If you want to buy an e-bike in Canada that will be stylish, comfortable, and provide a fun, easy riding experience, Envo ST50 or Rad City 5+ could be great options.

Electric bikes emerge as an ideal solution when seeking a versatile commuter bike that seamlessly blends with leisure rides. In this blog, EbikeBc compares two exceptional e-bike models: the Envo ST50 and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru.

Both Rad and Envo e-bike feature a sleek design, extended range, and minimal upkeep demands. The ST50 and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru promise enjoyable extended rides and effortless hill climbs while fitting seamlessly into your daily routine. Let's explore the nuances that set these two e-bikes apart and make them excellent choices. 

Envo ST50 E-Bike 

Weight: 28 KG (61lb) 
Motor: 500W/750W 80Nm 
Transmission: SHIMANO Altus 9 Speed 
System: PAS/thumb throttle, speed sensor
Sensor: Cadence 
Battery: 48V/14AH 3200 LG/Panasonic Lithium battery

Quality Score: 84/100

Rad City 5+ Commuter Electric bike:

Weight: 29.4 kg (64.8 lb)
Motor: 500W brushless geared hub motor, 5:1 planetary gear reduction.
Transmission: SHIMANO 7-Speed
System: PAS/thumb throttle, speed sensor
Sensor: Cadence
Battery: Lithium-ion 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) with LG cells

Quality Score: 75/100

Technical Aspects of The Envo ST50 e-bike and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru

Style and Design 

Meet the Envo ST50 and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru E-Bikes – the epitome of modern design and charm in the world of electric bicycles.

The Envo ST50 boasts a minimalist aluminum frame with an integrated battery cleverly placed within the downtube, offering a clean and balanced look. Available in Small and Large sizes, each size gets its own original color – Cactus for Small and Maroon for Large.

Meanwhile, the RadCity 5 Plus comes in one standard size but compensates with a variety of colors: Tiger Orange, Glossy White, and Charcoal. Its semi-integrated battery adds a unique flair to its appearance.

Both e-bikes exude contemporary appeal, making a stylish statement while providing a convenient and eco-friendly ride.

Ergonomics 

Ergonomics-wise, the ST50 offers a fairly standard and comfortable posture, and with an adjustable stem and two frame sizes ST50 can cater to riders of all preferences. The Step-through Frame design adds an extra dimension of comfort, facilitating effortless mounting and dismounting.

On the other hand, the RadCity 5 Plus follows suit as a Step-Thru e-bike, offering a fully upright riding stance reminiscent of classic cruiser bikes. While its frame has a narrower gap between the seatpost tube and downtube compared to the ST50, it maintains a comfortable and accessible design. Notably, the RadCity 5 Plus is available in a single size.

Both models prioritize rider comfort with adjustable handlebar stems and saddles, ensuring a harmonious and steady journey, especially during extended rides.

Performance and Torque 

The Envo ST50 and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru showcase commendable performance. Both models are equipped with 500W motors, offering sufficient power for varied terrains. The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru boasts a torque of 55 Nm. Envo ST50 is a new generation of e-bikes that can be transformed from the second to the third class of e-bikes. 

READ MORE: Getting a legal Electric Bicycle in Canada: Rules and Regulations

You can adjust the setting on the Envo ST50 if you are riding your bike on the premises, where you can use the third class of e-bikes. In general, this gives you a higher torque: 80 Nm. Class 3 offers up to 750W mechanical power and a top speed of 45km/h / 28mph/90+ miles, giving you a thrilling ride that will leave you feeling alive.

Range and Efficiency 

Range and efficiency are crucial aspects of electric bikes. Thanks to its advanced battery technology, the Envo ST50 excels in this category, offering around 150 km as a Class 2 e-bike and 100 km as a Class 3 electric bike on a single charge. The Rad City 5 Plus provides a range of approximately 75 km, ensuring substantial coverage without worrying about battery depletion.

Control and Monitoring 

Both e-bikes come with multifunctional LCDs, providing vital information to riders. These displays offer insights into battery status, speed, distance, and assistance levels. The ST50 and the Rad City offer five pedal-assist classes and a throttle on demand. ST50 has a thumb throttle, while the Rad bike has a twisted throttle. The user-friendly interfaces ensure riders can easily adjust settings on the go. One big advantage for ST50 here is that it comes with color display that is bluetooth enabled, hence you can connect your display with your mobile app and read the data over there. 

Component Grade 

Both e-bike models are equipped with top-notch components that significantly enhance their durability and performance. From robust frames to dependable drivetrains and responsive brakes, these features collectively create a secure and gratifying riding experience, designed to endure daily usage.

The ENVO ST50 boasts Tektro hydraulic disc brakes HD-E350, a SHIMANO ALTUS 9-speed gear set, and a 29" Suspension fork with an 80mm travel capability. ENVO has chosen recognized brands for the ST50, ensuring the reliability and quality of your investment.

On the other hand, the Rad City 5+ showcases hydraulic disc brakes paired with Rad Power Bikes' approved hydraulic brake caliper, sourced from a reputable Chinese OEM. The bike is outfitted with a Shimano Altus 7-speed drivetrain and a 46T, 170mm forged alloy crankset, complemented by a dual-sided aluminum bash guard.

Braking Performance 

The ST50 Envo e-bike has efficient hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power under various conditions. The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru employs hydraulic disc brakes, too, providing solid braking performance.

Weight 

The weight of the e-bike significantly influences bike handling. The ST50's aluminum frame rates 28 kg, while the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru is a bit heavier - 29 kg. Both bikes are relatively lightweight, considering their electric components.

Serviceability and Spare Parts 

Both bikes, Envo ST50 and RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru, offer customer support, warranties, and readily available spare parts, ensuring hassle-free maintenance and servicing. These bikes' mechanical and structural components use industry-standard, readily available, reasonably priced pieces.

Access to Service Centers 

Both e-bikes boast a network of service centers, allowing riders to access professional assistance and support. Online and in-person support ensures a seamless experience, enabling potential buyers to test-ride and inquire. Envo is a Canadian-based company, so getting components and servicing the bike here is much easier. Envo offers a vast network of dealers all across the country. ENVO is headquartered in Burnaby, BC, with numerous distributors across North America. In almost every province in Canada, e-bike riders can find a local store that will happily resolve any issues. Rad's main office is in Seattle, USA. Rad has only one store in Canada, located in Vancouver, so if you need in-person support, rely on the local stores that you can find willing to work on the Rad e-bike. 

Accessories Included 

The Envo ST50 e-bike offers customization options with standard accessories that come with the bike: fenders, rear rack, kickstand and the integrated light. You can pick the cargo or the regular rear rack, move the light from the stem mount to the handlebar and add a basket or a pannier bag. The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru includes essentials like fenders and a rear rack, catering to diverse commuting needs. The rear tack comes standard with a payload capacity of up to 27 kg. 

Both models accommodate a range of optional accessories for added comfort and utility.

Transport and Storage 

Neither the ST50 electric bike nor the RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru are foldable, requiring consideration for storage. You can transport these bikes on the bike rack, additionally getting a bike adaptor bar. 

Transmission Reliability 

The ST50 features a 9-speed Shimano Altus system, offering versatile gear options. The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru employs a Shimano 7-speed transmission, ensuring adaptable gear selection. The ENVO ST50 utilizes a high-quality geared hub motor designed for reliability and efficiency. The City 5 Plus Step-Through also features a geared hub motor known for its performance and durability.

Price 

In terms of pricing, both e-bikes offer competitive options within the market. The RadCity 5 Plus Step-Thru is priced at CAD$2,599.00/ USD$1,999, while the ST50 is priced at CAD$2,679.00/ USD$2,099, offering better performance, component, grade, and transmission reliability.

Final Thoughts 

When choosing your ideal e-bike companion in Canada, the Envo ST50 is the superior option.

With impressive torque, an adaptable class system, and remarkable range, the Envo ST50 redefines e-biking excellence. The integrated design, sleek aesthetics, and high-grade components make it a true standout.

Factor in the accessible service centers, customization options, and reasonable pricing, and the Envo ST50 emerges as the clear frontrunner in the e-bike market. Elevate your riding experience and embrace the future with the Envo ST50—it's not just an e-bike, but a revolution in motion.