Folding bikes offer a delightful and enjoyable riding experience, bringing a sense of playfulness to your journeys, particularly when commuting or navigating bustling streets. Their compact size and versatility make them incredibly convenient for travel, allowing you to unfold the bike effortlessly, pedal to your destination, and quickly fold it back down to bring it indoors.
The seamless nature of using a folding bike for travel is truly remarkable. Whether exploring a new city or running errands around town, these bikes adapt to your needs effortlessly. No more worrying about finding parking spaces or securing your bike outside. With a folding bike, you can bring it indoors, ensuring its safety and your peace of mind.
Moreover, the compact size and lightweight nature of folding bikes enable easy transportation on various modes of public transit. Whether you’re hopping on a train, bus, or even a plane, folding bikes can accompany you on your journey, saving you time and eliminating the need for separate bike storage.
This article explores the seven best folding bikes that stand out for their performance, durability, and overall value.
Table of Contents
Types of Folding Bike
There are various categories of exercise bikes on the market.
- Folding City Bike
- Folding Mountain Bike
- Folding Hybrid Bike
- Folding Electric Bike
- Folding Road Bike
- Folding Recumbent Bike
Best Folding Bikes
| Best Overall Folding Bike | Brompton M6L |
| Best Budget Folding Bike | Tern Link D8 |
| Best Folding Mountain Bike | Zacro 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike |
| Best Folding Exercise Bike | Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike |
| Best Folding Bike for Commuting | Dahon Mariner D8 |
| Best Folding Electric Bike | Gotrax R1 20″ Bike |
| Best Budget Electric Folding Bike | Swagtron EB-5 Pro |
Benefits of Folding Bike
Folding bikes offer several benefits, making them a popular choice. Here are some of the advantages of owning a folding bike:
Portability and Compactness: One of the most significant benefits of a folding bike is its ability to fold into a compact size. This makes it easy to carry and transport, whether taking it on public transportation, storing it in a small apartment, or bringing it along on a trip. Folding bikes can be conveniently stowed in a car trunk, under a desk at work, or even brought inside a restaurant or cafe.
Multimodal Transportation: Folding bikes are ideal for combining different modes of transportation. You can ride your folding bike to a train or bus station, fold it up, and bring it on board as luggage. This flexibility allows you to cover longer distances by public transportation while still having the option to cycle for shorter distances at either end of your journey.
Space Savings: Folding bikes occupy minimal storage space, making them perfect for small apartments or houses with limited storage options. They eliminate the need for large bike racks or dedicated storage areas, as they can be easily stored indoors, under a desk, or in a closet.
Convenience and Versatility: Folding bikes offer convenience in various situations. You can take them with you to explore new cities, use them for short commutes, run errands, or even take them on vacation. Their versatility allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and use them in various environments.
Security: This is particularly advantageous in urban areas where bike theft is a concern.
Health and Fitness: Folding bikes provide an opportunity for regular exercise and help improve cardiovascular fitness. By incorporating cycling into your daily routine, you can enjoy the health benefits associated with physical activity, even if you have limited time or space for exercising.
Comparison Chart:
| Model | Capacity lbs | Height Range“ | Warranty | Folded Size | Price |
| Brompton M6L | 240 | 4’10”-6’4″ | 7 Yrs | 23″ (H) x 22.2″ (W) x 10.6″ (W) | 2800 |
| Tern Link D8 | 230 | 4’10”-6’5″ | 10 Yrs | 13.3″ (H) x 33.8″ (L) x 25.6″ (W) | 949 |
| Zacro 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike | 330 | 5’3″ to 6’3″ | 1 Yrs | 36″ (H) x 26″ (L) x 10″ (W) | 299 |
| Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike | 250 | 5’0″-6’4″ | 1 Yrs | 29″ (H) x 35″ (L) x 12″ (W) | 189 |
| Dahon Mariner D8 | 230 | 4’11”-6’3″ | 5 Yrs | 25.6″ (H) x 31.9″ (L) x 11.8″ (W) | 949 |
| Gotrax R1 20″ Folding Electric Bike | 220 | 5’2″ to 6’2″ | 1 Yrs | 18″ (H) x 36″ (L) x 24″ (W) | 599 |
| Swagtron EB-5 Pro | 220 | 4’10”-6’4″ | 1 Yrs | 14.9″ (H) x 30.7″ (L) x 25.9″ (W) | $1699 |
Top 7 Folding Bikes
Best Overall: Brompton M6L
Pros:
- Exceptional Build Quality
- Customization Options
- The 6-speed drivetrain provides a good range of gears, allowing riders to tackle various terrains and gradients with ease
- Despite its small size, the Brompton M6L offers a comfortable and stable ride
Cons:
- Brompton M6L is a higher-end folding bike
- Depending on your location, finding a Brompton bike, including the M6L model, may be challenging
- The M6L model comes with six gears, which may not be sufficient for riders who frequently encounter steep inclines
One folding bike that is often regarded as the best overall option is the Brompton M6L. Brompton is a renowned British brand known for its high-quality folding bikes.
They are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The frames are hand-built in the UK using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
It folds into a compact size, allowing for easy storage and transport. The folding mechanism is intuitive and quick, allowing you to fold or unfold the bike in just a few seconds.
Key Specs:
Weight: 27.5 lbs | Weight capacity: 240 pounds | Height capacity: 4’10” to 6’4″ | Folded size: 23″ (H) x 22.2″ (W) x 10.6″ (W)
Best Budget: Tern Link D8
Pros:
- Tern Link D8 offers good value for its price
- It features Tern’s patented folding mechanism, allowing the bike to fold quickly and easily
- It provides a comfortable and stable ride
- It offers a range of compatible accessories for the Link D8, including racks, fenders, lights, and more
Cons:
- Link D8 does not come with front or rear suspension, which means it may not provide the same level of cushioning and shock absorption
- While the eight-speed drivetrain offers a decent range, it may not be sufficient for riders frequently encountering steep hills.
The Tern Link D8 utilizes Tern’s patented N-Fold technology, allowing for quick and easy folding of the bike. It can be folded down to a compact size in seconds, making storage, transportation, and commuting convenient.
Its lightweight, durable aluminum frame provides a sturdy and reliable ride. It has a moderately upright riding position that offers a good balance between comfort and efficiency for urban commuting and recreational rides.
Key Specs:
Weight: 26.7 lbs | Weight capacity: 230 pounds | Height capacity: 4’10” to 6’5″ | Folded size: 13.4″ (H) x 33.9″ (L) x 25.6″ (W)
Best Folding for Mountain: Zacro 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike
Pros:
- The Zacro 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike is a very affordable bike, making it a great option for budget-minded riders
- The bike is versatile enough to be used for both on-road and off-road riding
- The bike is lightweight, making it easy to carry and store
Cons:
- The steel frame is heavier than the aluminum
- Not as fast as a traditional mountain bike
- It may not be suitable for very tall or short riders.
The Zacro 26 26-inch folding Mountain Bike is a versatile and affordable option for those looking for a folding bike that can handle a variety of terrain. It is made with a 26-inch steel frame and has 21 speeds, making it a capable bike for both on-road and off-road riding.
The 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur provides smooth and precise shifting. This allows you to choose the right gear for the terrain, whether riding on flat roads or through hills.
Key Specs:
Weight: 33 lbs | Weight capacity: 330 pounds | Height capacity: 5’3″ to 6’3″ | Folded size: 36″ (H) x 26″ (L) x 10″ (W)
Best Folding Exercise Bike: Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike
Pros:
- The folding feature of the Exerpeutic Exercise Bike allows for easy storage, making it ideal for small living spaces
- The bike offers multiple levels of magnetic resistance, allowing users to customize their workout intensity
- The built-in LCD display provides essential workout metrics such as time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate (if available)
- The magnetic resistance system ensures a smooth and quiet cycling experience.
Cons:
- Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike is a basic model that may lack some advanced features.
- The bike primarily offers a cycling workout, which may not appeal to individuals looking for a wider variety of exercise options.
- While the seat height is adjustable, other components like the handlebars may have limited adjustability options
The bike is designed to be compact and easy to store. It can be folded for convenient storage when not in use, making it ideal for small spaces or apartments.
The bike features a magnetic tension control system that allows users to adjust the resistance level to customize their workout intensity. It typically offers multiple tension levels, providing options for users of different fitness levels.
The built-in LCD monitor displays important workout metrics such as time, distance, speed, calories burned, and pulse rate (if the bike has pulse sensors). It helps users track their progress and stay motivated during their workouts.
Key Specs:
Weight: 30.4 lbs | Weight capacity: 250 pounds | Height capacity: 5’0″ to 6’4″ | Folded size: 36″ (L) x 30″ (H) x 13″ (W)
Best Folding Bike for Commuting: Dahon Mariner D8Â Â Â Â Â Â
Pros:
- The Mariner D8 features a reliable and easy-to-use folding mechanism that allows for quick and convenient folding and unfolding
- The bike is designed to be highly portable
- The Mariner D8 is built with a sturdy and durable frame, allowing it to withstand regular use and various terrains
- This folding bike is suitable for a wide range of riding conditions, including commuting, leisure rides, and urban cycling
Cons:
- The Mariner D8 does not have front or rear suspension
- While the folding mechanism is straightforward, some users may find it takes time and practice to fold and unfold.
- The Mariner D8 may come with fewer accessories than other folding bikes.
The Mariner D8 features a quick and easy folding mechanism, allowing you to fold and unfold the bike in seconds without needing any tools. This makes it convenient for storage and transportation, especially in urban environments.
The bike is designed to be lightweight, typically weighing around 13.6 kg (30 lbs). Its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry and maneuver, whether you’re taking it on public transportation, storing it in a small space, or carrying it up and down stairs.
Key Specs:
Weight: 30.4 lbs | Weight capacity: 230 pounds | Height capacity: 4’11” to 6’3″ | Folded size: 25.6″ (H) x 31.9″ (L) x 11.8″ (W)
Best Folding Electric Bike: Gotrax R1 20″ Folding Electric Bike
Pros:
- The Gotrax R1 is one of the most affordable electric bikes on the market
- The R1 is lightweight and easy to pedal, even without the electric assist
- The R1 has a range of up to 15 miles on a single charge, which is enough for most commutes or short trips
Cons:
- The R1’s top speed is only 15 mph, which may be too slow for some riders
- The R1 does not have suspension, which can make it uncomfortable to ride on bumpy roads
- The R1 weighs 40 pounds, which is heavier than some other electric bikes
The Gotrax R1 20″ Folding Electric Bike is a great option for those looking for an easy electric bike to store and transport. It has a powerful 48V battery and 350W motor can reach up to 20 mph speeds. It also has 5 pedal-assist levels and a smart LCD that shows the battery level, speed, and distance traveled.
It is foldable and easy to take on the go. This e-bike can be folded quickly so you can store it in the boot of your car and take it on the bus or underground, saving much more space. It will make the best commuting and travel companion. (Folded size: 32.6in*14.1in23.6in Weight: 45lbs/20kg)
The Gotrax R1 20″ electric bike has a 48V/7.8Ah battery which can be fully charged in 5.5 hours
Key Specs:
Weight: 40 lbs | Weight capacity: 220 pounds | Height capacity: 5’2″ to 6’2″ | Folded size 18″ (H) x 36″ (L) x 24″ (W)
Best Budget Electric Folding Bike: Swagtron EB-5 Pro
Pros:
- EB-5 Pro features a folding frame design
- The bike is equipped with a motor that provides pedal-assist functionality
- has an adjustable frame that can accommodate riders of different heights
- A removable lithium-ion battery powers the electric bike.
Cons:
- The bike features smaller 14-inch wheels, which may result in a slightly less comfortable and stable ride than bikes.
- It may be more sensitive to bumps and uneven surfaces
- It is designed more for urban commuting and leisurely rides rather than high-performance use
The EB-5 Pro features a folding frame design, allowing for easy storage and transportation. It can be folded to a compact size, making it suitable for commuting, traveling, and storing in small spaces.
The bike is equipped with a 250W electric motor that provides pedal-assist functionality. The electric assistance can help riders tackle hills and longer distances with less effort, making it an ideal option for urban commuting and recreational rides. It has an adjustable frame that can accommodate riders of different heights. The seat post and handlebar stem can be adjusted to provide a comfortable riding position for children and adults.
Key Specs:
Weight: 35 lbs | Weight capacity: 220 pounds | Height capacity: 4’10” to 6’4″ | Folded size 14.9″ (H) x 30.7″ (L) x 25.9″ (W)
Conclusion
Folding bikes offer a practical and efficient urban transportation and recreational riding solution. Their compact size, portability, and versatility make them a convenient choice for those seeking a bike that can easily adapt to different situations. Whether you’re a city dweller or an adventure seeker, a folding bike can provide a reliable and enjoyable cycling experience.
