The Render from Bonn-based mail-order company Radon has long been a hot tip when it comes to e-mountainbikes in the price-performance league. And for a long time, the all-mountain bike was only available with a carbon frame! In 2023, Radon added the aluminium model and has now permanently reduced the price. From originally 3999 to just 3199 euros. The Render therefore costs less than most bikes of our last big hardtail comparison test!
The technology in the bike is anything but cheap. In particular, the Bosch motor system with Performance Line CX, Kiox display and large 750 battery is really high-quality and delivers a massive range. This has never been seen before in this price range. The rest of the equipment has to be a little more economical, but is for the most part sensibly chosen. The Magura MT5 with large discs and ergonomic levers delivers braking power at a high level, while the Maxxis tyre combination ensures grip in all situations.
The SX-Eagle twelve-speed drivetrain from Sram is less glamorous, but fundamentally functional. The short dropper post, the high weight and, in particular, the simple steel suspension fork show the price pressure. Nevertheless, with by far the best range and the best quality and most powerful motor in our test of e-mountainbikes under 4000 euros, this is a strong package.
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This is where Radon invests the biggest chunk: Bosch's Performance CX offers plenty of power and first-class modulation. With a 750 watt battery, the range of the Bosch system is only eclipsed by a few bikes with 900 watt hours. The Radon climbs a good 1900 metres in altitude in our standardised range test.
In addition to the app-compatible LED remote, the bike is also equipped with the Kiox 300 colour display. This shows extensive riding data from the speedometer functions to the rider's own power output and cadence and even has a basic navigation function. An absolute rarity in this price range.
The large battery is folded forwards out of the down tube in the classic Radon way and is secured against theft with a key. The rubber strap that holds the battery cover seems a bit windy, but in four years of testing the Radon Render, it has never caused us any problems. The charging port above the motor and the brake disc magnet at the rear are classic solutions that we are already familiar with from many other e-mountainbikes.
The Radon Render was presented for the first time in 2020. The age of the Radon's construction is most noticeable in its geometry. The seat angle is too slack by modern standards and the front is rather low. This gives you a very sporty, stretched-out position on the Render. The 160 mm fork results in a slack steering angle which, in combination with long chainstays, ensures a long wheelbase. This makes for a smooth ride downhill, but comes at the expense of playful handling.
With the low front end and slack seat tube angle, you sit stretched out on the Radon. That's old-school and nobody in the test team really liked it. The brake, tele and gear levers are difficult to position so that everything is within easy reach, which results in deductions in the B grade. The powerful Bosch motor, on the other hand, is a favourite and outperforms the competition. In combination with the long chainstays, this gives the Radon confidence on steep climbs. However, the somewhat rear-heavy riding position and tippy steering make it harder to control when it comes to bends and tight corners.
Downhill, the long and heavy bike feels bulky and can hardly be pulled onto the rear wheel or ridden playfully. Points are awarded for the tyres and brakes. Our main criticism: the Rockshox 35 Silver steel suspension fork. It can only be adjusted to different rider weights with new springs. This is likely to be too much for most customers. Although the fork responds sensitively, it quickly rushes through its travel. There is no defined damping. A lot of spring movement means that even at moderate speeds the ride becomes unstable. The short telescopic stabiliser also dampens the feeling of safety. It is therefore better to apply the powerful brakes a little earlier on the Radon. Too bad: The Render rattled noticeably on the downhills.
An E-MTB Fully under 4000 euros was unthinkable for a long time. And then with a Smart system and 750 battery! Radon has really stepped up its game here. Not a highlight off-road, but the criticism of the geometry and weak fork is put into perspective when you look at the price tag. - Adrian Kaether, EMTB editor

Editor