Folding E-bikes | Top 10 Features to Look for When Buying a Foldable Electric Bike | Folding Electric Bikes

Folding e-bikes may be the best solution in getting rid of stressful commutes. The goal of folding e-bikes is to have a compact, transportable ride. They make an excellent choice for traveling if you have storage problems to consider.  

Excellent foldable e-bike doesn't come cheap, so ensure that you will be investing your money in one that's easy to transport, rides well while giving you the boost when needed.

Folding e-bikes are built for easy folding while minimizing space for storage. They are more of a practical option than regular e-bikes, which are heavier and difficult to transport. Electric folding bikes are an excellent option for:   

• CommutersRiders
• with limited storage 
• Riders who transport their bikes regularly 

The boost needed to go on longer rides or hilly commute is what e-bikes are made for. However, having a vehicle that folds can make cycling more accessible and enjoyable. If you are considering a folding e-bike, you must be asking yourself what features and specifications to look into.  

Here are the top features to consider when buying a foldable electric bicycle:  

• Motor 
• Throttle 
• Folding 
• Range 
• Weight 
• Braking System 
• Ride Quality 
• Battery 
• Tires 
• Customer Service and Warranty 
• Motor 

The most obvious difference between e-bikes and conventional bikes is that a motor operates the former. The motor is the fundamental and most essential factor to consider.   

Your folding e-bike must provide both quality and power. It should pedal through hills, parks and take you to work without breaking some sweat. Also, your foldable e-bike must fulfill your transportation needs without busting your wallet, knowing that the motor may increase your costs.   

Opt for motors around 250 watts to 350 watts. In this range, you will have enough power to pedal in everyday riding situations. Also, the given range presents the commonly available motors for foldable e-bikes.  

Furthermore, motor placement is another element you must consider. There are two standard placements for your e-bike; hub motors installed in the rear wheel or the mid-drive built close to the pedals. Hub motors are less expensive but deliver only lesser force compared to a mid-drive motor having similar watts. 

Throttle

Most folding electric bicycles have pedal-assist; only a few provide a throttle that accelerates the bike without the need to pedal. Throttle can be essential when you ride on long distances and when climbing hills. Opt for a folding e-bike that allows you to pedal when driving on challenging terrain.

Folding 

A folding bike must be easy to secure and store. After all, that is what this e-bike is designed for. You will indeed be unfolding and folding the e-bike a lot, especially during commuting and traveling with it. Ensure that the vehicle is compact and comfortable when folding.  

There are cheap folding e-bikes that can be difficult to fold and unfold. Thus, taking up more space when folded. Also, low-end hinges that may be difficult to tighten are prone to tear and rust within a couple of years. 

Range

E-bikes are designed for driving on longer ranges without exerting much effort. Most e-bikes can travel as far as 45 miles before needing to recharge. So, it is worth considering these factors below when buying a foldable electric bike: 

• The distance you aim to travel 
• Motor assistance you require.  
• Amount of ride on hilly terrain. 

Weight

Keep in mind that the heavier the e-bike, the more difficult it is to lift or carry. As a result, you will require more effort when speeding up, especially when your battery is about to run flat. When shopping, weigh the e-bike when it's folded and unfolded to ensure that you can physically carry the vehicle.

Braking System

Excellent folding e-bikes require ideal braking systems that disengage the electric motor automatically when braking. When choosing folding e-bikes, search for manual or hydraulic disc brakes. These high-end brakes have the force and ability needed to slow the bike.  

You might also consider motor inhibitors that separate the motor when pulling the brake handle so that you won't have to struggle against the e-bike motor.

Ride Quality

Some e-bikes' motor support doesn't directly kick in until few pedals are made. As a result, taking corners and cycling on challenging terrains or accelerating from traffic lights can be extra tricky. Great deal foldable e-bikes hold pedal sensors, giving you the feels of motor power instantly.

Battery  

Built-in batteries have their disadvantages; you can't store, charge or replace them. Also, lithium-ion batteries are guaranteed for only a few years which limits the life of your electric bicycle.  

Opt for e-bikes with removable batteries since they are easy to transport. You can minimize a lot of weight when carrying the foldable electric bike by taking the battery off.

Tires 

Most folding bikes do not have suspension or shock absorption, making the ride less comfortable. Inflated or relatively larger tires can make riding more comfortable in your foldable e-bike. Fortunately, you can upgrade tires, but it would be great to have better tires from the day of purchase.

Customer Service and Warranty

You may find it unusual to include customer service and warranty in our features list. However, it would be best if you keep in mind that purchasing an e-bike from a manufacturer means you are starting a relationship with them. 

Before the internet, you probably would visit your favorite local bike shop. Taking with you your bike for a tune-up or browse for the latest models. This may no longer be the case now with online shopping. Today, there are fewer bike shops since you can now do the transaction online, directly from the manufacturer.  

With this in mind, browse not only the vehicle but also the manufacturer and their services. Research not only about their e-bikes but also their service warranty, reviews, and customer service.