Foldable electric bikes have become so popular today due to their numerous benefits compared to regular bikes and other e-bike categories.
One of the reasons people love them is that they are so versatile. You can easily fold the frame and keep it in a safe place, such as under your desk.
For those trying to avoid traffic, e-bikes are an ideal solution. However, the significant problem people face today is choosing the best folding model since there are so many.
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Pros & Cons of Foldable Electric Bikes
Why should you buy a folding electric bicycle? There are many reasons before even thinking about buying one, so let’s look at them.
Benefits
Public transport
Most major cities have subways and buses designed to take bicycles on board. But in some places, this is still not the case, so folding your e-bike will allow you to jump onto any public transport.
Of course, this is in the scenario where you run out of battery, or maybe you only use the e-bike for part of your commute.
Limited space, no problem
It is not uncommon for offices and new buildings to have less space for people. If you have a limited area to store a bike, a foldable e-cycle is the solution you need.
Affordable
This configuration can be more accessible to those with a limited budget since their general components are less sophisticated than high-end tech ones, such as the Giant Trance E+ 3 Pro 2020.
Overall weight
The reduced overall weight may be one of the most essential benefits these e-bikes offer to users. For instance, the Hummingbird is one of the lightest folding electric bikes on the market.
Throttle assisted feature
One of the common features you will find here is a combination of pedal assist and throttle.
Having a throttle feature gives you the freedom to use only your hand (if you have knee problems) or accelerate quicker than using the pedal assist alternative.
For this reason, many delivery drivers have opted to buy them rather than a car or a standard bike.
Be mindful that many countries in the European Union, United States and Australia have strong regulations regarding using bikes with a throttle option.
Read More: Electric Bike Laws in EU, USA, and Australia
A good alternative for knee issues is the Tern Vektron S10, which packs a lot of power in the rear motor and has a rear rack to accommodate any basket.
More top speed
Based on the usual motor configuration fitted (direct drive or geared hub), they can reach speeds between 25 km/h to 45 km/h (this one breaking the law if the motor is still active).
Like the throttle feature, the top speed is regulated in the US, EU and Australia. Lucky for you, some bike manufacturers have configured their controllers to be in line with the local laws for the e-cycle industry.
Limitation
Maybe a bit heavy
Unfortunately, not all folding electric bicycle models in the market are good in terms of weight.
The increase in weight is the result of some manufacturers using bigger batteries and motors to propel them through any terrain, such as the RadMini Step-Thru fat tire.
Potential muscle strains when folding the frame
I know that manufacturers try their best to build a user-friendly foldable structure. This may be a challenge since they also have to consider the folding feature.
Be careful of your body posture when folding or unfolding the frame.
For this reason, brands also attach a user manual (either printed or online) to indicate the best way to fold their models (e.g., using the bike stand).
The use of hub motors only
If you’re after an electric bicycle that can provide good torque, such as a mid-drive one, it may be hard to find it here.
It is generally accepted that only hub motors are meant to be used for these type of bikes otherwise, it would not be easy to fold.
One good thing is that the geared hub motors are improving with the torque rating to around 80 Nm (high-end).
Components and the look
At first glance, their components look very standard, such as the brake cabling and pads; it doesn’t mean they are poor quality though. These are not the most attractive ones in terms of how they look. Honestly, it is hard to design a sleek one.
Tires
Most of these e-bikes have small tires. This translates into not having the best grip, so going potentially a bit off-road would be a problem.
Rider Height
Looking at various e-bike folding models like the Swagtron EB7 Plus, tall riders (over 1.85 m or 6’06”) may not fit properly with such small frames. This is mainly because the seat post is short to allow the folding feature to be simple.
Essentials When Buying a Folding Electric Bike
In order to select the correct folding e-bike, I suggest taking into consideration the following points:
Frame material, size and design
This one is arguably the most important factor that can help determine the quality of the one you buy.
Ensure that the frame is sturdy enough to support a lot of weight.
It should also have a user-friendly design. The materials used in the production should be solid, durable, and lightweight, like aluminum.
As mentioned above, these frames are usually not made for tall riders. Sit on it, ride it, and feel if its size is okay for you.
Now, the design is not the biggest problem here. The only thing to look into is what added benefits the frame has (a bike stand?).
Indeed, they are not the most good-looking ones, but for a foldable feature, it should be acceptable.
Foldability and storability
You should also ensure you have a place to store it. A good exercise is to check its dimensions when folded to ensure that it will fit perfectly in your preferred area.
Another important thing you should consider is the security of the place where you will be storing it.
Don’t forget to check if the frame size is the right for you. Is it comfortable to ride? Is the frame step-thru?
Motor quality and efficiency
As we have discussed, e-bikes can have a hub and mid-drive motors. The efficiency and effectiveness of an e-bike really depend on the motor’s quality.
You need to know that the motor’s position affects how it powers the bike as you ride.
In the case of a folding electric bike, you can find them with power between 250w and 350w.
The only exception we have found with the location of the motor is the one featured in the Gocycle GS model.
In general, the motor fitted is powerful enough to get you anywhere.
Hill climbing ability
To avoid frustrations, you need to think of the terrain in which you will be riding it. If you need to climb hills, ensure that the motor has enough power (torque) to do so.
Read More: e-bike motor guide for beginners.
Brakes efficiency
Braking efficiency is vital in any e-bike. We have seen so far that low-profile ones will have pad brakes, but the heavier and more expensive ones will have hydraulic discs fitted.
Of course, the technology of the hydraulic brakes is not as responsive as a fancy e-MTB.
Tires and common specifications
Tires are among the most essential parts of a foldable electric bike. Therefore, they should be made of reliable and sturdy materials to boost durability.
There is no specific set of tires to fit this category. You will find fat tires in some models and slim designs in others.
Tires will usually be between 14″ and 20″.
The battery
It may not be something to worry too much about, but if you know more about the type of battery used, it can help you make an informed decision when choosing which model is best.
Ideally, you would like a battery that can be removed from the frame. This is, from my perspective, essential since it will make your life easier when loading or carrying it anywhere.
If the battery cannot be removed from the frame, I suggest looking at a different model.
Required maintenance
A foldable e-bike requires frequent maintenance, just like ordinary bikes. You need to check various parts occasionally to ensure they are working correctly.
The main element to check constantly for integrity is the locking system of the frame. I know they are very sturdy, but over time, they can get worn out and become a safety hazard.
After using the e-bike for some time, you may need to replace some parts. It is always advisable to take your foldable e-bicycle to a trusted bike shop for general maintenance or repair.
What Most Buyers Forget
All of the above points are important factors to look out for, but keep the following points in mind as well.
Take it for a test drive
If you have never used a folding e-bike before, getting your head around exactly what you need might be challenging.
It is good to try out different folding models before deciding which one fits best and committing to buying.
This will also help you pick a functional one and fulfil your needs.
The manufacturer
Purchasing an e-bike from a known company is always the best idea. These companies usually have excellent customer support and provide a reasonable warranty.
Some of the top folding electric bike brands offering good quality are:
– Rad Power Bikes.
– Hummingbird.
– GoCycle.
– Ecotric such as the Dolphin Fat Tire version.
– Brompton.
– Tern Vekctron.
Of course, there are other manufacturers which you can consider. Before you buy from a brand, do your research and check their CUSTOMER SERVICE PROFILE.
Weight and portability
Before buying one, you must be very sure about the maximum weight the bike can carry. Most of them can support a total weight of up to 300 lbs. It should also be portable or have a lightweight design.
Warranty, customer service & serviceability
The best electric folding bikes will tend to be a bit pricier, of course. It means that you need to ensure that the product you have chosen will give you value for your money.
One of the key things that can help you determine the right price to pay is the warranty. What is the warranty covering? For how long?
Ensure that the warranty is reasonable enough or the company has good customer support.
Riding modes and speed
Folding electric bicycles have different speeds, just like they have different designs. The lighter models have a speed of up to 20 mph, which depends on the e-bike style.
The high-end models usually have a higher speed limit of up to 28 mph.
Whatever speed the e-bike model has, make sure your local regulations aren’t going to be a deal-breaker.
The good news is that some new models, such as the Aventon Pace 500, are now fitted with more specific controllers that allow you to limit the top speed.
Ask your dealer or bike shop to walk you through the controller for mode intel.
What do you want to do with it?
If you intend to use it for short rides around your area, then you need to look for a small and lightweight one such as GoCycle or Hummingbird brand.
However, if you need one for more active or long rides, you should look for one with bigger wheels like the Tern Vektron S10.
Wrap Up
The type of folding e-bike to pick depends on your personal preference. However, don’t just buy one because it is affordable or just because it has an attractive design.
You need to ensure that it will be strong enough for the intended purpose.
We hope that this guide has given you enough information to choose the right foldable electric bike to suit your requirements.
