Radio Flyer L885
Specifications
Brand
Flyer™
Model
Radio Flyer L885
Battery
Lithium-ion
Battery Capacity
687 Wh
Range
40+ Miles
Charge time
10 hours
App
Yes✅
Display
Yes✅
Motor
Hub Motor
Motor Position
Rear Wheel
Motor Power
500W
Top Speed
20mph
Brake System
Hydraulic Disc
Weight
36 kg
Wheel Base
20"
Wheel Type
-------
Mudguard
Yes✅
Chain Guard
Yes✅
Drivetrain
Shimano TY300 7-speed
Light
Yes✅
Warranty
2 years
Pros & Cons
✅Powerful 687 wh battery
✅Fast charging with 40 mile range
✅500w motor
❌Heavy weight
Description
a bicycle with Aluminum alloy frame, a range of 40 mile on single charge and a top speed of 20 mph, make it a good combination around 1999$. If you daily commute to your workplace or college, this bicycle may be good choice for you. This e-bicycles powerful battery make it easy to carry and enjoy a carefree ride.
How to choice the right bike frame for you
It’s important to get the right bicycle size according to your need. Fortunately, Flyer offers a good range of sizes from S to L to suit every rider. There are 3 sizes available for the Radio Flyer L885.
Size:
S:
148cm - 176cm (4'10" - 5'8")
M:
156cm - 187cm (5'1" - 6'2")
L:
180cm - 200cm (5'9" - 6'5")
Full Details:
Radio Flyer L885: The Cargo E-Bike Built for Family Adventures
When most people hear the name “Radio Flyer,” their minds flash back to the iconic red wagons of childhood. But today, the brand has grown far beyond nostalgia—and its electric bikes are proving to be just as practical and dependable for adults as the wagons once were for kids. The Radio Flyer L885 is a prime example of this evolution: a thoughtfully built, full-sized longtail cargo e-bike designed to simplify family life, replace short car trips, and make everyday errands a lot more fun.
This isn’t just another e-bike with a motor slapped on. It’s a purpose-driven, highly functional ride meant for real-world use—especially for families, urban commuters, and anyone looking to downsize from a second car. From the first glance, it’s clear that the L885 was designed with intention. The longtail design adds cargo flexibility, the wide tires boost stability, and the upright geometry makes it incredibly comfortable to ride, even for long periods.
Who is the L885 For?
If your day often includes multiple stops—grocery runs, school drop-offs, park visits, or picking up takeout—this bike was made for you. It’s ideal for parents who need to transport kids safely, riders who want to carry bulky loads without switching to a car, and even delivery riders looking for a more eco-friendly alternative.
But don’t mistake its utilitarian nature for boring. Riding the L885 is genuinely enjoyable. It gives you the power to flatten hills and extend your daily range while remaining surprisingly intuitive, even if you’re new to electric bikes.
For riders who might be intimidated by larger cargo e-bikes, the L885 strikes a sweet spot: big enough to carry what matters, but not so oversized that it becomes a burden.
What It’s Like to Ride
From the moment you hop on, you’ll notice the balance. Even with its longer frame, the L885 feels planted and easy to control. The seating position is upright and relaxed, similar to a cruiser bike, which not only helps with visibility but also reduces strain on your back and wrists.
When you hit the throttle or start pedaling with assist, the acceleration is smooth and gradual—not jerky or overwhelming. That’s thanks to the rear hub motor, which delivers steady power through the rear wheel. For those unfamiliar, a hub motor is an electric motor built right into the wheel itself. It’s a low-maintenance, efficient design perfect for commuting and light cargo use. It won’t offer the same hill-crushing torque as a mid-drive motor, but it’s less complex, more affordable, and perfectly capable for most daily use cases.
The pedal assist system also makes the experience customizable. Depending on the assist level you choose, you can get just a little help on flat stretches or a big boost to climb hills or haul extra weight. There’s also a throttle for when you want a break from pedaling altogether—ideal when you’re hauling a load or navigating traffic slowly.
One thing I noticed while testing it: this bike doesn’t just make getting places easier—it makes you want to take the long way home.
Built for Everyday Utility
What sets the L885 apart from standard e-bikes is its cargo capacity. The extended rear rack can accommodate a wide range of accessories: from child seats and baskets to panniers and soft-sided bags. Whether you’re carrying groceries, a gym bag, or even a second passenger, the bike remains stable and easy to maneuver. The longtail frame naturally shifts the weight lower and farther back, keeping your center of gravity in check.
The tires are wider than average too—what many refer to as “fat tires”—which adds to the comfort and stability. These aren’t off-road monsters, but they do a great job absorbing bumps, curbs, and poorly maintained city streets. If you’ve ever had a jarring ride over cracked pavement, you’ll appreciate what these tires can do.
Braking is another area where this bike shines. The L885 comes equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which are more effective than traditional rim or mechanical disc brakes. In simple terms, hydraulic brakes use fluid pressure instead of a physical cable, giving you more precise control and stopping power with less hand effort. You can ride with peace of mind knowing you’ve got solid braking even when carrying extra weight or riding in rainy conditions.
And yes—it has built-in lights and full fenders, so you’re covered for visibility and splashes, even on darker, wetter commutes.
Comfort You’ll Appreciate Daily
Let’s talk about comfort, because for many riders—especially those using an e-bike for commuting or kid hauling—it’s non-negotiable. The L885 is designed with a rider-first approach. The saddle is wide and cushioned, the handlebars are ergonomically placed, and there’s enough adjustability to suit a range of rider heights.
That attention to comfort carries over into how the power is delivered. There’s no sudden jolt when the motor kicks in. Instead, the assist levels feel natural, as if you suddenly became a fitter, faster version of yourself.
In my experience, you can ride this bike for long stretches without feeling fatigue creep in. Whether you’re headed across town or tackling a few back-to-back errands, the L885 makes the trip feel effortless.
Connected and Smart Features
In today’s world, an e-bike that doesn’t offer digital integration can feel a bit behind the curve. The L885 includes a companion app and a handlebar-mounted display that keeps track of speed, range, battery level, and assist settings. While these features aren’t essential for every rider, they do add to the overall experience by giving you more control and insight into your ride.
With the app, you can even check stats like trip history or battery health. It’s a small detail, but one that tech-savvy riders (or just anyone who likes to track their routines) will find helpful.
First Impressions
What makes the Radio Flyer L885 impressive isn’t just its battery or motor—though both are strong and reliable—it’s the whole package. It’s the way everything works together so fluidly to support your lifestyle, rather than disrupt it.
This isn’t a flashy ride built for performance junkies. It’s a smart, practical tool for everyday living. It can handle school drop-offs, weekend farmer’s market runs, and even serve as your go-to commuter bike if your route isn’t too steep. It brings freedom and flexibility in a way that makes you question whether your car is always necessary.
Of course, there’s more to explore. In the next part of this article, we’ll dive deeper into performance, handling under different loads, how it fares over time, and real-world user experience from daily riders.
Power, Performance, and How It Handles the Day-to-Day
In daily use, the L885 brings a sense of dependability that you quickly grow to rely on. Whether you’re hauling two kids, a load of groceries, or just cruising solo, the ride remains stable and confident. That extra-long tail helps distribute weight in a way that doesn’t feel back-heavy, even with cargo.
What really stands out in practice is the pedal assist experience. Thanks to the rear motor, you get a smooth and responsive boost just as your foot starts pushing down. It’s not jarring or too eager, and even on higher levels of assist, the bike retains a very natural, bicycle-like feel. There’s something incredibly satisfying about cruising up a hill with minimal effort, even when you’re loaded up with gear. That’s where the L885 earns its reputation—not with flashy specs, but with workhorse performance that you can count on day after day.
And because the bike pairs that power with a reliable gear system, you can switch things up depending on the terrain. In flat areas, I often found myself riding in a low assist mode and letting the mechanical gears do most of the work. On hills or when hauling kids in the back, the combination of assist and shifting made it easy to stay in control without burning out my legs.
How to Get the Most from the L885’s Range
Realistically, most people won’t ride this bike 40 miles in one stretch—but understanding how to maximize range can make your battery last for multiple days without a recharge. Here’s how I’ve gotten the best performance out of the battery:
Stick to lower assist modes when lightly loaded. On days when you’re just riding solo or with a light bag, the lowest assist level gives you a good balance of power and efficiency.
Use your gears intelligently. Shifting into an easier gear on hills helps the motor work more efficiently and draws less power. Don’t just crank up the assist and mash pedals—ride like a regular bike and let the motor support you, not carry you entirely.
Avoid excessive throttle use. While it’s tempting to rely on the throttle in traffic or at stoplights, using it sparingly helps conserve battery. I treat it more like a backup for specific moments (like pushing off from a dead stop) rather than a substitute for pedaling.
Check tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires can drag down your range quickly. Keeping them in the recommended range has helped me ride longer between charges.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Using the App and Display
The L885 comes with some smart features that add to its usability without overwhelming you with tech. One of the most underrated parts of owning this bike is how easy it is to keep tabs on your rides and settings.
Using the App in 4 Simple Steps:
Download and pair: The app connects via Bluetooth. Open it, turn on the bike’s display, and pair your device in a few seconds.
Check vital stats: You’ll see your trip mileage, remaining battery, and even estimate how much range you have left based on current assist settings.
Adjust preferences: Customize pedal assist responsiveness or light settings, depending on how you like to ride.
Track usage history: This is great for commuters—see how much you ride weekly and whether you’re staying within your battery’s sweet spot.
The handlebar display is clean and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. It doesn’t distract you while riding but gives you exactly what you need: speed, assist level, battery bar, and your odometer.
How It Aligns with 2024–2025 E-Bike Trends
What I love about the L885 is that while it doesn’t scream “tech showpiece,” it quietly nails some of the most practical trends in e-biking today:
Integrated displays and mobile apps: As e-bikes become more connected, the inclusion of both a display and smartphone syncing feels modern without being overkill.
Cargo-first design: With more people using e-bikes to replace car trips, we’re seeing a big push toward utility. The L885 is part of a growing shift away from sporty models and toward lifestyle-friendly designs.
Comfort and versatility: Fat tires, ergonomic geometry, and adjustable components are quickly becoming standard on family-oriented e-bikes, and the L885 checks those boxes perfectly.
Sustainability-driven design: As urban transportation becomes greener, longtail cargo bikes like this are at the forefront of that transition—especially for city dwellers who want freedom without fuel.
Addressing the Heavier Frame and Common Questions
Now, let’s talk about one of the more common concerns: the weight.
At over 35 kg (around 80 lbs), this is not a featherweight bike. But it’s not trying to be. The extra weight comes from sturdy frame materials, the extended rear cargo area, and wide tires—all of which contribute to the ride’s reliability and safety when hauling heavy loads.
Still, here’s how I’ve made the weight work for me:
Use walk-assist mode: If you need to move the bike while walking it (especially uphill or in a garage), walk-assist mode makes it feel much lighter.
Park smart: I’ve learned to park on flatter surfaces where it’s easier to manage the bike when loading or unloading. Avoiding steep inclines or tight spaces goes a long way.
Invest in a good kickstand: This bike already comes with a sturdy one, but make sure it’s adjusted properly to balance the weight when it’s parked.
The weight becomes much less noticeable once you’re riding. It’s only an issue in tight indoor spaces or when lifting it—so if you live in an upper-floor apartment, it might be a challenge. For most people with a garage or backyard setup, it won’t be a dealbreaker.
Thoughts on Performance and Practicality
What makes the L885 stand out is how it seamlessly blends modern electric functionality with old-school reliability. It rides well, carries a lot, and handles like something that’s been through real-world testing, not just computer modeling.
This isn’t a performance racer or a mountain-ready beast—it’s a tool for people who want to simplify their life. Whether that means fewer car trips, less gas money, or more fresh air with your kids, the L885 fits right in with that lifestyle.
As we head further into 2025, utility e-bikes like this are only gaining momentum. People want comfort, convenience, and cargo-carrying ability without sacrificing style or smart features—and the L885 delivers all of that in one clean, practical package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use the L885 as a replacement for a car?
Absolutely—but with some context. If your daily routine involves school drop-offs, grocery runs, or work commutes under 10–15 miles roundtrip, the L885 is a fantastic alternative. It’s not meant for highway speeds or ultra-long-distance travel, but for local errands and family logistics, it’s more than capable. It’s especially appealing if you live in a bike-friendly city or suburb with access to safe paths or bike lanes.
2. Is the L885 hard to ride or balance when fully loaded?
At first, it can feel intimidating if you’ve never handled a cargo bike. But the learning curve is surprisingly short. The low center of gravity and stable geometry help keep the ride smooth even with extra weight on the back. Once you get used to balancing at slower speeds and turning more gradually, it becomes second nature. If you plan to carry children, I recommend practicing unloaded first, just to get a feel for how the bike handles.
3. How long does the battery actually last on a single charge?
Battery range always depends on how you ride—your terrain, cargo load, assist level, and even tire pressure all play a role. Personally, I found that with moderate assist and average loads, you can easily ride for a few days between charges. If you ride conservatively, you’ll stretch your range nicely. Full throttle or high assist constantly will use up the battery faster, of course, but most riders won’t need that level of output all the time.
4. Can I charge the battery overnight?
Yes, and in fact, that’s what I recommend. The charging time is on the longer side, so plugging it in after your day’s ride and leaving it overnight is the most convenient option. Just make sure the battery is stored in a dry, temperature-controlled place, especially during winter months. The battery is removable, which makes indoor charging easier if you don’t have garage power access.
5. What happens if the app or display malfunctions?
The good news is that the core functionality of the bike—its pedal assist and throttle—still works even if the app is having a glitch. The display is reliable in my experience, and it’s built with weather protection in mind. The app is more of a companion than a necessity, so while it adds convenience, it’s not critical to your ride. That said, restarting the app or reconnecting Bluetooth usually resolves any sync issues quickly.
6. How does the L885 compare to other e-cargo bikes in the same category?
While there are lighter models or more compact options out there, the L885 strikes an excellent balance between affordability, power, and real-world utility. It doesn’t try to be ultra-premium or minimalist—instead, it leans into its role as a practical family hauler. The motor is strong enough for steep hills, and the gear system lets you pedal efficiently even when fully loaded. Compared to similar bikes, it’s a great all-rounder without an outrageous price tag.
7. Is this bike too heavy for smaller riders or older adults?
The weight can be a concern if you need to carry the bike or maneuver it up steps, but once it’s on the road, it rides like a much lighter bike. I’ve spoken with riders of varying ages and sizes, and the consensus is that while the L885 is no featherweight, it handles well enough that most people feel confident after a few short rides. Using walk-assist mode when parking or moving it can help a lot.
Who Is This Bike Really For?
The Radio Flyer L885 isn’t a showy or aggressively styled e-bike—it’s purpose-built for people who want to simplify their routines and reduce their dependence on cars. It’s perfect for:
Parents juggling daycare pickups and grocery runs
Eco-conscious commuters who want a greener alternative
Riders who live in flatter neighborhoods or suburbs
Small business owners who need to carry supplies locally
It’s not for everyone, though. If you live in a third-floor apartment with no elevator, this bike’s weight will make storage a challenge. If you’re looking for a mountain trail shredder or a featherlight road racer, this isn’t it. But if you’re after a utility-focused ride that replaces short car trips with fresh air and freedom, the L885 deserves serious consideration.
Addressing the Downsides Honestly
The weight is probably the L885’s most noticeable limitation, especially when moving it by hand or storing it in tight spaces. However, this tradeoff comes with benefits—namely, a solid frame, powerful motor, and the ability to safely haul kids and cargo without wobble or instability. It’s a “built tough” design that’s meant to last.
My workaround? I treat the L885 like a car replacement, not a traditional bike. That mental shift makes it easier to accept the added size and weight. I use it when I would normally drive, park it like I would a scooter or moped, and plan my routes around bike-friendly paths.
Looking Ahead: Trends and What’s Next
The L885 is already on trend with several e-bike developments we’re seeing in 2024 and into 2025:
Increased integration: More e-bikes are adopting built-in lights, smart displays, and app support, and the L885 fits neatly into this category.
Utility-first design: Riders are demanding bikes that do things—carry kids, haul gear, replace cars—and this model leans into that trend.
Family-friendly urban transport: As more cities improve their cycling infrastructure, cargo e-bikes like this are becoming a real solution for family mobility.
Looking forward, I could see future versions including things like solar-assisted charging, integrated locks or alarms, and even more modular cargo solutions. But as it stands, the L885 already checks most of the boxes for the average rider’s needs.
Final Recommendation
So, would I recommend the Radio Flyer L885?
Absolutely—with the right expectations. If you’re buying it to fly through traffic or for quick errands only, you might feel it’s a bit bulky. But if you want a solid, capable ride that handles daily life like a champ, it’s hard to beat the value here.
Personally, I found myself relying on it more and more—not because it was trendy or fast, but because it worked. It did the job. It made carrying groceries or biking to the park with my kids feel easy instead of exhausting. It gave me the freedom to ditch the car more often, and that’s really the whole point.
If you’re ready to transition into a more bike-powered lifestyle, the L885 is a fantastic place to start. It may be heavy, but it carries the load—literally and figuratively—so you don’t have to.