E-bikes of all types have had a huge growth in popularity and improvement in technology in the past few years. Folding bikes, including folding electric bikes, have also seen a jump in use.
This is because they are a convenient mode of transport for commuters or cyclists who need to transport and store their bicycles more easily.
With folding electric bicycles, you have the power to take on longer commutes without breaking a sweat, reliably bring your bike on any public transit, and fold it up easily to store it at the office or in your home.
The best folding electric bike will fold quickly and securely, be relatively lightweight, be comfortable to ride, and come fully equipped for urban commuting. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the differences we see between models.
What Are the Best Folding Electric Bikes?
1. Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5
2. Tern GSD S10
3. Lectric XP 3.0
4. Ride1UP Portola
5. Aventon Sinch.2
6. Buzz Centris
7. Velotric Fold 1
8. Blix Vika+ Flex
9. Vivi Folding Electric Bike
10. Engwe EP-2 Pro
11. Tern Vektron Q9
12. Brompton C Line Electric Explore
1. Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5
Best fat tire folding electric bike
MSRP: $1,650
- 7-speed microShift derailleur
- 20×4″ tires
- 750w rear hub motor
- Max payload: 275 lbs
- 48V 14 Ah battery, 672Wh
The RadExpand 5 folding electric bike is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants great value, convenience, and versatility.
This Class 2 eBike is great for long-distance commutes with its 45-mile range and when you arrive at your destination, quickly fold and store the bike in a small secure package.
The RadExpand folding electric bike uses a powerful 750W motor combined with a reliable microShift 7-speed rear derailleur to get you where you need to go. It also comes with full fenders, an LCD bike computer, and integrated LED lights on arrival.
Finally, this e-bike is a joy to ride due to its plush, puncture-resistant fat tires, disc brakes, and comfort-focused geometry.
2. Tern GSD S10
Best folding electric cargo bike
MSRP: $5,399
- 10-speed Shimano Deore
- 20×2.4″ + 2.15″ tires
- 250 watts, 85Nm mid-drive motor
- Max payload: 440 lbs
- 400Wh battery
The Tern GSD S10 is a unique electric folding bike. It doesn’t fold in half like most others but has a folding handlebar and stem and a telescoping seatpost.
This bike is designed to support huge cargo loads of up to 440lbs and is perfect for long-distance commutes with its 53-mile max range. At home, you can quickly fold and store the bike in a neat package.
Power comes from a premium Bosch Cargo Line motor with 400% support and 85Nm of torque to pull you up steep hills with a loaded bike. This pairs with a 400Wh battery with an integrated ABUS lock.
Finally, you have four-piston Magura hydraulic disc brakes, puncture-resistant Schwalbe tires, and a fully-equipped setup to make life in the city safe and convenient.
3. Lectric XP 3.0
Best folding electric bike under $1,000
MSRP: $999
- Range: Up to 45mi
- 500W motor (1000W peak)
- 20×3″ tires
- Max payload: 330lbs
- Weight: 64lbs
- 500Wh
The XP 3.0 folding fat tire bike by Lectric is certainly one of the best electric commuter bikes for all ages and sizes, as it performs far above its cheap price tag.
This 500W folding electric bike comes with a punchy motor with 5 levels of pedal assistance and a 500Wh battery that delivers up to 45 miles of range. Additionally, the XP 3.0 has 3″ wide CST tires, 180mm-rotor mechanical disc brakes, and shock-absorbing fork suspension.
This 20-inch electric bike is fully equipped on arrival with fenders, lights, and an integrated rear rack that can support up to 150 lbs. You can also choose the step-through version if you want extra comfort and convenience or a long-range one with 20 miles more range. Finally, even with all of these components, it still folds up quickly and neatly.
4. Ride1UP Portola
Affordable high-quality folding electric bike
MSRP: $995 – $1,095
- 750W motor / 65 Nm
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- 20 x 3″ tires
- 8-Speed rear derailleur
- Pedal assistance and throttle
Ride1UP Portola is a 20-inch folding electric bike designed for anything from an urban commute to leisure weekend rides on bike paths.
This electric folding bike has a solid 750W motor combined with an 8-speed drivetrain and a 500 Wh or 643 Wh battery that lasts up to 25-40 miles per charge.
The Ride1UP Portola also boasts hydraulic disc brakes, versatile 20 x 3″ tires, and a sleek folding aluminum frame. Therefore, you can ride it on almost any terrain, including gravel and dirt roads, and you can also quickly fold it for storage or transportation.
Finally, the Portola folding electric bike comes with great accessories, including front and rear fenders, lights, a rear rack, and a kickstand, which is why we included it as a top 3 choice.
5. Aventon Sinch.2
Fat tire folding electric bike
MSRP: $1,599
- Motor: 500W
- Battery: 672Wh
- Alloy frame
- Mechanical disc brakes
- 20 x 4″ tires
- Max rider weight: 300 lbs
The Aventon Sinch folding electric bike features a set of all-terrain fat tires combined with a 45 mm travel front fork for versatile off-road capability and rides on light trails.
This affordable fold-up electric bike has a punchy 500W motor and a 672Wh battery that is seamlessly built into the frame. This combination provides 55 miles of range with a max assisted speed of 20 mph.
Finally, the Aventon brand gave this folding electric bike a reliable Shimano drivetrain, mechanical disc brakes, and app connectivity. The only weak point is the high weight of 68 lb.
Despite that, the Sinch.2 is one of the most popular folding ebikes on the market right now, thanks to its high overall value for the money.
6. Buzz Centris
MSRP: $1,399
- 500W motor
- Battery: 48V
- 20″ x 4″ tires
- Charge time: 2-6 hours
- Max speed: 20 mph
- Weight: 67 lbs
The Buzz Centris folding electric bike is one of the most affordable models we have seen that is still reliable and versatile.
This folding electric bike has a sleek design, an efficient 500W motor, and a 48V battery. Using the throttle and PAS, you can reach max speeds of 20 mph for distances of 20-40 miles. Additionally, the battery charges fully in 2-6 hours and can be swapped out for an extra battery to extend the range.
The Buzz Centris folding electric bike also uses compact 20″ wheels and reliable mechanical disc brakes to make it more comfortable and easier to control.
Finally, the Centris folding electric bike has front and rear lights, a kickstand, and even a front and rear rack for safer and easier commuting.
7. Velotric Fold 1
Most bang-for-buck folding ebike
MSRP: $999
- 750W motor (70 Nm torque)
- 608 Wh battery
- 38”L x 19”W x 33”H folding size
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- 7-speed rear derailleur
- Max weight capacity: 440 lbs
The Velotric Fold 1 folding electric bike has a unique combination of high-quality components chosen to make your life as convenient as possible and ensure a smooth ride.
This bike boasts maximum practicality with a compact and easy-to-transport folding mechanism along with an efficient high-torque and throttle-controlled motor.
Another excellent feature on the Velotric Fold 1 is the high-capacity 608 Wh battery. It lets you ride for up to 55 miles on a single charge, which is more than enough to get almost anywhere you need to be. On top of that, this folding electric bike has a 440 lb total weight capacity (120 lb rear rack capacity), which means it can carry some serious weight.
The system is also combined with a 7-speed Shimano rear derailleur which will help you pedal uphill more easily and make better use of the battery.
Finally, this bike uses hydraulic disc brakes, 3-inch wide tire design, and is fully equipped with lights, a rack, fenders, and a front suspension fork.
8. Blix Vika+ Flex
Foldable e-bike with modular accessories
MSRP: $1,899
- 500W, 45Nm rear hub motor
- 614Wh, 48V battery
- Weight: 55lb
- Mechanical disc brakes
- 20″ wheels
- Suits 4’10” to 6’2″ rider height
The Blix Vika+ Flex foldable electric bike is a solid option that outperforms its affordable price.
Make your commute a breeze with its 500W rear hub motor and a 614Wh battery that delivers up to 45 miles of range on a single charge. This setup is best for relatively flat cycling as it only has 45 Nm of torque.
This folding bike folds into a neat package measuring 36″ x 21″ x 28.5″ to make it easier to transport. The relatively heavy weight of 55lb means it’s possible but challenging to carry.
Finally, this electric folding bike has mechanical disc brakes, an integrated rack, fenders, a 7-speed drivetrain, and a 20mph top speed. It’s a great commuting companion for any urban dweller.
9. Vivi Folding Electric Bike
Best foldable electric cargo bike
MSRP: Check on Amazon
- Motor: 500W or 350W rear hub motor
- Battery: 48V 10.4ah battery
- 20 x 4″ tires
- 7-speed rear derailleur
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Fits riders from 5’1″ to 6’4″
The Vivi foldable electric bicycle is a low-end model with affordable components and lots of thoughtful design features.
This e-bike comes with either a 500W or a 350W rear hub motor with pedal assistance up to 24 mph for a whopping 50 miles max range due to the large 48V 10.4ah battery. Additionally, the 7-speed drivetrain and mechanical disc brakes combine for one of the most efficient and easy-to-use drivetrains possible.
Lastly, to further boost comfort, power, and convenience, this bike has a suspension fork, 20″ x 4″ fat tires, front and rear lights, fenders, and even a rear rack.
10. Engwe EP-2 Pro
MSRP: $1,100
- Motor: 750W
- Battery: 48V 13aH
- Range: Up to 50 miles
- Mechanical disc brakes
- Max weight capacity: 330 lb
- Fits riders: 5’2″ to 6’4″
Engwe EP-2 Pro is a popular electric folding bike that offers a lot of features at a very attractive price point. It’s powerful, convenient to use, and performs well on diverse terrain.
- Read more: Complete Engwe Bikes Brand Review
This Engwe e-bike uses two quick-release clamps which allow you to fold it up in a matter of seconds. It also comes with lockable fork suspension and 4″ puncture-resistant fat tires that provide comfort and performance both on and off-road.
For power, the EP-2 Pro relies on a 750W motor with five pedal assist levels and a throttle. Using a 48V 13Ah battery, this bike averages 50+ miles per charge. This is certainly one of the best folding eBikes for this price.
11. Tern Vektron Q9
Best folding cargo electric bike
MSRP: $2,999
Tern’s Vektron Q9 electric folding bike is a highly-functional model. It’s suitable for urban riding that requires carrying large cargo loads, which makes it ideal for work-day commutes, running errands, and weekend adventures with your kid as a passenger.
This small folding electric bike weighs around 48 lbs, meaning it is possible to lift it when you need to carry it. It uses a Bosch Active Line Plus 250W, 50 Nm motor which provides max speeds of up to 20 mph for a max range of 35-70 miles using the 400 Wh battery.
Other notable features include Schwalbe Big Apple 20″ x 2.15″ tires, a compact rear rack, fenders, a kickstand, and a Shimano Alivio groupset with hydraulic disc brakes.
Finally, the Tern Vektron Q9 resizes in seconds to fit riders from 4’10” to 6’5″, which means almost anyone can ride it.
12. Brompton C Line Electric Explore
Best folding electric bike by the oldest folding bike brand
MSRP: $4,150
- Made of steel
- 6-speed
- Weight: 38.3 lbs
- Battery: 36V, 300 Wh
Brompton Electric Folding Bikes are the most established and recognized brand for this type of bike and the C Line Electric Explore is one of the most popular models they have, offering great quality and reliability, although it’s slightly overpriced for the level of components.
The C Line Electric Explore is the perfect urban commuter bike. It features an ergonomic comfort riding position, a 300 Wh battery that delivers 20-45 miles of range, a punchy front-hub motor, and a 6-speed drivetrain to support it.
This Brompton e-Bike has an excellent folding and locking mechanism which is the result of years of design experience. Their hand-brazened steel frames are also highly durable and comfortable.
Finally, this bike includes full fenders, a front mount for accessories, and Schwalbe Marathon Racer 1.35″ tires.
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Quick Folding Electric Bikes Buying Guide
Here’s a quick guide on what features you should keep in mind when buying a foldable ebike in order to get the right model for your needs!
Tire width: Fat vs Standard
Folding fat bikes and regular folding e-Bikes are both popular choices with their own distinct advantages. Some brands focus on one type only, whereas others, such as Biria Bikes, offers both types. The reason that fat-tire folding e-Bikes are so popular is that these bikes are the most versatile and comfortable.
A folding fat-tire electric bike has the ability to go on or off-road, maintains excellent traction and control in all terrains and weather conditions, and is super-comfy because the large tires absorb almost all of the road vibrations.
Most folding ebikes come with 20-inch wheels, but some brands, such as Sondors, offer larger wheels as well.
Non-electric folding bike vs a conventional folding bike
Whether you choose electric or not depends on your needs and capabilities as a cyclist.
A motor and battery will allow you to commute without effort, especially if there’s a throttle. This is an excellent choice for long or difficult commutes. E-bikes also allow you to easily transport cargo such as a loaded pannier rack without noticing the extra weight.
Folding electric bikes for adults are great for those with injuries or who find it difficult to ride regularly and want to be able to without limitations.
Belt vs chain drive folding e-Bikes
A belt-drive electric folding bike for adults is a premium system because it requires virtually no maintenance, lasts a long time, doesn’t require grease, and is silent when running compared to a chain drive.
- Related post: Best Belt-Driven EBikes to Get
Suspension vs rigid forks on folding ebikes
The type of fork that comes on your folding e-bike greatly affects the comfort when riding on rough terrain. A suspension fork will absorb more shocks and bumps, allowing you to comfortably ride off-road without experiencing fatigue from vibrations.
Additionally, because you have a motor for power, the loss of performance and speed from suspension is almost canceled out.
Internal gearing vs derailleur
Internal hub gearing is common on e-bikes because it requires very little maintenance compared to a derailleur. It has less exposed parts which reduces wear and tear.
These types of hubs usually can’t get as wide a gear range as a derailleur, but this is pretty much irrelevant as you are powered mostly by the motor on an e-bike.
Electric Bike Classification Explained
Most folding fat tire electric bikes are Class 1, which means the pedal assistance works up to 20mph. However, there are also Class 2 and 3. They are categorized as follows:
- Class 1: Top speed 20mph
- Class 2: Top speed 20mph + Throttle 20mph
- Class 3: Top speed 28mph + Throttle 20mph
Hub drive vs mid-drive motors on folding electric bikes
Hub drive motors are the cheapest type. They are heavier and are generally found in the rear wheel axle. They power the rear wheel independently of the drivetrain and thus are not as efficient, especially in their power delivery or smoothness.
Mid-drive motors are the premium choice. They are more expensive, lighter, and are found in between the pedals. This location improves the center of gravity. These motors work by powering the drivetrain, delivering a smooth and efficient power output.
Spoke vs cast wheels on a folding bike
Spoke wheels are the premium option. They are more durable and perform better than cast wheels. Cast wheels are found on cheaper models. They require less maintenance and are lightweight, but also less durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are full suspension folding electric bikes worth it?
Full suspension on a folding e-bike is a little excessive. In general, this type of bike is uses for urban riding, commuting, or light trail rides. To do this well, all you need is fat tires and/or front fork suspension to absorb the bumps you encounter.
Additionally, a folding e-bike usually won’t have the correct geometry to tackle tough mountain descents and singletrack.
Should you consider cheap folding electric bikes?
For cyclists who need a bike for light usage and short trips, without the need to go off-road or carry heavy cargo, a cheap folding e-bike should be able to meet those needs.
For heavier usage or more difficult riding conditions like off-roading or tough gradients, a cheap e-bike might not work effectively or be durable enough.
Moreover, some cheap folding ebikes are too bulky and cannot be transported inside your car’s trunk, in which case you may need to get a bicycle car rack for ebikes to transport it.