22 Aventon Sinch Step-Through Review
What is going on, awesome peeps and welcome back to another episode of Electrified Reviews! Today we’re reviewing the Sinch Step-Thru folding electric bike from Aventon. This is without a doubt one of the sleekest looking folding e-bikes we’ve seen to date, and it’s also one of the most comfortable to ride, thanks in large part to those super sweet, super fat 4 inch wide road tires. It feels more like riding a moped than a bicycle.
Video Review
Written Review
What is going on, awesome peeps and welcome back to another episode of Electrified Reviews! Today we’re reviewing the Sinch Step-Thru folding electric bike from Aventon. This is without a doubt one of the sleekest looking folding e-bikes we’ve seen to date, and it’s also one of the most comfortable to ride, thanks in large part to those super sweet, super fat 4 inch wide road tires. It feels more like riding a moped than a bicycle.
Aventon is an e-bike company we’ve grown fond of over the years. After reviewing the Pace 500, Soltera, Aventure and Sinch step-over, we’re more confident than usual when we say, this brand knows what they’re doing.
The Sinch Step-Through comes in two colors, Moss Green, which we’re reviewing here today, and Bonfire Red, and has a starting price of 1,799 USD. It also comes with a 1-year warranty and free shipping to the contiguous United States.
Right, let’s dive into the specs.
Powering this portable little folder is a 500 watt hub motor in the rear wheel. This motor will bring the Sinch Step-Through up to a top speed of 20 mph via the thumb throttle or cadence sensing pedal assist, which makes this ride a class 2 electric bike out of the box — perfect for riding in strictly regulated areas. But, if you’ve got private property or just live somewhere where the e-bike police are chill, you can crank up the top speed to around 24 mph in the settings. Nice.
The Sinch Step-Through’s motor is powerful enough to ride the bike like a moped using just the throttle, and also climb some modest hills, but it’s not so powerful that it’ll gulp up the battery. 500 watts is right in the Goldilocks zone.
When it comes to electron juice, aka batteries, the Sinch Step-Through is rockin’ a 48 volt, 14 amp hour locking removable battery that’s expertly fitted into the main tube. Aventon estimates the max range for this battery is 54 miles when using pedal assist level 1. Now, at this point in the review we normally break down the reality between max range estimates and real world max ranges, but it appears Aventon has done our work for us.
They’ve already done their own real world range testing and here’s how it breaks down.
When using pedal assist level 1, which tops out at 10 mph, you’ll get around 54 miles per charge.
When using pedal assist level 2, which tops out at 13 mph, you’ll get around 52 miles per charge.
Level 3 will get you 15 mph and 38 miles.
Level 4 will get you 17 mph and 33 miles.
Level 5 will get you 20 mph and 25 miles.
Using throttle-only without pedaling will get you 30 miles per charge… which seems to indicate that Aventon wasn’t going max speed the whole time during that test. It’s also worth noting here that Aventon’s real world range tests were calculated using a rider weight of 165 pound and on flat terrain. So there’s still going to be some wiggle room with this, especially when you factor in variables like wind, hills, tire pressure, cargo, and all that good stuff.
But! And this is a big but, we think this is a fair real world estimate. At Electrified Reviews we generally cut max estimated ranges in half, and it looks like Aventon did the same thing. 10 points.
The Sinch Step-Through is a chonky little folder with a curb weight of nearly 68 pounds. But with that higher-than-average curb weight comes a higher-than-average payload capacity of 300 pounds. This is perfect for those planning on loading the optional rear rack up with extra cargo.
Despite the heft, the Sinch Step-Through rides like a Caddy. It’s a decently soft ride with the front RST Guide suspension, which have 45 mm of travel, and cornering with this folder feels a little like leaning a motorcycle around turns. It’s not that dramatic of course, but the 20 inch by 4 inch Chao Yang street tires have, just, such a unique feel to them. And, I’ve got to say, the gum sidewalls on these tires are sweet. They really add to the overall vibe of this e-bike, and as a bonus, they also add some extra suspension quality. But for those of you who want an even cushier ride, we recommend a seat post suspension. Those things work wonders.
Now, if you want to take the Sinch Step-Through on some gentle trails, that’s fine, the frame can handle it, but steer clear of extreme single-track riding. The folding mechanisms on the Sinch Step-Through are beefy, but let’s not test the limits of their structural integrity.
One of my favorite things about the frame on the Sinch Step-Through is that it allows for internally routed wires. This is a hard feat to achieve with folding e-bikes, which is why most folders have externally routed wires. This leaves the Sinch Step-Through looking clean and tidy.
In the back of the Sinch Step-Through we’ve got a 7-speed cassette and a Shimano Acera derailleur, which is a huge step up from the entry-level Tourney, and on the handlebars we’ve got trigger shifters instead of the often used Shimano SIS Index thumb shifter. Another huge upgrade point.
To bring the Sinch Step-Through to a stop we’ve got mechanical disc brakes with 180 mm rotors in the front and rear wheels. These brakes have good stopping power and are easy to maintain over time. They’ve also got motor inhibitor built in to the brake levers so whenever you hit the brakes, the motor instantly shuts off. This is a huge safety feature and means you’ll never be fighting against 500 watts of power when you have to stop in an emergency situation. Cool beans.
The display on the Sinch Step-Through is aces. It’s bright, it’s easy to read in direct sunlight, and it’s got tons of cool information beyond just the usual speed, battery level, range and all that. It also will tell you how many pounds of CO2 you’ve reduced from riding electric, how many trees you’ve saved, and how many calories you’ve burned.
The display is controlled by the independent button pad on the left side of the handlebars, which is also where the throttle sits, but you can also use the Aventon mobile app to control the display settings. The app has some additional features in there as well like a native social sharing platform and goal setting. Pretty groovy stuff.
Overall, the Sinch Step-Through is a winner any way you look at it. The specs are impressive, but so is the fit and finish. It’s a great pavement pounder and light trail rider that you can fold down and throw in the trunk of your car. It’s got good power and good range, more than anything it’s a blast to ride.
Aventon Sinch Step-through
Folding E-bike. Call before ordering to ensure the model and size is in stock.
Aventon didn’t call this ebike the Sinch for no reason. Foldable, portable, storable, powerful, comfortable, and ready for anything, the Sinch folding electric bike lives up to the definition of “doing it with ease”. Your Sinch compact electric bike will fit in your closet and under your desk, meaning it’s almost infinitely portable! Making this electric bike foldable means that it’ll even fit in the trunk of your car or easily into your RV so you can take it anywhere with you. With 4″ fat tires and a front suspension fork this ebike is ready to both cruise the pavements and conquer the trails!
The powerful motor and stealthily integrated battery mean that you’ll never be short of power, and 5 levels of pedal assist and a no-nonsense, no-need-to-pedal throttle mean that you can go as hard or as light as you want. Cruise around town or through the park on this and you’re sure be turning heads!
Backlit LCD Display
Keep track of your speed, pedal assist level, how far you’ve gone, and how far you’ve got left to go with this perfectly placed LCD screen. Located on the handlebars of your folding e bike this easily viewable, backlit LCD means you can go anywhere with high levels of confidence.
Foldable
Take your ebike anywhere, without the need for a bike rack. The Sinch electric folding bike will fold up and fit in your trunk, in your closet, and even under your desk. Folding it up and down is a breeze with two quick release clamps being all that’s needed to open and close your ride.
Front Suspension
Built to conquer the trail as well as the streets, the lockable front suspension tempers any surface you may find beneath your wheels.
Fat Tires
20″ x 4″ fat tires take you anywhere and provide excellent stability whether you be on the pavement or the trail. Trust in the tires beneath your foldable electric bicycle as you go wherever your heart takes you with confidence.
Hub Motor Battery
You never thought you’d find such a powerful motor and battery combination in a portable electric bike that fits in your trunk! The stealthy, integrated battery is designed for fast charging, whilst the powerful motor means that you can conquer almost anything!
Pedal Assist Throttle
With five levels of pedal assist, getting yourself anywhere on the Sinch folding electric bicycle can be as much of, or as easy, a workout as you want. If you need that little extra boost to get you home, or just want to enjoy the scenery, then the throttle function will take care of powering you along.
Aventon Sinch.2
Love your ride. See the Sinch.2 in action and come test ride to feel the magic.
ABOUT THIS BIKE
SINCH.2 FEATURES
Optional Upgrade
FOLDABLE
Fits where most ebikes won’t. Simply fold it, store it, then take it out when you’re ready to ride.
FAT TIRES
4″ fat tires mean there’s no route that’s off-limits. Ride with comfort and confidence on your next adventure.
FRONT SUSPENSION
A suspension fork with up to 45mm of travel provides comfort on the road or off-the-beaten-path.
FENDERS AND REAR RACK
Front and rear fenders keep you protected from the elements, while the rear rack, offers more room to bring everything you need, wherever you want to go.
COLOR LCD DISPLAY
The full color display shows you everything you need, including speed, distance traveled, pedal assist level, and much more.
THROTTLE AND PEDAL ASSIST
Throttle on demand and four levels of pedal assist will maximize your efforts and minimize the amount of energy you use with a top speed of 20mph.
LIGHTS TURN SIGNALS
See and be seen with the integrated front and rear lights, with all-new turn signal functionality.
SUPERIOR BUILD QUALITY
Our professional team of mechanics will build and maintain your bike for years to come giving you ultimate peace of mind. Plus, come visit the shop anytime in the first 6 months and it’s free, included with your 295 build fee.
the new wheel advantage
SERVICE AND SUPPORT
We are dedicated to support you and your Aventon Sinch.2 for years to come with exceptional service. Our job is to keep you on the road and we hold that responsibility close to our heart.
Your new electric bike comes standard with 6 months of complimentary service. To help ensure that your bicycle works great over its lifetime, we’ll include a useful service schedule and can even send you handy reminder emails.
At The New Wheel our commitment to service is paramount. Throughout the lifetime of your bike, beginning with our exacting build and tune, we work to ensure that your bike performs reliably and enjoyably.
Bikes purchased at The New Wheel are eligible for our unique Service Plans. You get unlimited tune-ups, 24/7 nationwide roadside assistance, and an annual comprehensive service so your bike always rides like new.
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The team at New Wheel is awesome from sales to service. everyone is there to meet your needs while doing it with a smile, kindness and respect. They know my name, greet me and it feels like I’m visiting a good friend.
Props to The New Wheel for ensuring this team of remarkable individuals is supported in ways which foster a ‘relationship-based’ environment while empowering all to provide such wicked-great service.
The best ebike shop in the city hands down. The staff is friendly, supportive but never pushy. Make sure to book an appointment online and give yourself lots of time to test ride.
Everyone I interact with, whether it’s on the phone, in email or in person, is friendly, responsive, dedicated and highly knowledgeable. This is not your average ebike shop. This is the BEST ebike shop.
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Sinch Foldable eBike
We didn’t call this ebike the Sinch for no reason. Foldable, portable, storable, powerful, comfortable, and ready for anything, the Sinch folding electric bike lives up to the definition of “doing it with ease”. Your Sinch compact electric bike will fit in your closet and under your desk, meaning it’s almost infinitely portable! Making this electric bike foldable means that it’ll even fit in the trunk of your car or easily into your RV so you can take it anywhere with you. With 4″ fat tires and a front suspension fork this ebike is ready to both cruise the pavements and conquer the trails!
Key Features
40 Mile Range
750W Peak
Gear Accessories
Weight Capacity: Maximum Payload Capacity: 300 lbsNet Weight: 68 lbsPedal Assist: 5 Levels
Motor: 750W (peak) 500W (sustained) 48V Brushless MotorBattery: Removable Lithium-ion 48V, 14Ah (672 Wh)Charge Time: Included is a 48V 3 Amp Fast Charger, 4-5 Hour ChargingDisplay: M5 LCD Smart Easy Read Display with BacklightDrive Mode: Cadence Sensor, Speed SensorTop Speed: Up to 20 MPH on Pedal AssistRange: 40 Miles Average
Frame: 6061 Double-Butted Folding Aluminum Alloy, with Internal BatteryForks: Front suspension, 45mm travel, with lockoutBrakes: Front/Rear Mechanical Disc Brakes, 180mm rotorsTires: 20″ x 4″ with Puncture ResistanceDerailleur: 7 Speed
Read Our Reviews
This bike is amazing. Love how it handles the terrain and rides really nice. Tires went flat but put stop leak in the tubes. After that they hold air great. Would love to buy another one for my wife but a little tight on cash right now. A coupon would sure help to purchase another one!! Thanks for the great Bike. I think I sold one more to my brother too! He rode it and was very impressed.
Awesome Bike! Yellowstone tested!
We bought two and they fit into the back of our Subaru Outback with plenty of room for our two suit cases plus cooler and day bags. We took an 8 day trip to Zion and Yellowstone. We put over 150 miles on them and they were absolutely remarkable. I am 61 and felt like I was 30 again. Longest distance in a day was 25 miles and it barely decreased the battery charge level. Love these bikes and highly recommended!
Great bike, can’t go anywhere without someone stopping to ask about it. It’s my only transportation ( don’t own a ca anymore) I live on the beach in Biloxi. Ms, Great way to get around. I get 75 miles to the charge on pedal 1 assist. The only draw back is Aventon needs to stock parts, things I want to buy are out of stock, Great Bike and well built.
Enduro Ebike! It’s overbuilt and is any trail ready. This monster is so fun and functional in any application from road to trail! Also it’s made in the USA with a rich history and excellent costumer service. I get my parts in less than a week. If you get a Chinese ebike good luck on customer service and getting your parts in a timely manner. Hands down the best ebike that can go anywhere anytime!
Purchased two Sinches in May. So far they are great. We have taken them on several rides of between 25 and 38 miles and not run out of juice. The first ride was round trip 17 miles offroad with a 2000 foot elevation gain. Very powerful motor. The bikes are pretty heavy, taking out the battery helps a little. We can fit 2 folded in back of our 2014 Subaru Forester (with rear seat folded forward). I found I needed to get a longer seat post (450mm) to get full leg extension. I’m 5’11”. We installed the Aventon fenders and rear racks. Use bike nearly everyday for grocery store trips. Recently upgraded to ergonomic grips. Really helps of long rides. Tried changing the speed settings to max, but that made all PAS steps faster. So, changed it back. 20 mph is plenty fast. I wish PAS 1 had top speed of 5 mph while still retaining the 20 mph max. 5 mph would be better for parking lots and offroad trails.
They are bigger in person then they look in pictures i’m 6’3 and I don’t even have the seat and handlebars near the highest position. Highly recommend getting some lights for them for nighttime riding.
Outstanding Ebike and foldable
Two months ago I was visiting my daughter who had recently purchased an ebike from a competitor. I rode it and had never been on one. I really enjoyed the fun!! I wanted one but not as bulky as the Zugo. I began researching quality brands with an eye towards a foldable bike for easier transport.
After a lot of reasearch I settled on the Sinch. I can’t express adequately how much fun I am having with this well engineered and built bike. It has become a hobby for me at the age of 74.
Don’t hesitate to buy one of these or any Aventon bike. They are quality through and through. In addition they are reasonably priced and built with quality components. I have purchased other accessories from them all at a fair price and well made.
Age is not a barrier to such fun!
I have been researching folding E-bikes for awhile and these were the only ones that seem to fit the bill. The power is much stronger in the Sinch versus other foldable bikes; throttle on demand is amazing and I cannot imagine not having this feature, especially when taking off from grass, gravel, or sand; the bike is solid and; aesthetically pleasing, I get great Комментарии и мнения владельцев all day long. These bikes were the best thing I never knew I needed.
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The Best Electric Folding Bikes (Of 2023)
There’s an important reason why the number of folding electric bikes is on the rise on city streets—they work. A folding bike is functional as it gives you all the capabilities of a regular bicycle but makes transportation and storage a lot less of a hassle. Add a motor and a battery to it, and it becomes accessible to a lot of people out there who are looking for more efficient ways to commute.
So whether you’re interested in folding electric bicycles as a way to commute or you’re looking to save space in your home, we’ve found and reviewed the best folding electric bikes on the market.
But before that, here’s some important information on what to look out for when searching for a foldable electric bike to meet all of your needs.
Are Folding Electric Bikes Any Good?
Contrary to popular belief, folding electric bikes are fast, nimble, and practical. They can go as fast as regular bikes, squeeze through traffic jams, and they’re easy to store and transport. Plus, thanks to the motor, you can travel longer distances, without getting too tired.
Check out the list below, choose the one you like the most, and enjoy!
RadExpand 5
Winner! Best Overall Budget-Friendly Package
MSRP: 1,499 Wheels: 20″ x 4″ Features: Fenders, a kickstand, lights, 750W motor, 672Wh battery, disc brakes FULL REVIEW of Rad Power Bikes
Rad Power’s RadExpand is a versatile folding fat-tire electric bike that can conquer different types of terrain. You can use it equally well for city commutes as well as for off-road gravel and dirt detours.
It folds down quickly and in a few steps—its folded dimensions are 29″ x 25″ x 41″. However, it also comes with a 62.5 lbs. weight, so it takes some effort to carry it up a flight of stairs.
RadMini is equipped with a 750W geared rear hub motor, therefore, power will not be a problem. The range shouldn’t be either, considering the massive 48V, 14Ah (672Wh) battery. According to Rad, you can expect up to 45 miles on one charge.
RadMini is a Class 2 electric mini bike so it has both pedal-assistance and throttle. Its maximum assisted speed is limited to 20 MPH, which is more than enough for an efficient commute.
When it comes to the mechanical parts, this folding electric bike has a 7-speed MicroShift derailleur to make pedaling more efficient. This bike comes without suspension, but it shouldn’t make too much of a difference.
The package also includes fenders, a kickstand, battery-powered lights, puncture-resistant tires, and a few other perks.
Aventon Sinch ST
Second-best! Most Comfortable Folding Electric Bike
MSRP: 1,799 Wheels: 20″ Features: Powerful electric motor, Smart and simple folding design, Trigger Shifters, and small 20″ wheels. Full Review of Aventon Bikes
Aventon Sinch ST is a folding bike that offers good value for its price. You might want it for commuting or even riding with the family, whatever you need a Aventon is a great place to start. If you are short of space and looking for something small that still packs a punch, this is the bike for you.
The bike looks rugged, with its oversized tubing and reinforced cabling it isn’t going to let you down. With it’s disc brakes and front suspension it’s not just ready for the road but those trails too with those huge 4″ oversized tires.
Aventon Sinch is one of the best value for money folding bikes currently on the market and with all its accessories well worth a look into.
Aventon built the Sinch ST around a durable 6061 aluminum frame and also equipped it with a 7-speed drivetrain, powerful disc brakes, a powerful motor, and a kickstand.
Aventon Sinch has a top speed of 20mph, on a 500W motor, and it has a range of about 40 miles depending on how you ride it. If you are looking for a bike to take you anywhere with ease the Sinch ST is for you.
Engwe EP-2 Pro
Third Place! Folding E-Bike with Longest Range
MSRP: 1,400 Wheels: 20″ x 4″ Features: Fenders, a kickstand, lights, 750W motor, 615Wh battery, disc brakes, front suspension
Engwe EP-2 Pro is a solid choice both for urban commuters and off-roading enthusiasts.
This folding electric bike comes with 20 x 4″ wheels and tires that don’t provide the most stability on trails, but definitely don’t lack grip due to their width. Therefore, they’re best suited for bumpy city streets, but you can also take them onto light trails, gravel, and dirt roads.
We gave Engwe EP-2 Pro the podium place because it packs decent components in a good-looking package that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
When it comes to electronics, Engwe equipped EP-2 Pro with a 750W rear hub motor and a respectable 615 Wh battery. This setup translates to a 28 MPH top speed and a 50 mile maximum range. Ride it in one of the five PAS levels or use the throttle to get maximum power straight away.
What we also liked when reviewing this bike is all the accessories. You’ll get fenders, front and rear lights, a kickstand, and even a rear rack. That’s all you need to commute every day, no matter the time and weather conditions.
Folding the bike is easy as well, you just need to fold the frame in half and collapse the handlebars, which doesn’t take more than 20 seconds. After that, you can store or transport EP-2 Pro without any issues.
Aventon Sinch
Affordable Fat-Tire Foldable E-Bike with Suspension
MSRP: 1,499 Wheels: 20″ x 4″ Features: Wide tires, easy folding mechanism, disc brakes, powerful motor, wide and thin display, suspension
Aventon Sinch is one of the most affordable choices on our list. But don’t let that fool you, this folding e-bike hides some nice surprises that you’ll like when you take it for a ride.
Aventon Sinch is propelled by a 500W rear hub motor that’s powered by a huge 672Wh battery. You can control these electronics with a big backlit LCD display that resembles a smartphone in design and size.
This is a Class 2 e-bike with pedal-assistance, throttle, and a 20 MPH maximum assisted speed. It combines 4″ tires with a suspension fork to let you make off-road detours without second thoughts.
You also get a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes, so Sinch is ready to ride up steep hills and descend even steeper hills.
This bike offers five levels of assist, plus a throttle. If you use them smartly, you can get up to 40 miles of range out of the battery.
Though Aventon Sinch folds quickly and completely, the folded dimensions are not super compact because of the wide 4″ wheels—41″ L / 23″ W / 31″ H. Plus, the bike is not ultra-light at 68 lbs.
However, if you’re fine with the higher weight and larger dimensions, Sinch will save you money and do all the things more expensive folding e-bikes do.
Lectric XP 3.0
MSRP: 1,099 Wheels: 20″ Features: Rear hub motor, 460 Wh battery, fenders, mechanical disc brakes, lights, aluminum frame
Lectric XP 3.0 is one of the most popular entry-level folding electric bikes out there. It delivers good value for the money, has powerful electronics, and looks really good as well.
As a Class 3 foldable e-bike, XP 3.0 offers pedal assistance with a rear hub 500W motor and a 460Wh battery. The maximum assisted speed is 28 MPH and the expected range is up to 45 miles. This is enough power and enough range for everyday commutes and urban outings.
Lectric XP 3.0 is a folding electric bicycle that’s ideal for commuting year-round. It has fenders, lights, a rear rack, and mechanical disc brakes, so you can ride it day and night, come rain or shine.
The XP 3.0 is also equipped with a 1×7 Shimano drivetrain that provides quick and precise gear shifting, which will make riding uphill even easier for you.
This folding e-bike rolls on 20″ wheels and 3″ tires that are ideal for city streets. It folds down quickly in a matter of seconds into a small package that weighs 64 lbs. Therefore, carrying it should not be an issue for most riders.
Finally, two colors are available and the bike looks modern and attractive. If you commute regularly and want a bike that you can transport or store easily, Lectric XP 3.0 is a fool-proof choice.
Buzz Charter F
MSRP: 999 Wheels: 20″ x 1.75″ Features: 250W motor, 20″ tires, 7-speeds, aluminum frame, V-brakes
Buzz Charter F is an elegant folding electric bike ideal for fast city commutes. This folding electric bike looks good, performs even better, and costs just 999, which is among the cheapest on this list.
Charter F boasts a 250W geared rear hub motor with an integrated 36V battery. The battery is hidden inside the seat post, so it’s hard to tell this is a foldable e-bike until you see it speed across the city.
This is a budget bike, so it does come with some entry-level parts, like the basic 7-speed drivetrain and V-brakes. According to the company, it provides a range of up to 30 miles, which is pretty good.
Buzz Charter F has three levels of pedal assist that you can use to complete your commute faster, climb more easily, or extend your leisure weekend rides.
Charter F doesn’t have any accessories, so you’ll have to wear a backpack if you want to bring anything with you on a ride. It does have a kickstand, though, so you can make quick stops.
All in all, this is a good-looking e-bike that folds quickly into a 39” x 18” x 29” package and weighs just 35 lbs. We recommend it to budget-conscious riders with limited storage space.
Huffy Oslo
MSRP: 1,100 Wheels: 20″ Features: Quick folding mechanism, 7 speeds, aluminum frame, 36V battery
Huffy is one of the oldest manufacturers of bikes in the world. This authentic American company now makes folding electric bicycles as well, with a Smart design and 20″ wheels.
The tiny wheels on Huffy Oslo limit your choice of terrain, but they allow you to fold this e-bike really small and easily carry it around. The entire bike also doesn’t weigh too much thanks to its aluminum frame and minimalistic design.
When it comes to electronics, Huffy Oslo features a sleek rear hub motor and a 36V battery.
This bike offers a 20 mph top speed, which puts it into a Class 1 category and makes it ideal for daily commutes. The battery charges fully in just a few hours, so you can recharge it while making a coffee stop.
Huffy Olso also boasts a 7-speed drivetrain that will make it easier for you to climb hills and allow you to preserve the battery by being able to pedal more and use less assistance.
We recommend Huffy Oslo to city folks who combine different means of transportation during their commute and need a folding electric bike that’s light, compact, and easy to carry around.
Lectric XP Lite
MSRP: 900 Wheels: 20” x 2.4” Features: 300W motor (750W peak), 48V battery, folds neatly
Lectric XP Lite is a perfect electric commuter for people who want to enjoy riding to work or going to the store. As the name suggests, this bike is pretty lightweight — 46lbs, but it can hold up to 275lbs of weight.
XP Lite has pedal assistance and throttle, enabled by a 300W rear hub motor and a 48V integrated battery. The maximum speed is 20 MPH and you can get up to 40 miles of range if you use a low pedal-assist level.
This foldable e-bike does not have too many accessories, the good thing is, you can choose your favored accessories and purchase them with the bike. The bike comes with integrated front and rear lights to make you more visible at night.
The Lectric XP Lite also boasts mechanical disc brakes and a single-speed drivetrain. Though these are entry-level features, they perform well in the real world and give this bike an added layer of practicality.
What Should I Look For in a Folding Electric Bike?
You might have experience with buying bicycles, but purchasing a folding electric bike is a bit more challenging. In addition to all the standard features you need to consider, you should also think about the electric components and the folding mechanism.
The folded dimensions should be small enough to fit your car’s trunk or the storage space in your apartment. Most models nowadays have easy-to-use folding mechanisms, so that shouldn’t be an issue.
A good folding electric bike should be compact, light, practical, and easy to fold.
Next, you should think about the motor and the battery. If you live somewhere hilly or windy, you should get a more powerful motor and a bigger battery. Also, choose between a hub and a mid-drive motor. The former is cheaper, but the latter is more stable because of better weight distribution.
If it often rains in your area, consider better-quality hydraulic disc brakes as well.
We’d also recommend paying attention to the wheels and tires. Big wheels are more stable, but they increase the bike’s folded dimensions. If you plan to ride off-road, choose a folding fat-tire electric bike, such as RadMini or Aventon Sinch.
In the end, look for a bike that you will find practical to use every day and that will thus significantly improve the quality of your life.
Looking for different kinds of electric bikes? Take a look at our list of best electric bikes.
What to Keep in Mind About Motors?
For practical purposes, most folding e-bikes come with hub motors. However, there are some exceptions, including a few models on our list, that have mid-drive motors.
The reason why hub motors are the go-to choice for electric mini bikes compared to other types is the lack of space. Folding electric bicycles are small, compact, and need to remain that way to fold small. If you add a mid-drive motor, folding will not be impossible, but it takes more engineering to develop an efficient folding mechanism.
Hub motors can be placed in the front or in the rear wheel. But in most cases, you’ll see hub motors in the rear wheel, as this is a much better solution.
Front-wheel hub motors are cheaper to install, but they have a few disadvantages. Namely, they affect the bike’s handling and don’t offer as much traction.
When riding a bike, most of the rider’s weight is on the rear wheel, so the tire has plenty of grip and won’t skid if you apply a lot of torque. On the other hand, the front wheel might spin out if the motor is too powerful and there’s not enough weight keeping the tire in contact with the ground.
Of all the available options, mid-drive motors are usually the most powerful and offer the best riding experience. They provide assistance directly through the pedals, so you have a good feel of how much of your own power you need to apply.
But in addition to the motor placement, you also need to think about power—watts and torque.
Watts—Is There Such a Thing as Enough?
If we assume that Watts=Power is correct, we can conclude that the more Watts your foldable electric bike has, the better. But that’s not completely true for a folding electric bike. Due to smaller wheels, you don’t need that much power to feel like you’re getting somewhere. Too much power can even be dangerous as the small-diameter wheels are not as stable as larger ones.
The majority of bikes on our list have either 250W or 750W motors, but there are a few 500W models as well. The wattage depends on the amount of assistance you require, but it also depends on your country’s e-bike laws. For example, in the UK, e-bikes are allowed to have 250W; in the EU, e-bikes can have up to 500W motors; in the US, e-bikes are limited to 750W.
But wattage is not the only metric you should be worried about. You should also consider the torque. A 500W motor with 40Nm or 80Nm of torque is not the same. torque means that the motor will have more immediate power, climb better, and offer faster acceleration.
Keep in mind that more Watts and more torque does not translate to a higher maximum assisted speed. Most folding e-bikes are Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes and are thus limited to between 15–20 MPH. The only exception is Class 3 e-bikes or speed-pedelecs, which can go up to 28 MPH. But these are rare in the folding world.
As a rule of thumb, if you are a heavier individual or you live somewhere hilly, you should look for a motor with more power. A 250W motor with little torque might struggle to pull you up a steep hill.
Which Wheel Size Is the Best?
Wheel size is one of the main considerations when choosing the best folding electric bike for you. The smaller the wheel, the more compact the bike will be when folded. However, small wheels come with some limitations, especially when it comes to the terrain they can conquer.
Most electric mini bikes have 20″ wheels, including the models on our list. This wheel size offers a good compromise between practicality, stability, and rolling efficiency.
If you want, you can go even smaller and choose 16″ wheels, but keep in mind that you’re limiting yourself to the choice of terrain you can ride on. Such small wheels won’t feel stable on pretty much anything but completely smooth city streets. Also, they don’t roll over bumps and rocks as easily, so comfort is affected as well.
Small wheels mean that you will have to pedal a bit more to reach a certain speed. But that is not a big problem considering you’ll be getting assistance from the motor.
Those who don’t want to compromise on speed and pedaling efficiency can choose a folding bike with full-size, 700C wheels. But keep in mind that such bikes don’t fold down as small as models with smaller wheels. Thus, storage and mobility become bigger challenges.
To sum, if you’re uncertain, go for 20″ wheels. They’re the gold standard when it comes to folding electric bicycles, as they combine the best of both worlds.
To learn more about electric bikes, see our guide on how to choose an electric bike.
Why Did We Select These Foldable Electric Bikes?
To put it in simple terms, we chose to include these bikes on our list because they provide the most value for the money.
We’ve thoroughly analyzed each of the bikes you see below and compared them to dozens of other choices to find the best buys.
While doing our research and compiling the list, we focused on the most important features, such as power, range, folded size, build quality, weight, and appearance.
The result is a list of the seven best folding electric bikes that should fit the needs of most types of cyclists out there.
FAQ
Check out some of the most frequently asked questions about folding electric bikes below.
What is the best folding electric bike?
The best folding electric bike is the one that meets your needs the best. If you need a model with fat tires, Rad Power RadMini is a good choice. If you want the lightest and the smallest folding e-bike, Brompton Electric is the logical choice. When choosing, make sure to consider their features and your needs.
What is the lightest folding electric bike?
Brompton Electric is one of the lightest folding electric bikes on the market. With the battery included, the 2-speed model weighs just 36.6 lbs. Without the battery, Brompton Electric weighs just 30 lbs. The 6-speed model is approximately 2 lbs. heavier, which is still very light.
Are folding e-bikes fast?
Most folding e-bikes are Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, which means their maximum assisted speed is 20 mph. You can go faster than that by pedaling on your own, but electric mini bikes are not as fast as regular bikes due to small-diameter wheels. Still, they are far from slow and you can easily achieve a ~17 mph average speed.
Are folding e-bike worth it?
If you live in a big city or in a small house or apartment, a folding electric bike is an excellent choice. These are small bicycles that can squeeze through tight spaces, you can carry them on trains and buses, and you can easily store them in a corner of your home.
How do I choose an electric folding bike?
When choosing the best electric folding bike, you need to consider your needs and priorities. Consider how much power and range you need from the electric system, how tiny you want the folding bike to be, and whether or not you need any accessories.
How to fold an electric bike?
Folding an electric bike is a simple process, usually taking just a few seconds. However, different manufacturers have different designs and guidelines, so it’s better to see the manufacturer’s info first.
In general, folding bikes fold down from the frame, handlebars, and sometimes even the rear wheel. Pedals usually fold down too, and saddles can go down to make the bundle more compact.
However, as we said, manufacturers have a set of guidelines for folding down their bikes, so checking them should be the first step.
Can I take my folding electric bike on a plane?
Electric bikes are generally not allowed on planes because of the batteries. However, if the battery is removed, the bike is safe to be taken on a plane.
What are the disadvantages of folding bikes?
While folding bikes are a great option for commuters, they still come with some downsides. The most prominent being the weight of the bike and the weight limit. Smaller frames can usually not hold that much weight, and to turn things around, heavier electric folding bikes are heavier to carry around.
Another possible downside is control. While smaller wheels come in handy in most situations, they can be harder to control at times. Paired with narrow handlebars, it can be a struggle at times.
Final Words
When it comes to urban and multi-modal commuting, nothing beats a folding electric bike. They are easy to use, store, or carry around. Plus, the electric motor enables you to ride faster and go further, even if you haven’t ridden a bike in years.
However, choosing the right folding e-bike can be a daunting task for laymen, which is why we’ve created this guide. We comprised our list by including high-quality, tried, and true choices, so you won’t make a mistake whichever you choose.
Don’t fold up your tent when it comes to cycling until you’ve given folding electric bikes a chance!
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