Ready to ride in style? Start Here

Electric Bikes

Best Folding E-Bikes [Top 10 in 2023]

This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more.

Folding bikes are incredibly convenient. Whether you require a multi-modal journey (i.e. travelling by train or car and then completing the final stage by bike) or you just want a bicycle that is easy to store, a folding bike can do what no other bike can do.

These quirky bikes are great and they’ve been taking over the urban landscape of many cities for over a decade.

But there is one downside to riding a folding bicycle… they can be hard work.

It’s just the nature of the bikes themselves. No matter how well you make them, they’re not going to be able to perform at the same level as a bicycle that hasn’t been designed to fold up in a matter of seconds. It shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Folding + Electric = The Ultimate Cycling Convenience

There’s also been another big cycling development in recent years: e-bikes.

Electric bikes may be derided as “cheating” or “lazy” by some, but the truth is they make cycling accessible to more people than ever – whether that be because of their health or simple the area in which they live making “normal” cycling impractical.

But if you combine the practicality of folding bikes with the power of electric bikes, something special happens…

The two outsiders of the bicycle world have come together to create possibly the most practical form of urban transport possible: the folding electric bike. A bike that is fast, easy to ride but can be stored under a desk or thrown in a car boot with minimum fuss.

So, in dedication of this “super bike”, I’ve picked out 10 of the best folding e-bikes available to buy.

Why You Can Trust Us

Discerning Cyclist’s expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing cycling products so you don’t have to.

Testing stylish gear since 2012

Hundreds of hands-on product tests

Unfiltered opinions from experienced cyclists

Learn more about Discerning Cyclist here.

Best Folding Electric Bikes [Top 10]

  1. CARBO Model X [REVIEW]
  2. Brompton Electric C-Line [REVIEW]
  3. Hummingbird Folding Electric Bike Gen 2.0 [REVIEW]
  4. eelo 1885 Disc Explorer [REVIEW]
  5. MiRiDER One Folding Electric Bike [REVIEW]
  6. Gocycle G4 [REVIEW]
  7. ANCHEER 20″ Commuter Folding E-Bike [REVIEW]
  8. FIIDO D3 Pro [REVIEW]
  9. ECOTRIC Foldaway [REVIEW]
  10. BTWIN Tilt 500E Folding Electric Bike [REVIEW]

1. CARBO Model X

Weight: 13.3 kg
Range: 30 to 55 KM
Wheel Size:
 20”
Folded Size: 
80 x 60 x 33 cm
Gears: 
Single-Speed (9-Speed also available weighing 15.3kg)
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £2,499
  • 🇺🇸 $3,253
  • 🇪🇺 €2,991

This is a classy, single-speed electric bike with a carbon belt drive for a quiet, smooth ride. Offering exceptional quality for the price, the Carbo Model X is as powerful as e-bikes twice its weight. And at 13.3 kg, the weight of this bike is a huge advantage.

The removable battery is integrated unobtrusively in the seat post. The bike as a whole is lovely to look at, with a classic design that is perhaps one of the most universally appealing. The seat post and stem are adjustable, so you can ride in optimum comfort for your height. The larger wheel size of 20” also makes for a more stable and comfortable ride.

The Carbo Folds in as little as ten seconds and it’s compact enough to store easily away in the home, office or on public transport.

There are plenty of practical features, such as the front and rear lights, and a USB port at the rear. The carbon belt also offers a very low-maintenance alternative to a traditional bike chain. No need to spend hours cleaning.

If you prefer gears, you can opt for the 9-speed Model S which gives you a lot of flexibility. This one is heavier at 15.3 kg, but still one of the lightest folding e-bikes available.



2. Brompton Electric C-Line

Weight: 15.53 kg
Range: 40 to 80 KM
Wheel Size:
 16”
Folded Size: 
64.5 x 56.5 x 27 cm
Gears: 
6-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £2,995
  • 🇺🇸 $3,899
  • 🇪🇺 €3,585

“Nothing folds like a Brompton Electric folds.” Or so maintains the slogan for this iconic and ever-desirable brand. The Brompton is one of the smallest e-bikes when folded. The ‘folding’ is easy and intuitive, and once folded the wheels make it very easy to move around.

We keep using the word “iconic” for Brompton bikes, but that’s because they are just that. They have a beautiful, classic design that has never lost (and most likely never will) lose appeal.

The Electric C-Line retains the design by having a separate battery that sits in a pack at the front of the bike. It’s convenient to take on and off and means you can carry it around and charge it anywhere. It also means nothing else on the bike is unappealing or bulked out which, on a Brompton, might be something of a travesty.

The Smart sensor, pedal-assist technology can be configured to kick in automatically when you need it, or adjusted manually. You can also download the Brompton Electric apps for use with a smartphone.

Available in four colours, including the eye-catching turquoise, the electric Brompton has all the elegance of the original, with an impressive range of up to 80 km, and a reinforced steel frame that is built to last.

Brompton C-Line Colours:



3. Hummingbird Folding Electric Bike Gen 2.0

Weight: 10.3 kg
Range: 40 to 50+ KM
Wheel Size:
 16”
Folded Size: 
117 x 60 x 20 cm
Gears: 
Single-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £4,495
  • 🇺🇸 $5,852
  • 🇪🇺 €5,380

With its unique, simple and stylish design, the Hummingbird Electric is a commuter’s dream. Easy to fold, powerful and durable, you’ll arrive at your destination smart and composed, whatever the distance.

But the star attraction of this bike is its weight. At 10.3 kg, it really is the lightest folding electric bike in the world. And with a premium carbon fibre frame, it doesn’t compromise on strength.

It’s available in four colours, including the glorious Hummingbird Yellow. But if you’re looking for something more bespoke, you can choose a custom colour for an added cost.

Powered by an all-in-one motor system with a 250W motor and 158Wh battery, and with a top speed of 25 km/h, this bike is suitable for short and long commutes. With everything built in, there are no wires, motor or battery on display, which adds to the aesthetic appeal.

The companion Smartphone App enables you to turn the motor on remotely and monitor your progress on the move. And that’s not all – it also features the very useful Active Electronic locking system.

The aptly-named Hummingbird sings of quality. You won’t, however, get one for a song. It isn’t cheap, but it does tick all the boxes if you’re looking for an exceptional, ultra convenient bike that makes short work of distances and hills, and is easily carried and stored.

Hummingbird Folding E-Bike Colours:



4. eelo 1885 Disc Explorer

Weight: 16.5 kg
Range: up to 64 KM
Wheel Size:
 14”
Folded Size: 
60 x 38 x 58 cm
Gears: 
Single-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £1,299
  • 🇺🇸 $1,953
  • 🇪🇺 €1,795

The popular eelo 1885 has a conveniently compact fold making it very practical to stow away. It’s also light enough to be carried easily over a short distance. But best of all? It won’t cost you a fortune. It’s an e-bike that offers great value for the price tag.

For an e-bike at the cheaper end of the market, the eelo has an impressive range of up to 64 km on a single charge. The thumb throttle control is easy to use and lets you choose from 3 levels of assistance with a top speed of 24 km/h.

There is also a waterproof LCD display which enables you to track your speed, battery life and outside temperature.

Some added features include front and rear LED lights, mudguards and a pannier rack, all of which are great additions for commuting.

The geometry of the eelo is distinctive, with the wheelbase being a full 7.5 inches shorter than the Brompton. This is worth bearing in mind for those who are particularly tall.

But with an intelligent system designed to be energy efficient, good mechanical disc brakes and a tough frame, this is an impressive and durable little bike that will serve commuters well.

eloo 1884 Colours:



5. MiRiDER One Folding Electric Bike

Weight: 17.3 kg
Range: 24 to 72 KM
Wheel Size:
 16”
Folded Size: 
77 x 43 x 68 cm
Gears: 
Single-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £1,595
  • 🇺🇸 $2,076
  • 🇪🇺 €1,909

The MiRiDER One boasts an innovative and unique design with telescopic seat post and handlebars, allowing for adjustments to suit riders of virtually any size. This award-winning bike is funky to look at and designed for maximum comfort.

The removable and lockable battery is concealed within the main frame which, combined with the rear suspension setup, achieves great weight distribution and balance for a smooth and comfortable ride.

For the price (which compared to many of its competitors, is very affordable), this bike offers a wealth of quality features.  

With 5 levels of pedal assist and thumb throttle sine-wave controller, there’s no shortage of riding options for your journey.

The simple 4-step folding process results in a folded bike that is small enough to be stored or moved easily. Admittedly, it’s not the smallest or the lightest folding e-bike, but the urethane skate wheel is a great addition. When folded, you can roll it wherever you need to go.

Optional accessories include an extra battery, pannier rack and bag, storage bag and phone holder.

Overall, this is a high-spec, original and eye-catching bike that will see you to work in style and comfort, and turn heads as you go.

MiRider One Colours:


6. Gocycle G4

Weight: 17.6 kg
Range: up to 65 KM
Wheel Size:
 20”
Folded Size: 
88 x 39 x 61.5 cm
Gears: 
3-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £3,799
  • 🇺🇸 $4,946
  • 🇪🇺 €4,547

The Gocycle G4 really seems to have it all. The premium quality, beautiful minimalist design, enclosed low-maintenance drivechain and exceptional performance makes it quite possibly the perfect folding e-bike for commuters.

It is not the cheapest folding e-bike on the market, but with Gocycle you get what you pay for. And you do get a lot with this bike.

With its low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution, the G4 offers a ride quality that can very realistically compete with non-folding e-bikes. It’s agile, responsive and easy to manoeuvre, with a (car-inspired) adjustable riding position. In other words, it’s suitable for all shapes and sizes.

This, combined with its torque sensor to ensure a smooth ride and 3-speed gearing system as well as the motor, makes it a perfect companion for zipping through urban streets.

The futuristic-looking dash, displaying information across the handlebars, is just beautiful. Downloading the smartphone app will give you all the information you need on the go, and also the option to power the motor remotely.

The G4 is designed to be easy to lift with comfortable smooth frame curves and a centralised weight. A smart travel case with wheels is also available as an accessory for easy transportation when folded.

GoCycle G4 Colours:



7. ANCHEER 20″ Commuter Folding E-Bike

Weight: 25kg
Range: 15m to 30km
Fold-Up Size:
 126 x 63 x 25cm
Wheel Size:
 20”
Gears: 
7-Speed
Price (approximate):

  • 🇬🇧 £710
  • 🇺🇸 $890
  • 🇪🇺 €840


If you’re tired of turning up to the office crumpled and breathless, look no further. The ANCHEER’s buzzword is comfort. Its wide saddle, ergonomic handlebars and quick fold mechanism mean you can arrive at the office without a single crease in your suit jacket. Even its 20” wheels make for a relaxing cycling experience.

What really sets the ANCHEER apart from the competition is its front suspension. Its titanium forks make for a smooth ride over bumpy tarmac and are almost unheard-of in a bike this cheap.

If you’re in the habit of popping into the corner shop on your commute home, the built-in luggage rack is an added bonus. No need to worry about spilling that pint of milk.

The ANCHEER weighs 25kg, the heaviest of all options reviewed here. However, it is so versatile that it can be forgiven the added kilograms.  

A powerful LED front light will also see you through winter commutes, although for UK readers, it’s worth remembering that cyclists riding at night are required by law to have a rear red light. For those in the US, most states only require reflectors.



8. FIIDO D3 Pro

Weight: 17.5kg
Range: 20km to 60km
Fold-Up Size:
 125cm x 40cm x 63cm
Wheel Size:
 14”
Gears: 
7-Speed
Price (approximate):

  • 🇬🇧 £580
  • 🇺🇸 $700
  • 🇪🇺 €685


A city bike is all well and good for the working week, but what about the weekends? Luckily, the FIIDO D3 Pro’s grippy 20” tires mean it’ll hold its own should you decide to stray from the cycle paths. With a full battery life of 60km, you can complete that Sunday ride with ease, with charge to spare for Monday’s commute.

Visually, the FIIDO speaks the language of downhill and trail biking. Its chunky frame is more than reminiscent of iconic hardtails like the Specialized Rockhopper. And, while we wouldn’t recommend testing it at your nearest bike park, it should be able to handle a range of terrains. Its high motor torque mean it won’t struggle with hills or bridges either.

Increased functionality does mean increased weight. The FIIDO D3 weighs in at 17.5kg. The bike still folds up relatively small – compact enough to carry on a packed train.

FIIDO claims it can travel at a maximum speed of 25km per hour, but UK shoppers should note that a e-bike is only classified as an e-bike by the government if it has a maximum speed of 15mph. This means that the FIIDO D3 can be classed as a motorbike, and you’ll have to invest in insurance and licencing.



9. ECOTRIC Foldaway

Weight: 25kg
Range: 11km to 13km
Fold-Up Size:
 98 x 62 x 85cm
Wheel Size:
 20 x 4”
Gears: 
7-Speed
Price (approximate):

  • 🇬🇧 n/a
  • 🇺🇸 $890
  • 🇪🇺 n/a


We’re not all lucky to live in towns with established cycle networks. If you’re based in the suburbs, or an urban-rural fringe, chances are your commute will contain some knotty riding. This is where the ultra-cool ECOTRIC Foldaway comes into its own.

The US-made ECOTRIC is essentially a folding version of popular “fat bikes”. With four inch wide tyres, it should navigate complex topography including tree roots and loose gravel with ease. The manufacturers even claim that its 500W brushless motor can handle snow, although we haven’t put this to the test.

On a component level, the ECOTRIC uses quality parts. Take the Shimano disc-brakes and 7-speed derailleur. Customer reviews have mentioned some issues with durability and the range is limited, so we haven’t rated it as highly as others on this list. Only available for now in the US, the ECOTRIC is an undeniably unique offering to the market.



Best Budget Folding Electric Bike

10. BTWIN Tilt 500E Folding Electric Bike

Weight: 18.6 kg
Range: 20 to 35 KM
Wheel Size:
 20”
Folded Size: 
83 x 67 x 45 cm
Gears: 
6-Speed
Price:

  • 🇬🇧 £899.99
  • 🇺🇸 $1,172
  • 🇪🇺 €1,077

You can trust Decathlon to offer consistent value for money, and the Tilt 500E is no exception. Relatively no-frills, but with a host of features, it’s a well-designed bike with practicality and functionality in mind.

It’s no wonder this e-bike’s popularity is increasing. With 3 different electric assist modes and a range of up to 35 km, it can cover a further-than-average daily commute.

With an acceptably lightweight design, the folding speed of the Tilt 500 is an impressive 15 seconds. Once folded, it’s small enough to be practical and to be carried for short distances.

This bike offers a lot of riding versatility with a 6-speed gearing system in addition to the motor. The display and control panel are user friendly and the motor starts when you begin to pedal, using a simple cadence pedal sensor.

Other features include ergonomic grips and saddle, adjustable stem and 20” wheels (which many will see as a bonus). There is also a powerful aluminium V-brake system, which automatically cuts the electric assistance when used.

Let’s be honest. The price tag on a folding electric bike can be a real hurdle for many people. Decathlon offer a far more affordable option for a comfortable, safe and reliable assisted commute.

BTWIN Tilt 500E Colours:



Ride in style

Join our weeky newsletter to get early access to our latest discoveries.

Related reads