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Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular, and when paired with the attributes of hybrid bikes, they create a powerful and convenient transportation option.
Whether you’re a commuter looking for a bike which can fold on the train but get up to speed on the roads, or whether you’re simply looking for a new type of bike which is diverse in it’s utility, a foldable hybrid could be for you.
In this article, we’ll outline the best folding hybrid bikes on the market today. We’ll also consider whether they’re safe, who they’re designed for, and ultimately whether they’re worth the investment.
Best Folding Hybrid Bikes
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Travel Companion
Change DF-811K
A lightweight foldable hybrid bike that’s sleek, travel friendly and conveniently transportable.
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Folding Electric Hybrid
Cube Fold Hybrid 500
Premium folding hybrid e-bike with a Bosch battery and a Superlite frame.
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Full-Size Hybrid
Montague Navigator
Simple and affordable hybrid folder which can handle a little bit of everything.
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Step-Through Hybrid
Basis Hybrid Folding E-Bike
An affordable, step-through electric hybrid with full-sized wheels and a 250w motor.
Are Folding Hybrid Bikes Worth It?
Folding hybrid bikes are a great investment for a lot of people for a number of reasons.
The foldable aspect of them makes them easy to store and transport. This means they’re good not just for commuters who’re looking for something that they can stow away when using public transport, but they’re also great for people with limited space.
Once folded, these bikes have a small footprint and can easily be hidden indoors in a small apartment.
On the other hand, the hybrid aspect makes them extremely diverse. These are bikes that are designed to cover a wide variety of terrains, riding well in both the city and in some light off-road conditions.
With a shorter top tube and flat bars, the upright riding position helps you see through traffic during rush hour. But, they still have reasonably grippy tires and can venture into some light off-road conditions.
If you’re looking for one of the most versatile bikes on the market that can handle a bit of everything, then a folding hybrid bike could be for you.
Are Foldable Hybrid Bikes Safe?
Bikes are becoming increasingly safe, and foldable hybrids are no exception.
Whilst there are understandably safety concerns associated with folding mechanism, these days there is rigorous testing conducted to ensure that standards are met.
You must use the bike for its intended purpose. Most of the best foldable hybrid bikes are not intended for heavy off-road use. They’re designed to be able to handle some dirt tracks and slopes, but they’re predominantly ‘road’ leaning bicycles.
When buying a foldable hybrid bike, invest in a good one from a reputable brand and make sure to maintain it properly and regularly service it. You should also wear a helmet and adequate safety protection.
Best Foldable Hybrid Bike (Top 4)
1. Change DF-811K
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£1,440 -
$1,750 -
€1,655
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 26lbs (11.7kg)
- Folded Size: N/A
- Gearing: Shimano 27-speed
- Wheel Size: 27.5″
No mechanical parts on top tube
Double quick release folding mechanism
Lightweight carbon forks
Folding titans Change seem to have a folding bike for everything, and their hybrid is another stand out in their portfolio.
The DF-811K is a hybrid folding bike with some great features. It comes with carbon forks and an aerospace grade aluminium frame as standard. The folding system is also really nifty, coming with an easy-to-use double quick release mechanism.
When folded, it becomes a convenient and compact freestanding package that fits easily into their carry bag. It’s designed to fit comfortably into airplane holds, as well as underneath buses in the storage compartment.
It’s a simple, good looking bike that comes at a reasonable price. All things considered, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a bike that can be taken on a journey and can do a bit of everything once you’re at your destination.
Pros
- Recognised brand for folding bikes
- Can stand freely once folded
- Includes handy carry bag
Cons
- Not widely available
- Limited colour options
- Could be lighter
2. Cube Fold Hybrid 500e
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£3,390 -
$4,110 (varies) -
€3,890
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 55lbs (25.1kg)
- Folded Size: 90 x 60 x 75 cm
- Gearing: Nexus-hub 5-speed
- Wheel Size: 20″
Aluminium Superlite frame
500w Bosch battery
Bosch drive unit performance gen 3
The Fold Hybrid 500 is a folding e-hybrid from German manufacturer Cube.
It comes in a sleek, compact design which is really easy to store and transport. It even comes with a semi-integrated carrier, making it easy to load with some small luggage too.
The electric motor can be used in five different riding modes: offering the flexibility to switch between extra assistance when needed and pedaling like a regular bike. With its reasonably powerful 500Wh battery, the bike provides an impressive range of almost 200 km on a single charge.
It’s definitely on the premium end of the scale, equipped with a range of high-quality components, including a high performance aluminium frame, as well as a button-push folding mechanism. All this results in a folding hybrid which is extremely sturdy.
It’s on the expensive side, there’s no denying it, but as is usually the case, you’ll get what you pay for.
Pros
- Beautiful finish
- Premium components
- Clean and refined colour options
Cons
- Expensive
- Small wheels
- Heavy
3. Montague Navigator
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£985 -
$1,195 -
€1,130
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 30lbs (13.4kg)
- Folded Size: 95 x 88 x 30 cm
- Gearing: 27 speeds
- Wheel Size: 700c/28″
Knobby 35mm tires
Rackstand which acts as a cargo carrier
Disc brakes
Easily one of the most affordable on this list, the Navigator from Montague is a great entry level folding hybrid bike.
With a Custom drawn 6061 Series Aluminum frame and full Cro-Mo forks, it definitely doesn’t cut too many corners when it comes to components.
It comes with Promax mechanical disc brakes as well as non-slip trekking pedals, meaning it can handle a loss of traction that you might expect with some light off-road conditions.
But it also folds reasonably well, making it very versatile. The mechanism can take a little bit of getting used to, and it unfortunately folds into two seperate pieces. But despite this, at this price, it’s something that most people would be more than happy to live with.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great price
- Full size bike
Cons
- Seperates into 2 pieces when folded
- Limited colours
- Strange frame design
4. Basis Hybrid Folding E-Bike
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£1,000 -
$1,215 -
€1,150
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 51 lbs (23kg)
- Folded Size: 99 x 99 x 50 cm
- Gearing: Shimano TY-21 7 Speed
- Wheel Size: 700c
250w motor
Sturdy steel frame and forks
Allow disc brakes
The Hybrid from Basis is a very well priced folding e-bike.
When it comes to convenience, the Hybrid really comes out on top. It’s step through, making it really easy to mount and dismount, it’s folding, making it easy to store, and it’s got electric assistance, helping you up gradual hills.
In terms of the electric assistance provided, it’ll give you a boost up hills but don’t expect too much more. The power is reasonably limited, intended really for support.
Likewise, it’s definitely more at home on paved surfaces. Although it’s got full-sized 700c wheels and can handle some very light off-road conditions, it certainly isn’t its forte.
All things considered, the Hybrid is really a great option for a first folding hybrid, and you won’t have to break the bank to try it.
Pros
- Great price
- 3 modes of electric assistance to choose from
- Easy step-through frame for comfortable mount and dismount
Cons
- Unexciting aesthetic
- Limited range
- Alloy components are not premium
