Best folding bikes

Those who travel a lot around town on a bike and who occasionally have to transport it by public transport should buy one of the best folding bicycles. If required, they can be easily assembled and placed on a bus or subway car. It is also very convenient for motorists, as they fit in the trunk without any problems. When choosing them, this rating will be useful, compiled taking into account customer reviews and including the most convenient and safe, including inexpensive models.

Which firm folding bike is better to choose

In this TOP you can find both European and Asian companies that offer bikes at low, medium and high prices in the case of premium models.

Introducing the top 8 folding bike manufacturers:

• Stels Is a Russian company located in the city of Kubinka. Bicycles are assembled on it in a full cycle, which allows the company to guarantee their high quality. It is controlled in three stages - during the verification of components, when they are installed on the frame and before the goods are released for sale. He has both ordinary and folding bicycles, there are options for use in the mountains and in the city. Depending on the type, they are distinguished by a large number of speeds (from 6 to 21), fast braking, good shock absorption.
• Stark - The first line of mountain bikes of this brand went on sale in 2002. Its design was carried out by leading engineers with the participation of athletes. There are suitable models for both quiet city driving and good options for off-road driving. Folding bikes are available in several wheel diameters - 20, 26, 27.5 and 29 inches. Basically, we are talking about bicycles with an aluminum frame, and therefore the main advantage of this brand's offerings is adequate weight - around 15 kg.
• Gum Is one of the oldest Russian bicycle factories, which began operating in 1961. Today this line is produced by Velomotors, which prioritizes the convenience and safety of cyclists. That is why his offerings are distinguished by soft seats, spacious pedals, non-rigid grips on the steering wheel, and fast-acting brakes. He has both female and male models, including teenage ones.
• Forward Is a Russian supplier offering inexpensive folding bicycles for men and women. The company was founded in 1999 and today produces both urban and mountain models. When folded, they do not take up much space during storage and transportation. The advantages of the products of this company include the simplicity of inflating the wheels, smooth running, short braking distance, good equipment (bell, reflectors, trunk). Compared to other options in the rating, these bikes are distinguished by an easily adjustable steering position, a soft seat, and a solid footrest.
• Shulz - the company offers bicycles for children, teenagers and adults for use in the city. They are popular for their lack of daily maintenance, color choices, agility and smooth ride. They are also willingly bought due to the presence of several speeds, depending on the specific model. The kit includes a convenient trunk for transporting small-sized loads.Their wheel diameters are 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 inches, which makes it possible to purchase a convenient option for all occasions.
• Xiaomi- a Chinese company, one of the leaders in the production of smartphones. It was founded in 2010 and now produces, in addition to telephones, also electric bicycles. They are favorably distinguished from competitors by their low weight - about 14 kg, small wheel diameter - about 16 inches, motor power 250 W, cruising range up to 45 km and the maximum possible speed of 40 km per hour. The company's bikes can withstand a load of up to 100 kg, which makes it possible to use them for adult men.
• Volt - Chinese electric bikes with a 250-500 W engine and the ability to accelerate up to 40 km per hour are sold under this brand. Their battery allows you to travel up to 60 km on a single charge. The wheels of the brand's bicycles have excellent grip on asphalt and unpaved surfaces, guaranteeing ease of overcoming even difficult terrain. A person receives all the necessary data from the LCD display of the on-board computer. Transport has a smooth ride due to good shock absorption.
• Novatrack - this brand offers scooters, balance bikes, hardtails, children and adults, including folding bikes. In the brand line, the most common 20-inch wheel diameter, which is most often intended for teenagers. They are in high demand due to their safe and comfortable ride due to fast braking, soft seat, high seating position and spacious rear trunk.

Best mountain bikes according to user reviews

Ranking of the best folding bikes

To compile this TOP, real customer reviews and expert advice were used. In preparing the rating for folding bicycles, we also relied on the characteristics of the bikes indicated by the manufacturers and their relevance to reality.

Here's what was taken as a basis when writing the rating:

• Bike type - mountain or city;
• Age - adult or adolescent;
• Gender - male and / or female;
• Design, in particular color;
• Frame material - steel or aluminum;
• Wheel diameter - 24, 26, 28 inches;
• Type of brakes - foot or hand;
• The number of speeds available for switching;
• Maneuverability and ease of inflating wheels;
• Maximum permissible load;
• Basic equipment - the presence of a trunk, basket, pump, etc .;
• Weight and dimensions of products, including assembled;
• Battery capacity and charging speed (for electric models).

Also, when writing this rating, we paid attention to the ease of folding the bikes and the value for money of the bikes.

Best Travel Backpacks

Best mountain folding bikes

These bicycles are purchased specifically for use in mountainous areas, but they are also suitable for urban use. They are distinguished primarily by the ability to switch between speeds, which makes the use of bikes comfortable both on unpaved and asphalt roads. Check out two of the best models in this category.

Stels Pilot 950 MD 26 V010

The budget model Stels Pilot 950 MD 26 V010 is designed for amateurs and novice cyclists. It is suitable for overcoming both short and long distances, even in mountainous areas. Inconvenience during movement is eliminated due to the possibility of choosing the most optimal speed. Wheels with a diameter of 26 inches overcome dirt roads without any problems and withstand impacts perfectly.

The product weighs just over 15 kg, so it is not very convenient for a girl to carry it in her hands. However, compared to the steel base, the frame is much lighter and less prone to rust damage. The bike folds compactly and does not take up much space during transportation and storage in a house or garage. The wide enough pedal allows you to comfortably put your feet even large. The steering wheel is reliable and has soft pads to eliminate rubbing of the palms.

Advantages

• Large, maneuverable wheels;
• Many speeds - 21;
• Good disc brakes;
• Comfortable seat;
• Beautiful design.

disadvantages

• The maximum permissible frame load is 100 kg.

Reviews of this folding bike note good cushioning, which guarantees a comfortable and safe ride even on uneven roads.

Stark Cobra 26.2 D

The Stark Cobra 26.2 D has a neutral black color that suits both women and men. The bike provides the ability to change the speed in 21 modes, depending on the operating conditions. Mechanical disc brakes guarantee a safe ride, and high-quality tires on the wheels provide effective traction on both asphalt and dirt surfaces. That is why it can be safely used in the mountains.

This bike has good maneuverability and behaves flawlessly on uneven ground. The Shimano Tourney RD TY300D rear derailleur expands the bike's capabilities, and the aluminum frame easily withstands high loads and is not afraid of moisture, which increases the life of the product. It itself weighs 15.3 kg and is equipped with 26-inch wheels that can easily navigate the dirt road.

Advantages

• Sold in two frame sizes - 18 and 20 inches;
• Comfortable seat designed with human anatomy in mind;
• High waist;
• Fast braking;
• No squeaks while driving;
• Comfortable seat-to-handlebar distance.

disadvantages

• Overcharge;
• Over time, the rear brake may start to creak.

As the reviews show, the bike is assembled quite simply, and this does not significantly affect its compactness.

The best city folding bikes

Compared to mountain bikes, city bikes are less functional and do not provide freedom of choice of speeds. Often there is no depreciation at all, which makes the ride more difficult. They are equipped with wheels with a diameter of 26-28 inches for adults and 24 - for teenagers. Here are the top three winners in this category.

Desna 2500

This is an inexpensive foldable touring bike for the city and is included in the rating for its good value for money. It has a robust steel frame that can support riders up to 90 kg and is therefore suitable for both women and men. Since the bike was created specifically for riding on asphalt and flat road surfaces, there is no possibility of gear shifting here.

The rather cheap Desna 2500 model weighs 16.4 kg and when folded takes up very little space. This is one of the few bikes equipped with a bell for safer driving on the sidewalk. It has a solid footrest to keep it stable on all surfaces. The brakes are pedal, foot and work quickly, but without jerks. The diameter of the wheels is 24 inches, which is just right for a city.

Advantages

• Low cost;
• Soft seat;
• The chain does not need to be lubricated frequently;
• There is a frame in the back;
• High handlebar with non-rigid pads.

disadvantages

• There is only one speed.

As the reviews on the Desna 2500 folding bike show, it can be safely used in light off-road conditions, in the forest, but for this the cyclist must be physically enduring.

Forward Tracer 1.0

The Forward Tracer 1.0 is versatile and designed for both men and women thanks to the classic black and blue frame colors. The latter is made of aluminum and offers two sizes of its frame - 17 and 19 inches, the first is suitable for aggressive riding, and the second is for a quiet ride. The steering column is threadless and strong enough to handle the bike comfortably and safely.

Compared to most of the models in the ranking, this bike has rim brakes and is easy to adjust. For comfortable movement around the city on various road surfaces, it is possible to switch between 6 speeds. Its wheel diameter is 26 inches, as it is an urban version. The weight of the product is 14.6 kg, which is slightly less than that of other products in the TOP.

Advantages

• Sturdy and stable footrest;
• Both the front and rear brakes are fast;
• Wide range for saddle height adjustment;
• Easy to fold;
• Soft move.

disadvantages

• Suitable for adults only.

The Forward Tracer 1.0 bike with a 17 '' frame is suitable for women from 150 to 170 cm, and at 19 - for men from 170 to 185 cm.

Shulz hopper xl

This model differs from other options in the rating by its low fit. Due to this, as well as due to small wheels with a diameter of 18 inches and an aluminum alloy frame, it was possible to reduce the weight of the product to 11.4 kg. With such parameters, it can withstand loads of up to 100 kg. The bike folds easily and in this form has a compact size of 80 × 70 × 40 cm. Thanks to this, it easily fits into the trunk of a car and does not take up much space in the house.

Shulz Hopper XL is sold in one size and is designed for cyclists from 160 to 200 cm tall. Folding pedals made of impact-resistant plastic withstand high pressure and allow, if necessary, to move while standing. For safe operation in the dark, reflectors and a bell are provided. The presence of a trunk makes it possible to ride it to the store for shopping.

Advantages

• Wheel chambers keep air well;
• Large distance between steering wheel and seat;
• Sturdy frame;
• The handle does not rub the palms due to overlays;
• Maneuverable wheels;
• Spacious pedals.

disadvantages

• The steering wheel and seat are practically on the same level;
• White, easily soiled frame color.

Best folding e-bikes

These bikes are very practical for use as transport, not just for sports. They can work both in automatic mode, on an electric motor, and by means of pedals. It is because of this functionality that this transport is more expensive than ordinary models. There are not so many such offers yet, and the best folding electric bicycles on the market are presented in this rating.

Xiaomi Himo C20

The small electric bike Xiaomi Himo C20 is powered by both a motor and pedals. It allows you to switch between three modes. The Shimano system automatically adjusts the travel speed. The brushless motor delivers consistent power for fast enough driving. The dimensions of the assembled bike are 147x61x106 cm, and the weight is 21 kg, so it is not very convenient to carry it in your hands.

A 250 W motor mounted on the rear wheel allows the bike to accelerate to 25 km per hour. The developers claim that the battery capacity is enough for 80 kilometers, and the battery has to be charged within 6 hours, so breaks will be needed for long distances. The advantage of this model is that the seat is removable and a pump is hidden in it, which is convenient to take with you on the road. On the steering wheel there is a small screen with two control buttons, and on it the distance, speed and charge level are shown in large symbols.

Advantages

• The braking distance on a dry road is only 4 m, and on a wet road - up to 6 m;
• Reliable protection of the battery from moisture;
• The presence of reflectors on the pedals;
• Ease of folding;
• Large white LED headlight above the wheel.

disadvantages

• The maximum permissible load is 100 kg.

According to reviews, it is convenient to ride an electric bike around the city, but it is more difficult to do it on a dirt road, although the wheels are quite maneuverable here.

Volt city

Outwardly, the bike resembles a moped, only its wheels are less massive, with a diameter of 20 inches. It is suitable for both women and men, with a load capacity of up to 120 kg. For automatic operation, an electric motor and battery are provided, which must be charged approximately every 60 km. This takes about 5 hours, and when the battery runs out, you can use wide enough pedals.

The basic package includes a bag for personal belongings and a shopping basket. Comfort and safety at any time of the day are provided by a brake light and an LED headlight. For convenient movement in various conditions, the manufacturer gave the opportunity to choose one of 7 transmission speeds on Shimano components.Fast-acting front and rear V-brakes are responsible for safe driving.

Advantages

• Roomy shopping basket;
• Soft seat;
• The presence of a trunk;
• Develops a speed of up to 33 km per hour;
• Prompt braking;
• There are light signals both in front and behind.

disadvantages

• The price is often overpriced.

To ride Volt City, you do not need to register with the traffic police and rights, minors can also drive it.

Best Teenage Folding Bikes

These bikes are designed for children from 10 to 15-17 years old. They usually have small wheel diameters ranging from 20 to 24 inches. We studied the characteristics of the most popular bikes for this age category and selected one good model for this ranking of folding bikes in terms of safety, quality and comfort of use.

Novatrack TG-24 Classic 1

This is a standard city bike for riding on flat road surfaces. In this case, he simply does not need several speeds, and therefore the manufacturer limited himself to only one. For the same reason, there is no cushioning required in mountain models. The fact that this is a teenage bike is indicated by the diameter of the wheels at 24 inches. The steel frame has resulted in a greater weight compared to similar models - 17.1 kg.

The set includes everything you need for a safe and comfortable ride - a footrest, a saddle with springs, a trunk. For those who plan to drive on the pedestrian part of the roads, there is a signal here. Transporting and storing the bike is greatly simplified due to its easy folding and compact folded size.

Advantages

• No special effort is required for braking;
• Convenient, curved steering wheel;
• Large trunk;
• Wheels are easily inflated;
• High waist.

disadvantages

• Not found.

Which folding bike is better to buy

For a person with a height of 152-165 cm, it is recommended to choose a model with a frame of 15-16 inches, from 165 to 175 - at 16-17 ″, from 175 to 185 - at 18-19 ″, and from 185 to 195 - at 20-21 ″. If you do not take into account this important recommendation, then riding a bike can lead to curvature of the spine and the appearance of back pain.

Equally important is the wheel size, which for use in mountainous terrain typically has a diameter of 26-29 ". For city models, it is 24-29 inches for adults, excluding electric options. The higher this indicator, the heavier and the less maneuverable the bike becomes.

Here's which folding bike is best to buy for different operating conditions:

• For driving on small hills in the forest, on a dirt road, you can buy a Stels Pilot 950 MD 26 V010 bike.
• For movement both in the mountains and in the city, the Stark Cobra 26.2 D model is well suited.
• For those looking to shop by bike, consider purchasing the Desna 2500 variant.
• For the purpose of walking along the embankment or park, where there is an even asphalt surface, it will not be a mistake to choose Forward Tracer 1.0.
• To use the bike as a transport, for example, if you need to get to work, you should take a closer look at the Shulz Hopper XL.
• For novice athletes, the Xiaomi Himo C20 will be just right, which, when the legs get tired, can be switched to automatic mode.
• For driving outside the city, in the absence of good physical fitness, you can use Volt City.
• For teenagers, the Novatrack TG-24 Classic 1 is suitable for any purpose, on which you can carry out both cycling and ride out of town, over rough terrain.

Of all the best folding bicycles reviewed, each is noteworthy, but they are all designed for specific purposes, which must be considered when choosing them.