Just about a year ago, my friend suggested I get a folding electric bike which I could carry with me while on public transport and then ride on it to the office. I can’t thank him enough for that “life-saving” idea! Since then I’ve rarely been late to the office. Not only is my lovely bike faster and eco-friendly, but it also allows me to enjoy enough time to hit the gym in between.
Last month I took my e-bike to Arizona for a friendly trip. I just folded and carried it in the trunk of the SUV. Off-road riding was surprisingly fun, and I didn’t expect it to go uphill that smooth. I found it pretty easy to maintain too.
However, you need to make a considerable investment since they come with high-performance motors, long-lasting batteries, robust tires, and durable frames. Also, never forget that the market is littered with so many options to choose from.
Here we’ve come up with a list of today’s best folding electric bikes along with a free comprehensive buying guide for you. Carefully go through the reviews to choose your perfect folding e-bike!
Best Folding Electric Bike Reviews
1 Tern Vektron S10
Why It Stands Out to Us
The Tern Vektron S10 is an excellent folding bike for urban commuting and recreational use. It has a strong frame and quality components that makes it both reliable and comfortable.
With a step-through design, adjustable Seatpost, and handlebar, the bike is easily accessible to most riders. The bike can also be stacked vertically to save storage space.
Despite the unusual look, the build quality on the Tern Vektron S10 is really impressive for an e-bike that can be folded in half in under 10 seconds!
It’s not easy to make a good folding bike, and it’s not easy to make a good e-bike. However, The long heritage of making folding bikes, and advanced research have allowed tren to come up with the best of both worlds.
Our Experience With the Tern Vektron S10
Build Quality
A sturdy and lightweight Hydroformed 7005 Aluminum Alloy frame and high-quality components provided a stable and smooth ride for our testers. Among the testers, one was my granny (5’7”) who enjoyed the ride so much that she decided she needed one for herself!
But that doesn’t mean this bike is only for seniors. That’s one of the beauties of this amazingly versatile bike. This folding electric bike features an almost universal frame.
With just two quick-release clamps in the telescopic seat post and the handlebar, Both me and my granny could share the same bike! The bike can support riders from 4’10” – 6’5” in height.
We also found that the bike was easy to assemble and ride, and it felt very solid while on the road. The 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain provided ample gear options, and the hydraulic Deore disc brakes provided enough stopping power in all types of weather.
The frame is stiff enough to provide plenty of stability, while the wheels and tires deliver a smooth ride. Similarly, components like the drivetrain, brakes, and tires are all high-quality.
Battery
The drivetrain is powered by a 400 Wh Bosch PowerPack battery, which provides plenty of range for commuting and recreational riding. The battery can be easily removed from the bike frame and charged at home or on the go.
The battery powers the motor and the digital Purion display. It is mounted below the rear cargo rack, which lowered the center of gravity, making the ride feel more solid and the battery protected.
The 4 amp smart charger charged the battery relatively quicker, from 0% to 100% in 3 hrs 20 mins. We were able to cover around 30-32 miles, spending half the charge, which isn’t bad but could be better, considering the price.
Motors
The Tern Vektron S10 is the one and only electric folding bike in North America that’s powered by a Bosch performance motor. With a 65 Nm Torque, the motor was able to reach a maximum speed of 23-25 mph on our test drive.
The bike is powered by a quiet Bosch Active Line Plus motor, which provided plenty of power and torque to get us up hills with ease. The shifting was also smooth and consistent.
There are 4 power modes available: Turbo, Sport, Tour, and Eco for different terrains. The tires were superbly shock-absorbent. The integrated speed sensor automatically detected the current speed and adjusted the level of assistance, which felt nice.
We found that this system worked very well during our test rides, as we always felt in control regardless of the terrain or conditions.
Portability
This is where the Tern Vektron S10 shines the most. With an incredibly sturdy design, this lightweight bike can be folded into half (technically, 3 parts ) in under 10 seconds!
We traveled with this bike on a boat, the trunk of our sedan, a bus, the subway, and an RV with absolutely no issues. Getting the bike into the sedan’s trunk seemed difficult, but once we removed the wheels, the rest became a cakewalk.
The bike can also be placed in an upright position, which saves a lot of space when the bike is folded. As the bike weighs under 50 lbs, it’s comparatively easier to carry and transport.
The strong frame can carry around 275 lbs of load altogether, which also seemed impressive.
Others
- The wide range of luggage-carrying options makes the bike perfect for commuting
- It’s really easy and practical to stack up the bike vertically in city condos
- The saddle is comfortable on short rides
What We Didn’t Like
- The battery capacity should’ve been larger
- The outside wiring provides easy access but exposes the wires to the elements
- The paddles are subpar and don’t provide much comfort. I had to swap mine.
Who is it Great for?
The Tern Vektron S10 is one of the best touring bikes for you if you:
- Are a senior or recreational rider
- Want to cruise around the city
- Need some extra power in your wheels
- Occasionally go on short, off-road trips
- Are looking for a regular commuting option
- Need to transport your bike wherever you go
- Have little storage room for your bike
Key Specs
- Frame: Hydroformed 7005 Aluminum Alloy
- Fork: Tern Tarsus, 6061-Al, hydroformed
- Battery: Bosch PowerPack 400 Wh (4A Charger)
- Motor: Bosch Performance, 300% Assist, 65 Nm Torque
- Cassette: Shimano 11-36T, 10 Speed
- Derailleur: Shimano Deore Shadow+
- Display: Bosch Purion, 4 modes selectable with walk assist
- Tires: Schwalbe Big Apple, Performance Line, 55-406
- Brakes: Magura MT4, Hydraulic Disc Brakes With 160 MM Rotors
Pros
- Durable and lightweight frame
- High-quality components
- Can be folded in under 10 seconds
- Powerful motor and electric drivetrain
- Vertical storing position
- Comfortable riding position
- Extensive puncture protection
- Great chain guard and fender coverage
- Plenty of mounting options
- Reliable, balanced performance all year long
Cons
- The paddles aren’t comfortable
- The adjustable “one-size” fame doesn’t support all riders
2 Luna Eclipse
Why It Stands Out to Us
If you’re looking for an e-bike with BMX aesthetics, the Luna Ecplise is the perfect e-bike for you. We fell in love with the bike at first sight. Once we rode it, it became our new favorite in no time.
The bike provided the feel of riding an MTB on the streets. With a powerful motor, large battery, and high-quality belt drive, all of our rides were smooth and fun.
The fat tires can take on any city road and even moderate trails effortlessly. The seating position was very comfortable, and the bike is easy to fold too. However, to fold it completely, you’ll need to loosen the bolts on the handlebar.
We had no issues climbing uphill or descending, even in wet weather. The charging time is a bit long, we recommend that you use a better charger.
We enjoyed the BMX feel over city streets. With a cool outlook, high-quality components, and more-than-satisfactory performance, the Luna Eclipse is a great folding electric bike for city commuting.
Our Experience With the Luna Eclipse
Build Quality
As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Luna Eclipse delivers a “BMX vibe.” Once you get close, you’ll notice that, unlike BMX bikes, the Chifa saddle in the Eclipse is meant for your pedaling comfort.
However, if you’re a big rider like me, you would want to swap the seat with a more comfortable one, but that’s just me. A friend of mine (5’4”) felt a little uncomfortable as she couldn’t flat foot on this bike.
With a durable aluminum alloy frame and 20” fat tires, the bike is designed to carry heavy loads and provide good comfort and maneuverability over a wide range of surfaces. Our one performed brilliantly over grass, concrete, and light grovels; even in the rain.
However, the small treads on the low-resistance fat tires don’t work well on mud. So be careful about taking your Eclipse off-road, especially in wet weather.
Battery
The Luna Eclipse is equipped with a powerful 48V battery to drive the motor, the drivetrain, and the display. The battery is concealed in the downtube and can be charged inside or outside the bike using the same port.
After riding the bike for about 20-22 miles on level 2 pedal assist, I still had more than 50% charge left on my bike, which is really great for my regular commute.
The 6-hour charging time was too much for me, so I opted for a faster 5A charger. Luna could’ve made it much easier by simply providing a USB charging port on the battery. Hopefully, they’ll update their future models.
Motor
This bike comes with a 500W Bafang Hub Motor, which helped me to reach a maximum speed of 25 mph. The compact motor, combined with the high-quality belt drive, provided a smooth riding experience.
Although Luna claims their motor to be noiseless, it isn’t. There is a faint noise, which increases as you increase the speed. However, the noise is lower than most other alternatives on the market.
The motor is coupled with a double-power controller. I was worried that the motor might overheat but felt relieved facing no issue over 3 months of regular commuting. The bike performed better than I expected.
Portability
In our opinion, there is room for improvement here. The point of a folding bike is to have enough portability to carry it around or store it in a short amount of space. The bike weighs around 55 lbs, making it a bit hard for carrying around.
The wide handlebars made controlling the bike easier, but it also made squeezing between cars a bit difficult. To fold the bike completely, we had to loosen the bolts in the stem, which was anything but convenient.
Others
- The BBSHD chainring works like a charm
- The bike attracts a lot of attention
- The pedals can also be folded in half
- The assembly part was pretty straightforward
What We Didn’t Like
- A USB port on the battery would be much appreciated
- With a 55 lbs weight, the bike is relatively on the heavier side
- A more powerful charger should’ve been included in the packaging
Who is it Great for
The Luna Eclipse is one of the best touring bikes for you if you:
- Want to cruise around the city
- A better quality drivetrain in your e-bike
- Are looking for a regular commuting option
- Need to transport your bike wherever you go
- Have little storage room for your bike
- Are searching for an affordable e-bike
Key Specs
- Frame: Aluminum Alloy
- Fork: Ydh 4” Travel (Full suspension)
- Battery: 48V 14Ah, Lg MJ1 Cells (48V BARREL 2A smart charger)
- Motor: 500 W Bafang hub (21 Amp double power controller)
- Tires: Big Boy Fat 20×4 ¼ tires
- Charging Time: 6 hrs
- Range: 40-50 miles
- Maximum Speed: 25 mph
- Display: Large Center-Mounted B&W
- Brakes: Tektro Mechanical Disc Brake
Pros
- Fat tires provide better grip on wet surfaces
- Comfortable riding position
- High-quality components
- Extremely resilient and low-maintenance bike
- Easy to fold and transport
- Attractive outlook
- The throttle control is on point
- Great value for money
- Powerful motor and battery
- Almost noiseless riding experience
- Fast shipping, cordial customer support
Cons
- No gear makes the speed limited
- Not ideal for serious off-road adventures
3 ECOTRIC 20″ New Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike (Best Overall)
If you prefer a fat tire e-bike, ECOTRIC 20″ is exactly what you are looking for. It’s a great choice for getting around your neighborhood or for your daily commutes.
This folding ebike has a powerful 500W geared motor that’s usually seen in more expensive models. We think this feature makes it stand out from all e-bikes within its price range. It comes with a 36V li-ion battery that offers a mile range of 18-23 miles at a maximum speed of 20Mph.
Additionally, its removable battery allows you to remove and charge it anywhere at your convenience. It takes around 6-8 hours to get fully charged. We loved the battery power since it lasted for about two and a half hours on level ground.
We also enjoyed ECOTRIC 20″s ability to tackle all types of terrain. It has 7-speed gears that make it a great e-bike for riding off-road or mountain biking. You can ride over mud, snow, and sand with its anti-skid fat tires. What’s more, it has an outrage braking-system that provides you safety and solid control.
You can use this e-bike in two modes – pedal assist and throttle. You can easily switch between the modes. For propelling the bike forward, simply twist its throttle.
The easy folding experience was an appealing feature to us although we found it a bit heavier compared to others. It may feel heavy to carry around too but its space saving design lets you store it in small spaces. Overall, ECOTRIC 20″ is comfortable and strongly built that always ensures a smooth riding experience.
Specifications
- Weight: 57.3 pounds
- Motor: 500W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 20 Mph
- Mile Range: 18-23 miles
- Weight Capacity: 260 pounds
- Charging Time: 6-8 hours
- Wheel Size: 20” X 4.0”
Pros
- Powerful motor
- High speed
- Durable aluminum frame
- On-board bike computer
- Pedal and throttle assist mode
- Long lasting battery
Cons
- A bit heavy
Our Verdict
You can comfortably cruise on all types of terrains at a higher speed with ECOTRIC 20″ fat bike. This cruiser is a great combination of style and quality that comes with a reasonable price tag. It’s also one of the highest-rated folding electric bikes on Amazon- a solid proof of the positive user experience. After trying it out, we can confidently say that if you end up buying this model for yourself, it won’t be long before you will be telling people that you never leave home without it.
4 SWAGTRON SwagCycle EB-5 Pro (Great Value for Money)
The folding electric bikes from SWAGTRON were so impressive that we included four of them on this list! The SwagCycle EB-5 outshined them all with its amazing features at a minimal price range.
Weighing only 37 pounds, this bike is lighter than most of its competitors. So, you can carry it around wherever you travel. Its triple-fold design with the aluminum alloy frame makes it easy to store as well.
Besides, SwagCycle EB-5 has an adjustable seat and handlebar that you can adjust according to your height and comfort. So, both adults and teens – irrespective of their heights and weights – can use this unisex e-bike.
Your daily commute gets faster and easier with its 250-watts motor and 36-volts battery power. The manufacturer claims that with a maximum speed of 15 Mph, you can go up to 15.5 miles on a single charge. But we were able to actually cover 17 miles on a single charge. We were pretty impressed with such a battery life. It also takes only 4-5 hours to get fully charged.
SwagCycle EB-5 is equipped with the SWAGTRON Autoguard technology that makes sure the motor instantly disconnects once you apply the brake. This is one of the amazing features of this e-bike that we absolutely loved. With such a great safety feature, you can confidently ride on this bike through the busy city roads.
This bike, however, offers only one pedal-assist level. Even when you pedal slowly, the motor will keep it fast that many will find too much to bear. But you can actually cover more distance with its pedal-assist system.
Specifications
- Weight: 37 pounds
- Motor: 250W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 15 Mph
- Mile Range: 15.5 miles
- Weight Capacity: 264 pounds
- Charging Time: 4-5 hours
- Wheel Size: 14” front/rear
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good battery mileage
- High speed
- Compact design
- Comfortable
- Convenient folding
- Affordable price
Cons
- Only one pedal-assist level
Our Verdict
Whether you’re a newbie or a regular bike commuter, you’ll find this well-built electric bike extremely comfortable to ride. Despite having only one power assistance level, we at GearbikesReview recommend you the SWAGTRON SwagCycle EB-5 because you get a lot of cool features under 500 USD.
5 Swagtron Swagcycle EB-7 Elite (Best for Flat Terrain)
You can’t beat the price and quality of Swagtron’s e-bikes. The Swagcycle EB-7 Elite has features that will make sure you always have an enjoyable ride. This model is particularly designed for flat terrains.
Swagcycle EB-7 Elite lets you easily climb 25-degree hills with its powerful 350-watt hub motor. It offers excellent cruise control. Even if you’ve a heavy weight, you may overcome any road easily with light-pedaling at a 10-15 degree incline.
One of the best folding electric bikes, it’s equipped with 3 riding modes- pedal-assist, throttle-only, and human-power-only mode. You can choose the mode depending on your need. Moreover, you can have three different speeds with pedal-assist mode.
Furthermore, you get a top speed of 18.6 miles per hour with this electric commuter bike. We particularly loved its long lasting removable battery that offers you a ride up to 15.5 miles on a single charge. We were also impressed with its amazing fast charging capacity. It took only 3 hours to fully charge! So, with this bike, you can spend less hours charging and more hours riding.
The aluminum alloy frame makes it durable to withstand long riding hours. Besides, the three-fold design makes it easier to store even in cramped spaces. Though it’s a bit heavier than its contemporary folding electric bikes, you can carry it on a bus or in the trunk of a car.
Like all other models from Swagtron, this e-bike also comes with the “AutoGuard Brake” technology. You can apply the brake and stop anytime without any risk. What’s more, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty. If any issue pops up, just get it fixed under the warranty.
Specifications
- Weight: 42.3 pounds
- Motor: 350W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 18.6 Mph
- Mile Range: 15.5 miles
- Weight Capacity: 264.5 pounds
- Charging Time: 3-4 hours
- Wheel Size: 16” front/rear
Pros
- Quick charge
- Emergency breaks
- Excellent speed and mileage
- Three riding modes
- Removable battery
- Warranty and customer support
Cons
- Comparatively heavier in weight
Our Verdict
The Swagcycle EB-7 Elite is a must-have folding motorized electric bike for any urban rider. You can go to your workplace or college every day with a safe ride. Overall, the quality materials, smart look, excellent speed and mileage will add great value to your money.
6 Swagtron EB-8 Outlaw Fat Tire Electric Bike (Our Off-Road Choice)
If you’re a nature lover and looking for an e-bike for experiencing exciting off-road rides, Swagtron EB-8 Outlaw is probably the best option out there. This foldable e-bike is particularly designed for uneven and rough terrains.
Swagtron EB-8 can be easily folded and fit into compact spaces. Carrying this bike around is a piece of cake. The aluminum alloy frame makes it sturdy enough to accommodate a rider up to 264 pounds.
This mountain bike comes with a high-torque 350W motor and a removable 36V battery. It offers you three riding modes – assisted-pedal, accelerator only, and pedal only. We loved the smooth and faster ride with its pedal-assist mode.
This amazing electric bike offers you an excellent mileage. You can go a distance of around 21.4 miles on a single charge. The speed can reach up to 18.6mph.
The EB-8 features air-filled 4-inch tires that are mounted on fat 20-inch wheels. They provide you necessary safety and traction as you ride. Moreover, we loved its noise-free performance, thanks to the damping of its front as well as rear suspension.
Overall, we enjoyed its performance on all terrains and it lived up to our expectations quite well. However, we would love this bike to have a speedometer that it lacks. But it’s a minor issue because you can always buy a speedometer separately and mount it on the vehicle.
Specifications
- Weight: 56.2 pounds
- Motor: 350W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 18.6 Mph
- Mile Range: 21.4 miles
- Weight Capacity: 264.5 pounds
- Charging Time: 5-6 hours
- Wheel Size: 20” X 4.0”
Pros
- Excellent mileage
- Three riding modes
- High speed
- Great mileage
- Comfortable to ride
- Easy to fold
Cons
- No speedometer
Our Verdict
Swagtron EB-8 is one of the most durable folding electric bikes that offers you a safe ride on bumpy, rough terrains. You get all the features that you may expect from Swagtron at an affordable price. This e-bike is the perfect solution for people who like to travel on mountain trails and unpaved surfaces.
7 ANCHEER 20” Folding Electric Bike
The ANCHEER 20” Folding Electric Bike is another budget-friendly e-bike on our list that is durable and comfortable. It has high-quality parts and a lightweight aluminum frame that will withstand the test of time. You can quickly fold it and cram it into any limited space.
The ergonomic design with its well-built seat and handlebars ensures your comfort and ease of use. But the seat height might not be comfortable enough for the tall riders. However, we didn’t find anything negative with its build quality. In fact, we found this bike one of the sturdiest in its class.
It comes with a 250-watt motor that produces less power compared to the other electric bikes we’ve reviewed so far, but you can expect long years of good service. Besides, its 36-volt removable battery lasts long enough and takes a decent 4-6 hour charging time.
This electric bike offers you three working modes – assisted bicycle, e-bike, and normal bike. You can easily switch between the modes. You can go around 15 miles on a single charge with e-bike mode whereas the assisted bicycle mode lets you go up to a distance of 30 miles. For a healthier life, we suggest you try the normal bike mode on flat terrains.
We loved its cyclone style aluminum alloy wheels. It has front and rear disc brakes that make stopping smooth in all conditions. On top of that, this bike comes with a 7-speed system that you can adjust according to your needs to have a smooth, effortless ride.
Specifications
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Motor: 250W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 15-17 Mph
- Mile Range: 15-30 miles
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Charging Time: 4-6 hours
- Seat Height: 27.3” – 44.1”
- Wheel Size: 20” front/rear
Pros
- Easy folding
- Durable
- Seven-speed system
- Easy assembly
- Good mileage
- Cheap
Cons
- Might be uncomfortable for tall people
Our Verdict
The ANCHEER 20” eBike has all the features you need to tackle mountainous, off-road paths, and flat terrain. You can have a quick and fun ride around the city and even carry it with you on your vacation. It also got many positive reviews online which shows that users were satisfied with this e-bike.
Overall, this folding electric bike comes at a good price and you get a lot more than what you pay.
8 Swagtron EB7 Plus Electric Bike
This is another comfy and stylish model from Swagtron. The EB7 Plus is the perfect bike for urban areas and hilly paths.
This upgraded version offers your 23% more power with its 350W high-torque motor combined with a 36V battery. You can choose any mode from pedal-only, full throttle, and assisted-pedal mode depending on your needs. If you want to cover extra miles and stay fitter, we suggest you ride with the assisted-pedal mode.
Moreover, the battery of the EB7 Plus is removable and gets fully charged in only 3-4 hours. You can go up to 19 miles on a single charge. With the full throttle mode, this bike can reach a maximum speed of 18. 6 mph. We must say the speed and mileage are pretty decent for the price.
One of the best things about this model that our team appreciated was the Shimano 7-speed multi-gear system. It allows you to tackle rough terrains with ease. With just the press of a button, you can adjust its max speed and have control over the speed shifting.
You can easily fold, adjust and mount this awesome bike. You can adjust the seat height to suit your optimal riding position. Besides, the light aluminum alloy frame makes it durable.
It further features a headlight for night riding, battery lock, LED display, horn, 16? air-filled tires with upgraded rear-suspension, a kickstand and a beefy. However, we wish it had fenders since it’s likely that you’ll need to ride in the rain too.
Specifications
- Weight: 42.3 pounds
- Motor: 350W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 18. 6 Mph
- Mile Range: 19 miles
- Weight Capacity: 264.5 pounds
- Charging Time: 3-4 hours
- Wheel Size: 16” front/rear
Pros
- LED display
- 7-speed shifter
- Decent mileage
- Three riding modes
- Portable
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Handlebars can’t be adjusted
- No fenders
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a cost-effective folding electric bike for short and mid-range commutes, the EB7 Plus is an ideal choice for you. This e-bike is stylish, comfortable, and handy. Its smaller size makes it easier to ride. Even if it’s a first time for you to buy a folding e-bike, you can rest assured that this bike won’t disappoint you.
9 ANCHEER 26″ Folding Electric Mountain Bike
ANCHEER 26″ folding electric bike offers you a powerful motor, full-suspension, and easy folding. Does it sound expensive? Well, you get all of these along with other incredible features at a price under 1000 USD.
You’ll love the sleek and stylish design of this all-black bike. The frame is made of pure aluminum alloy and there is a tube in its front that lets you fold it effortlessly. The cushioned seat and pedals are adjustable for a perfect fit.
This bike is supported by the full-suspension feature that adds to your comfort on uneven surfaces. It can easily absorb the drops and bumps in your way. Moreover, the dual disk brakes provide you a better stopping power even when you ride at a high speed.
You get three working modes with this bike, which is a feature that generally the most expensive e-bikes have. With 250W motor and 36V battery power, it can travel a distance up to 15-30 miles at a max speed of 15-17 mph on a single charge. For us, we travelled around 23 miles on flat terrain at 17mph speed in full-throttle mode. That was pretty amazing!
Just like other ANCHEER e-bikes, this model includes an LED headlight for night riding, a kickstand, and a horn to warn other riders and pedestrians.
The bike weighs 53 pounds, which we found a bit heavier compared to other similar folding e-bikes. Besides, its user manual was not quite comprehensible. But the good news is that you get an option to get this bike fully assembled for free during your purchase.
Specifications
- Weight: 53 pounds
- Motor: 250W
- Battery: 36V
- Max Speed: 15-17 Mph
- Mile Range: 15-30 miles
- Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
- Charging Time: 4-6 hours
- Wheel Size: 26” front/rear
Pros
- Stylish design
- Sturdy
- Comfortable to ride
- Three working modes
- Double shock-absorption
- Affordable price
- Free assembly service
Cons
- Heavy
- The user manual isn’t comprehensive
Our Verdict
ANCHEER 26″ folding electric mountain bike is fun to ride for exciting outdoor adventures. You can compare its mileage, speed, and quality with the premium models. Overall, it’s an incredible model for sale and offers a good value for the money. If you need a comfortable and durable mountain bike that’s still economical, this would be an excellent choice.
10 GoPowerBike GoCity 20” 500W Folding Electric Bicycle
If you’re not an off-road rider and want an electric bike for daily commute in a city area, the GoPowerBike GoCity model is what you’re looking for. It’s designed for urban riders and comes at an affordable price for most people.
It’s equipped with a powerful 500-watt motor and a 48-volt battery. The battery gets fully charged in only 3-4 hours. Additionally, its battery management system saves it from overload, over-charging, and extreme temperature. On a single charge, you can ride up to 30 miles at a max speed of 20 mph.
You can pedal all by yourself, use pedal-assist, or depend fully on the motor. The pedal-assist system also offers you five levels. The LED screen displays your level, riding mode, speed, distance, and battery life.
The fold-up frame is made of 6061 aluminum alloy, which makes it durable. It can support a rider weighing max 265 pounds. The smooth, cushioned 12-inch seat is adjustable for your comfort.
This bike isn’t suitable for off-road rides. However, its Shimano 6-speed system and dual disc brakes ensure adequate safety. For extra safety at night, there is an LED headlight on the front. Furthermore, you can easily store this folding e-bike in a congested space.
Specifications
- Weight: 66 pounds
- Motor: 500W
- Battery: 48V
- Max Speed: 20 Mph
- Mile Range: 18-36 miles
- Weight Capacity: 265 pounds
- Charging Time: 3-4 Hours
- Wheel Size: 20” front/rear
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Excellent mileage
- Easy folding
- Long-lasting battery
- LED display
- Front LED light
Cons
- Not suitable for off-road trails
Our Verdict
GoPowerBike GoCity offers you a powerful motor and a long-lasting battery that every e-bike rider desires. For a price just under $750, it’s a steal. This one can be an amazing entry-level e-bike for a teenager, adult or a senior for their daily commutes.
Why Own a Folding Electric Bike
An electric bike comes with an electric motor that facilitates your pedal propulsion. Many prefer eBikes over regular bikes to reach their destinations quickly and without breaking a sweat. It covers distances in a lesser amount of time than a traditional bike. Most importantly, it causes no pollution to the environment since it’s eco-friendly. You can expect less wear and tear from an electric bike.
Folding electric bikes are becoming more popular day-by-day. They are usually more durable than standard electric bikes. Your folding electric bike saves space and you can store it at any corner of your home. You can even fit it in the trunk of your car.
What’s more, you can carry your folding electric bike around everywhere you go. You don’t need to rent parking spots, buy gas or pay insurance for it. Besides, its maintenance is pretty easy. Overall, it’s convenient to use a folding electric bike for reaching places faster with less effort and cost.
Best Folding Electric Bike [A Comprehensive Buying Guide]
1. Build Quality
Your electric bike needs to have a sturdy frame. You’ll be able to use the bike in different settings if it has a robust build. It will also last long. Make sure your bike is made from materials like stainless steel or aluminum that will help the bike maintain its natural look and you’ll also be able to use it in rainy and snowy seasons since it’ll be rust-and corrosion-resistant.
2. Motor
The motor of an E-bike comes mounted either on the crank drive or the wheel hub. How much wattage and voltage you get on your electric bike is an important factor. The more watts and volts, the better it is for your bike.
3. Crank Drive
Crank drive motors replace the cranksets of bikes by directly delivering power to the chain or belt. These motors maintain the optimal RPM even on steep-climbs.
4. Hub Drive
Hub drive is the most common type of motor for electric bikes. It easily fits on an e-bike and is relatively cheaper than the crank type. It’ll be easier for you to maintain a hub drive motor as well.
5. Weight
It’s extremely important that your bike is lightweight. A heavyweight bike can make you uncomfortable, especially if you’re over 50 years old. The ideal weight of your e-bike should be between 10-20 kg.
6. Battery
Today’s feature-rich models often come with built-in batteries. Make sure the battery has a large capacity that you can use for long hours. It should also take less time to get fully charged.
7. Tires
The tires of your bike should be durable and convenient. If you want to use your e-bike off road, make sure it has puncture-resistant tires. These tires are usually thicker and robust.
You may also prefer collapsible tires to save space and carry your vehicle around. For snowy areas, you should get studded tires. They won’t slip on the snow and you’ll get a smooth ride with better traction.
8. Braking System
The braking system has a crucial role in ensuring safety that must disengage the motor instantly after you apply the brake. Get a bike with an anti-lock brake for preventing the wheels from locking and maintain contact with the ground when you apply the brake.
9. Bike’s Stem
The stem connects the handlebars to your steer tube. A bike’s stem should be adjustable to ensure the appropriate height for the rider. You can adjust the height to your comfort and prevent your back from getting hurt.
10. Comfort
Your comfort is the most important thing when riding an electric bike. Before making an order, have a test drive to make sure you are comfortable enough with your preferred choice.
11. Distance Coverage
It’s important how much distance your bike can cover. With more distance coverage, you can have a longer ride with your bike.
12. Propulsion
The electric motor of an e-bike assists in your pedal propulsion. You don’t need to pedal entirely by yourself since a powerful motor will help enhance your propulsion.
13. Accessories
When riding a bike, you need the essential accessories like helmets, water, gloves, glasses, lights, padded pants, and so on. Make sure your bike can accommodate enough accessories that you need during a ride.
12. Reliability
Whether you get a budget folding electric bike or a high-end one, check the quality of its tires, battery, disc brakes, and build material. Talk with the previous buyers or go through online reviews to see how reliable it is.
13. Power Source
The power of an electric bike is one of the most important things to consider. You can save your time and have a longer ride with a more powerful motor and battery. So, check which bike offers you the best power. Mostly, you’ll get a decent electric bike with a 15A motor and 36V battery.
14. Warranty & Client Support
Your electric bike should be backed by a minimum one-year warranty from the manufacturer. It should cover all malfunctions that may occur during the warranty period. Moreover, you should expect to get free client support from the manufacturer.
15. Budget
Nowadays the price of an electric bike ranges between $500 to $8000 or even more. It depends on the quality and technical arrangements of the bike.
Care & Maintenance Tips
Your folding eBike requires maintenance just like a regular bike so you can get the most out of it. Here are some tips for you to ensure your bike’s optimum functionality and longevity.
- Keep your bike out of direct sunlight. This could decrease the function of the battery and shorten its lifespan.
- Charge the battery timely until it’s full.
- Turn off the power before you clean the vehicle and make sure water doesn’t reach the port.
- Use soapy water with a soft cloth for the cleaning session. Never use a jet washer or a high-pressure water gun.
- You can use an old toothbrush to clean the chain and cassette. Always apply a layer of lube after you dry the chain.
- When the tires have insufficient air pressure, inflate them until they both have equal air pressure.
- Clean your battery connectors with an alcohol-based cleaning agent.
- Use an air duster to clean the display and the controller.
- Always check for wear on your brake pads before each ride.
eBike Riding & Safety Tips
- Always wear a helmet. You better use a full-face helmet for better protection.
- Check the proper fit of your bike before each ride.
- Fast speed is always risky. You can install a speedometer to keep an eye on your speed.
- Wear glasses to protect your eyes.
- Add lights on your bike and use them to see clearly at night and alert others on the road of your presence. You can even use a light on your helmet.
- You can outfit your bike with a horn and a bell to warn other riders.
- Wear appropriate clothing, shoes, and gloves.
- Never ride against the traffic. Always follow traffic rules.
- Remember to keep your tires fully inflated.
A Word from GearbikesReview
We hope this guide will simplify your search for the best folding electric bike. We know you want the best and we selected each of these electric bikes keeping that in mind. They are all outstanding in terms of performance, quality, design, and pricing.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, portable, and affordable folding e-bike for your daily commute, go for SwagCycle EB-5 pro or SwagCycle EB-7 Elite. In fact, you can check out all four models from SWAGTRON that we reviewed on this list, but just keep your budget and preference in mind.
You can always trust our advanced choice for getting the best possible features in the product. The W Wallke folding electric bike has everything you might want in your e-bike. If it seems too expensive to you, try the Ecotric 20” New Fat Tire to enjoy a great combination of style and quality at a reasonable price.
In the end, you’re the best judge and your preference is the ultimate deciding factor. Take some time to read our reviews to get all the information you need and then make an informed buying decision.
FAQs
Q. 1: Do you have to pedal an ebike?
Ans: Though an e-bike with a throttle doesn’t require pedaling, you still need to pedal it when you go up long, steep hills. But you don’t need to pedal hard. An electric motor only assists your pedaling – it doesn’t replace it.
Q. 2: How fast does a 1000w electric bike go?
Ans: A 1000w electric bike can go up to 30mph. However, according to the US federal laws, the power of your motor should not reach more than 750w. A 750w e-bike can go up to 25 mph.
Q. 3: What is the range I can get from a single charge?
Ans: It depends on whether you pedal or only use a throttle. The level of assist you use contributes to the range as well. On a single charge, you can expect 22-50 miles with a relaxed pedaling. Some advanced e-bikes can go even farther. Your size and battery capacity also impacts the range.
Q. 4: How much of my own carbon footprint will I be able to reduce if I use an e-bike instead of a car?
Ans: In states that depend on wind and hydropower, the carbon footprint of more than 60 e-bikes is likely to equal the carbon footprint of a gasoline car. On the other hand, in states which are dependent on coal, the amount can be around 20-30 e-bikes against one car. This means you really will be able to reduce your carbon footprint with an ebike.
Q. 5: Can I ride an e-bike as a regular bike without the electric power?
Ans: Yes, you can. You might want to only pedal on a level surface or use only the power while going up hills. You can easily switch back and forth. You can manually turn off the battery.
Q. 6: What makes a good electric bike?
Ans: It all depends on your needs and preferences. For climbing up a hill, an e-bike with a high-torque hub motor or a mid drive motor system might be the best. On the other hand, for riding long distances, an e-bike with a 400 watt per hour battery will be good enough for you. You can even find the best ebike conversion kit for sale and attach it to your regular bicycle and save money.