How to Fix a Flat Tire on Your Rad Power Bike (Without Damaging the Motor)
Repair GuidesJanuary 15, 20266 min read
Step-by-step guide to safely fixing a flat on a Rad Power Bike - including how to handle the rear hub motor and torque arm.
Flats are the most common issue we see on Rad Power Bikes - and they're a little trickier than a standard bike because of the rear hub motor. Here's the right way to fix one without damaging anything.
What you'll need
Tire levers (plastic, never metal on Rad rims)
A new tube (Rad uses Schrader valves, 26x2.3 or 20x3.3 depending on model)
A 15mm wrench or socket
Patience - the rear wheel takes a few minutes
Front tire flat
Front flats are easy. Pop the quick release, remove the wheel, swap the tube, and reinstall. Just make sure the wheel is fully seated before tightening.
Rear tire flat (the tricky one)
The rear wheel houses the hub motor and the motor cable. Do NOT just yank the wheel off - you can damage the motor connector.
Steps
Shift to the smallest rear cog before you start
Disconnect the motor cable at the connector near the dropout - never pull the cable itself
Loosen both axle nuts with a 15mm wrench
Remove the torque arm (note its orientation - it must go back the same way)
Slide the wheel out, swap the tube, and reverse the process
Make sure the torque arm is correctly seated before you torque the axle nuts to spec (~35 Nm)
When to call us instead
If you're unsure about the motor cable, the torque arm, or you've had repeat flats, book a mobile visit. We carry tubes, tires, and tire liners for every Rad model - and we'll be in and out in under 30 minutes.