There’s no denying we’re entering an age where everyone wants to be healthier and in better shape. We’re also more environmentally conscious than at any other time in human history. This has led to a massive rise in the number of people cycling day to day and the development of new biking culture.
Folding bikes were developed for those who liked to cycle but needed to be able to store it simply. They’re ideal for those who commute, allowing them to cycle in an urban environment but then store the bike in their office or locker. They’re also very well suited for those will limited storage space at home.
Electric bikes are for those who like to cycle but want to go faster and travel greater distances. They use a small motor, usually rechargeable, which powers the bike so that every rotation of the pedals you travel much further and much faster. It’s fantastic for those who have further to go or some steep hills to overcome.
Folding electric bikes are the combination of both worlds. They’re small, lightweight and extremely portable, but are powerful enough to help with your commute or travel.
What makes them so popular
Folding electric bikes represent the peak of innovation in the urban cycling world. In the last few years they’re really taken off and there are a couple of key reasons they are so popular:
No license needed
Electric motors allow your bike to travel further, and more quickly than standard bikes. Unlike scooters or other motorized transport, you don’t need a special license, so it’s as simple as hopping on and pedaling.
Protection against theft
As cycling has become more popular there has been a steep rise in bike thefts, especially in cities. Bikes are not cheap and good models can go for thousands. Folding bikes allow you to store them indoors either at home or the office, so you can keep an eye on it and not rely on a bike lock.
Easy commute
Electric folding bikes offer a much easier commute. Not only can you avoid traffic congestion, but you also don’t have to deal with unreliable public transport. The motor on an electric bike makes cycling easy, so you won’t turn up to work all sweaty and worn out before the day has even begun.
What makes a good folding electric bike
We can see why electric folding bikes are so popular, but there are now quite a few on the market and it can be hard to choose between them. So what makes an excellent electric folding bike? Everyone has different priorities, but for us, the following 4 factors are key:
Range
The size of the motor will determine the range of the electric folding bike. Typically you’ll find electric folding bikes have a variety of between 25 and 50 miles. You should consider what types of journeys you’ll be making to ensure it can meet your needs.
Weight
You want your electric folding bike to be as portable as possible, and for this to be the case you need it not to be too heavy. It’s worth noting that electric bikes can be quite a bit heavier than standard bikes (due to the motor). Ideally, you should look for something which is under 20kg.
Speed
Speed is another critical factor in selecting your electric bike. This will be determined by the motor and you should look for between 15 and 25mph as standard. This will allow you to travel efficiently and nip past all the standard cyclists.
Price
Price is a key consideration in any purchase. Electric folding bikes can cost anywhere from £750 to over £2000 and it totally depends on what features you want. You should consider your budget carefully before you start looking because this will help narrow down the options.
Top folding bikes in 2019
After exploring the market we’ve detailed our top 3 electric bikes below, along with some of their key features. A full list of the best electric folding bikes in 2019 can be found here; https://www.foldingbikezone.com/top-folding-e-bikes/
1. Cyclamatic CX2 Bicycle Electric Foldaway Bike
This is one of the most popular models on the market right now. It’s simple and effective, suitable for people who don’t ride regularly or haven’t used folding bikes before. It’s fully adjustable and you can move the handlebars and seat as needed to accommodate the user. Plus it’s easy to set up and shouldn’t take you more than 30 mins to get going.
Key features:
Long range
This electric folding bike has a range of over 30 miles when using the fully supported setting, but it can go further if you’re pedaling too. This should be more than enough for most people’s daily commute.
Large motor
With a 250w motor, you have quite a lot of power built into this bike. It’s capable of achieving upwards of 15mph and can easily handle hills or other challenging terrains.
3 level system
There are 3 settings which will determine how you can use the electric bike: off, partial and heavy duty assist. This gives you full control of how much electric support you need day to day.
Priced at under £1000 this is one of the more affordable electric folding bikes. It’s durable and should last for several years minimum, giving good long term value.
2. Prodeco v5 Phantom x2 8 speed folding electric bicycle
Stylish and power, the Prodeco phantom is another very popular model. It’s built to last with good quality materials and excellent features. It’s heavy duty and best suited for more experienced riders.
Key features
500w motor
A massive 500w motor powers this bike. This is what provides the power and you’re practically on a small scooter. It’s a fully rechargeable motor which should let you travel up to 30 miles before needing to be switched off.
Fast
The Prodeco Phantom is fast and capable of going over 20mph using the motor. This makes commuting quicker and lets you get more time back in your day.
More durable
This electric folding bike is definitely made of sterner stuff than most others. It’s even suitable for some off-road biking, making it a good choice for those who also like to ride on weekends.
Priced at around £1300, this is a more expensive model but you’re getting a very robust piece of kit. It’s powerful and more versatile than other folding bikes, making it more useful to the owner.
3. GOPLUS Electric Folding Bike
This is a much less showy model, but it’s one of the best because it’s small and unobtrusive. It’s perfect for those without much storage space and well suited for those who might want to take the bike with them on holiday.
Key Features:
Quick release clamp
You’ll no longer have to fiddle around to fold or unfold your bike because GOPLUS have introduced a quick release clamp. This means you can fold it up really quickly, a useful feature if you’re taking it on and off trains or other public transport.
Quick charging battery
The range of this bike is around 18-20 miles, however the battery in the motor should take over 5 or 6 hours to charge. This is perfect if you have a longer commute because you can let it charge during the day, ready for the return trip.
Shock absorption
The frame is made from aluminum alloy and has shock absorption technology built in. This means it can handle some rough terrain if you have to go off-the road as part of your journey.
At under £500, this is a very good value folding an electric bike. It may not have all the bells and whistles of some other models, but it will get you from A to B quickly and safely.
Best electric folding bikes in 2019
It’s an exciting time to be a cyclist with more variety than ever before. Electric folding bikes offer a great combination of useful features with raw power, making them a great asset for anyone who cycles regularly. If you’re looking to improve your daily commute then you should definitely join the movement.
If you also love to ride electric dirt bikes, then you should know the difference between two strokes vs four strokes.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to comment below.
Thanks!
