Folding e-bikes: the best models and recommendations for choosing

Electric bicycles are becoming more and more popular every year. Models equipped with a folding mechanism are especially in demand in our time. This technique is as convenient as possible in both operation and storage. In this article, we'll take a closer look at electric bicycles and learn how to choose the right one.

Modern e-bikes are in great demand. They are presented in a large assortment. Each consumer has the opportunity to find for himself the ideal model with all the necessary characteristics and functions.

The electrical option itself is a standard bike that is powered by an electric motor. In this case, the muscular strength of the rider can also be used. You can ride on such a device only at the expense of the latter.

Electric bicycles are made up of the following basic parts:

• electric motor;
• battery;
• the controller responsible for management;
• speed control devices;
• accessories depending on model and configuration.

This type of design has many advantages over classic bicycles that do not have an engine. This is the perfect solution for people who like to ride comfortably but don't want to pedal all the time.Electric models have no negative impact on the environment, which is not the case with mopeds, motorcycles or most cars. That is why many people who care about the environment choose this type of transport.

The electric bike is a real miracle of technology. It has a lot of positive qualities that make it popular and relevant in our time. Let's get acquainted with the list of advantages of these means of transport.

• On such a bike, it is possible to cover impressive distances without any problems, without much effort. Riders on these devices can ride for a long time without fatigue.
• Even if the route is not only long, but also difficult, intricate, an electric bike will still allow you to overcome it without unnecessary problems.
• If the battery in the product suddenly runs out, this does not mean that further movement will not be possible. In such a situation, the rider can go further, but already "on the pedals".
• Folding electric bicycles are lightweight, so they are very convenient to carry with you.
• You can charge the battery of electric bicycles from an ordinary home power supply - you do not need to buy special equipment.
• An electric bike is an environmentally friendly form of transport.
• This type of transport does not need to be registered. There is also no need to obtain a driver's license, which greatly simplifies the operation of the product in question.
• Electric bicycles demonstrate great practicality, which has been noted by many of their owners.
• There are no particular problems with the storage of these means of transport. The foldable model can be easily stored even in a small city apartment. For a folded structure, it will turn out to find a place everywhere.
• Electric bicycles are presented in a wide range. You can choose models of different cost, power and configuration. Several large brands have established themselves on the market, producing good, durable products that have proven themselves extremely positive.

There are many advantages to bicycles with an engine, but not without disadvantages. It is important to familiarize yourself with them before rushing to the store to buy a similar product:

• the design of this type of transport in the care and maintenance will be more complex than in the case of classic bicycles without a motor;
• e-bikes are more expensive than ordinary bicycles;
• it will take a long time to charge the battery;
• the battery life of these bicycles is not very durable;
• in rough terrain on such a bike it will not work.

There are several subspecies of folding electric bikes. Each of them has its own characteristics and distinctive properties. Products differ in many qualities.

• By assembly method. An electric bike can be assembled at the factory or handicraft from special materials and kits. Serial models are good because their design is designed taking into account the weight and characteristics of additional electrical equipment. If the vehicle was assembled from conversion kits, it will be much cheaper, and the user will be able to modify it at his own discretion.
• By type of construction. Not only convenient folding bicycles are on sale, but also ordinary bicycles, in which the folding mechanism is not provided.

Electric bikes also differ in the terrain in which it is permissible to operate them. The following varieties are distinguished.

• Mountain. This type of electric bike is designed for extreme conditions.It can be driven on roads with a noticeable elevation difference, as well as off-road. Mountain folding bikes can handle maximum loads.

• Highway... Foldable electric bikes in this category are equipped with a very powerful battery that increases the mileage from a single full charge.

• Cargo and passenger. The model is of solid and sturdy construction. Designed not only for the most comfortable and comfortable ride, but also for the transportation of various goods.

• Urban. One of the most popular and widespread varieties. City electric bikes are small in size and light in weight. They are made specifically for city trips.

Distinguish between electric bikes and the place in which the engine is fixed.

• Portable. Such slides are fixed on the frame part of the structure. Basically, this type of fastener is used when assembling a bike yourself. It is a less efficient option than a wheel motor because it transmits torque through the chain drive.

• Motor wheel. A widespread subspecies of the engine in e-bikes. It is classified according to the presence of the gearbox.

Exists electric bikes with sleeve gear motors. They are small and lighter than gearless ones. Electric bikes equipped with such a part are not the fastest, are expensive, and in terms of reliability they are inferior to direct drive motors.

Electric bicycles are also equipped with gearless hub motors. They are durable because the moving parts do not come into contact with each other.

You can get lost in the large assortment of electric bikes. Experts recommend giving preference only to high-quality branded designs. Let's analyze a small rating of the best electric bikes from well-known brands.

• Polar PBK 2001SL. Our review of the best e-bikes opens with this Chinese machine with 20-inch wheels, stiff suspension and cute design. When folded, Polar PBK 2001SL takes on a mini format and does not exceed the dimensions of a wheel with a saddle. The model is well protected from excess dirt and is waterproof.

• Elbike Galant VIP. Domestic bicycle hybrid device, which proves to be very convenient for riders of any gender and different age groups. Has an addition in the form of an LSD-display on the control panel.

• Volteco Intro 500W. A device from South Korea with a rechargeable battery hidden in a frame. The model is designed for active use. It has a high power motor (500 W). Very comfortable when driving, has a telescopic fork with shock absorbers.

• Shulz E-Goa. A 2018 model that still remains popular today. Country of origin: Russia. There is no depreciation in the model, so it is lighter and has an affordable price.

• Xdevice Xbicycle 14. The bike has been designed with an emphasis on compactness and portability. Boasts excellent battery quality. The design contains inflatable wheels. Users are pleased with the presence of disc braking systems on two wheels, as well as a folding mechanism.

• Myatu Hybrid 26 250W. Chinese electric bike with 2-way suspension. Differs in a steering part of a special structure. It is an optimal product for riders who expect the confidence to keep the wheels in contact with the road.

• Hoverbot CB-8 Optimus... A Chinese bike hybrid, renowned for its ride comfort. It's simple and comfortable. Ideal for the beginner rider. It weighs only 24 kg.It can be rolled freely with one hand without much effort. It is convenient to use for both women and men.

• Xiaomi Qicycle EF1. Another Chinese bicycle with an electric motor, which is most often chosen by the fair sex. The product is suitable for users of different builds. The design is trendy and urban.

• Cyberbike Fat 500W... American folding bike with a brutal design. Thick tires are available. The model easily overcomes any loose surface - it can be sand, and grass, and snow.

• Airwheel R3. Model from China. Compact bike. It is convenient to store and transport it. Has a sturdy yet lightweight aluminum frame. The bulk of the reviews for this bike are positive.

Before buying an electric bike, you should decide for yourself exactly how you plan to use it, what terrain to ride, what speed you want to develop on it, whether weight is important. Only then can you go to the store to find the optimal copy.

• If you are going to lower vehicles from the upper floors without the help of an elevator, then you should choose the lighter options.
• For storage in an apartment, you need to choose a folding model, which, when folded, becomes as compact as possible and does not require extra free space.
• If you want to use a bike in extreme conditions or ride at high speeds, then you should choose the appropriate types - mountain, road. If you only need a bike for driving around the city, commuting to work and shopping, then the standard urban version will do.
• If you want to ride an e-bike in winter, you should choose a model with a suitable tread and wheel diameter. It is not recommended to operate structures that were not designed for that in the winter season.
• Test your bike before buying. The device should be as convenient and comfortable as possible for you.
• Check the build quality of the product. The bike should be assembled "perfectly" - there should be no backlash, no squeaks, no damage to its structure. Check that the folding mechanism is working properly and that all existing systems are working.
• Choose high quality branded products. It can be more expensive, but it will last longer, and it will come with a guarantee.

For an overview of folding electric bicycles, see the following video.