned, total time, etc.)?

No, the eBikes do not track this information.

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