Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 1, 2, Plus and RadExpand 5: error 30 or all assist lights flashing

Your RadRunner shows error 30, every pedal assist light flashes at once, or the bike won't power on at all. Rad's RadRunner and RadExpand connector check guide calls error 30 a communication error and says a connector that has worked loose can cause all of these. The guide is written on a RadRunner 1, and Rad says the steps are similar on the RadRunner 2, RadRunner Plus and RadExpand 5. The short answer: a loose, wet or dirty connector is the usual cause, and you can check every one yourself with simple tools.

Most likely cause

The display and controller talk over a data line that runs through several connectors. Vibration can loosen one, and water or grit can break the contact. When the conversation stops, the bike shows error 30 or flashes all the assist lights. Rad's guide works through each connector in turn because any one of them can be the culprit.

Other causes to rule out

• Damaged battery terminals on the mounting tray. Rad says to inspect only and contact support right away if they look damaged. (Rad)
• A damaged cable or a faulty controller. Rad's color display table lists these as other causes of error 30 on its newer bikes, and the same logic applies here. (Rad code table)

How to confirm

Rad's order, in short. Before each connector: power off, turn the battery off and remove it, and press the power button to drain leftover power. After each one: reinstall the battery, power on and test. If the error stays, move to the next.

1. Inspect the battery terminal contacts on the mounting tray. Look only.
2. Display connector, the silver metal one under the front cable cover.
3. Both brake lever connectors.
4. Throttle connector at the front.
5. Headlight connector at the front.
6. Motor connector on the left chain stay.
7. Taillight connector at the rear.
8. Battery connector behind the skid plate. Rad says to remove the skid plate bolts and to tighten them to 5 Nm when you put it back.
9. Pedal assist sensor connector below the battery area.
10. Second taillight connector, the same size as the PAS connector.
11. Wiring harness connector inside the down tube, reached through the lower cable opening in front of the bottom bracket. Rad warns it can slip inside the frame and describes a string method to fish it back.

At each one, pull straight apart without twisting, look inside for moisture, debris or damage, then line up the notch, pins and arrows and press straight together. Photograph anything that looks wrong.

On the RadExpand 5, Rad notes the controller sits on the seat tube with its connectors underneath.

Fix options

Reseat the connectors (easy)

Most error 30 cases clear here. You'll need flat side cutters, a 4 mm hex key, an 8 mm wrench, a camera and about seven new zip ties, per Rad's tool list.

Replace a damaged cable or component (moderate, with Rad support)

If a connector is wet, corroded or damaged, or the code clears only with one part unplugged, that part may need replacing. Send Rad support your photos so they can identify the right part. Rad's RadRunner 2 parts page lists items like the taillight, headlight and brake lever, but not every electrical part.

Controller diagnosis (pro)

If every connector checks out and error 30 remains, the controller or display may be at fault. Let Rad support or a shop diagnose it.

Parts

• Zip ties
• Replacement cable, light, brake lever or display, only as Rad support directs

Videos

When to get a pro

Stop and get help if you find moisture or damage in a connector, damaged battery terminals, or if error 30 survives a full connector check. See inspect and clean connectors, display blank or flickering and Rad Power Bikes troubleshooting.

Sources

• RadRunner and RadExpand connector check guide, support.radpowerbikes.com
• Rad code table, support.radpowerbikes.com
• RadRunner 2 parts page, radpowerbikes.com
• RadRunner and RadRunner 2 Assembly | Rad Power Bikes, youtube.com

Stuck after these checks? Find a shop near you.