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A Guide to the Best Folding Electric Bikes

Explore the world of folding eBikes, the compact and portable solution for those with limited storage space, featuring top picks like the Lectric XPremium, Espin Nesta, Evelo Dash, Blix Vika+, Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike, Aostirmotor A20, and Tern HSD

guide-to-best-folding-electric-bikes
In This Guide
product imageXPremium eBike

eBikes are incredible but tend to be bigger and heavier than regular pedal bikes. If you have a small apartment or don’t have a garage, storing your eBike can be a challenge. Loading a full-size eBike in your car can be difficult as well.

Fortunately, many eBike manufacturers recognize this issue and offer their popular eBikes in folding models. Folding eBike designs have a hinged frame that allows you to “fold” the bike in half or fold down components, thus making it smaller for storage or transport. These folding models are a lifesaver for people with limited storage space to keep their eBikes safe and dry. 

Now we’ll get into some of our favorites for folding eBikes.


Ride Review Pick for Folding eBikes

Lectric XPremium

Our top pick for folding eBikes is the Lectric XPremium. This eBike lives up to its name with the premium features included. The XPremium is one of the few folding eBikes to use a 500W mid-drive motor that intuitively delivers power to the rider. Dual batteries provide enough juice to ride for up to 100+ miles. Enjoy pedal assist or throttle control with Class 1, 2, or 3 modes. The XPremium is road-ready with a rear rack, fenders, front and rear lights.  

12 Pros of Getting an XPremium

  • The e-bike is equipped with a mid-drive motor that handles 800w of peak power and stabilizes the gears at high speeds.

  • The XPremium features seven easy-to-switch gears that work on tough terrains and can be relied on for emergency braking.

  • In an attempt to achieve an intuitive drive, the XPremium e-bike is fitted with a dynamic torque sensor that detects the speed of the pedal and automatically matches the power and range to complement the effort of the cyclist.

  • Motor responsiveness in the XPremium is further enhanced by the integration of a shift sensor that customizes the settings across different kinds of terrain and regulates the speed needed for it.

  • The e-bike is supported by hydraulic disc brakes that efficiently handle emergency braking and work for a smooth ride up and down steep hills.

  • The XPremium is kitted up with a dual battery system that, combined, enables the e-bike to reach a range of over 100 miles.

  • On a single charge, the two batteries can run the XPremium at top speeds of over 28mph. They drain simultaneously which provides greater power and longer charge.

  • The frame of the e-bike is foldable, so it is easier to travel with and feels lighter on the road.

  • The seat of the e-bike is ultra-comfy.

  • The XPremium is lit up with an LCD display that allows easier navigation, great entertainment on the go, plus improved nighttime visibility.

  • Though it is an electric bike, the components are IP-65 rated and made to be water and dust-resistant.

  • The faux leather grip of the XPremium levels up the luxurious look and ensures an ergonomic hold on the 25" wide handlebars.

3 Cons of Getting an XPremium

  • The e-bike weighs 75 lbs, which is considerably heavy for carrying.

  • In off-road conditions, the XPremium gears may fail to perform due to aggressively fast changing speeds and range of motion.

  • While folded, it doesn't shrink down to anywhere near half its size, which may concern cyclists with mobile homes and small storage space.


Best Folding Hub-Drive Pick 

Espin Nesta

If you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-ride eBike, the Espin Nesta checks all the boxes. Folding frame for compact storage ✔️

Powerful hub drive with 85Nm for conquering hills ✔️

Class 3 with 28mph top speed ✔️

Front and rear racks for daily utility ✔️

The Espin Nesta delivers all you need for daily utility in a folding eBike. 

10 Reasons to Buy the Vehicle

  • The bike’s step-thru frame allows easy mounting and dismounting.

  • There are two color options: glacier blue and smoke gray.

  • The foldable frame is effortless to use and convenient to store in tight spaces.

  • The bike offers pedal assist and throttle, so you can choose which option you want to use for each ride.

  • There are five different pedal assists available on this bike.

  • The handlebar comes with ergonomic grips at the end.

  • The handlebars are adjustable in terms of height.

  • The battery is removable for more convenient charging.

  • The bike comes equipped with quality Zoom hydraulic disc brakes.

  • The cushy tires make the bike suitable for uneven or rough terrain.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Vehicle

  • Even though the bike comes with storage racks, the overall capacity of the racks on the bike is only 50 lbs.

  • The display located on the handlebars can be challenging to read in direct sunlight.

  • Some bikers have reported that the bike’s wheels seem a bit small.


Best Folding Mid-Drive Pick

Evelo Dash

The Evelo Dash combines a frame-integrated battery with a Dapu 350W mid-drive motor for a smooth-riding, compact-folding eBike. You'll enjoy low maintenance and quiet operation with the Gates carbon belt drive and an internally geared 5-speed Sturmy Archer hub. Hydraulic brakes are another quality touch to the componentry. At 44 lbs, the Dash is very manageable to lift into a vehicle. The Evelo Dash is a quality eBike with many features rarely seen on folding bikes. 

5 Reasons to Buy the Evelo Dash

  • The Evelo Dash offers a smooth pedaling experience and a belt drive for easy maintenance.

  • The 2020 EVELO Dash electric bike has great utility with features like plastic fenders, integrated lights, and a rear rack.

  • The Evelo Dash provides good value for its cost with its torque sensor, powerful support, and impressive overall light weight.

  • Evelo has a positive reputation for high-quality e-bikes at affordable prices, with advanced features and a transparent manufacturing process.

  • The EVELO Dash Folding E-Bike showcases a 350W mid-drive motor, torque sensing pedal assist, and a Gates Carbon Drive belt system.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Evelo Dash

  • The Evelo Dash is slightly stiff and considered slightly heavy.

  • The 2020 EVELO Dash electric bike has limitations such as its weight, cost, and limited light provisions for safety.

  • Evelo does not ship bikes outside the US.


Best Folding Utility Pick

Blix Vika+

The Blix Vika+ has a refined style that brings a bit of elegance to your daily ride. Don’t let the clean lines fool you - the Blix Vika+ delivers a lot of performance and utility for your daily rides. The low step-through frame and 20" wheels make it a very accessible and stable eBike to ride. Customize the Vika+ to fit your lifestyle with a wide array of optional accessories. Finishing touches like anodized silver components and brown leather grips and saddle give the Vika+ an aesthetic flair.

10 Reasons to Buy the Blix Vika

  • This is one of the most affordable folding bikes you can find on the market, while the quality and performance you can get from it are better than those of the most expensive, high-quality e-bikes.

  • This bike is available in four colors: deep green, vibrant red, subtle beige, and sky blue.

  • On the new and improved tires, you can see reflective stripes, which are put there to make the bike more visible at nighttime.

  • While on the topic of tires, you might notice that the tires on the Vika+ are cushier and more stable, making the bike more suitable for various types of terrain.

  • The Vika comes with metal folding pedals that are sturdier and less prone to damage, unlike the plastic pedals that most bikes come with.

  • You can pedal the bike or use the thumb throttle while riding, depending on your preference and needs.

  • This bike comes with an improved, more powerful Lithium-ion battery. The battery makes the bike powerful but also enhances its range, making it suitable for long drives.

  • A leather-colored part on the end of the handlebars improves the ergonomics and makes handling the bike much more pleasant and easy.

  • The height of the handlebars is adjustable, meaning riders of various sizes and heights can use the bike.

  • When purchasing the bike, you also get a protective cover and a bag you can use to carry it around easily when the bike is folded.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Blix Vika

  • Instead of hydraulic brakes, Blix decided to go with mechanical rim brakes, which work well but are not as good as the hydraulic disk brakes on some other models.

  • The display on the handlebars is not removable, so you will need to be careful not to expose it to bad weather conditions, dust, or anything that could damage it.

  • The Vika has 20’’ wheels, which are pretty small and might not be up to par for some riders.


Best Fat Tire Folding Bike

Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike

Go anywhere you desire on the Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike. Fat 4” tires will suck up the bumps and make you feel like a hero on any terrain. The Speedrid is excellent for beginner riders because it is forgiving over cracks, potholes, and curbs. The large capacity 48V battery provides plenty of range for when you want to keep going because you are having so much fun. Front/rear lights, fenders, and disc brakes all make the Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike a terrific value for the rider who wants some fat tire fun.

10 Reasons to Buy the Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike

  • Durable build quality

  • Good speed and acceleration

  • Reliable battery

  • Decent range

  • Strong safety features

  • Folding form factor

  • Good value for money

  • Highly versatile on different terrain types

  • Fat, anti-slip, wear-resistant tires offer a comfortable ride

  • Modern, updated LCD display

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Speedrid Folding Electric Fat Tire Bike

  • Small headlight

  • Limited delivery options

  • Relatively low brand value


Best Folding Budget Pick

Aostirmotor A20

Searching for an eBike that can get you reliably around town, be able to store in your apartment, and not break the bank? The Aostimotor A20 might be the eBike for you. Coming in at $699, this was our pick for the best budget folding eBike. The 500W motor has a respectable 75Nm of torque to power you up the speed hills. Accessories like a backlit LCD, front and rear lights, fenders, and wide, stable tires deliver a lot of value for the A20. 

10 Reasons to Buy the Aostirmotor A20 Folding Electric Bike

  • The Aostirmotor A20 Folding Electric Bike is highly affordable.

  • With its powerful 500W motor and 36V/13Ah battery, the Aostirmotor A20 can cruise up to 35 miles on a single charge.

  • The bike's robust brakes ensure reliable stopping power.

  • Its 5-level pedal assist system helps you customize your ride based on your comfort level and preferred riding style.

  • Its fat tires are designed to provide extra traction on various terrain types, such as mud, snow, gravel, dirt trails, or asphalt roads.

  • Thanks to its removable lithium battery pack, it’s easy to take off and charge at any outlet.

  • The LCD display shows all relevant information about your journey, such as current speed, remaining battery life, and more.

  • The Aostirmotor A20 Folding Electric Bike is also incredibly easy to store when not in use, due to its folding design.

  • The integrated lighting system also helps improve visibility at night or during low light conditions.

  • As the bike is easy to maneuver around corners and tight spaces, it's also good for city commuters.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Aostirmotor A20 Folding Electric Bike

  • The Aostirmotor A20 Folding Electric Bike features an outdated design that may not be aesthetically pleasing to modern cyclists.

  • It lacks the speed of other electric bikes on the market.

  • The handlebar height on this folding bike isn’t adjustable.


Best Folding Handlebar Pick

Tern HSD

The Tern HSD doesn’t feature a hinged frame like other eBikes in this guide, but it does have a folding handlebar. Coupled with a fully retractable saddle and the ability to store the HSD standing upright on its rear rack, the HSD has a small footprint for storing in tight spaces. Tern is known for their extensive selection of accessories to help you carry anything from children, groceries, parcels, pets, and whatever else you can think of. The HSD is equipped with a Bosch mid-drive motor for natural electric assistance.

10 Reasons to Buy the Tern HSD

  • The Tern HSD is one of the most compact electric cargo bikes on the market, making it easy to store and transport.

  • With a load capacity of up to 374 lbs, the Tern HSD can handle all your cargo needs.

  • Forget about being stuck in traffic – with the Tern HSD, you’ll get where you need to go quickly and easily, while having fun at the same time!

  • Ride in stealth mode with the powerful and quiet Bosch motors.

  • Pedal up to four times as fast with assistive modes that give you a boost.

  • Monitor your speed, battery life, distance traveled, and more on the display screen.

  • Stay safe while riding at night with an integrated front and rear light.

  • Stop on a dime with the strong brakes.

  • The ebike can be stored vertically, saving space in your home or office.

  • Regardless of your height, you’ll be able to comfortably ride the Tern HSD.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Tern HSD

  • The battery on the Tern HSD ebike can be tricky to remove, making it difficult to service and replace.

  • You can't mount a second battery on the Tern HSD ebike, which limits its range and makes it less convenient to use.

  • The Tern HSD ebike is expensive.


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Featured Products

product image

AOSTIRMOTOR

Aostirmotor A20

4.5
$799

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