9 Best Folding Bikes of 2023
Do you dread lugging your bike onto public transportation during your daily commute or where to store it in your small apartment? For starters, folding bikes are incredibly convenient and versatile, with stylish designs that turn heads. So why wait? Choose among the 9 best folding bikes of 2023 and experience the freedom and convenience of compact, efficient storage and transportation.
Don’t let bulky bikes keep you from exploring the world around you. We hope this guide prompts you to join the folding bike revolution and start your journey today!
What are the best folding bikes of 2023?
Are you searching for the best folding bike? Put the Brompton bikes, Tern Vektron S10, and Dahon Mariner D8 on top of your list. Recently, there has been a surge in the range and quality of foldable bicycles at astonishingly affordable prices. Most folding bike brands offer multiple gears, sturdy, lightweight frames, and adjustable seats for a comfortable and efficient riding experience.
Why would you buy a folding bike over a regular cycle?
First, a folding bike will save you storage and safety issues if you are an urban dweller and live in an apartment. Generally, folding bikes offer freedom and flexibility to move around with them compared to regular bikes, which are bulky. Most folding bikes are built with high-end components yet are affordable and functional.
Benefits of folding bikes
Portable and easy to store
- Portable and easy to store
- Flexible multimodal commuting
- Environmental friendly
Here’s a list of the best folding bikes as vetted and tested by our team.
- Brompton C Line
- Dahon Mariner D8
- Tern Vektron S10
- Origami Swift
- Stow-E-Way Folding Electric Bike
- Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
- Zizzo Urbano
- Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike
- Montague Paratrooper foldable Mountain bike
Brompton C Line
With the Brompton C Line, you can start a new story about how you get to work. This high-quality folding commuting bike combines style and functionality to ensure you get where you’re going in style. With its sleek form and easy folding system, you’ll be ready to take on the city streets.
Overview
The Brompton C Line Explore is a sleek, stylish folding bike perfect for city dwellers and daily commutes. Its superb build features a sturdy lightweight steel frame, a 6-speed drivetrain, comfortable saddles, and a deluxe seatpost providing stable and relaxed riding around town.
The wheelbase, combined with its wide range of gears, delivers fast rides to quench your adrenaline thirst. And the best part? The bike folds away in seconds.
Top Features
- 6-speed drivetrain with 2 and 3-speed trigger shifters gear system for easy riding on different terrains
- Lightweight and durable frame made of high-quality micro-alloy steel tubing
- Weighs 25 lbs. with a compact design that folds down quickly to a small size (25.3”x23”x10.6”) for easy storage and transportation
- Dual pivot caliper brakes for superior stopping power when needed
- Front and rear lights for increased visibility and safety during night rides
- Ergonomic handlebars (adjustable) and saddle for enjoyable long-distance rides
- 16-inch wheels with 28 spokes double walled front and rear rims for a smooth and stable ride on road bumps and rough terrain
- Mudguards to keep you clean and dry in wet conditions
- An easy-to-use hinge clamp folding mechanism that can be done in seconds
- Available in a range of colors and customizations to suit your style
- 10-year frame warranty for peace of mind
Satisfied clients’ feedback on The Brompton C Line Explore
Brompton C Line Explore Pros
Brompton C Line Explore Cons
Pricing
The Brompton bikes are priced at around $1,500, which is on the higher end of the spectrum for folding bikes.
Why I picked it
The Brompton C Line Explore folding bike is perfect for city commuters who want a reliable and stylish bicycle that can be folded to fit in a suitcase. Its ride-quality build and range of features present durability at a high price tag. The best part yet is you can customize this folding e-bike with the array of accessories widely available in the market.
Dahon Mariner D8
Set sail on urban adventures with the Dahon Mariner D8. This folding bike is perfect for navigating busy cities. Its strong design and lightweight frame make it easy to transport and store.
Overview
The Dahon Mariner D8 is a versatile, head-turner bicycle with foldability and affordability on a platter. It’s compact, lightweight, easy to fold, and features ride-quality elements like a sturdy frame, rust-resistant coating, and an 8-speed drivetrain for stable, fast rides. Unlike other folding bikes, its rear rack and mudguards are perfect for carriage and all weather-commuting.
Top Features
- Weighs 27 lbs with 26’x13’x32’ size when folded
- 8-speed gear system with a rear derailleur for easy riding on different inclinations
- Lightweight and durable Alloy aluminum frame to tickle the rigors of daily commutes
- Hi-tensile steel fork suspension for smooth riding
- 6061 aluminum handlebar fitted with fusion tech and adjustable for easy handling and control
- 20” lightweight aluminum rims with 14 spokes stainless steel resistant to rust, ensuring an increased lifespan
- Aluminum V-Brakes with 3-finger lever for easy braking
- Easy folding mechanism–turn the hinge screw clockwise, and your bike is folded, compact, and ready for storage and transport
- It comes with full wrap fenders and a rear rack for extra cargo
A happy client review
Dahon Mariner D8 Pros
Dahon Mariner D8 Cons
Pricing
The Dahon Mariner D8 is priced at $949, which is surprisingly affordable considering its features and build quality.
Why I picked it
The Dahon Mariner D8 is a sleek, high-quality, portable well-equipped for multi-modal urban transit that includes trips by bus or train. Mounted with an 8-speed drivetrain, fenders, and a rear rack making, it a perfect choice for grocery hauls, leisure rides, or long-distance trips. This range of features makes it an excellent value for your money.
Tern Vektron S10
Enter the future of commuting with the Tern Vektron S10. This high-performance folding electric bike combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design. With its powerful motor and long-lasting battery, it conquer any terrain and breezes past traffic with ease.
Overview
The Tern Vektron S10 is a high-end electric folding bike perfect for profound cyclists and commuters. It delivers a foldable compact-size electric propulsion from a powerful Bosch motor and battery. The range of gears, mudguards, mounted lights, and rear rack make this beast versatile for all-weather commute and storage. This folding bicycle resizes in seconds to fit various riders.
Top Features
- Weighs about 48 lbs with 16”x34”x27” folded dimensions
- Bosch Performance electric motor (300% assist) offers perfect torque (65Nm) and range balance providing a powerful and efficient commute
- Magura MT4 Hydraulic disc brakes deliver effortless stopping in rainy, snowy, or mud terrains with a gentle two-finger pull
- 6061 Aluminum fork and frame with a reclining battery for a comfortable ride
- Bosch Purion control panel that displays distance, speed, and battery level information for swift mode switch
- Single-shaft design folding technology that folds away your bike in less than 10 seconds
- Schwable double-butted 20” tires with spokes and nipples for perfect grip and road shock absorption
- 10-speed Shimano Deore shifters with rear derailleur offering smooth shifting during different inclination
Tern Vektron S10 Pros
Tern Vektron S10 Cons
Pricing
The Tern Vektron S10 is priced slightly above $4,000, on the higher end of the spectrum for folding bikes.
Why I picked it
The Tern Vektron S10 is perfect for cyclists and commuters who want a powerful, efficient folding bike. Its features and ride quality make it an excellent investment for anyone who wants a bike that can handle different terrains and weather conditions. Provided you have ample storage space, this machine is ideal–make your purchase now.
Origami Swift
Unleash your inner urban ninja with the Origami Swift. This lightweight and agile folding bike effortlessly weaves through city streets, taking on tight corners and narrow alleys with finesse. Its compact size makes it a popular choice for urbanites who want style and comfort.
Overview
The Origami Swift is a compact and affordable folding bike with the widest range of gears (26” to 99”) for less than $1,000. Fitted with disc brakes and a 7-speed gear system to handle those hills easily and bring you up to speed on flat surfaces. This folding e-bike is competitively priced in comparison to well-known brands.
Top Features
- 7-speed Shimano Tourney drivetrain gear system for easy riding on hilly terrains
- Weigh from 30 lbs with a maximum load capacity of 240 lbs.
- Steel frame and fork suspension with a sturdy build for strength reassurance
- 20” double-walled tires delivering utmost stability and smoothness
- Cable disc brakes offer standard to excellent braking power
- Ergonomic handlebars and saddle for a comfortable ride
- Compact design that folds down to a small size for easy storage and transportation
- Adjustable handlebar with a riser to cater to different-sized riders and offer comfort during long trips
- Rear rack, bottle mounts, mudguards, and fenders for those all-weather long rides
Client Review of the Origami Swift
Origami Swift Pros
Origami Swift Cons
Pricing
The Origami Swift is priced at $899. This is an excellent value for money with high-quality features and customization.
Why I picked it
Whether you’re a heavy, taller, shorter, or aged rider, the Origami Swift folding bike will adjust to suit your needs, thanks to its steel frame and adjustable handlebar. It’s also fitted with two bottle mounts, thick rims, and 7-speed gears to handle casual rides and rough roads easily. All these features come at a very affordable price–you should consider this machine if lost for choice.
Stow-E-Way Folding Electric Bike
Experience the freedom of electric commuting with the Stow-E-Way Folding Electric Bike. Its foldable design allows hassle-free transportation and storage, making it the perfect companion for electrifying adventures.
Overview
City dwellers, commuters, and novice cyclists on a budget will find the Stow-E-Way Electric Folding Bike excellent. It features a powerful 250 wh battery, robust motor, range of gears, pedal assist, and compact size to deliver freedom and flexibility perfectly. The folder convenience makes it easy to store and transport. It comes with a good range of functional specs at a competitive price.
Top Features
- 250W battery capacity paired with a TranzX F15 motor can go up to 30 miles depending on the speed, rider weight, and terrain.
- 6061 lightweight Aluminum Alloy frame with a steel fork offering stability and easy control
- 7-Speed Shimano Revoshift gear system with a rear derailleur delivering swift change under various inclinations
- Anti-slip folding pedals for perfect grip and pedaling
- Front and rear lights for increased visibility and safety during the night rides or forest ways
- Adjustable alloy stem and comfort grips on the handlebar for a smooth riding experience
- Easy-to-fold mechanism
- Weighs between 20 and 44 lbs, hefty for a folding bike
Satisfied customer feedback
Stow-E-Way Bike Pros
Stow-E-Way Bike Cons
Pricing
The Stow-E-Way Folding Electric Bike is priced at around $1,000. Quite competitive with the range of features it offers.
Why I picked it
The Stow-E-Way Folding Electric Bike was explicitly built for commuters looking for an alternative to vehicles or public transport without working up a sweat or breaking the bank. The built-in racks and fenders are great storage for your luggage, and the electric power assist makes riding tireless. Head to your local bike shop and snag this machine–great value for money.
Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
This budget-friendly folding bike offers convenience without compromising on quality. Its sturdy frame and reliable components ensure a comfortable and smooth ride, while its compact folding design allows for easy transportation and storage.
Overview
The Schwinn Loop Adult is a lightweight step-thru Folding Bike and an excellent option for those searching for simplicity and ease of use. It features a 7-speed Shimano shifter with linear-pull brakes to provide secure stops and smooth shifting in various terrain. The frame is designed with a low stepover, perfect for women and senior riders.
Top Features
- Weighs 33 lbs with a 240 lbs maximum carrying capacity
- 7-Speed twist shifters providing swift gear change
- Lightweight and step-thru frame that folds down to a compact size for easy storage and transportation
- 20” double-walled wheels with rolling street tires for a secured grip on paved roads
- Front and rear linear-pull braking system for reliable stopping power
- Rear rack and lights for increased load capacity and safety
- Mudguards to keep you clean and dry in rainy conditions
- Available in a range of colors and customizations to suit your style
Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike Pros
Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike Cons
Pricing
The Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike is priced between $310 and $490, depending on your desired color and specs.
Why I picked it
The Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike has an attractive design with superb built quality that delivers reliability and safety. Although a bit hefty, especially for the constant up-and-down movement of the stairs. However, it brags of excellent features and style at an affordable price. If you are just joining the folding bikes revolution or looking for fun rides and grocery hauls, buddy, Schwinn Loop is a cheap entry-level machine.
Zizzo Urbano
Whether you’re cruising through the city or embarking on weekend getaways, the Zizzo Urbano’s versatile design and sturdy construction will have you riding in style wherever the road takes you.
Overview
The Zizzo Urbano is 24 lbs folding bike built to handle the road and trails thanks to its 20’ multi-terrain wheels and sturdy alloy Aluminum Alloy frame. It’s suitable for various bike paths. Whether riding for fun, work, or a canopy adventure with multi-modal commuting, Zizzo Urbano obeys you efficiently. Gear shifting is smooth with the 8 Shimano speed shifters combined with the V-style brake levers.
Top Features
- LX 6066 Aluminum Alloy frame with a sleek design
- Aluminum Alloy fork suspension with steel steer and magnetic catcher
- Shimano 8-Speed shifters with a rear derailleur for swift gear changing
- Wide saddle, ergonomic handlebars, and adjustable seat for a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience
- Front and rear V-style aluminum alloy brakes and lever that are rust-resistant to last long
- 20” Double walled Aluminum Alloy tires with 14 spokes rims for ease of multi-terrain maneuvering
- Weighs 24 lbs with a 240 lbs maximum load weight
- Simple foldable mechanism with little mounting and unmounting time
- Front and rear lights for easy and safe riding in the dark.
- Affordable with great features
Zizzo Urbano Pros
Zizzo Urbano Cons
Pricing
The Zizzo Urbano is currently discounted at $429.99, an excellent value for money considering its range of features and build quality.
Why I picked it
The Zizzo Urbano delivers reliability, performance, and affordability for novice cyclists and urban dwellers seeking an alternative fitness mechanism or work commute. It’s designed with a light frame, fork, handlebars, and reliable gear systems offering excellent stopping power. The features are packed in compact sizes yet below $500–this is such a steal!
Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike
Embrace off-road adventures like never before with the Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike. Its powerful electric motor and robust components provide a thrilling ride, while its foldable feature allows for easy transportation and storage, making it your go-to choice for off-road exploration.
Overview
The Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike is a powerful and convenient folding bike best suited for tall and heavy riders, thanks to its 300 lbs load capacity, sturdy aluminum frame, and 20’ rims for fantastic stability. The 500wh motor and 7-Speed gear shifts combo delivers a speed of up to 20 mph and peak performance. If you don’t want to break a sweat, a pedal assist boosts you on steep terrains.
Top Features
- 500W motor a powerful ride of up to 20 mph with pedal assist (has 5-levels pedal assists)
- Tektro hydraulic disc brakes deliver superb stopping
- 6061 double-butted folding aluminum frame with in-built battery
- 20” double-walled and multi-terrain tires with exceptional stability
- Lockable front suspension for safety when trailing
- Foldable into a compact design that fits right in your trunk
- Mounted with a backlit display to give you real-time insights on the distance covered, speed level, and battery life.
- Has a 330 lbs cargo capacity
- Value for your bucks
Client Review
Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike Pros
Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike Cons
Pricing
The Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike is priced at around $1,500, which is great value for money considering its range of features and build quality.
Why I picked it
The Aventon Sinch Foldable Ebike can run up to 71 miles at 10 mph with a pedal assist–is that not great at the above price? Its sturdy aluminum frame, mechanical disc brakes, and double wall rims make it best for urban and country rides. This is a perfect mid-range priced folding e-bike.
Montague Paratrooper Foldable Mountain Bike
Designed for adventurers seeking the ultimate freedom, this rugged foldable mountain bike combines durability with off-road capability. With its foldable frame, you can easily take it on your next outdoor expedition, experiencing the thrill of off-road riding like never before.
Overview
The Montague Paratrooper Foldable Mountain Bike is a versatile and durable folding bike that is perfect for off-road adventures. It has a sturdy frame, a range of gear, and a comfortable ride. Finding a folding mountain bike under $2,000 with such quality features is a holy grail with 24 speeds, mechanical disc brakes, and thick tires to handle any terrain and absorb the maximum shock.
Top Features
- 24-speed Shimano shifters for smooth gear change and riding on different terrains
- 26-inch double-walled wheels for a smooth and stable ride
- Weighs about 32lbs with a 240 maximum load capacity
- Responsive mechanical disk brakes for quick and powerful all-weather stopping
- Alloy fork suspension for easy traversing through trails
- Mounted with a cargo rack, stand, and kickstand, all folded into a compact size
Montague Paratrooper Pros
Montague Paratrooper Cons
Pricing
The Montague Paratrooper Foldable Mountain Bike is priced at $1,195. This is the best value for such a fantastic off-road machine.
Why I picked it
The Montague Paratrooper Foldable Mountain Bike is perfect for off-road adventures and serious cyclists who want a durable and versatile folding bike. If you love camping, this rugged off-road beast has better maneuverability while hauling your camping gear on rough terrains. It is an excellent deal for such a price–hurry to your local bike store and start packing for that adventure.
What makes for a good folding bike in 2023?
When buying a folding bike in 2023, look for a model with an easy foldable mechanism, efficient gearing, responsive braking system, lightweight and durable frame material, good value for money, and appropriate wheel size. Consider these features when choosing the best folding bike for you.
Folding mechanism
A reliable folding mechanism is crucial as it affects how fast the bike can be folded. Look for a model with a split or triangular hinge mechanism or a breakaway design that allows for easy folding and unfolding.
Split fold mechanisms use hinges and are quick to fold, although bulky. Triangular hinge mechanisms result in a more compact and portable bike when folded but are complex and take time to tuck away. Although functional, the breakaway mechanism takes longer to fold and split the cycle into two pieces.
Frame material and weight
The frame material and weight can affect the durability and portability of a folding bike. Look for a model with a lightweight and durable frame material, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, or titanium.
The aluminum frame is relatively light and resistant to rust and corrosion, offering a longer lifespan. Correspondingly, steel is robust, rust-resistant, and hefty for a folding bike. Carbon fiber has the lightest weight, sleek but is more costly compared to other materials. In terms of pricing, titanium is more durable than carbon, it also has high shock absorption of road vibrations.
Wheelset
The appropriate wheel size can affect the speed and stability of a folding bike, impacting the overall riding experience. For instance, 16” sizes are flexible but less stable, 20” wheels are agile and portable, whereas 24” wheels are more stable but less portable and flexible.
Although rare, 26” – 28” wheel sizes provide better shock resistance and stability but are bulkier, mainly built on folding mountain bikes. Look for a model with the appropriate wheel size for your needs, whether commuting in the city or exploring off-road trails.
Gearing System
Single-speed gears operate on a single chain meaning slow accelerations, limited top speed, and struggle to shift on different terrains. On the other hand, multiple-geared folding bikes accelerate fast, offer swift gear change with different inclinations, and are speedy.
Multiple gears are essential for efficient riding on different terrains. Look for a folding bike with a wide range of gears to make your ride smoother and more comfortable.
Braking system
A responsive and reliable braking system is crucial for safety. Look for a folding bike with high-quality brakes, such as hydraulic disc brakes or dual-pivot caliper brakes.
Value for money
The reputation of the brand is essential when investing in a folding bike. However, don’t limit yourself to known brands; some emerging brands offer good quality folding bikes at competitive prices. Choose a bike that delivers exceptional quality and a bang for your buck.
Wrap Up
Folding bikes are great for leisure rides, crowded city commutes, off-road adventures, and long road trips. Most come with quality components for a reliable and comfortable riding experience. Generally, a conventional folding bike shouldn’t consume much of your time folding, but it improves with experience. With the array of options available, the above list should help you pick the best according to your preference and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
A folding bike is a bicycle designed to fold into a compact form, making it easier to store and transport. They differ from regular cycles in their folding system and offer benefits, including easy storage and transportation, increased convenience, and improved versatility. Folding bikes are also ideal for commuters who must take their bike on public transportation or store it in small apartments.
To keep your folding bike in good condition, performing regular maintenance tasks like cleaning and lubricating the chain, checking the tire pressure, and tightening any loose bolts or screws is essential. Store your folding bike in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and other damage.
Yes, you can use a folding bike for long-distance rides, but choosing a comfortable model with the necessary features for longer rides, such as multiple gears and a comfortable saddle, is essential. Adjust the bike to fit your body correctly to prevent discomfort or injury.
When choosing a folding bike, consider your budget, intended use, and desired features, such as the number of gears, wheel size, and weight. You should also test-ride different models to find one that feels comfortable and suits your riding style.
While some folding bikes are designed for off-road riding, most are better suited for urban or suburban riding on paved surfaces. If you plan to do a lot of off-road riding, look for a folding bike with wider tires, suspension, and other features designed for rough terrain.