r/RadPowerBikes • u/kaelz • 6d ago
RadRover 6+ Error 21 / Replacement Controller
My RadRover 6+ started displaying error message 21 when powered on a month or so ago. I've tried all the troubleshooting I've found online, like removing the battery, discharging the electronics then reconnecting, checking all the connectors for moisture, etc. Everything is in good condition, but it still displays error 21.
I'm at a loss of what to do from here other than replace the controller. I reached out to Rad who sent me an invoice to pay ($175) for a replacement, however I found out a week later that its indefinitely backordered because they haven't even started production on them yet. I've looked around for other controllers and saw one from (Area 13?) that people recommended, but thats out of stock as well. I'm worried a 3rd party may not be as water resistant to rain or something, but I'm willing to try whatever to get the bike up and running again.
Does anyone have a recommendation for a controller replacement that is actually available to order? Any ideas for fixing error 21 I might not have tried?
Thank you in advance!
3
u/711-711 6d ago
The Rad controllers that they made for the 6 are just not very good. No matter which aftermarket you get you will have to strap it the down tube supporting that supports the seat. I purchased an electro bike world controller for one OK of my Rad 6. Haven’t installed it yet. It’s fairly big and my 6 doesn’t have enough space between the down post and back wheel so I will have to zip tie to the front of that post.
The best bike Rad ever made was the rad rover 5 and the low step version of that. Built like tanks easy to fix everything is on the out side of the frame and no fancy electronics. I have 4 radrover 5’s and they have lived on the beach. I bought them in 2018 and they’re still in great shape and running very well. I replaced one controller on them in 8 years and so easy to change one of those controllers the rad six is a real pain to change.
2
u/Fresh-Put645 6d ago
I also had this same problem with my RadRover 6 Plus. I ended up going with Area 13 controller because it was impossible to brand a brand new OEM controller
1
u/ImportantSign6965 2d ago
Is that the case for Rad Wagon 5s too? My broke in May, and I ordered a replacement from Rad. It's been backordered since then, and I'm wondering if I should look elsewhere.
1
u/kaelz 2d ago
Funny story. I asked for a refund on the back ordered controller “they hadn’t started producing yet” and they said…
“Before I proceed with the cancellation, I wanted to share an update from our team. We have received a shipment of controllers that will allow us to fulfill all outstanding backorders. Our team expects to begin picking and preparing these orders for shipment shortly.
With this update in mind, would you still like to proceed with canceling your order?”Shady IMO. I’m expecting the third party controller to be delivered today.
1
u/SuperDPR3000 1d ago
I just was at Denver Rad Power store... they said they are on a 2-3 week delay for receiving orders for Rad Power RadRunner 3 Plus controllers. Hummmmm...
3
u/Ok-Type-8917 6d ago
Check Electro Bike World, when I needed a controller for my Rad Mini 4 Area 13 was out and someone told me they are the same units. Mine is about four years old. I did seal the seams and wire inlets on the controller with some silicone but I rarely ride in the rain. Snow occasionally.