The 6 best electric folding bikes

The folding bike has been around longer than you might think. A first version was designed at the end of the 19th century. Meanwhile, they are electric and there are hundreds of models available. In this article, we compare the best electric folding bikes.

“Best” is subjective. For some, it’s a lightweight folding bike, for others, one with a powerful electric motor. Some use it for commuting, others as their primary means of transportation. For every situation, we seek a suitable model.

At the bottom, you’ll also find what to consider when choosing a good electric folding bike. We also try to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Best electric folding bike: Tern Vektron Pi7

Tern stands for top quality. Their bikes are more expensive than the average bike, but you get a bike of absolute top quality in return. Tern also has a lot of experience in making folding bikes and compact longtail bikes.

The first Vektron was introduced in 2017. Meanwhile, we are at the third generation. The design has remained similar, with new brakes, a better battery, and motor being the biggest changes. The electric folding bike is suitable for long distances and commuting.

The Vektron Pi7 uses the Bosch Performance line (GEN3). Good for 65 nm torque power. The 500 wh Bosch battery (with fast charge) provides a maximum autonomy of 80 km (110 km according to their website). With 22 kg, we are at an average weight. Riding on the 20-inch wheels without electric assistance is still manageable.

Quality is not only in the electric components. The Vektron is a strong and powerful electric folding bike. Despite the folding hinge, the frame remains very strong. When folded, it takes up little space (41 x 86 x 61cm) and rolls easily. A Tern can rest on the luggage rack for easier storage.

Designed for all types of riders. From 145 cm to 190, this bike has so many adjustment options that everyone can ride comfortably. The saddle (with suspension) and the height and position of the handlebars. The riding comfort is also very high.

The luggage rack can carry up to 27 kg. More than enough to mount a child seat. Although it is quite long, it is not a longtail folding bike. There is not enough space for a second child seat. For safety, you have extra strong Magura disc brakes.

For us, this is the best electric folding bike for most people. There are almost too many advantages to list, although you do need some budget. The Vektron S10 has a suggested retail price of 4300 euros. You can also opt for the slightly cheaper Vektron Q9 or Pi7. These have a slightly older motor.

It scores more than good all-around. Not the lightest but good for commuting. Also good for longer distances due to the high riding comfort.

There is still room for improvement, a belt drive seems to be the only thing missing. For the next version, there will probably also be a new motor update.

Most powerful motor: Kettler Familiano C-N

Kettler is also a very well-known bicycle brand. They also emphasize safety and quality. They are slightly less active in Belgium, but you can still buy their electric folding bike online. They are very similar, also in price. Which of the two is the best electric folding bike depends on your personal preferences.

There are indeed differences. They fold differently, the Tern is more compact in this regard. The Familiano has a lower step-through, which is a big advantage for some. Kettler does not use a derailleur, but still opts for a chain. The Enviolo hub is more pleasant to ride, although you can adjust the Tern better to the route.

The Kettler Familiano C-N also uses Bosch components. The Bosch Cargo Line (85 nm) is more powerful and more recent than Tern’s Performance Line. So you will go a little further with the same 500 wh.

With its weight of 26 kg and less efficient folding, this does not seem like a model for your commute. The Kettler Familiano C-N seems more like a folding bike for longer routes. You have the power and the autonomy.

In addition, there are also many similarities with other good electric folding bikes. 20 inch Schwalbe tires, strong (Magura) brakes, and a powerful frame that lasts a long time.

Best price/quality: Gepida Miliare Pro Belt

Gepida is also virtually unknown in Belgium. The Hungarian brand stands for quality in its own country but is only now beginning to gain ground in our cycling country. With the Gepida Miliare Pro Belt, they have their first electric folding bike. Immediately our choice for best price/quality.

The Miliare is not cheap. The recommended retail price of 3150 euros remains a significant purchase. For this price, you get a Bosch Active Line GEN3 (50 nm), a built-in ‘Bosch powertube’ battery, and a Shimano (Nexus 8) hub with belt drive. If you want a good electric folding bike under 3000 euros, you choose the Miliare with chain.

The rest of the bike also uses high-quality components. Shimano disc brakes, Lezyne lights, Schwalbe tires. The bike is also not too heavy (23 kg), although it does not seem easy to carry once folded.

It is not the best electric folding bike, but we found very few real disadvantages. If you are going to carry your folding bike often, there are other, better, or lighter alternatives. If you have more budget, you can choose an even better quality.

Lightest e-folding bike: Ahooga Folding Active V24

The most purchased electric folding bike in Brussels is the Ahooga folding bike. They come in 3 versions, the non-electric, a 24V battery, and a 36V battery. Because the 24V is lighter than the 36V, we use it as the title. If you want a stronger battery, go for the 36V.

Ahooga is a Belgian brand. The bikes are assembled in Anderlecht. The Ahooga Folding is most often compared to the Brompton folding bike but has some interesting advantages for city use. Both are very light. The Ahooga Folding 24V weighs only 13 kg vs 18 kg Brompton.

They are both very light but the Ahooga has larger wheels. You have rear-wheel drive whereas the Brompton has front-wheel drive. A mid-motor is the best, rear-wheel drive is the second choice. The Brompton is also much more expensive. Prefer an Ahooga folding bike for 1999 euros.

The electric bike also folds together very uniquely. Due to the large wheels and folding technique, it remains larger than a Brompton. We tested the Ahooga Folding. Taking the bike on the train was no problem at all.

They use their own motor (35 nm for the 24V, 40 nm for the 36V) and battery production. This is not Bosch, Shimano, or Bafang. Their own brand is good but not as good as the motors of the mentioned brands. Via the display, you can choose between 5 electric gears.

The 36V battery has a maximum autonomy of 60 km. You can easily disconnect it to charge it via the adapter.

We have already tested Ahooga’s bikes. We have a review of the Fold, but also of the Ahooga Modular and the latest Ahooga Max folding bike that will be available soon.

Battery in frame & belt drive: Hercules Futura Fold iF8

The Hercules Futura Fold caught our attention with its handsome rugged design. The matte black, the belt drive, and the built-in battery are reminiscent of Cowboy bikes. A very nice design, but is it also practical as an electric folding bike?

With a Bosch Active Line (50 nm), you already know you have a quality motor. The Active Line is slightly weaker than the models above but is more than enough for an e-folding bike. Together with the Shimano hub, they provide a smooth ride.

Also notable, this is (for now) one of the only electric folding bikes with a belt drive.

The 500 wh battery is good for about 80 km. Of course, this depends on your route and how much you pedal yourself. The battery is neatly stored. You don’t have to take it out to charge, there is a charging port for this purpose.

With the battery in the seat/frame, the bike becomes very awkward to carry. The folding function seems mainly interesting to store the bike compactly. The frame is sturdy and robust. All in all, this is a good quality e-folding bike with a low step-through.

The Futura is the premium range of Hercules, with Rob as the mid-range. In terms of price, it remains relatively affordable compared to a Tern or Kettler.

Electric folding bike under 1000 euros: B’twin Tilt 500 E

Aliexpress remains the place to snag cheap products. For an electric folding bike, it’s best to buy closer to home. Especially on cheap models, a 2-year warranty is an important condition. As often, Decathlon comes with a good cheap model. You can buy the electric folding bike for under 1000 euros.

Due to its very simple design, this bike is light and compact (83 x 67 x 45 cm) when folded. At 18.6 kg, it’s a good option for public transport. You sacrifice power (26 nm) and battery life (35 km autonomy).

The strength of the frame is also less. The bike is not suitable for riders over 80 kg. If you weigh a lot, you will often have to pedal yourself a lot. The weaker motor should not be underestimated; it’s really just a small assist.

This cheap electric folding bike seems particularly suitable for short journeys to and from the train or work. You are not allowed to mount a child seat on it.

Best with large wheels: Undecided

For older people or seniors, large wheels and a low step-through are convenient features. When searching for a good electric folding bike for older individuals, safety is a primary concern. There are many models with 24-inch or 26-inch wheels available.

Additionally, a motor with sufficient power but not excessive is desirable. A belt drive also seems to be a handy advantage. To prevent being in the wrong gear at the red light, an automatic hub gear can be beneficial.

Best with small wheels: Undecided

Conversely, small thick wheels are preferred by some because they create what is commonly referred to as a mini bike. These electric mini bikes typically have tires smaller than 20 inches.

So far our selection of the best electric folding bikes. Much depends on your route and needs. There are also many other models available. Feel free to test them out at a bike shop and choose a model that suits you and fits your budget.

What to Consider When Buying an Electric Folding Bike

When considering a folding bike, you need to think about different things than with a regular bike. You’ll likely use the bike for a different route. Having a good electric folding bike can suddenly make the train an option.

When comparing electric folding bikes, pay attention to the following factors:

• Budget
• Route and usage
• Weight and dimensions
• Adjustable options
• Electric components
• Tires and wheels

Budget

As soon as you add the word ‘electric’ to ‘bike’, prices skyrocket. A folding bike is a special design, and prices vary greatly. First, decide on your budget and then look at models that fit within it.

Route and usage

What will you use the folding bike for? Are these short or long distances? Hilly terrain, cobblestones, or flat roads? Will you also take the bike in the car and/or train? This will influence your choice.

Weight and dimensions

This mainly affects the weight and dimensions of the bike when folded. Perhaps you choose a folding bike because you cannot store a regular bike in the apartment. Choose a bike that suits your needs.

Adjustable

A folding bike is naturally small. For optimal riding comfort, you should also be able to sit comfortably. Make sure the bike can accommodate your posture. Most bikes are suitable for riders between 145 and 190 cm, weighing from 0 to 120 kg. An adjustable handlebar and saddle are important.

Electric motor and battery

The motor and battery should provide sufficient support for your route. You should also consider the drive system. A Bosch mid-drive motor is much more expensive than a cheap rear-wheel drive.

Tires and wheels

Have a significant impact on safety. The larger and wider the wheels and tires, the less chance of slipping. Again, consider your route; cobblestones, crosswalks, and tram tracks are the enemies of thin tires.

So far our comparison of the best electric folding bikes. Last updated 05/09/2022

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