Best Folding Electric Bike 2023: 9 E-Bikes For Every Budget. Lightest folding electric bike

Carbon Lite Electric Folding Bike [Black/Red] PRE-ORDER AVAILABLE DUE JUNE 2023

BEGINNER LEVEL EXPERT LEVEL

If you are unsure about bike assembly we would recommend taking it to a bike shop or licenced bike mechanic to assemble

Let Next Gen assemble the bike for you

With everyone being time poor it’s great to know that you have the option of fully assembled pickup. This is available for all our local Brisbane customers. All our bikes come pre-assembled and only require basic assembly but some models can be a little more challenging than others. Each model gives a guide on assembly difficulty along with an approximate assembly time. If you are having any difficulty with assembly we are only a phone call away. We can work it out together. For those who don’t want to assemble the bike for only 79 we can do it for you.

Customer Reviews

We purchased a pair of bikes from Regan a couple of months ago. Arrived super fast. The bikes do everything we want and are so portable and versatile on our travels. Regan was great to deal with.

My wife and I purchased a motorhome recently and needed a transport option to get to the shops for supplies without having to pack everything up, as well as to explore the places we visit. We wanted something very light (have to watch our weight for the the motorhome!) but also electric to make it as easy as possible to get around. The Carbon Lite Electric Folding Bike from Next Gen E-Rides was the perfect solution for us. We have just completed our first big trip to Sydney (from Brisbane) and the bike was fantastic to have with us. Super light to put on and take off the bike rack too. From the outset Regan was extremely helpful with his advice, and had it all assembled and ready for us when we arrived to collect. We thoroughly recommend Next Gen E-Rides and this bike as a great option for those with motorhomes or caravans.

Carbon Lite

The perfect lightweight bike that folds away in seconds and can easily be transported on the train to work or in the back of your camper. Weighing only 13.8kg this is a fraction of the weight of other ebikes on the market. Save your back and storage space with the Carbon Lite!

Technical Specifications

The Carbon Lite Difference Lightweight carbon fibre frame The use of carbon fibre material creates a light and easy to carry ebike. Not only is it lighter but the material is stronger than aluminium creating less vibration when rider. The result is a more comfortable ride with less effort when commuting.

The Carbon Lite Difference The best folding structure The simple, quick and easy to fold structure saves you time and effort. The key is in the aluminium alloy folding mechanism which is perfectly embeded with the carbon fibre. The design ensures longitudinal rigity, lateral deformation resistance resulting in the ultimate folding frame design.

The Carbon Lite Difference Powerful and safe motor Using a torque sensor to sense the pedal force achieves a low latency, accurate, and maintenance-free ride. The other benefit is a safer ride and with 40Nm the Carbon Lite can conquer any slope needed with ease.

The Carbon Lite Difference Integrated lighting Ride in the knowledge that no matter the weather you will be visible with LED integrated lighting. Powered by the battery the lighting will illuminate your ride whether it is cloudy or dark outside.

The Carbon Lite Difference Hydraulic brakes Improved stopping power for safer riding. The Carbon Lite provides hydraulic braking for the ultimate riding experience.

The Carbon Lite Difference Simple and clear display Simplicity and clarify are at the heart of the display design. Precise battery indicator provided with charge in 1% increments means you will never have to guess how much range is left on your ebike.

The Carbon Lite Difference Quality German made tyres Schwalbe are a world leading ebike tyre manufacturer. The Schwalbe Big Apple tyres are lightweight, all-round tyre that provides K-Guard protection against punctures. The slim 1.75 inch wheel makes it a perfect choice for urban commuting.

Battery: 36V/6.4Ah Range: up to 40km Motor: 36V/250W Brushless DC hub motor HIGH TORQUE installed in rear wheel Total Payload Capacity: 100kg Recommended Rider Heights: 5’1 ~ 6’4 Maximum Speed: 25km/h Charger: 100-240V Smart charger Controller: 36V / 20A Display: Mini LCD Weight: 13.8kg Box size: 84cm long x 70cm wide x 42cm high Folded dimensions: 85cm long x 39cm wide x 66cm high Pedal Assist Intelligent: 0~5 level pedal assist

Tyres: Schwalbe 20 x 1.75 inch Ultra-Light Brake lever: Oil hydraulic brakes Rear Light: Taillight Freewheel: Shimano 9 speed gear shift system Brake: 160 MM Disc Brake Throttle: Thumb Throttle Gearing: Shimano Outer 9 Speed Frame Material: Carbon fibre Pedal: High-Quality Folding Nylon Pedals Front Light: LED Light Saddle: Velo Comfortable Saddle Tools: Included Stem: 3D Integrated forging Al-alloy 6061 Rims: 20inch Black Alloy

All Carbon Lite Electric bikes are shipped from 97 Kimberley Rd, Richlands QLD 4077. The estimated delivery time is 5-7 days depending on your location. Collections from Brisbane are available with prior agreement. For batteries. Depending on stock levels batteries are either shipped out via Brisbane or overseas if out of stock. Delivery times will be confirmed via email. For spare parts. For smaller orders or warranty parts low costs couriers are used, and delivery time will be 15-30 days. For urgent replacements parts may be sent out from Brisbane if in stock. If parts have to be ordered from overseas there may be additional freight charges for quicker delivery turnaround time.

WARRANTY Next Gen eRides TWO-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY AND POLICY ON REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES RESPONSIBILITIES This limited warranty applies only to the original owner of a Next Gen Carbon Lite electric bike and is not transferable to subsequent owners. Warranty registration is not required.

Your purchase includes the following warranty. Next Gen eRides ebike 2-Year Warranty The Next Gen Carbon Lite carries a two (2) year warranty from the date of receipt of the bike for manufacturing defects in materials and/or workmanship (all free accessories are not covered).

Replacement Procedure:

Next Gen will replace any component that is defective or damaged in materials and/or workmanship (including the damage in the processing of shipment).

Next Gen shall be in the sole discretion to determine whether damage or defect of an electric bike or covered component is under this limited warranty.

1: ClaimsIf you believe your Carbon Lite has a warranty issue, we suggest that you first contact us at sales@nextgenerides.com.au so we can determine the best course of action. Next Gen will not ship any parts to the customer without checking photos or videos of the damaged product. The customer needs to provide us with evidence via email. 2: Shipping Damage Claims In rare cases, the product will be damaged in the processing of shipping. If shipping damage occurs, please contact sales@nextgenerides.com.au and provide us with photos or videos. All free accessories are not covered to be claimed for replacement or compensation if there are scratches during transportation. NOTICE: We only accept shipping damage claims within seven (7) days of your receipt of the electric bike. Frame Next Gen Carbon Lite Ebike frames are under warranty for a period of two years from the date of original retail purchase. The defective frame can be replaced with a new one which is under the limited warranty. Next Gen reserves the right to use scratch and dent stock when replacing a frame under this warranty. The defective frame can be replaced with the same or most nearly comparable one at the discretion of Next Gen. Frame issues that are not covered under this warranty include but are not limited to:. Corrosion. Paint fade, scratches, impact marks. Impact damage.Non-reversible modification (drilling/welding). Chainguard mounts to the frame if applicable Batteries Next Gen batteries are covered by a 2-year limited warranty. During 2 years of service – A defective battery will be repaired or replaced at no cost to the customer. The warranty period for a repaired or replaced battery remains unchanged based on the original purchase date.No cash reimbursement will be made.The defective battery will be assessed in the sole discretion of Next Gen. This limited warranty does not cover:. Defects or damage resulting from accident, abuse, misuse, abnormal use (including but not limited to stunt riding, racing or other similar activities not consistent with the intended use of the products). improper storage, abnormal exposure to liquid, chemicals, moisture, abrasives, sand or dirt, neglect, or abnormal physical, electrical or electromechanical stress; scratches, dents and cosmetic damage, unless caused by Next Gen Products that have the serial number or the bar code removed, defaced, damaged, altered or made illegible;. Ordinary wear and tear;. Defects or damage to the products caused by the use of accessories, products, or ancillary/peripheral equipment not furnished or approved by Next Gen with the products;. Defects or damage caused by the assembly, testing, operation, maintenance, installation, service, repair, or adjustment in a manner that varies from Assembly Instructions Owners Manual;. Defects or damage resulting from external causes such as collision, fire, flooding, windstorm, lightning, earthquake, exposure to weather conditions, theft, blown fuse or improper use of any electrical source;. In addition, with respect to the battery, this limited warranty does not cover defects or damage;. Caused by charging by a battery charger not intended or appropriate for use with the battery or the improper use of a battery charger;. Any of the seals on the battery are broken or show evidence of tampering;. The battery used in other equipment (not the bike); Parts Components Original Next Gen parts components are covered by a 2-year limited warranty. Any of damaged parts caused by people is not covered. The bicycle’s owner will be responsible for the shipping costs of the spare parts for warranty. This limited warranty does not cover: 1.Damage resulting from normal wear and tear (not the result of defects in workmanship or materials) is not covered. Wear and tear will be assessed by Next Gen. Parts not covered include but are not limited to: 1.1 Brake Pads 1.2 Rotors 1.3 Spokes 1.4 Tyres/Tubes 1.5 Chains 1.6 Chain Rings 1.7 Cassette 1.8 Crank set 1.9 Corrosion on electrical components is not covered by the warranty. 1.10 Damage or deterioration of the surface finish, appearance, or beauty of the product. 1.11 The limited warranty is expressly limited to the replacement of a defective (in materials and/or workmanship) handlebar, seat post, saddle, brakes, lights, crankset, pedals, rims, freewheel, cassette, derailleur, shifter, wiring harness, kickstand, reflectors, and hardware. Warranty for above components is within one week after receiving the product. Parts damaged after seven days need to be charged a fee.

Simple easy to read display the provides precise battery life as a %. All the information you need to enjoy riding Carbon Lite.

Best Folding Electric Bike 2023: 9 E-Bikes For Every Budget

Folding electric bikes are perfect for easy commuting and avoiding traffic while reducing your carbon footprint simultaneously. Recent advancements in motor and battery technologies mean e-bikes are more accessible than ever.

Whether you own a motorhome or boat, are on a tight budget, or are a heavier rider, there is an electric folding bike for you.

I’ll be honest that I was a late adopter of motor technology, preferring to use my legs to provide the pedaling power.

However, as folding e-bikes have evolved, my opinion has changed, and I can see their distinct advantages.

Which folding electric bike is best? Here are our top picks for every kind of budget and ride…

The Heybike Ranger is my favorite foldable e-bike for 2023 because it’s built by a reputable brand, offers excellent performance in terms of range (48 miles) and top speed (25mph), and the low step-thru frame makes mounting and dismounting effortless.

• Heybike Ranger (Best overall)
• Hummingbird Electric (The lightest folding electric bike)
• Swagtron EB-5 (Best under 1,000)
• Rad Expand 5 (Best for RV owners)
• Tern Vektron S10 (Best for boat owners)
• Axon Pro Lite (The most portable e-bike)
• Brompton Electric C Line (Best for commuting)
• Rattan 750W (Best for seniors)
• Opeak Ebike (Best for off-road)

Updated 2023: We added several new folding e-bike categories, enhanced our selection criteria, and made some changes based on the latest models available on the market, our reviews, and the testing process.

Is A Folding Ebike Worth It?

Folding Ebikes are worth it for commuters, motorhome, and boat owners who want the benefits of a folding bike with the additional advantage of being able to travel further distances in less time. Ebikes can be folded away in 30 seconds or less, making them ideal for taking on public transport.

The main disadvantages of folding bikes are the higher cost and complexity due to additional components such as the electric motor and folding mechanism. They tend to be heavier than non-electric bicycles.

This free cheat sheet will help you choose a trike by providing quick information on the 7 key considerations for buying an adult tricycle!

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Best Folding Electric Bike for Adults: Heybike Ranger

Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Motor performance: 500W | Range: 55 miles | Top Speed: 25 mph | Our Rating: 89/100

Advantages

• Heybike is a very reputable brand
• The Ranger 5 is the latest model with significant upgrades
• 55 miles range is outstanding

Drawbacks

• Weighs 70 lbs, challenging to lift upstairs or into the trunk of your car
• Challenging to pedal if the battery dies
• The Ranger has a top speed of 25 mph compared to the 20 mph top speed of the Heybike Mars.
• The Ranger’s battery can travel up to 55 miles because it has been upgraded from 12.5 Ah to 15 Ah.
• The frame design has been modified to a low step-thru design instead of the traditional top tube design, making mounting and dismounting much more manageable.
• The wheels have been upgraded to maintenance-free mag wheels, which are stylish and easy to maintain.
• If black isn’t your favorite color, you will be pleased to know that the Heybike Ranger is also available in white.

While the price has increased since previous models, it still offers exceptional value for money at 1,399.

Thanks to the 20-inch by 4-inch all-terrain fat tires, relatively upright geometry, riding position, and comfortable saddle, the Ranger is delightful to ride even over longer distances.

I liked the intelligent three pedal-assist modes and mostly enjoyed leisurely rides traveling around 15 miles per hour in Mode 2.

As a former mountain biking athlete, I was keen to test the Heybike Ranger off-road too, and I had lots of fun on the trails thanks to the powerful motor, all-terrain tires, front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and Shimano 7-speed Tourney groupset.

Overall the Heybike Ranger is a highly versatile folding e-bike and is excellent for everything from commuting to off-roading to folding away and taking it with you in your RV.

Motor performance: 250W | Range: 31 miles | Top Speed: 15 mph | Our Rating: 88/100

Advantages

• Ultra lightweight folding electric bike (under 23 lbs!)
• Amazing build quality, carbon fiber frame
• The folding mechanism is similar to a Brompton: folds quickly and easily

Drawbacks

Hummingbird folding bicycles need no introduction, having claimed the impressive title of the lightest folding bike for (yet) another consecutive year. And weighing in at a claimed 22.7 pounds (10.3 kg), the Hummingbird is the most lightweight folding electric bike in the world!

The Gen 2.0 is built around Hummingbird’s base folding bicycle model, which has been modified to include a 250 watts electric motor integrated into the rear hub. What is particularly unique about this design is that the hub also houses the battery making the bike look clean.

• It folds away in 10 seconds or less, making it perfect for taking on the tube or folding away quickly to store in your office.
• The Hummingbird folding electric bicycle can travel up to 30 miles (50 km) in pedal-assist mode and achieve assisted speeds up to 16 mph (25 km/h).
• Its ultra-lightweight makes it fun to ride and much easier for carrying upstairs, lifting onto the bus, etc.

The 16-inch wheels and folding mechanism remind me of a Brompton (perhaps unsurprising given that Hummingbird bicycles are also UK based), although the Hummingbird is not as compact as other rivals when folded:

In summary, the Hummingbird Gen 2.0 electric folding bike is perfect for short commutes by riders who don’t mind paying extra to have an ultralight e-bike.

If you are on a tighter budget, which most of us are these days, then I would recommend either the Qualisports Volador (36 lbs) or the Swagtron EB-5 (37 lbs), which is up next.

Best Folding Electric Bike Under 1,000: Swagtron EB-5

Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Motor performance: 250W | Range: 15.5 miles | Top Speed: 15 mph | Our Rating: 73/100

Drawbacks

• It’s relatively lightweight;
• The Swagtron EB-5 rides well in pedal-assist and manual mode; and
• It folds up compactly thanks to the 14-inch wheels, which makes it ideal for commuting and short rides in urban environments.

One thing I love about the Swagtron EB-5 is that it comes almost completely assembled, perfect to save time and hassle, especially if you’re not particularly experienced in building bicycles.

Performance-wise the EB-5 has a 250 watts motor that can achieve up to 15 mph and travel up to 15 miles on a single charge. Swagtron also offers the option of purchasing an additional battery which you can easily swap out if you want to cover longer distances.

There is a simple user interface on the handlebars to choose between throttle mode (which quickly accelerates you up to cruising speed), pedal-assist, or off if you want to ride manually.

Unlike other electric folding bikes tested here, the EB-5 rides well without battery power. It also has 5 speeds, sufficient to depend on hilly terrain unassisted.

The Swagtron EB-5 is an excellent choice if you are looking for a lightweight, highly portable foldable e-bike on a budget. There are some inevitable drawbacks at this price point which may or may not be dealbreakers depending on your requirements.

• The 14-inch wheels and steep headtube angle make for a twitchy ride which felt much less stable than other e-bikes tested here.
• The design and geometry of the EB-5 make it unsuitable for taller riders over 6 feet in height.

Best Folding Electric Bike for Motorhome: Rad Expand 5

Motor performance: 750W | Range: 45 miles | Top Speed: 20 mph | Our Rating: 93/100

Advantages

• US-based reputable brand
• Powerful 750 watts motor
• Designed with RV owners in mind

Drawbacks

• Weighs 62 lbs, challenging to lift into your RV
• No LCD on the handlebars (previous model Rad Expand 4 had one)

Seattle-based Rad has been producing excellent electric folding bikes for some years now, and the Rad Expand 5, the model which supersedes the Expand 4, is no exception.

What I love about the Rad Expand 5 for motorhome owners is that it’s a solid, reliable e-bike that folds up pretty compactly, saving precious space in your RV.

I also like the fat tires, which offer excellent comfort when riding and can tackle a range of terrains – ideal for exploring while traveling and adventuring in your motorhome.

Motor performance: Bosch 65Nm torque | Range: 34-68 miles | Top Speed: 20 mph | Our Rating: 94/100

Advantages

• Tern is the only folding bike brand in the US to use Bosch motors
• Excellent build quality
• Shimano Deore 10-speed gears

Drawbacks

As a keen sailor and cyclist, I know the challenges of carrying a folding e-bike onboard, especially if you are boating in the sea where the salty air can rust metal components too quickly!

With that in mind, the Tern Vektron is a high-quality folding bike that will last for years if properly looked after. It folds away compactly and is the only folding bike in North America equipped with a Bosch motor known for its excellent performance and reliability.

Unlike many folding bikes, the Tern Vektron features a decent 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain which shifts gears very smoothly and provides enough range to tackle any terrain you may encounter on your boating adventures.

I was equally impressed to see that Tern specced this beauty with Magura hydraulics brakes, which I have been using on various bicycles for over 25 years now, and they’ve never missed a beat.

Other neat features which make the Tern Vektron perfect for nautical folks are the rear rack for additional carrying capacity and the innovative Andos stem that uses quick-release clamps to allow the height to be effortlessly adjusted for different riders.

I’m still looking and will let you know when I find one

Most Portable Electric Bike: Axon Pro Lite

Motor performance: 250W | Range: 25 miles | Top Speed: 15.5 mph | Our Rating: 83/100

Drawbacks

The Axon Pro Lite is a clear winner if you’re looking for a portable and lightweight folding e-bike! The Pro Lite can be easily folded away in 10 seconds or less, and weighing only 15 lbs makes it super easy to transport around wherever you go.

Similar to Brompton bikes, the Axon Pro Lite is built around 16-inch wheels which are at the smaller end of wheel sizes for folding bikes but not too extreme, IMO, given that the FOCUS here is on portability.

A 250W rear-hub motor provides surprisingly good acceleration and can achieve up to 25 miles on a single charge. Other notable features include disc brakes and a single-speed drivetrain which keeps things simple but may not suit if you are planning to tackle steep climbs.

Overall, a fantastic folding e-bike for those who need something highly portable.

If there were any disadvantages to highlight, they would be that the Axon Pro Lite wouldn’t (in my opinion) suit very tall or heavy riders, and it’s not suitable for off-road riding, but of course, it was never designed with that in mind.

Best Folding Ebike for Commuting: Brompton Electric C Line

Motor performance: 250W | Range: 20-45 miles | Top Speed: 15.5 mph | Our Rating: 90/100

Advantages

• Perfect for commuting
• The folding design is easy and quick to use when commuting on public transport
• Brompton is a renowned folding bike brand

Drawbacks

Handmade in London since 1975, the Brompton Electric Folding Bike comes to mind when the words “high-end” and “foldable electric bike” are mentioned.

The first thing you notice looking at this beauty is the absence of the 36V 8.55Ah battery on the frame.

While most bike designers need help with the right place to put their massive batteries and whether or not to make them detachable for easy charging, Brompton went for a more practical solution.

With this bike, the battery fits in a compact shoulder bag that conveniently snaps onto the front of the bike, not hidden inside the tubing or fastened onto the rear carrier.

Included in the purchase, you’ll get a 1.5-liter Essential bag to house the 300Wh battery, which delivers a decent range between 20 to 45 miles (30 to 70 km) depending on how and where you ride.

The bag features an outer for the charger and some gadgets.

However, you can’t plug the battery into the bike without the bag.

On top of the battery are two buttons for engaging the power assist modes and toggling the front/rear LED lights.

There are also indicator lights that show the power mode, the lighting status, and how much battery life is remaining.

The Brompton Electric Folding Bike adopts a steel frame that supports a maximum load of 242 pounds (110 kg).

Besides the two 16″ wheels, the company also added three extra small wheels (two behind the seat post and one on top of the rear fender).

This allows you to pull the bike like a piece of luggage using the handlebar when folded.

• Folding size: 22.2″ × 23″ × 10.6″ (56.5 × 58.5 × 27 cm)
• Gears: 2-speed / 6-speed
• Claimed weight: 36.6 pounds (16.6 kg) / 38.3 pounds (17.4 kg)
• Max weight capacity: 242 pounds (110 kg)
• Top speed: 15 mph (25 km)
• Range: 20 – 45 miles (30 – 70 km)
• Sizes: standard, extended, or telescopic

Best Foldable Ebike for Seniors: Rattan 750W

Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Motor performance: 750W | Range: 30-45 miles | Top Speed: 15.5 mph | Our Rating: 90/100

Advantages

• The low-step-through frame is ideal for senior riders
• Powerful 750w motor with 45 miles range
• Comfortable, padded saddle

Drawbacks

• 60 pounds weight is higher than I would have liked
• Throttle can be a bit tricky initially to get used to

The low-step-through frame design, aluminum frame, powerful 750 watts motor, and stable ride make the Rattan 750W the best foldable e-bike for seniors.

I also liked the 20-inch wheels, which offer lower rolling resistance, and the puncture-resistant tires mean that you won’t find yourself stuck by the side of the road trying to change a tire.

Performance-wise, the 48V 13ah removable battery can speed up to 23 mph and can travel up to 45 miles on a single charge. I found the Rattan comfortable on longer rides thanks to the padded saddle, dual suspension, and fat tires, which absorbed bumps from the trail.

Overall this is an excellent ride at a competitive price. However, there were a few drawbacks that I picked up from test riding the Rattan:

• While I mentioned it was a comfortable ride, this comes with the disadvantage that the folding ebike is heavy (over 60 lbs). Combined with the fat tires, it makes riding without pedal assist very challenging.
• Initially, I found the throttle too powerful when accelerating, but I got used to this quickly after a few rides.

Best Ebike for Off-Road: Opeak Ebike

Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Motor performance: 750W | Range: 46 miles | Top Speed: 32 mph | Our Rating: 83/100

Advantages

• 26″ wheels, full suspension, and 4″ fat tires make the Opeak ideal for off-roading
• Powerful 750 watts motor

Drawbacks

• At 69 lbs the Opeak is a little heavy
• I would have liked to see more than 8-speeds for a folding mountain e-bike design

The Opeak Ebike is my pick for off-road riding because:

• It has a powerful 750 watts motor which is ideal for off-road riding (and zooming around at up to 32 miles per hour on the roads!).
• The combination of full suspension and 4-inch fat tires make for a comfortable ride even on the roughest of terrains. The grippy tires also provide superior traction, which gives me confidence when tackling challenging trails.
• The 26-inch wheels are ideal for off-road riding, whereas most folding bikes have wheel sizes less than 20 inches in diameter, which won’t roll nicely off the road and provide minimal bump absorption.

Other things I liked about the Opeak Ebike include the disc brakes, lightweight aluminum frame, and 8-speed drivetrain, combined with the powerful electric motor that made even the steepest of hills possible to climb.

I would have liked a more extensive range of gear if possible, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker at this price point.

I tested the Opeak off-road and had lots of fun riding on a range of trails, it’s super comfortable, and I felt confident even in wet or muddy terrain thanks to the 4” fat tires. My main drawback was the 69 pounds weight which was heavier than I would ideally have liked, although it comes with the territory when buying a folding electric bike for off-roading in the under 2,000 price range.

The Selection Criteria: What We Look For In Top Electric Folding Bikes

With such a fantastic selection of electric folding bikes on the market today, it’s essential to understand the most critical selection criteria you should consider when choosing a foldable e-bike.

Motor Performance

When choosing a folding electric bike, it’s critical to understand the specifications and performance of the motor and determine whether they will meet your riding requirements.

• 250-watt motors: this is the lowest power rating and tends to be fitted to lightweight folding e-bikes to act as a pedal-assist on shorter commutes, for example. The advantage of the smaller motor is that it weighs less and requires a smaller battery to power it.
• 500-watt motors: a mid-range motor that offers considerably more power and torque than a 250W motor, perfect if you need to climb hills or ride on more challenging terrain. This motor could be a good option for motorhome owners, boating enthusiasts, or leisure riders who plan to explore and don’t need to frequently transport their bicycles on public transport.
• 750-watt motors: a high-performance motor with superior torque and power, perfect for more challenging rides, taller and heavier riders, or those who also intend to ride off-road or tackle steep climbs with their folding e-bike.

Knowing the power rating of the motor is an excellent first step. Still, it would help if you also considered the motor’s torque, as a higher torque will provide more significant acceleration, albeit at the cost of higher battery usage.

Another important consideration is the motor placement, which could either be hub-mounted or a mid-motor design. Hub motors offer some key advantages:

• They can be integrated into an existing folding bike design, such as Hummingbird, who combined a rear hub motor into their folding bicycle.
• Hub motors are smaller and don’t take up valuable real estate because they can be incorporated into the wheel’s hub.
• Hub motors are cheaper than mid-drive systems.

Range

Of course, you’ll want to know how far you can travel on a single charge but be warned that doing so can be tricky.

Similar to how car manufacturers state their vehicles’ fuel efficiency, the reported ranges of folding e-bikes tend to be based on optimal riding conditions (i.e., flat terrain, lowest power mode).

So the claimed range is likely higher than what you achieve for yourself. For example, you may use a lower pedal-assist power mode but occasionally choose a higher power setting for climbing hills which would drain the battery faster.

This is particularly important for heavier e-bikes with fat tires because they can be challenging to pedal unassisted. In contrast, a Brompton, Hummingbird, or similar lightweight folding electric bicycle could easily be pedaled if the battery dies.

Battery

• Ampere-hours (AH): this is a fundamental metric because higher watt-hours mean the battery can store more “juice” and will last longer before needing to be charged.
• Detachable: many of the folding electric bikes reviewed here are fitted with removable batteries, which can be convenient if you want to take them out to charge but also to prevent people from stealing them while they are in storage.

Build Quality

Build quality is critical for folding bicycles due to the increased complexity of adding a hinge mechanism or other folding designs. This becomes even more important for a foldable electric bike because of the increased weight of the battery and motor and the potentially higher riding speeds.

I recommend choosing a reputable folding bike brand and reading other customer reviews before purchasing to assess whether other cyclists have reported any issues with the build quality.

You would be looking for reported issues such as cracks in the frame, failure of components, and any problems with battery life, motor performance, etc.

Folded Size

Understanding your requirements on how compactly you need the e-bike to fold away.

Someone who is planning to ride predominantly off-road and only occasionally fold the bicycle away to transport to the trails would have a very different requirement than someone who is planning to use their folding electric bike for short commutes to work every day, taking the bike on public transportation and needs to be folded away to a compact size in 10 seconds or less.

So, considering the folded dimensions is vital, as is the time and ease of using the folding mechanism. If you are looking for a highly efficient, easy-to-use fold design, then Brompton is hard to beat!

How We Picked The Best Folding E-Bikes

As an experienced cyclist with over 25 years of riding, building, repairing, and testing mountain bikes, road bikes, and folding bicycles. I deeply understand what to look for when choosing the best folding electric bikes on the market.

Having also had the pleasure to test hundreds of folding and electric folding bicycles over the years, I have been fortunate to see and understand the evolution of folding e-bikes.

Since folding e-bike design has improved so much in recent years, I also performed extensive research and testing and read other expert reviews and customer feedback.

Our Testing Process And Why You Should Trust Us

Selection of the best folding electric bicycles involved research and test rides of select folding e-bikes to see how they performed in various environments and riding conditions.

It’s worth noting that each bicycle above is ranked relative to its category and not necessarily strictly against one another.

It would be unfair, for example, to directly compare a lightweight and compact folding e-bike with one designed for rugged off-road riding since they have both been designed for different purposes.

Common Folding E-Bike Questions

Which folding electric bike is best?

The Heybike Ranger is the best folding electric bike for most riders because it’s built by a reputable brand, the electric motor delivers exceptional top speed, and range performance, and the low step-thru frame design is suitable for easy mounting and dismounting.

Other popular folding e-bikes include the Rad Expand 5, Brompton C Line, and Tektron Vern. As your specific requirements will depend on your preferences and riding needs, it’s worth considering essential factors such as motor performance, battery range, and folded size before choosing.

How long do e-bike batteries last?

If well maintained and stored in a cool, dry environment, you should expect an e-bike battery to last between three to five years, equivalent to approximately 500 to 1,500 charge cycles. When storing the battery for an extended period, leaving the charge between 40% and 80% is recommended.

E-bike battery capacity will decrease over time, meaning that the charge they can hold will gradually decrease compared to when it was new.

Can E-bikes be used off-road?

Most e-bikes are unsuitable for off-road riding because they have yet to be designed for challenging terrain. Some “mountain e-bikes” or “fat-tire e-bikes” are equipped with front and rear suspension, 26-inch or 27.5-inch wheels, powerful 750-watt motors, and a range of gears making them ideal for off-road riding.

Mark Plummer

Mark Plummer is an experienced bike mechanic who has built, repaired, and customized thousands of bikes over the years. A former mountain biking athlete, his cycling adventures have taken him all over the globe from the mountains of Scotland to the South Island of New Zealand. These days he enjoys the benefits of commuting to work and touring on his Dahon and Brompton folding bikes.

This free cheat sheet will help you choose a folding bike by providing quick information on the 7 key considerations when buying a foldable bicycle!

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Take Your Electric-Powered Bike Wherever You Go!

One of the most popular electric-powered bikes in the Recon Power Bikes collection is the Recon Scout, a lightweight and portable folding electric bike. Our lightweight folding bike features the same great components and technology, but in a foldable body for convenient and compact transportation! Learn more about the best folding electric bike out there and get yours today!

Why Choose The Recon Scout Folding eBike?

48 Volt Battery with 500 Watt Powertrain

Battery Hidden in the Frame

Fits In Trunk Or Backseat

All-Terrain Puncture Resistant Fat Tires

Rethink Lightweight Folding Bikes With the Recon Scout

Hitting your favorite trails has never been easier or more convenient thanks to the amazing Recon Scout foldable electric bike from Recon Power Bikes. Designed with a revolutionary foldable frame, the Recon Scout is the ultimate solution for compact and convenient biking.

Recon Power Bikes has long been the leader in law enforcement ebikes, but now our incredible electric-powered bikes are available to you! Made with high-quality components and technology for the ultimate riding experience, our power bikes are tough and durable.All-Terrain, Made Military Tough is our motto and our creed. Take the Recon Value Challenge today and see why Recon Power Bikes are the best all-terrain ebikes out there.

Foldable Frame and Adjustable Handle Bars

The Recon Scout foldable electric bike is the answer for those looking to ride whenever they feel like it. Essential to that end is the amazing foldable frame, which easily collapses the bike’s frame in half and allows for the handlebars to fold neatly down to the side for compact and portable precision.

The adjustable handlebars make the Recon Scout suitable for anyone from a 100-pound woman to a 300-pound man. Our lightweight folding bike also features upgraded components such as a 500 watt motor powered by a 48 volt Samsung battery, mag wheels for durability, KShield 4” tires with puncture protection and a front suspension.

Electric-Powered Ease

The Recon Scout foldable electric bike draws its power by a 500-watt hub motor, powered by a 48-volt Samsung lithium-ion battery hidden in the frame. Like all our electric-powered bikes, the Scout also features a Shimano drivetrain and LCD control panel, providing you with unprecedented control. You can reach speeds up to 20 MPH with a range of 20-35 miles per ride (based on weight, terrain and use of pedal-assist) and a charge time of 4-5 hours.

Recon Scout Features:

• 500-watt hub motor
• Shimano 7-speed drivetrain
• LCD control panel
• Velo Plush saddle seat
• Front-coil suspension
• Five levels of pedal-assist
• Max speed of 20 MPH

Our lightweight folding bike is also exceptionally comfortable thanks to a Velo Plush saddle seat and front-coil suspension, as well as five levels of pedal-assist or throttle. You are free to operate the Scout as you would a traditional bicycle, use only the battery power through the throttle or combine a bit of both for maximum power and speed!

Take Your Recon Scout Anywhere

When folded down, the Recon Scout has dimensions of 39.5” x 20” x 31” (open dimensions of 68” x 23” x 53”), making it easy to store anywhere, load up for a quick trip to the trails or pack away for a hiking or camping adventure. The Scout power bike is 45 pounds and has the option for fenders and a rear rack.

The Recon Scout foldable electric bike will fit in the bed of a pickup, in the trunk of a car or even the backseat! You can take the Recon Scout to work and fold it up in the office and it is a great option to keep in your RV or camper for hunting, fishing, hiking or camping trips. The possibilities are endless. The only limitation is your imagination!

Do With our COOL Power Bike Accessories

Recon Power Bikes also offers a wide range of accessories for our electric-powered bikes, including additional storage capacity, extra batteries for extended life, firearm and bow holder for hunters, trailers and more. Affordably equip your all-terrain ebike with everything you need for a successful adventure!

Power Bike Accessories Available:

• Extra Battery
• Hitch Hauler
• Firearms Bow Holder
• Trailers
• Rack Bags
• Solar Chargers
• GPS Tracker
• And

Shop Our Electric-Powered Bikes Today!

Recon Power Bikes proudly offers a wide variety of all-terrain ebikes to best suit your needs and budget. Take a closer look at each of the best electric mountain bikes we offer and purchase your power bike today!

Top 8 Best Folding Electric Bikes for Cycling to Work

I’ve heard all kinds of excuses for not biking to work. The most common ones are concerns that it is not safe to lock your bike on the street, or you don’t want to get sweaty at work.

All those problems are solved with a folding electric bike. Now a full battery charge can cover a distance of a few dozens of miles, and you can store the bike under your desk. So you still can enjoy the freedom of biking without getting sweaty or ruining your suit. Following are some of the best folding electric bikes in the US.

Turboant Swift S1

Turboant Swift S1 is a new folding e-bike released in 2021. The bike features a removable 48V/14Ah lithium-ion battery with 35-60 mile range, a 750W rear hub motor which can reach max speed of 19.9 mph, a Shimano thumb shifter, and Tektro Aries brakes. It can be folded into a small package of 38 x 23.5 x 31 inches and weighs 68 lbs.

The Swift S1 is not the smallest and lightest e-bike in this list but it is absolutely the most comfortable one. Thanks to the 20″×4″ fat tires and RST hydraulic front fork, this is the best choice for both on and off-road. When commuting to work on flat roads, you can lock the front fork to keep it rigid. You can choose the pedal assistant level from 1 to 5 to suit your needs. Another useful feature is the reinforced Kenda tires with K-Shield technology for puncture resistance. We tested the bike and it has become our favorite folding e-bike so far. You can check our Swift S1 review here.

Brompton Electric

After a long wait, Brompton finally announced its first electric bike in 2017. The Brompton Electric has the same design and folded size as non-electric Brompton folders. The differences are the motor on the front wheel and a 300Wh battery bag clipped on the front luggage block. These additional parts make the bicycle heavier at 30.2 lbs for the 2-speed version.

The bike features contactless bottom bracket torque and cadence sensor to control the assistance level. It has a top speed of 15.5 mph and range of 25-50 miles on a single charge. specs of the Brompton Electric can be found here. The range from £2,595 to £2,755 in the UK or around 3,500 in the US.

Tern Vektron

The Tern Vektron is another great option when you want 20-inch wheels. The best feature of the folding bike is the mid-mounted Bosch Active Drive 250W motor with 3 sensors working continuously to deliver a smooth ride. Besides, we also have a 400Wh PowerPack battery, Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes.

The Vektron has the weight of 48.9 lbs and can be folded easily to a small package. The folder is priced at 3,400 in the US.

ENZO eBikes Electric Folding Bicycle

The ENZO bike shares a lot of features with the e-JOE bike, the names sound similar and even the design looks pretty much the same. However, there are some differences inside the hood. Notably, the Enzo comes with extra features like seat post pump, storage bag and you can get the glow-in-the-dark color. It has 5 levels of pedal assist and trigger throttle. However, the Enzo has some limitations like no suspension fork, besides, it is heavier at nearly 50 lbs.

The newest version has some great upgrades like the removable Samsung 36V 10.4Ah battery, 350W Brushless Rear Direct Drive to achieve up to 50 miles, new 160mm Hydraulic brakes with power cut-off when braking, and Shimano 7-speed drivetrain.

Swagtron EB-5 Pro

Buy on Amazon

The Swagtron EB-5 Pro might not be the best folding e-bike in this list but it is absolutely the most affordable one. Despite having some limitations, the Swagtron is unbeatable in the 500 price range. It is portable, comfortable, and very well-built; Besides, it has impressive battery milage (over 20 miles in power-assisted mode) and can run in full throttle mode.

The EB-5 weighs just 37 lbs and measures 26 x 15.6 x 23.6 inches in the folded position.

e-JOE Epik Sport Edition SE

This is a widely popular electric bike and the new Epik Sport Edition even got some upgrades like the 350-watt geared hub motor, a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and a basic front suspension fork. What’s great about the Epik is that it offers 3 levels of pedal assist and the thumb throttle control, so you can switch between assist mode, throttle only or no assist. The top speed of the bike is 20mph.

The 36V 9Ah Lithium-ion battery is hidden inside the 6061 Aluminum Alloy frame. A full charge takes around 4 hours and it can help you ride 20-30 miles in assisted mode. The bike weighs 42 lbs and folded dimensions are 35 x 24 x 17 inches. You can buy it in Black, White or Blue color.

ProdecoTech Mariner 500 / Mariner 8

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ProdecoTech is probably the most reputable folding electric bike manufacturer on Amazon. When I went shopping for my first bike, Prodeco bikes were always the best options.

In their folding e-bike lineup, the Mariner series has two compact folding bikes, which are the Mariner 500 and Mariner 8. The Mariner 500 is the high-end version with vastly improved specifications. Apart from the powerful 36v 400W rear direct drive motor, it features the Suntour Swing Shock suspension fork, Avid DB1 Hydraulic brakes and a SRAM X7/X4 8 Speed drivetrain. It also has slightly higher top speed and battery milage. The Mariner 500 weighs 48 lbs and folded size is 36″ x 29″ x 16″.

There were some complaints about the battery of the older version and the issue has been fixed in the new bikes. ProdecoTech upgrades to the new rack and 36V 11.6Ah Samsung Cell battery. The distance per full charge ranges from 28 to 38 miles. The Mariner 500 also comes with a variable throttle, so you can use pedal assist depending on your needs.

Oyama CX E8D

If riding experience is your important requirement and you find other bikes uncomfortable for long journeys, the Oyama CX E8D is a great candidate.

It uses big fat 20-inch wheels and comes with all accessories like fenders, carrier rack, and kickstand but the total weight is just around 43 lbs. During my test, I was quite impressed with its powerful motor as it could help me deal with roads and hills effortlessly. The only limitation is that the bike doesn’t have the full throttle mode. The estimated battery range is 20-30 miles depending on the terrain and your pedaling rate.

What’s your favorite folding electric bike? Let us know is a comment below.

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26 Комментарии и мнения владельцев

Hello, I live in a small apartment and was wondering what type of folder you would recommend for me. I’ve recently retired and have health problems which include Diabetes 2, irregular heartbeat, and a weakened left leg from polio as a child. I would like to take the bike to the store, post office, around town to shop, and to pay bills. I would eventually like to travel up to 6 miles but for right now 3 would do. There are a number of mounds or hills and one steep one that I avoid by jumping in the car when I have an errand to run over there. Do you think battery powered electric bikes would be more suitable. It would make climbing a mound possible without having to demount and walk. Perhaps, there’s a non-pedelec that would work that you about which you know. I’m nearly 250 pounds and 5 feet 6 inches tall and quite out-of-shape. I would like to sit closer to the ground in case of a fall or injury, maybe out of fear, due to the weakened leg muscles. By the way I live in a tourist town that is well-known for its climate, the Boardwalk and its university-Santa Cruz, California. I’m not sure how many gears/speed the bike should have, especially for the purposes of climbing hills. Forgot to mention I’m 67 years old soon to be 68. Please provide me with a couple of choices you think might work. Don’t know if a full-size would be better but I like the stand-over position of a folder as I worry about that bar of the frame being there and complicating a fall. Your time and consideration of this matter is much appreciated. Thanks.

Hi, I highly recommend you to buy an e-bike in this case. Its assistance mode will help you deal with steep inclines a lot easier, especially when you have health issues. I can climb hills effortlessly with most capable e-bikes. In case you want a low step-over frame, I’d recommend you the ProdecoTech Stride (https://amzn.to/2xn0MxB). It’s very comfortable and I know a 220lbs person riding this bike. Best

I’d recommend extreme caution in this case. There are substantial risks that would be assumed by an inexperienced, out-of-shape, overweight, physically impaired senior citizen who begins riding any bike in town. Falling is likely getting up from underneath a heavy e-bike will be difficult even if uninjured. I wish I’d found RG’s query earlier!

Make sure the bike can handle your weight. Most folding bikes will not. Get a low step easier on off. Try to keep the weight of the bike down because you will need to lift it on occasion. I like the weight to be around 50lbs. You do not need the most powerful Ebike just make sure it can climb your hill.

I personally love my SwagCycle from Swagtron – I was even able to ride it at the beach and fold it up and take it home without hassle: https://www.bikefolded.com/best-folding-electric-bikes-cycling-to-work/

All of them will work. For instance, the Brompton fit 4’6″ – 6’8″ riders while the Tern fit 4’10” – 6’5″. I’ve seen many tall riders on those bikes.

I ride a Brompton, but would like some help going up slopes. Which e-bike would you recommend for someone who wants to ride, and only use the battery to assist on slopes? Please recommend one that is fairly light. My current one weighs almost 25 lbs.

You can add electric assistance to any standard Brompton. Look up Nano-Brompton, or Cytronex. These kits can be self-fitted, or added by any competent bike shop.

What’s the suggestion between Prompton and Enzo eBikes? I like the Prompton concept getting folded the easy but what’s the more in regard to the ease of use with those electric model?

A worthy selection of folding ebikes, but I’m a little surprised that Raleigh didn’t feature in the list. Have you guys tried their Stow E Way? That would definitely be in my top 5!

Don’t buy an E Joe you’ll be sorry. I got a major run around from them and after returning the replacement they sent me I was stuck with 160.00 shipping expense that they never reimbursed me back for. Terrible customer service. These are cheep China products. I have a Tern Vektron now.

Hi. I am 6.4 and weigh 231 pounds. What kind of folded e-bike should I choose? Best regards Robert in Norway

6.1 240 have been riding a dahon an downtube FS for years, I dont baby my folders, i put throught the paces.

Aloha We’re looking for a peddle assist folding bikes that has big enough handlebars to add a Giant Basket on the handlebar so we can ride with our dog in the basket. We do not care about speed but we did realize that the smaller wheel base ar difficult to peddle if we run out of battery, do you have any suggestions

I have one of these and with less than 1000 miles on it the bike just turns off on hills which is the entire reason I got it. Blix has terrible support with things like it could be the controller or maybe the motor got overheated. There best advice was since I had enjoyed the bike for 3 years I should just buy a new bike! I will it just won’t be a BLIX.

Has anyone had problems with the battery lock on the Swagtron EB 7, especially when changing batteries.

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