Denago Cargo 1 vs Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike
Two cargo / family e-bikes at a similar price, compared on the same normalized specs. Both scored by us, both reviewed in full.
The verdict
Same battery, same range, near-identical Genius scores, so this comes down to what you're actually carrying: pay the extra $300 for the RadRunner's higher payload and torque if you'll use it, otherwise save the money on the lighter, cheaper Denago.
Buy the Denago Cargo 1
Buy the Denago Cargo 1 if you want to save $300 and don't need to haul near the RadRunner's payload max, the 8 lb weight difference also matters if you're lifting it over a curb or up steps regularly.
Buy the Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike
Buy the RadRunner Max if you're regularly loaded down with cargo or a passenger, its 420 lb payload capacity and extra 10 Nm of torque are built for that, and the wider tire and 8-speed drivetrain back it up.
The differences that matter
- Denago Cargo 1 costs $300 less.
- Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike pulls harder from a stop and on hills, by 10 Nm of torque.
- Denago Cargo 1 is 8 lb lighter, which you notice lifting it or carrying it up steps.
Who each one is for
Denago Cargo 1
Families and errand-runners on mostly flat-to-rolling streets who want genuine cargo capability at a mid-range price.
Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike
Families and errand-runners who want to move real weight around town and appreciate being able to ride on throttle power when they don't feel like pedaling.
Spec by spec
| Spec | Denago Cargo 1 | Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,999 | $2,299 |
| Motor (nominal) | 750W | 750W |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Battery | 672 Wh | 672 Wh |
| Claimed range | 60 mi | 61 mi |
| Weight | 74 lb | 82 lb |
| Max payload | 300 lb | 420 lb |
| Motor type | hub | hub |
| E-bike class | Class 3 | Class 1-3 |
| Brakes | Full Jak Hydraulic disc brakes | Gemma Hydraulic GA-1000B (hydraulic disc) |
| Drivetrain | Shimano 7-speed | Shimano 8-speed |
| Tire size | 20 x 3.0" | 20" x 3.5" |
Highlighted values are the better of the two where both brands publish the number. Where a spec isn't published we leave it blank rather than guess.
The short version on each
Denago Cargo 1
What's good
- A 750W motor with a claimed 80 Nm of torque that gets a loaded bike rolling from a dead stop and up moderate hills without a struggle.
- A 672Wh battery you can nearly double with an optional second pack, so long errand days don't force a mid-trip charge.
- Hydraulic disc brakes that give you consistent stopping power even with cargo and a passenger on board.
What to know
- A 300-pound total payload is modest for a cargo bike, so a heavier rider plus two kids and groceries runs out of room faster than on rivals that clear 350 pounds.
- Denago lists two different payload figures on its own materials, so you'll want to confirm the real ceiling before you load it heavily.
Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike
What's good
- The 750W hub motor and 90 Nm of torque have no trouble getting a fully loaded bike off the line or up a hill.
- A throttle lets you ride on motor power alone, which is a real help when you're pulling away with a heavy load.
- Carries up to 420 pounds, enough for a passenger and a full load of groceries or gear.
What to know
- For $2,299 you're paying a fair middle-market price, and a few cargo rivals will haul about as much for a little less money.
Full Denago Cargo 1 review → Full Rad Power RadRunner Max Electric Cargo Utility Bike review →