Electric Bikes are growing in popularity with every passing year. Their specifications and builds are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
Folding electric bikes continue to be a popular choice, with a lot of new models coming onto the market.
These models are ideal for those individuals that want a portable commuter Personal Electric Vehicle (PEV). Because they fold up, it makes it easier to take them on public transport.
They can also be stored in work environments, or in cramped apartments more easily, without the worry of them potentially being stolen if left chained up outside.
They will fit easily in the trunk of a car, and they can offer a lot of versatility for the user.
Because foldable ebikes are growing so much in popularity, it means there is a lot of competition.
It can be hard to whittle down which ones are offering true value for money, particularly if you are new to the world of electric bikes.
Our article aims to provide you with some suggested models that would be worth considering, although with their pros and cons.
Best Folding Electric Bikes Comparison
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How We Classified These as the Best Folding Bikes
The folding bike model that will work best for you will depend on a number of factors.
You will, of course, need to consider budget, where and how you plan to use the bike and your riding style.
If you want something for zippy commutes, and hopping on and off public transport, you will want something powerful and lightweight.
You might not be so concerned, however, about having a long mileage range.
If you have a longer commute and you are a heavier rider, you may want something with generous maximum weight capacity and a powerful battery.
Some riders may have to tackle a lot of hills or bumpy road conditions, and in this case, full suspension, tires and a powerful motor will be key.
Be Aware of the Electric Bike Classes
Don’t forget to check the Class of the bike you are considering too. The laws vary depending on the country you are in.
Sometimes models that are being advertised as traditional electric bikes that have a heavier weight capacity turn out to be ones that do speeds above 28mph.
This means they are not generally going to be road legal.
Check out the People For Bikes website, which is a handy resource for gaining a better understanding of these, sometimes nuanced, regulations.
In general, the Classes are broken down as follows within the United States:
Class 1 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20 mph
- Pedal-assist motor only
- In some areas, the motor can be no bigger than 250 w
- Generally no restrictions on where they can be used in the US
Class 2 e-bikes
- Max speed of 20 mph
- Pedal-assist mode or thumb throttle function
- Motor no greater than 750 w
Class 3 e-bikes
- Max speed 28 mph (often referred to as speed pedelecs)
- Pedal-assist function only
- Motor no greater than 750 w
- There are restrictions in certain States on where these can be used – always check
Best Folding Electric Bike Reviews
Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 2 (Pedal-Assist and Throttle on Demand) |
| Motor | 250 watt motor |
| Battery | 13.5Ah, 22V, Approximately 300 Wh Lithium-Ion |
| Charging Time | 7 hours |
| Brakes | Hydraulic Disc Front and Rear |
| Max Speed | 20 mph |
| Max Distance | 40 miles |
| Bike Weight | 36.13 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 220 lbs |
What We Loved
While GoCycle is one of the more expensive folding e-bike brands, you know you are getting a model that is well built, sleek and reliable.
A lot of folding bikes can look a little less streamlined and rather clunky. The GoCycle design is pretty elegant and slick.
In terms of portability, it is one of the best too. It is one of the lightest folding bikes, and this makes it much easier to lift it on and off public transport, into the trunk of a car and up a flight of stairs.
The magnesium collapsible frame is incredibly robust. A lot of folding bikes have slightly shoddy builds, and they start to have problems folding down.
Once you have mastered the art of getting it to fold down, it is easy, and there are no problems with the mechanics. Just be aware that the kickstand can be tough to pull out.
Although this model only has one frame size, it is nice that it has an adjustable seat fork. This means that even taller riders can get a more comfortable seating position.
Although it is a little more expensive, you do get a lot for your money. A lot of folding bikes sacrifice on higher specification features – not the Gocycle.
It has responsive hydraulic brakes which give you extra confidence when tackling hills and riding at top speeds.
It also has suspension and wider, high-quality tires which means that get a more comfortable riding experience, even if you are tackling rougher road surfaces.
Because it is lighter, it makes it easier to ride if you are pedaling without any power-assist too.
Why it Might Not Work For You
As mentioned, the GoCycle is one of the more expensive folding electric bike models. This means it might be a stretch for those on a budget.
The battery takes a whopping 7 hours to reach full charge. If you have a long commute to work, it could be a challenge getting it fully charged again before you have to head back home.
This bike is not suited to heavier riders. The maximum weight capacity is the least generous of any of those we reviewed, at just 220 lbs.
Overall Verdict
If you are looking for a reliable folding electric bike that offers a comfortable riding experience and is very lightweight, the GoCycle could be for you.
Only if you don’t mind splashing out on a more expensive model.
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Specs
| Type of Bike | Class 3 (Speed Pedelec) |
| Motor | 500 w rear hub motor |
| Battery | 48 volt 13 ah (624wh) Lithium Nickel Cobalt Manganese (Li-NCM) |
| Charging Time | 6 hours |
| Brakes | Tektro Front and Rear Mechanical Disc |
| Max Speed | 22 mph |
| Max Distance | 30 miles |
| Bike Weight | 55 lbs |
| Max Weight Capacity | 242 lbs |
What We Loved
A lot of folding bikes focus on weight and functionality, but they are not particularly powerful, with most having just 250-watt motors.
The Magnum stands out from the crowd with a more powerful 500-watt motor and a 48v battery. This means it has good acceleration and can hit generous top speeds of 22 mph without too much difficulty.
The tires are also slightly smaller than average, and this means it is more compact than some other bike models, making it easier to store.
The slightly smaller tires may be a concern for those looking for a smooth ride. But, this model has a decent suspension fork, suspension in the adjustable-height seat post and a very comfortable, wide gel saddle.
It is nice that the battery can be charged on or off the frame.
This is a distinct advantage if you want to charge up while at work, as you can bring the battery to sit under your desk or to another easy access charging point. The charger is compact and lightweight too.
Why it Might Not Work For You
Compared to the GoCycle model, this bike is on the heavier side. It is not as portable, and if you have to do a lot of hopping on and off public transport, this could be more of a challenge.
Once folded down this bike can sometimes start to unfold slightly and it means it can get jammed in a tight spot on the bus or train more easily. It can also make more noise as it flaps around.
Overall Verdict
The Magnum Premium Folding Electric Bike offers a lot of good features for the price point, not least a more powerful motor.
This makes it a good choice for those that want to maintain high speeds or tackle more hills.
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