Yes, many Orbea e-Bikes can be customized through their MyO program. You can personalize colors, components, and even the fit. Customer reviews highly recommend the MyO program, and it's very different compared to the rest of the electric bike market.
Rad Power Bikes vs Orbea: Performance, Price & Customization Explained
Written by: Robbie Ferri | May 4, 2026 | Time to read 6 min
Choosing between Rad Power Bikes and Orbea isn’t as simple as it looks. Both brands make excellent electric bikes, but they take very different approaches when it comes to design, performance, and overall riding experience.
More about the Author: Robbie Ferri
Robbie is a UK-based ultra cyclist, former bike shop worker, and qualified bike fitter. Deeply passionate about e-Bikes and adventure cycling, he combines hands-on experience with real-world riding to help others go further on two wheels.
Comparing Rad Power Bikes and Orbea is really exciting. One brand has been around for nearly 200 years, and the other nearly 20. Both are making electric bikes in completely different ways and for completely different people. You couldn’t choose two more different brands when it comes to electric bikes.
In this article, we're going to tell you everything you need to know about Rad Power Bikes and Orbea to ensure you get the perfect bike for you if you have to choose between them. We will also be answering some of your questions and much more.
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A Quick Glance
| Feature | Rad Power Bikes | Orbea |
|---|---|---|
| Reputation | Popular e-Bike brand known for affordability and accessibility | Premium Spanish brand known for performance and design |
| Price Range | Budget to mid-range | Mid-range to high-end |
| Frame Technology | Aluminum frames focused on durability and utility | High-quality aluminum and carbon frames built for performance |
| E-Bike Technology | Hub motor systems (Rad-developed) | Bosch and Shimano mid-drive systems |
| Customisation | Limited, fixed models | Extensive custom options (MyO program) |
| Dealer Network | Direct-to-consumer with some retail locations | Strong global dealer network |
| Best For | Riders wanting affordable, practical e-Bikes | Riders wanting performance, design, and personalization |
| Resale Value | Moderate | Strong, especially premium models |
| Assembly | Delivered direct, some assembly required | Sold through dealers, professionally built |
What About The History Of Rad Power And Orbea?
There’s a wonderful history for both of these brands. Starting with Rad Power Bikes, founded in a garage in 2007, it quickly became one of the most recognized electric bike brands. They are not known for crazy performance machines, but bikes that can completely change your day-to-day life from commuting, taking the kids to school, being a courier, or even shopping.
Orbea couldn’t be further away from Rad Power than by starting in Spain in 1840 (Yeah, you read that right, 1840). Originally, they manufactured weapons. They slowly transitioned into bikes, and today they are well known not just for incredible performance but also for offering a wide range of bikes for pretty much anyone.
What Electric Bikes Do Rad Power And Orbea Make?
Rad Power Bikes are electric bikes, but Orbea does a wide range of electric and traditional bikes. In this comparison, we will look at the electric bikes from both brands. Here are the different options they offer.
Rad Power E-Bike Models
- RadRunner: Versatile utility e-Bike for commuting and cargo
- RadRover: Fat tire electric bike for mixed terrain
- RadCity: Classic commuter / urban e-Bike
- RadExpand: Folding electric bike for storage and transport
- RadWagon: Long-tail cargo e-Bike for families and heavy loads
- RadKick: Lightweight, affordable city e-Bike
- RadMission / Radster: Simple, everyday electric bikes
Orbea E-Bike Models
- Rise: Lightweight trail eMTB (one of their most popular models)
- Wild: Full-power enduro eMTB for aggressive riding
- Urrun: Hardtail electric mountain bike for versatility
- Gain: Electric road bike with subtle assistance
- Denna: Electric gravel / all-road performance bike
- Vibe: Lightweight urban e-Bike for city riding
- Kemen: Trekking/commuter e-Bike for longer rides
- Diem / Muga: Hybrid and urban-focused electric bikes
It’s easy to see that both brands are focusing on very different angles. Rad Power Bikes are all about commuting, cargo, and city bikes. Orbea, on the other hand, offers a wider range, with a strong focus on performance-based models such as e-MTBs, Gravel, City, and Hybrid bikes.
How Much Will I Be Spending On A Rad Power Bike Or Orbea?
Another major difference between these two brands is price. Rad Power is much more focused on the entry-level and mid-range of electric bikes. You are likely to spend at least $1,000, and the most you will spend is around $2,500. What makes Rad Power cheaper?
- Basic components
- Rear hub motor over a mid drive
- They mostly work directly with consumers
- They are not performance-based bikes
- Designs are incredibly basic and not light
Orbea is more mid-range to premium bikes. For an entry-level Orbea e-Bike, you will be spending a minimum of $2,000, and if you want an all-singing and all-dancing e-MTB, you could end up spending as much as $10,000. What makes Orbea more expensive?
- Premium materials and lots of research and development
- Mid to high-end components
- Brand heritage
- Mid-drive motors and integrated batteries
- Lightweight and incredible performance
- Customisation options
Components and Specifications: Rad Power Bikes Vs Orbea
The biggest difference between these two brands is the way they equip their bikes. Rad Power tends to keep everything very basic, while Orbea really pushes the boundaries of technology and is always developing.
| Component | Rad Power Bikes | Orbea |
|---|---|---|
| Motors Used | Rad-developed systems | Bosch, Shimano, Mahle |
| Motor Position | Rear hub motor | Mid-drive (Bosch/Shimano) or rear hub (Mahle on road models) |
| Power Delivery | Punchy, on/off feel (cadence sensor) | Smooth, natural (torque sensor systems) |
| Battery Type | External or semi-integrated | Fully integrated (most models) |
| Battery Capacity | ~500Wh–700Wh | ~250Wh–750Wh+ depending on model |
| Range | Good for short to medium rides | More efficient, better for long rides |
| Drivetrain / Gearing | Entry-level Shimano 7–8 speed typical | Mid to high-end 10-12 speed (Shimano Deore, XT, road groupsets) |
| Brakes | Mechanical or basic hydraulic disc brakes | High-quality hydraulic disc brakes |
| Suspension | Basic suspension fork (where included) | Advanced suspension (hardtail + full suspension options) |
| Frame Integration | Simple, functional design | Highly integrated, lightweight, performance-focused |
| Weight Distribution | Rear-heavy (motor in wheel) | Balanced (motor central in frame) |
The Customization of Orbea Bikes
One service that Orbea offers that Rad Power and 99% of other brands do not is customization. You can buy a bike from Orbea and choose frame colors and finishes, components, stem length, handlebar width, and even add personal details on the frame, like your name.
Rad Power does not offer a service like this. They are very much one-size-fits-all when you buy a bike from them. It’s not always a bad thing because fewer choices do make it easier for some.
Which Is For You? Rad Power Bikes Or Orbea?
Choose Rad Power Bikes If:
- You want an affordable electric bike
- You mainly ride for commuting and errands
- You need something practical, like a cargo bike
- You want a bike that’s ready to go straight out of the box
- Budget and simplicity are your top priorities
Choose Orbea If:
- You want a performance-focused electric bike
- You care about ride feel, efficiency, and design
- You like the idea of customizing your bike’s look and fit
- You plan to ride longer distances or more regularly
- You want something that feels more refined and personal
Both brands are very good, and I highly recommend both, but it’s important to mention they are for very different people. If you want a bike for commuting or replacing a car, a Rad Power bike is the way forward. If you want a bike for recreational riding and performance, it’s all Orbea, but it all comes down to personal preference.
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Rad Power Bikes Current Situation!
Before we start answering your questions, we must discuss the current situation with Rad Power Bikes. In late 2025, they filed for bankruptcy and were bought by Life EV Group. They had a major battery recall on certain models due to the risk of fire and explosion.
Models included RadRunner, RadRover, and Radwagon. They did not proceed to a full recall while disputing safety claims and saying it would ruin the company. The new models, like the “Safe Shield,” are not affected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you customize Orbea e-Bikes?
Do Rad Power Bikes have enough power for hills?
Rad Power Bikes have an excellent pedal-assist system. It's punchy and gets up hills with ease. However, Orbea’s mid-drive motors with torque sensors are more efficient and perform better on steep or longer climbs. It's worth noting that steep hills really lower the battery range on a ride.
Is Orbea worth the extra money?
If you plan to ride regularly, want better performance, fully integrated batteries for that sleek look, or value customization, Orbea is worth spending extra money on. If you just need a reliable electric cargo bike for everyday use, Rad Power is the clear choice.
Key Takeaways
- Simplicity vs Personalization: Rad Power Bikes offers simple, ready-to-ride electric bikes, while Orbea lets you customize your bike to better suit your needs.
- Practicality vs Performance: Rad Power Bikes are built for commuting, errands, and everyday use, while Orbea focuses on performance, efficiency, and delivering a more refined riding experience.
- Price Reflects the Experience: Rad Power Bikes are more affordable and accessible, while Orbea costs more but offers higher-end components, better ride quality, and greater long-term value.
