Folding e-bikes have been a mainstay for city-inhabiting commuters for a while now. For those living in minimal square footage, folding bikes make keeping a bike at home easier. They also simplify the bike commute, fitting more easily on public transportation or in an office. And when youre heading out on the road, they can be stowed inside an RV or cars trunk.

　　With the proliferation of folding electric bikes on the market, finding the right one is more of a challenge than it used to be. With that in mind, we gathered five of the best models on the market to test and compare side by side. Whether youre looking for a premium ride like the Tern Vektron S10, a budget-friendly model like the Ride1Up Portola, or a versatile all-rounder like the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus, weve got you covered.

　　The Best Folding Electric Bikes of 2025 Best Overall Folding Electric Bike: Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus Best Budget Folding Electric Bike: Ride1Up Portola Best Premium Folding Electric Bike: Tern Vektron S10 Best Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike: HeyBike Mars 2.0 Great Value and Carry Capacity: Lectric XP 3.0 Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus Check Price at Rad Power Bikes

　　Specs E-Bike Class: 2 Motor: 750 W rear hub Battery Size: 720 Wh Wheel x Tire Size: 20 x 4.0 Drivetrain: Shimano 7-speed Suspension: 50 mm fork Weight: 72.5 lbs. Pros Smooth, comfortable ride Great handling for a folding bike Power delivery is smooth Safe Shield battery Good controls and display Wide knobby tires can handle a wide range of surfaces Cons Fairly heavy Not suitable for riders over 510 Lower cargo weight capacity Will Porter When it comes to folding electric bikes, the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus ($1,899) is the complete package. This bike is well-spec’d and a total blast to ride. Recent updates to Rad Powers bikes include upgraded torque sensors, Safe Shield batteries, and improved e-bike controls. Sure, that has led to an increase in price, but we feel its performance justifies its price tag. 

　　The RadExpand 5 Plus arrives in a surprisingly manageable box (something that cannot be said for all e-bikes). Assembly is easy and can be done in just a few minutes with minimal tools — all of which are included with the bike, so you don’t need a toolkit or assortment of wrenches ahead of time. Sizing is a breeze — the quick-release seatpost moves up and down enough to comfortably fit folks with inseam lengths between 26” and 33” or roughly 410 to 510 — taller folks will need to look elsewhere. Once everything is tightened down, you’re ready to go. 

　　We quickly grew fond of the RadExpands overall ride — it toes the line between fat bike and standard bike, allowing for confident and predictable handling on pavement. At the same time, the 4-inch wide tires and 50 mm suspension fork also make it suitable for riding smooth gravel roads or dirt paths and make cracked asphalt virtually disappear. Interestingly, with the same 20-inch diameter wheels as most folding e-bikes, we found the steering of the RadExpand to feel less nervous due in part to the wider BMX-style handlebar.

　　The 750 W rear hub motor is plenty powerful and easily reaches its top pedal-assisted speed of 20 mph. Despite all that power, Rad Powers upgraded torque sensor delivers power smoothly and with a more natural feel than the other hub-motor bikes we tested. The throttle is responsive but won’t buck you off, even at the highest setting. Unlike some of the other models we tested, the RadExpand doesnt provide the option to bump the speed up above 20 mph, which, if were being honest, is already plenty fast for folding e-bikes.

　　The controls on the left side of the handlebars are intuitive and have good ergonomics. The display screen at the center of the handlebar is crisp and clear in the light or in the dark. This makes it easy to shift between the five pedal assist modes and know what setting youre in at all times.

　　With a sizeable 720 Wh battery, Rad Powers claimed 60-mile range is impressive, though if you love to twist the throttle to the max, you’ll burn through that much more quickly. Still, youll easily be able to get 25-30 miles between charges. We found charging to be very simple, though, so if you’re taking shorter trips, it’s easy to plug in after each ride. Rad Power also included its new Safe Shield battery technology, essentially encapsulating each cell in a heat-absorbing resin to reduce the chances of a battery fire.

　　With front and rear fenders and lights that run off the batterys power and function as turn signals, this bike comes ready for anything. The integrated rear rack can also support up to 59 pounds of cargo, and Rad Power sells every accessory you can imagine to set it up for your needs.

　　The folding process is simple, and the RadExpand 5 Plus reduces to less than half its size for storage or transport. Still, it weighs 72.5 pounds, so picking it up or carrying can be awkward and cumbersome. Removing the battery drops the weight by 10 pounds, which we recommend to anyone trying to load this bike into a vehicle. Our only other real complaints are the thumb shifters for the drivetrain and that the seatpost isnt long enough to accommodate riders over 510.

　　Overall, we loved the RadExpand 5 Plus comfortable, confident ride, ample power, smooth pedal assistance, and surface versatility. Whether for recreational rides, hauling groceries, commuting to work, or loading in the RV for a road trip, this bike is an excellent choice.

　　Best Budget Folding Electric Bike Ride1Up Portola Check Price at Ride1Up

　　Specs E-Bike Class: 1, 2, or 3 Motor: 750 W rear hub Battery Size: 500 Wh and 643 Wh options available Wheel x Tire Size: 20 x 3 Drivetrain: Shimano Altus 8-speed Suspension: 80 mm fork Weight: 59 lbs. Pros Affordable Excellent ratio of price and performance Class 3 capable up to 28 mph Lighter weight than most in the category Rear rack can support up to 130 lbs. Cons Can get a bit squirrely at top speeds Motor was a little noisier than some Will Porter Thanks to its burly integrated rear rack and impressive ride feel, the Ride1Up Portola ($995-$1,195) is easily our pick for the best budget folding e-bike. At just under or just over a thousand bucks — depending on which battery size you choose — it’s also one of the best values on the market. 

　　Thanks to girthy, 3-inch wide tires, an 80 mm suspension fork, and a well-considered geometry, the Portola is easy to ride, even for those who aren’t the most confident on a bike. Indeed, our tester’s partner, who isn’t especially bike-inclined, found herself gravitating to this bike over the others on this list when they went out for a ride. This bike is comfortable, smooth-rolling, intuitive, and straightforward to get on and just start riding.

　　The 750 W rear hub motor is robust and lively, with plenty of power on tap to hit speeds up to 28 mph using pedal assist or 20 mph with the throttle. It can also be configured in numerous ways to make it a class 1, 2, or 3 bike to suit your preferences or comply with local regulations. With small wheels and design dictated by its foldability, we actually liked capping the top speed at 20 mph.

　　Our testers partner also had an easy time with the controls — which isnt always the case. The intuitive control layout proved to make this bike simple to understand, ride, and enjoy. The Portola has a thumb paddle throttle, which is easy to mash down for full speed and also gives your hand full access to the grip, which is nice when you’re not using the throttle.

　　The frame-integrated battery looks sleek and is easy to remove for charging off the bike if needed, but if you don’t want to, you really never have to. Ride1Up offers two battery size options: 10.4 Ah and 13.4 Ah, which give you 500 Wh and 643 Wh of juice, respectively. The latter will cost you a bit more but should provide you with an additional 5 miles or so of range. Ride1Up claims 25 to 45 miles of range for the larger battery, which isn’t record-setting but is still quite impressive at this price. The lower end of that range is a fairly realistic expectation when riding this bike with a mix of throttle and mid-to-high assist modes — like most people will.

　　The welded rear rack can support up to 130 pounds of cargo, and Ride1Up sells a range of aftermarket accessories to fit, including baskets, panniers, and a passenger kit. The bike itself weighs 59 pounds, which is about the middle of the pack in terms of weight and definitely a bit easier to pick up than the heavier Rad Power and HeyBike models. The included strap is also a nice touch to hold the bike in its folded position.

　　The only thing that kept this bike from being our absolute favorite was the bit of vibration and noise that comes when you start to reach top speed. We felt it seemed easy to overwhelm the bike when maxing out the throttle, which is a certainty when you’re using a speedy class 2 or 3 bike. 

　　If you’re looking for a folding e-bike with great carrying capacity and an easy interface, the Portola is an easy pick — especially considering it’ll help keep some cash in your pocket. This bike rides well, folds down nice and small, is a reasonable weight, and is very reasonably priced.

　　Best Premium Folding Electric Bike Tern Vektron S10 Check Price at REICheck Price at Tern

　　Specs E-Bike Class: 1 Motor: Bosch Performance mid-drive, 65 Nm torque Battery Size: 400 Wh Wheel x Tire Size: 20 x 2.15 Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 10-speed Suspension: None Weight: 49 lbs. Pros Most natural ride feel in the category Best stock saddle of all bikes we tested Rack is compatible with multiple child seats Lighter weight Quality components Cons Not the quietest motor One of the most expensive options in the category Lower cargo-carrying capacity Will Porter Tern has established itself as a major player in the electric bike market, with its high-performance cargo models consistently ranking at the top of bike reviews. The Tern Vectron S10 ($3,299) is one of the brands folding electric bikes that comes with a premium price tag and the performance to match.

　　The Vektron S10 has the most natural-feeling ride and pedal assistance of all the folding electric bikes we tested. This is due mostly to the fact that it has a Bosch Performance mid-drive motor — one of the only mid-drive folding models on the market — which delivers pedal assistance incredibly smoothly and proportionally to the riders pedaling input. The power comes on gradually and steadily ramps up in response to the effort, or torque, the rider puts into the cranks. The pedal assist settings are straightforward and easy to use, which is important considering you’ll always be pedaling this bike. 

　　On that note, the Vektron S10 is the only class 1 folding electric bike we tested, meaning it does not have a throttle. Outside of electric bikes for hunting and a few other outliers, most mid-drive motors dont allow for the use of a throttle, and that applies here. This bike is meant to be ridden more like an actual bike, and less like a moped. To that end, it has a smaller 400 Wh battery, yet it still gets an impressive range, given that you need to put in a bit of effort when riding it. Tern claims up to 68 miles.

　　We were big fans of this bike’s ride, owing to a more traditional bike feel with skinnier tires, slightly wider handlebars, and a Shimano Deore groupset that punches above its weight. We felt truly comfortable zipping down the road, as the lighter weight and nimble handling meant making quick turns and reacting to traffic wasn’t nerve-wracking. The pedal assist wasn’t jumpy, so quick pedal acceleration was still an effective method of bike control. On top of comfortable handling, it also has a massive range of fit adjustments to suit riders between 410 and 65.

　　Beyond the upgraded components, smooth ride, and wide range of fit, this bike also has a great saddle. This may not seem like a big deal, but if you’re going out for a ride that lasts more than 30-45 minutes, you’ll be happy to have a smaller, lighter, and more comfortable saddle. The integrated rack is immensely useful, and while it can only hold 60 pounds, that’s plenty for a week’s worth of groceries or a child seat — its compatible with the Thule Yepp Maxi. Fenders and integrated lights are also appreciated so youre ready for changes in the weather and can see and be seen on the road.

　　Easy portability is one of the main selling points of folding e-bikes, and the Vektron is at the top of its class. We loved that it folds down to a compact size, but we really appreciated that it weighs just 49 pounds. Thats 10 pounds less than the next lightest bike we tested, and it makes it much more reasonable to pick up and load into the trunk of your car or RV or carry up a flight or two of stairs.

　　Our main complaint about this bike was that the Bosch motor was a bit noisier than others we tested, especially when coasting. It was also the only bike that doesn’t have front suspension, which is either a pro or con, depending on the type of riding you’re doing. We got along just fine with it, but if you are looking for plush comfort, the fork may leave something to be desired. 

　　If youre seeking a folding model that rides more like a bike than a moped, the Vektron S10 is our recommendation. It doesn’t overwhelm you with power while being the most portable model we tested, and we feel its a great option for urban riding, apartment dwellers, and multi-modal transportation.

　　Best Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike HeyBike Mars 2.0 Check Price at HeyBike

　　Specs E-Bike Class: 3 Motor: 750 W rear hub (1000 W version also available) Battery Size: 600 Wh Wheel x Tire Size: 20 x 4 Drivetrain: Shimano 7-speed Suspension: 65 mm fork Weight: 75 lbs. Pros Built like a tank Can take on rough roads or gravel Powerful motor Max speed of 32 mph! Can handle a big rear rack payload Cons Requires more assembly than others Heavy Lower range than most Fat tire handling takes some getting used to Will Porter Don’t worry, calling the Heybike Mars 2.0 ($999-$1,099) “fat” isn’t a pejorative; it’s just a reference to the bike’s tires, which, at 4 inches wide, are enough to traverse the bike’s namesake planet with ease. The beefy bike is well-constructed and capable, making it a great choice for those looking to haul a lot of gear while riding a nearly-instructable bike. 

　　Like the Lectric XP, the Mars 2.0 has a comfortable ride thanks to suspension in front and under the seat. The cushy 4-inch wide tires also add some absorption and help smooth over imperfections in the road while expanding its versatility to gravel roads and smoother dirt trails. Light-duty off-road riding is well within its wheelhouse.

　　It’s also another bike that feels more like a moped than a bicycle, but that’s a boon for those looking to go fast — HeyBike claims up to 32 miles per hour, in fact. This is the fastest bike we tested. Just be advised: 32 mph is well above the 28 mph limit of most class 3 bikes, so youll want to keep it in check or adjust the settings so you can stay within the regulations where you plan to ride. Honestly, 20 mph is fast enough on most folding bikes, but its nice to know you can go faster if youre so inclined.

　　HeyBike even gives you the option to choose between 750 W and 1000 W motors when buying. The latter will set you back an extra $100, but the 750 W is powerful enough that wed recommend sticking with that.

　　With a 600 Wh battery, the Mars 2.0 has a claimed range of up to 45 miles. Given the powerful motor, heavier weight, and girthy tires, youd be hard-pressed to reach that estimate, but most people will still have adequate juice for just about any adventure. HeyBike even has its own app so you can connect to your bike and make adjustments to settings.

　　The 120-pound rear rack carrying capacity makes it perfect for hauling, and the included pegboards on the sides add options for attaching gear. HeyBike sells a variety of add-ons like baskets, etc., some of which are included during certain promotions.

　　While this bike is rugged and plenty fast, we found it is not the easiest to maneuver while riding or navigating a complicated bike parking situation. Its heavy, and the tires add a bit of drag thats noticeable when steering on paved surfaces. You get used to it pretty quickly, but it isnt the most agile of the bunch.

　　And while it does fold, it’s difficult to fold solo, especially for smaller riders. The 75-pound weight also makes it the heaviest we tested and the most challenging to pick up and move around — removing the battery reduces the weight by around 10 pounds.

　　The Mars 2.0 takes some time to put together, but at this price, it’s worth the time. The Mars 2.0 is a hard-working, speed demon of a folding e-bike that is great for those who like to go fast and might want to mix it up on some non-paved surfaces.

　　Great Value and Carry Capacity Lectric XP 3.0 Check Price at Lectric

　　Specs E-Bike Class: 2 or 3 Motor: 500 W rear hub Battery Size: Standard: 500 Wh, or Long Range: 672 Wh Wheel x Tire Size: 20 x 3 Drivetrain: Shimano Tourney 7-speed Suspension: 50 mm fork Weight: 64 lbs. Pros Reasonable price 150 lbs. cargo-carrying capacity No assembly required Sold in step-thru and step-over frames Often sold with useful accessories included Cons Handling could be better Battery keyhole is on underside of frame Shifters have poor ergonomics Will Porter Lectric made a name for itself with the original XP folding electric bike several years ago. It has undergone several updates to the latest version, the Lectric XP 3.0 ($999-$1,199, depending on battery size), which has seen incremental improvements over the years while maintaining its position as one of the best values on the market. Lectric continues to expand its product range to include models like the XPedition cargo bike and the XPress commuter.

　　The XP 3.0 is the undeniable workhorse of the group. It can hold a ton of weight, comes with a front and rear basket (included accessories vary with promotional deals) that make it easy to haul gear or groceries, and has a formidable 65-mile range (with the long-range battery option). It gets delivered to your door with no assembly required. All you need to do is unfold it, lock the handlebar and frame in position, make some comfort adjustments, and youre ready to go.

　　The XP 3.0 comes with a slightly smaller 500 W rear hub motor, but that doesnt mean it lacks power. This bike is quick to accelerate and easily reaches its 20 mph top pedal-assisted and throttle speed of 20 mph. Its also easy enough to adjust the top speed through the settings to bump it up to class 3 and 28 mph. Like other class 2 and 3 bikes, however, the throttle is irresistible, but theres an ample gear range for those who like to put in some pedaling effort of their own.

　　Lectric offers buyers the option of a standard (500 Wh) or long-range (672 Wh) battery. The latter costs $200 more but offers up to 20 miles more range. If you like to ride all day long, this bike comes with the option to purchase a second long-range battery for just $200, which will let you go over 100 miles in a day — the only problem is that you’ll have to carry that second battery with you. However, thanks to the bike’s carrying capacity, that won’t be an issue. 

　　We found the Lectric XPs ride to be quite comfortable, even if it rides less like a bike and more like a small moped. A front suspension fork and suspension seat post smooth over bumps and cracks, while the big tires absorb shock from any surface you encounter, including dirt and gravel. It comes in both step-thru and step-over frame styles and, between the two options, fits riders from 410 to 64. Included fenders and lights are always appreciated, and the rear rack can support up to 150 pounds of cargo.

　　It depends on the promotion running when you purchase the XP 3.0, but ours came with the front and rear baskets, a suspension seatpost, and a comfort seat included. This not only adds to the bikes comfort and functionality but also adds significant value to an already reasonably priced bike.

　　The XP 3.0 folds down to a reasonable size, and at 64 pounds, its mid-pack in weight. Thats still fairly heavy, so loading this bike can be a bit awkward but slightly easier than the HeyBike or Rad Power. You can remove the battery when the bike is folded, but it isnt quite as simple as other options. Its also odd to us that the battery keyhole is on the underside of the frame in a hard-to-see location and that the key needs to stay in while riding.

　　One of the low points of the XP 3.0 is the drivetrains thumb shifter, which doesnt have the best ergonomics. Also, while perfectly functional, the e-bike controls and display have a bit cheaper look and feel.

　　That said, if you want an affordable folding electric bike with all the bells and whistles included, the XP 3.0 will have you conquering all kinds of riding right out of the box.

　　Folding Electric Bikes Comparison Chart

　　Contributor Will Porter test riding the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus; (photo/Will Porter) How We Tested Folding Electric Bikes This is GearJunkie, and we love gear. Big surprise, right? Our love of gear extends to bicycles of all kinds, and weve been testing and reviewing electric bikes for over a decade now. From electric cargo bikes to commuters, hunting e-bikes and eMTBs, weve tested just about every type of electric bike on the market. We recognize that not everyone has the luxury of testing numerous bikes before they buy, so were here to help with a comparative review of five of the best folding electric bikes on the market.

　　Our Expert Tester Our lead tester, Will Porter, has been riding bikes for three decades, tackling all kinds of disciplines, from road to gravel to mountain, with a healthy dose of commuting sprinkled in over the years. He has spent time in NYC, where he learned the true meaning of square footage (or lack thereof), so he knows what a folding bike needs to make sense in small spaces.

　　Will is a frequent GearJunkie contributor. He has been testing and reviewing products of all kinds for many years, and his review experience has given him a great ability to scrutinize and compare the products he tests. In addition to folding electric bikes, Will has contributed expertise to buyers guides on topics ranging from the best sunglasses for running to GPS watches, along within-depth reviews and event coverage.

　　Examining the folding features, size, and weight of the Ride1Up Portola; (photo/Will Porter) Our Testing Process To start, we gathered up this selection of five of the best folding electric bikes on the market. Each model was shipped directly to Will, who received and assembled each model just as any other consumer would. After assembling each bike, looking through the user manuals, familiarizing himself with each models controls, and making comfort adjustments, he set off for the true test of any bike — real-world riding.

　　Will rode this fleet of folding e-bikes for many miles across four months, taking them on the streets, back alleys, dirt roads, and dusty trails of Boise, Idaho, and Los Angeles. He made frequent trips to the grocery store, rode on a busy river walk, and ran various errands on these bikes. They navigated brewery parking lots and sketchy bike lanes and got their fair share of riding just for fun.

　　Will rode these bikes in the rain, left them out in the sun, and stowed them away (folded, of course). While riding, he paid close attention to each bikes power output, speed, e-bike controls, handling characteristics, comfort, components, and the performance of the complete package. Since these are folding bikes, he made sure to fold and unfold them numerous times, pick them up, carry them, and load them into the backs of vehicles to get a feel for their weight and portability as a folding bike. We also considered the price in relation to performance to try and determine which bikes provide the best bang for your buck.

　　Buyers Guide: How To Choose a Folding Electric Bike Like any other type of bike, choosing the right folding electric bike can be a challenge. There are lots of factors to consider when finding the best model to suit your needs and meet your budget. Below, well cover important product considerations that may help inform your purchase decision.

　　Not sure if a folding electric bike is right for you? If youre looking for something different, weve got you covered with comprehensive guides to the best electric cargo bikes, efficient commuter bikes, and even electric bikes for hunting. Dont forget to protect your head with a quality bike helmet, secure your bike with a tough bike lock, and keep those tires inflated with a handy bike pump.

　　The Tern Vektron S10 is a class 1 electric bike with a mid-drive motor and a very natural ride feel; (photo/Will Porter) E-Bike Class Before you use an e-bike, its important to understand the e-bike classification system and ensure the bike you buy meets the regulations for legally riding on the roads, bike paths, and trails of your local area. While electric bikes are allowed in most places these days, certain states and areas have restrictions on top speed and motor power. In some places, speed limits are becoming more and more common on bike paths due to the huge uptick of e-bikes in use. We highly recommend doing a little research into the local regulations regarding electric bikes where you live and ride to ensure you are in compliance.

　　Class 1:These bikes have a motor that provides pedal assistance only with a top speed of up to 20 mph. Class 2:These bikes have the same pedal-assisted top speed of 20 mph, but they are also equipped with a throttle. The throttle speed is also limited to a maximum of 20 mph. The throttle can propel you with pure electric power (no pedaling) and may be helpful for some riders when starting from a stop with a loaded bike. Class 3:Class 3 bikes can exceed 20 mph up to a max of 28 mph using pedal assist. Class 3 bikes may or may not have a throttle. If throttle-equipped, that maxes out at 20 mph. Four of the models in this guide are Class 2 and 3 bikes with a throttle, and they are super fun and easy to ride, but the addition of a throttle can make some bikes feel more like riding a moped than an actual bike. If you want something that feels more like a regular bike, go for a class 1 bike, like the Tren Vektron S10, that eschews a throttle and only has pedal assist. This will result in a more natural feeling ride.

　　Rear hub motors, like that on the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus, are housed inside the hub of the rear wheel; (photo/Will Porter) E-Bike Motors Electric bikes typically come with either a rear hub (hub-drive) or a mid-drive motor. The vast majority of folding electric bikes have rear hub motors, but both systems work well and have their advantages and disadvantages.

　　Rear hub motors are aptly named due to the fact that they are contained within the hub of the rear wheel. These provide power directly into the rear wheel with assistance based on either cadence sensors or torque sensors. Most hub-drive bikes also come equipped with a throttle to propel you forward under full electric power. Generally speaking, hub-drive motors are less expensive and have traditionally been considered lower performance than mid-drive systems. Fortunately, advancements in torque sensors for hub drives are narrowing the performance gap.

　　Mid-drive motors are located in the middle of the bike around the cranks. These motors use torque sensors and deliver the power into the drivetrain, so the feel has typically been considered to be more natural. While some hub-drive motors can feel jumpy, mid-drives are usually quite smooth, with the power ramping up in response to the riders pedaling input. However, most mid-drive motor systems dont allow for the use of a throttle. Mid-drive motors tend to be more expensive and, therefore, are typically found on more expensive bikes.

　　We appreciate the sleek integration of the battery into the frame of the Ride1Up Portola. This bike can also be purchased with two different size batteries, depending on your range needs; (photo/Will Porter) Battery and Range Range is the distance you can travel on a battery charge. When deciding what type of e-bike you want, range is one of the most important factors. How far will you be riding? If you want to take your e-bike out for 30-mile adventures on the weekends, you’ll want to make sure you have a bike with a considerable range — especially if you like to utilize the throttle or a high level of pedal assist. If you’re just taking quick trips to the store or to your kid’s school, you can probably get away with a shorter range or charge your bike less frequently.

　　A batterys size is an important part of the equation. This is often listed in watt-hours (Wh), with higher numbers indicating a larger storage capacity. The size of the battery isnt the only factor at play. Power consumption is directly related. Higher pedal assist levels and more throttle usage burn through power more quickly. Likewise, riding up hills, rider weight, pedaling input, and even temperature can all play a role in how far your bike can go on a single charge.

　　Most brands provide a range estimate, which is typically the maximum possible distance that can be traveled under specific test conditions. These are usually fairly unrealistic, but some are more accurate than others. A bikes display also provides information on remaining battery life while riding, which is quite useful in determining how far youll be able to ride. Just remember, an e-bike is much more cumbersome than a regular bike, so you don’t want to get caught riding it home with no battery.

　　The controls and display on the rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus are excellent; (photo/Will Porter) Controls and Display Electric bikes typically have a control unit that allows the user to shift between pedal assist levels, turn lights on/off, and make changes to the bikes settings. These units are normally located on the handlebar next to the left grip, where they can be reached with the thumb. While they are usually quite similar, they vary slightly in button layout and ergonomics, but generally speaking, they are all fairly intuitive and easy to use.

　　In addition to controls, the display is a critical feature that shows relevant information like pedal assist level, remaining battery life, speed, distance, etc. Often, these screens are located in the middle of the handlebar where they are easy to see while riding. In some cases, the controls and display are combined into a single unit, like the Bosch Purion control/display on the Tern Vektron S10.

　　Not only does the Tern Vektron S10 have a unique handlebar/stem adjustment, but it also has an all-in-one control and display unit; (photo/Will Porter) Portability and Weight With the added weight of a large battery, a motor, controls, and beefed-up frames and components, electric bikes tend to be pretty heavy. This runs somewhat counter to one of the primary selling points of folding electric bikes, which is portability and storability. For folding electric bikes, in particular, its challenging to balance the added weight of e-bike components and specialized folding frame designs with the need for them to be easily portable.

　　For most people considering a folding electric bike, the ability to fold it into a smaller size for storage or transport is high on their list of priorities. In that regard, all of the bikes on our list do well. Not only do they fold in half at the frame, but the handlebar also folds down to reduce their size to less than half. Stuff it in a closet, the corner of your garage, the trunk of your car, under a desk, or onto a commuter train. They take up way less space than full-size, non-folding bikes.

　　The reduced size is obviously very important, but most folding e-bikes are still pretty heavy. In fact, the Tern Vektron S10 is the lightest bike we tested by a significant margin, and it still weighs 49 pounds. Its much easier to handle than the Rad Power or HeyBike, which weigh 72.5 and 75 pounds, respectively. Removing an electric bikes battery reduces the overall weight by around 10 pounds or so, which can certainly make lifting them a bit easier. Still, due to the shape of a bike in its folded position, lifting these things can be pretty awkward. When possible, we recommend enlisting the assistance of another person.

　　When folded, the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus is relatively compact, but it still weighs 72.5 pounds; (photo/Will Porter) Fit All of the folding e-bikes we tested have a one-size-fits-most design. They are intended to accommodate a wider range of rider heights by allowing for significant adjustability in seat height and often in handlebar height, too. For the most part, riders between 410 and 60 should be able to find a comfortable fit on most of these bikes. If you are on either the shorter or taller end of the height spectrum, its worth looking into the model youre considering to be sure that it will work for you.

　　Of the models we tested, the Tern Vektron S10 has the widest fit range, which they claim is between 410 and 65. In contrast, the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus has the narrowest fit range, between 410 and 510.

　　Components High-quality components, like brakes and gears, make sure that your bike is reliable, performs when you need it, and is easy to maintain. Durable components are particularly important for riders using the bike more frequently or in challenging conditions. We prefer bikes with name-brand components, like Shimano or SRAM (all of the bikes we tested had Shimano groupsets). Good components can’t compensate for a weak battery or low carrying capacity, but they can greatly improve your ride quality and lengthen the time between trips to the bike shop.

　　All of the bikes we tested have functional components, but the Tern Vektron S10 stands out for its particularly nice build. This bike does have a premium price tag, but the Shimano Deore drivetrain and Magura hydraulic disc brakes are a significant step up compared to the other models we tested.

　　The Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain on the Tern Vektron S10 is a big step up in performance compared to other models; (photo/Will Porter) Carrying Capacity This is a pretty self-explanatory feature, but it’s important to double-check before you make any purchases. Consider what you intend to carry with your bike. If you plan on really packing your bike with gear, groceries, or possibly carrying a passenger, you’ll want to make sure it has a high weight capacity.

　　Most manufacturers list the total weight capacity of their bikes and some will specify separate rider weight and cargo weight limits. All of the folding electric bikes we tested come with a rear cargo rack, but the weight limits of those racks vary between 59 and 150 pounds. Most of these racks are designed to pair with add-on baskets, bags, passenger seats, and more, and typically, brands sell these accessories to fit their respective bikes. This makes it easy to outfit your bike with the add-ons you want to suit your cargo-carrying needs. Some bikes even come with accessories included, like the Lectric XP 3.0, but this varies based on certain promotional sales.

　　For most people, the 59-pound rear rack weight limit of the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus or the Tern Vektron S10 will be adequate for errand runs or even loading a small child into a Thule Yepp seat on the back. If youre planning to haul some heavier cargo, however, the HeyBike Mars 2.0 and Ride1Up Portolas rear racks can handle a claimed 120 and 130 pounds, respectively. The Lectric XP 3.0 takes the cake with a 150-pound weight limit.

　　The Lectric XP 3.0 is a consistently great value, plus it has a high weight limit for its cargo rack and is often sold with baskets and other accessories included; (photo/Will Porter) Additional Features All of the folding electric bikes we tested come with several useful features included, which we appreciate. Front and rear fenders protect us from tire spray from puddles or if the roads are wet from a passing rain shower. The above-mentioned rear racks can support weight and additional cargo. Front and rear lights help us be seen by motorists and may also be useful to help us see our way if riding out in the dark. Some bikes, like the Ra Power RadExpand 5 Plus, even have turn signals on the rear light to let people know your next move.

　　It is worth mentioning that while these bikes do have lights, they typically arent the brightest. If youre riding at night, weve found that its still best to use an additional, brighter bike light to illuminate the road, path, or trail if its actually dark outside.

　　The rear light on the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus functions as a brake light and as turn signals, helping you be seen out on the road; (photo/Will Porter) Price Value The price of the folding electric models we tested ranges from $945 to $3,299, and all of them are worthy contenders in their own right. When determining how much to spend, consider your personal budget, how much you intend to use it, and what youll be using it for.

　　Budget Budget folding e-bikes cost around $1,000, ranging from roughly $900 to $1,300. You can find bikes that are less expensive than this, but we havent seen many bikes that cost much less that wed recommend. Fortunately, e-bike motor and battery technology are improving rapidly and trickling down. And, with lots of e-bike brands competing at the lower end of the market, there are great budget options to choose from and the prices are staying quite reasonable.

　　This price range is dominated by a few major players who continue to improve their bikes while maintaining low prices that bring impressive value to consumers. Most bikes in the lower price tier provide a decent range, ample power, and decent carrying capacity. One area they lack is in refinement, with power delivery feeling a bit more abrupt or the display being a bit more basic. Another area you’re sacrificing is in components. The cheaper the bike, the cheaper the parts, meaning it’ll have wheels, derailleurs, and brakes that aren’t as durable or reliable. You’ll save money upfront, but you can expect less precise shifting and generally a little clunkier overall performance.

　　Still, bikes like the Ride1Up Portola ($995-1,195), the Lectric XP 3.0 ($999-$1,199), and the HeyBike Mars 2.0 ($999-1,099) are all truly impressive machines for the price. While they may not have the best torque sensors, most ergonomic shifters, or fanciest display screens, they are perfectly functional and will meet the demands of most users just fine. Of the budget options, we really appreciate the Ride1Up Portolas sleek design and more polished appearance.

　　Mid-Tier Mid-range folding e-bikes will fall in the $1,300-$2,000 range. This is a great sweet spot for someone who doesn’t want to shell out the big bucks for a premium ride but will still be using their bike frequently. Bikes in this range usually have one or two standout performance attributes or features that help them stand out from the budget models but drive the price up.

　　A perfect example is the Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus ($1,899). This bike has confident and responsive handling and a comfortable ride with front suspension and 4-inch wide tires that are capable both on and off-road. What sets it apart from the budget field is the upgraded torque sensor, which provides a smoother and more natural feeling of pedal assistance. Additionally, the Safe Shield battery tech is a nice safety addition, and the controls and display are a step up, too. We chose the RadExpand as the best overall folding electric bike for its very well-rounded performance, and we think its the best fit for most people.

　　Premium A premium folding e-bike will run you over $2,000. There aren’t many folding electric bikes in this price range, but the ones you do find at this price point are equipped with higher quality components, are made by companies that really know what they’re doing, and are designed to satisfy even the most picky of cycling enthusiasts.

　　The Tern Vektron S10 ($3,299), for example, is by far the most expensive model we tested, but for good reason. Its not only the lightest weight — 10 to 25 pounds lighter than the other models — and easiest to lift, carry, and transport, but its the only model that has a mid-drive motor. Mid-drive motors are not only more expensive, but they provide the most refined pedal assistance for the most natural ride feel. Add to that a component spec that includes a reliable Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, great Magura hydraulic disc brakes, and a comfortable performance saddle, and its easy to see why it costs more. Yes, this bike is relatively expensive, but it has a design, parts, and performance to justify the expense.

　　Frequently Asked Questions Why should I buy a folding electric bike? Folding electric bikes stand out for their ability to be folded down to a more compact size for storage or transport. When folded, most of these bikes are reduced to less than half of their unfolded size. This makes it possible to stick them in a closet, under a desk, squeeze onto a commuter train, or load into the trunk of a car or an RV.

　　If you live in tight quarters or your apartment doesnt have much storage space, a folding bike could be a better option than a non-folding model that would take up more space. Similarly, if youre a multi-modal commuter, a folding bike may be a more convenient option to get you between your home, the train station, and the the office, compared to a larger, non-folding bike. If youre traveling, the ability to fit your bike(s) into your vehicle can be also be a benefit, especially if you dont have a bike rack.

　　Do folding electric bikes ride like more traditional electric bikes? In some ways, yes. In other ways, they differ somewhat. Functionally, folding electric bikes work just like any other electric bikes. The motor provides several levels of pedal assistance and most also have a throttle. The primary difference is in ride quality and handling that is related to the smaller wheels.

　　Due to the design constraints of creating a bike that folds in half for portability and storability, most folding e-bikes have smaller 20-inch wheels. While they still roll plenty fast with electric assistance, generally speaking, smaller wheels simply dont feel quite as stable as larger wheels. Additionally, the folding handlebar designs create a larger distance between the handlebar and the connection to the top of the forks steerer tube. These elements combined can present as a slightly nervous, or twitchy feel when turning, comparatively speaking, or as slight instability when traveling at higher speeds.

　　That said, its relative and varies from bike to bike. All of the models included in this guide handle well for folding electric bikes, but riders will want to familiarize themselves with their bike, its controls, and its handling before pushing the limits of speed.

　　How fast do folding electric bikes go? The top speed of folding electric bikes varies from model to model depending on the motors power and the e-bike class. Every bike we tested will go at least 20 mph using pedal assist (class 1 and 2). The bikes with throttles will all go up to 20 mph on flat ground without pedaling, too. A few of the models in this guide are also capable of hitting pedal assisted speeds of up to 28 mph (class 3), and some give you the option of adjusting the bikes settings to choose what suits your preferences or the regulations where you ride.

　　An outlier here is the HeyBike Mars 2.0, with a claimed top speed of 32 mph. That speed falls outside of the typical e-bike class system.

　　How fast you ride a bike is entirely up to you, though. Just because a bike can go 28 mph doesnt mean you have to ride it that fast. You can ride them slower by using lower pedal assist levels, or you can typically adjust the top speed in the bikes setting through the display. Its important to use good judgement, and ride at speeds that are appropriate for the situation.

　　How much should I spend on a folding electric bike? How much you should spend depends entirely on your budget. That said, we recommend shooting for around $1,000 as the entry point to get yourself a bike thats going to cut it. If you absolutely cant spend that much, the Lectric XP Lite 2.0 is pretty solid for $800.

　　Its also worth considering how much youre going to use it. If youre going to depend on your bike for daily transportation, then spending a bit more for upgraded components, a more refined performance, or a longer range may be worth the higher cost up front.

　　How far can I ride a folding electric bike on a charge? The range of folding electric bikes varies and depends on many factors, including battery size, throttle usage, pedal assist levels, terrain, rider weight, pedaling input, temperature, and more. Generally speaking, the larger the battery capacity, the farther you can ride the bike on a charge. Some brands even give you the option to choose between two different sizes of batteries, as is the case with the Lectric XP 3.0 and the Ride1Up Portola.

　　Most brands provide a claimed range estimate of up to 60 miles or 20 to 45 miles, which typically represents the maximum distance you could ride the bike under ideal circumstances — flat terrain on PAS level 1 with a 160-pound rider (or something like that). While it is possible to ride a bike like that, most of us never will. Instead, well be hitting the throttle at times and probably using the mid-to-high pedal assist levels more often than not. This drains the battery more quickly than a bike brands test conditions.

　　Based on our experience, weve found that dividing a manufacturers claimed max range by half is a more realistic number thats a lot closer to what youll get in real-world riding conditions. For the bikes in this guide, that still puts them at 20 to 30 miles on a charge, which is pretty far. Use more throttle, and expect your range to decrease. Pedal harder, and your range will be extended.

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