RadWagon 4 eBike vs Himiway Big Dog: Which One to Choose?

It can be tough to decide which electric cargo bike will be the best for you. Among the many options available on the market the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog stand out. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use.

We've had the opportunity to test out both bikes and can offer some insight into the differences between them. The RadWagon 4 is a popular choice for its versatility and affordability. It has a sturdy frame, can carry up to 350 pounds of cargo, and has a range of up to 45 miles on a single charge. However, the RadWagon 4 does have some limitations, such as a lower top speed and a less powerful motor compared to other electric cargo bikes on the market.

On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog is a newer model that boasts a more powerful motor and larger battery, allowing for a top speed of up to 25 mph and a range of up to 80 miles. It also has a higher weight capacity of up to 400 pounds and comes with a variety of accessories such as a rear rack, fenders, and lights. However, the Himiway Big Dog is also heavier and more expensive than the RadWagon 4.

Appearance & Design

The RadWagon 4 has a sleek and modern look and is available in three colors; orange, white, and black. The step-through frame design makes it easy to get on and off the bike, and the adjustable seat and handlebars allow for a comfortable riding position. The cargo area is located at the back of the bike, and it is made from the same material as the frame. The panels are removable, so you can customize the cargo area to fit your needs.

On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog has a more rugged and utilitarian appearance. The bike comes in a grey finish, and the fat tires give it a sturdy and durable look. The cargo area is also located at the back of the bike, and it features a wooden platform that adds a touch of elegance to the bike's overall design.

Display and Controls

The RadWagon 4 has a large, easy-to-read LCD display that shows information such as speed, distance, and battery life. It also has a backlit display for easy viewing in low light conditions. The controls are conveniently located on the left handlebar and include a twist-grip throttle, pedal assist level selector, and a button to turn on the lights. The half-twist throttle is particularly useful when you want to give your legs a break and let the motor do the work.

On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog has a smaller, simpler display that shows basic information such as speed and battery life. It also has a USB port for charging your phone or other devices on the go. The controls are located on the left handlebar and include a twist-grip throttle, pedal assist level selector, and a button to turn on the lights. One unique feature of the Himiway Big Dog is the inclusion of a walk mode, which allows you to easily walk the bike up steep hills or ramps.

Weight and Weight Limits

When it comes to electric bikes, weight is an important consideration. Not only the weight of the bike itself, but also the weight limit it can carry. In this section, we'll compare the weight and weight limits of the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog.

The RadWagon 4 weighs in at 77 pounds, which is relatively heavy for an electric bike. However, it's important to note that the weight is largely due to the bike's cargo capabilities. The bike is designed to carry up to 350 pounds, making it an excellent choice for hauling groceries, kids, or other cargo. The cargo capacity is one of the main selling points of the RadWagon 4, and it's something that we appreciate as well.

On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog weighs slightly less at 92 pounds. However, it's important to note that the bike is designed to carry up to 400 pounds, which is more than the RadWagon 4. The bike's cargo capacity is impressive, and we appreciate the fact that it can carry more weight than the RadWagon 4.

Motor & Power

Both the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog come with powerful motors that make them suitable for various terrains.

The RadWagon 4 is equipped with a 750W geared hub motor, which provides ample power for most riders. This motor is paired with a 48V 14 Ah battery that can provide up to 45 miles of range on a single charge. The RadWagon 4 also has a top speed of 20 mph, making it a great option for commuting or running errands around town.

On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog comes with a 750W brushless rear hub motor, which is slightly more powerful than the RadWagon 4's motor. This motor is paired with a 48V 20 Ah Samsung battery that can provide up to 60 miles of range on a single charge. The Himiway Big Dog has a top speed of 25 mph, making it just as suitable for commuting and running errands around town.

Both bikes come with pedal assist and throttle modes, allowing riders to choose how much assistance they need from the motor. Additionally, the RadWagon 4 comes with mechanical disc brakes while the Himiway Big Dog comes with hydraulic disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and is more efficient.

Battery Capacity and Range

In this section, we will compare the battery capacity and range of the RadWagon 4 eBike and the Himiway Big Dog.

The RadWagon 4 eBike comes with a 48V 14 Ah battery, which provides a range of up to 45 miles on a single charge. On the other hand, the Himiway Big Dog features a 48V 20 Ah battery, which offers a range of up to 80 miles on a single charge. This means that the Himiway Big Dog has a more substantial battery capacity and longer range compared to the RadWagon 4 eBike.

It's worth noting that the range of an eBike depends on a variety of factors, such as the rider's weight, terrain, and weather conditions. However, the Himiway Big Dog's larger battery capacity gives it an advantage in terms of range.

In terms of charging time, both eBikes take around 6-7 hours to fully charge. However, the RadWagon 4 eBike comes with a smaller battery, which means it requires less time to charge fully.

Ride Quality & Handling

The RadWagon 4 features a step-through frame design, making it easy to mount and dismount. The bike also has a low center of gravity, which helps to improve stability and handling. The Himiway Big Dog, on the other hand, has a more traditional frame design, but it still offers a comfortable and stable ride.

One of the standout features of the Himiway Big Dog is its adjustable suspension fork. This allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their liking, providing a smoother ride over bumps and rough terrain. The RadWagon 4 does not have a suspension fork, but its fat tires help to absorb some of the shock from bumps and uneven surfaces.

Both bikes have powerful motors that provide smooth and responsive acceleration. The RadWagon 4 has a 750W motor, while the Himiway Big Dog also has a 750W motor. However, we found that both bikes offer plenty of power for most riding situations.

In terms of handling, both bikes are easy to maneuver and control. The RadWagon 4 has a slightly tighter turning radius, which can be helpful in tight spaces. It also has a longer wheelbase, which can make it feel more stable at higher speeds.

Suspension, Brakes, Wheels & Tires

The Himiway Big Dog has a front suspension fork with 80mm of travel, while the RadWagon 4 has no suspension. This means that the Big Dog will provide a smoother ride over rough terrain, but the RadWagon 4 will be more efficient on smooth roads.

The Himiway Big Dog is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which provide excellent stopping power and require less maintenance than the RadWagon 4’s mechanical disc brakes. Both bikes comes with 180mm rotors in both their front and rear wheels.

The RadWagon 4 has 22" x 3" tires, while the Big Dog has 20" x 4" tires. The RadWagon 4's tires are narrower, which means they will be more efficient on smooth roads, but they won't provide as much traction on loose or soft surfaces. The Big Dog's wider tires will provide more traction on loose or soft surfaces, but they will be less efficient on smooth roads.

Pedal Assist & Throttles

Both the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog offer both options, so let's take a closer look at each.

Pedal Assist: With pedal assist, the motor only kicks in when you're pedaling. The level of assistance can be adjusted on both bikes, with the RadWagon 4 offering five levels and the Himiway Big Dog offering five as well. This means you can choose how much help you want from the motor based on the terrain, your energy level, and other factors. Pedal assist is great for those who want to get some exercise while still enjoying the benefits of an electric bike.

Throttle Mode: Throttle mode, on the other hand, allows you to activate the motor without pedaling. Simply twist the throttle and the motor will engage, propelling you forward. This mode is perfect for those who want to take a break from pedaling or need a boost up a hill. Both the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog offer half-twist throttles, which are easy to use and provide plenty of power.

One thing to note is that some local laws and regulations may limit the use of throttle mode on electric bikes. Make sure to check your local laws before using this mode.

Portability

In terms of portability, the lower weight of the RadWagon 4 could make it easier to maneuver and transport, especially when lifting it or carrying it up stairs. The larger handlebar height and length of the RadWagon 4 might affect its ability to fit through tighter spaces or be stored in compact areas.

On the other hand, while the Himiway Big Dog is heavier, its slightly smaller dimensions might make it more manageable in terms of storage and fitting into various spaces. However, the additional weight could impact the ease of lifting and carrying.

Pros vs Cons Rundown 4 and Himiway Big Dog

Below is a rundown of the pros and cons of each cargo electric bike:

Overall, both the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Specifications and Features Table

Let's take a closer look at the specifications and features of the RadWagon 4 eBike and the Himiway Big Dog.

The RadWagon 4 eBike and the Himiway Big Dog both have similar specifications and features. Both bikes have a 750W brushless geared rear hub motor, which provides plenty of power for carrying heavy loads and tackling steep hills. The battery capacity of the Himiway Big Dog is slightly larger than that of the RadWagon 4 eBike, which gives it a longer range per charge.

The frames of both bikes are made from 6061 aluminum, which is lightweight and durable. The load capacity of the Himiway Big Dog eBike is slightly higher than that of the RadWagon 4, but both bikes are capable of carrying heavy loads.

The tires on the Himiway Big Dog are wider than those on the RadWagon 4, which provides better stability and traction on rough terrain. Both ebikes have the same number of gears and they both come with LCDs that allow you charge your smart devices on the go.

They also have different braking systems. The RadWagon 4 eBike comes with mechanical disc brakes while the Himiway Big Dog is equipped with hydraulic brakes.

Overall, the RadWagon 4 eBike and the Himiway Big Dog are both excellent choices for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile electric cargo bike.

Overall Recommendation Based on Intended Use

After extensively testing both the RadWagon 4 and the Himiway Big Dog, we have come to the conclusion that both eBikes have their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your intended use.

If you're looking for a cargo bike, the RadWagon 4 is the clear winner. With a payload capacity of up to 350 pounds and rack mounts located on the bike's head and down tubes, it's perfect for hauling groceries, supplies, or even children. The large rear rack and front mounting points allow for various aftermarket accessories to be added, making it extremely versatile.

On the other hand, if you're looking for an eBike that can handle off-road terrain, the Himiway Big Dog is the better choice. Its fat tires and sturdy frame make it perfect for exploring trails and rough terrain. It also has a longer-lasting battery, making it ideal for longer rides.

Both eBikes have similar features such as pedal assist and throttle modes, making them easy to ride and control. They also have adjustable seats and handlebars to accommodate riders of different heights.

Overall, if you need a cargo bike for commuting or running errands, the RadWagon 4 is the way to go. But if you're looking for an eBike that can handle rough terrain and longer rides, the Himiway Big Dog is the better choice.