March 6, 2024
As the world population increases rapidly, environmental concerns have also grown. The number of vehicles on the road has increased drastically due to globalisation, resulting in increased pollution. An emerging solution to this problem is the shift towards e-bikes.
Electric bikes – also called electric bicycles – have batteries that can be recharged for use, preventing the use of carbon dioxide-emitting fossil fuels. And you can opt for an electric folding bike if you’re low on space!
Electric folding bikes can easily be compacted for transport and storage, making them a viable option for commuters of all ages. You can fold them to fit in small spaces, whether it be the boot of your car or a small apartment. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Depending on your requirements and usage, you’ll find various electric folding bikes with different weights and sizes available in the market. These include:
A compact electric folding bike is highly portable as it has a lightweight frame and small wheels. You can also store these e-bikes in small spaces and carry them on public transport, if necessary. This type is also the best budget folding electric bike in the UK compared to mid or full-sized e-bikes.
In this category, you have bikes with small 16-inch wheels, which have a highly compact size. However, you’ll find these folding e-bikes relatively slower and more unstable than other models.
These e-bikes are bigger than compact folding bikes and have two versions: you can get electric bikes with 20-inch or 24-inch wheels. You’ll find a mid-sized electric bike sturdier than a compact electric folding bike, although they are heavier.
Full-sized folding electric bikes have two versions: 26-inch and 27.5-inch wheels. These e-bikes are heavier than the other two types and are relatively difficult to store in small places. However, you have much smoother rides on full-sized e-bikes at higher speeds, making them a feasible option for long-distance commute.
Whether your e-bike is folding or not, it will have the following components. These include:
The frame, which is also the structure of the electric bike, is available in various materials. These include:
: The most popular material for electric bike frames is aluminium, which is lightweight, durable, strong, and economical compared to other materials.
Steel is a relatively stronger material, although it is heavier. A frame made from steel can withstand heavier loads, making it useful for cargo delivery.
: Titanium is used in e-bikes due to its high durability and strength-to-weight ratio; however, it’s expensive. It’s common in high-end bikes where cost is not a deciding factor.
The type of motor used in an electric bike affects its speed, power output, and performance. The main types include:
These are the most common type of motors used in e-bikes. They directly power the bike’s wheel and are found in the front or rear wheel hub. They are relatively heavy and can add to the bike’s overall weight but are relatively simple in function.
These employ gears to increase the torque and power output. These motors are helpful if you plan to take your bikes on inclines, as they assist the drivers in controlling the power output of the motors by using the gears.
These are simple and highly efficient as you can have a smooth bike ride. They are heavier than geared motors, which affects their performance and efficiency.
Friction motors can be attached to your bike’s rear wheel to provide extra power when pressing on them. The main drawback of this type of motor is that it is extremely noisy.
These are near your bike’s pedals and they directly power your bike’s drivetrain, allowing you to use gears to make your ride more efficient.
Batteries are a key feature of e-bikes as they directly impact the range and effort you have to put in while cycling. Multiple battery types available in the market include:
Li-ion batteries are the most popular batteries used to power e-bikes, particularly a folding electric mountain bike. Their main advantage is that they are lightweight and have high energy density. And you can recharge these batteries many times – they have a lifespan of five years or a minimum of 2000 charge cycles.
These batteries are a variation of Lithium-ion batteries, but they differ in chemical composition. You’ll find them to have a higher energy density than Lithium Ion Batteries, but they can swell up or overheat. They are also more expensive than Li-Ion Batteries.
These are the heaviest and have low charge density. Since they have low charge density, their lifespan is smaller than other battery types. Lead acid batteries are not preferable for high-end electric bicycles because of their short lifespan and need for high maintenance.
To assist riders, e-bikes have different pedal assistance levels to make your bike ride more comfortable. Typical pedal assistance modes include:
In the off mode, your bike is powered by your pedalling only as the motor is turned off.
You are provided with minimal assistance in this mode. This mode is suitable for going up an incline or hilly terrain where you may require little assistance in pedalling.
This mode can provide more assistance than the eco mode, also making it suitable for longer and more difficult rides.
This mode suits more intense, high-speed, and challenging rides. A high level of pedalling assistance is provided when using this mode, making your ride smoother and easier.
You’re provided with the highest level of pedalling assistance when you deploy turbo mode. This pedalling mode is feasible for riding on steep terrains or when you’re going at high speed.
Different brakes are used in electric bikes to accommodate higher riding speeds and weight. Some of these include:
These are the most common type of brakes used in e-bicycles. Mechanical disc brakes have a metal rotor that is attached to the wheel hub. A calliper is also present that grips the rotor when you apply the brake. They are used in front and rear brakes and provide good stopping power.
Rim brakes have brake pads that grip the rim of your bike’s wheel when you apply a brake. They are less expensive than disc brakes but also provide less stopping power.
These brakes have a filled fluid system to transfer force from the brake lever to the calliper. These brakes have excellent stopping power and are feasible if you’re a professional rider who travels on tricky terrains.
Unlike hydraulic brakes, mechanical brakes employ a cable system that transfers force from the brake lever to the calliper. They have lower stopping power than hydraulic brakes and are less expensive.
When looking to buy a folding electric bike, listed below are some features you should look for.
Weight and size are important when selecting the right folding electric bike. The e-bike should be sturdy enough to bear your weight. However, it needs to be lightweight so you can carry it easily.
It is important to carefully select the size of your electric bike’s wheels. Smaller wheels increase the electric bike’s manoeuvrability, whereas larger wheels ensure smoothness while riding. Electric folding bikes with small wheels are very easy to store, as you can fold them compactly.
The ability of electric cycles to be folded is their key feature. So, make sure you get an e-bike that you can fold easily and quickly. The folded size of the electric bike should be small enough to fit in your storage space. Some e-bikes have multi-step folding mechanisms, whereas others employ a quick-release lever.
It is important to note that as these bicycles become bigger, they become harder to fold. However, they are more sturdy in comparison to the smaller and more easily foldable electric bikes.
There are three most commonly available folding techniques. The simplest folding bikes are the breakaway electric bikes; these can be folded into compact shapes. Another type is the triangular electric folding bike which is relatively difficult to ride but easy to fold. The half-fold electric bikes, on the other hand, are more sturdy.
Your folding e-bike should be portable and easy to carry. Very light bikes come with a shoulder strap, so you can easily carry them on your shoulders. However, e-bikes that are that portable are less sturdy and only suitable for smaller travel distances on smooth roads.
Storage space is an essential factor, especially if you have limited space available in your house. You should be able to store your electric bike in compact spaces such as under your bed. An electric folding bike can even be mounted on walls to save floor space.
An electric folding bike can easily be used for commuting and intercity travelling. To ensure a comfortable experience, look for a folding e-bike with adjustable handlebars and a comfortable seat, like E-Movement’s Troy Pro. You can adjust the size of your bike to your comfort.
If you plan on travelling on uneven terrain, look for an e-bike with a full-suspension system for the most comfortable experience.
You should look for a battery that charges easily and quickly and has a considerable lifespan. The electric bike should also have a reasonable range to travel longer on a single charge. So choose a model with a suitable range to meet your needs.
Since folding e-bikes are commonly used for commuting, you should select an electric bike that can withstand regular riding. The frame should be strong enough to carry your weight without bending. Make sure your folding e-bike has high strength and is made of a rust-free, durable material.
Depending on your usage, you should look for a folding bike with a motor that can provide enough power. 250 Watt e-bikes are most commonly used as they provide enough power to travel on flat surfaces and rough terrains.
Additionally, according to the UK government, the maximum power output of an e-bike should be under 250 watts for you to be able to commute through them legally on roads.
A motor with a higher power will provide better acceleration and allow you to ride up steep terrains. But it’s only to be used for off-roading.
Although many folding e-bikes in the market, E-Movement is proud to offer the most spec-laden, price-competitive ones in the UK:
As the name suggests, this bike has a 250W motor, and its default version comes without a throttle. Panther 250W is a road-legal e-bike with a sturdy frame, providing a choice of level-5 pedal assistance and a maximum speed of 25 km/h. This fat tyre folding electric bike is suitable for travelling in multiple weather conditions and has puncture-resistant tyres making travel on any terrain smooth and easy.
The improved dual-suspension in this e-bike helps absorb shocks and gives you a good grip. E-Movement offers it with battery options of 12.8Ah and 14Ah, and they can upgrade it to add a throttle and change the coloured display to a B&W, more powerful one.
If you’re looking for the best folding electric bike with 26 inch wheels, the 500W Panther version has a throttle for off-roading. It weighs 28 kg, provides a level-5 pedal assistance choice, and has a maximum speed of 25 km/h. This bike’s default LCD shows the battery power, gear, and speed, helping you stay in control.
Hunter Extreme is E-Movement’s 2023 take on their best-selling Hunter series. This e-bike has a folding step-through design – you can mount this bike if you have mobility constraints or are wearing tight clothing. And E-Movement can adjust your seat post to cater to riders of multiple heights! No matter if you’re of smaller stature and shorter height or are a senior looking to incorporate e-bikes into your fitness regime, Hunter Extreme can serve you!
The electric bike has puncture-resistant tyres, and you can travel at a speed of up to 33 km/h. You also enjoy considerable choice due to the 5-level pedal assistance on this bike, making your journey comfortable.
This inclusive, best folding e-bike has removable Samsung batteries, a lockable front suspension, and a 250W and 350W rear hub motor options. E-Movement plans to introduce a 500W motor as well.And, perhaps most importantly, Hunter Extreme has the option to give you the highest battery power in the UK market! You can opt for the default 7Ah battery, a 20Ah battery, or the combined power of 27Ah – making it a long-range electric folding bike suitable for cruising throughout the day.
The advantages of a folding e-bike include:
You can fold these e-bikes compactly, which makes them easy to carry, transport, and store. In contrast, it can be difficult for you to store traditional bikes in your home if you do not have a garage.
Most e-bikes incorporate hybrid technology: manual pedalling alongside motor-assisted pedalling, which makes e-bikes an easy way to stay fit. As you pedal, the motor of your folding e-bike is powered, decreasing the effort you need to pedal. You can often choose the level of electric pedal assistance you require, with 1 being the least and 5 being the highest.
So, e-bikes will allow you to reach your destination and burn calories without stretching your limbs. As you cycle to work, you achieve your daily exercise goals too!
Public transport services such as subways, buses, and Uber can be expensive over time. Purchasing a traditional vehicle can also be difficult due to its high cost, and you must repeatedly pay for gasoline on a daily basis. Given the rising costs of inflation,
Folding electric bikes are more affordable compared to traditional vehicles. You can charge your electric bicycle at your home or office and save large amounts of money on gasoline. You can also save money by avoiding parking tickets and public transport. Over time, these savings can also help cover the initial cost of your vehicle. But here’s an additional catch; you can opt for a used folding electric bike with E-Movement’s ex-demo products to reduce the cost even more.
Consumers have different preferences and size requirements. Looking for a 20 inch folding bike in the UK or a cheap one? These bicycles come in different shapes and sizes to cater to the varying demands of customers. If you are a biking enthusiast, different colours, unique styles, and aesthetics are also available in folding electric bikes. Using minimum parts also ensures that your electric folding bike is lightweight.
Compared to traditional vehicles, electric bikes, folding or not, are more environmentally friendly. These bikes do not emit harmful emissions, which helps reduce the carbon footprint. So you can ride them without worrying about carbon emissions.
An electric folding bike can be a hefty one-time investment, so you must do proper research to choose the right one for your needs. Here’s what you have to do:
You need to identify exactly how will you ride your electric folding bike. For instance, if you want to buy an e-bike for short-range commute or leisure, you can narrow your search to low-end or smaller folding e-bikes.
If you require an electric folding bike for cargo servicing or high-terrain rides, you must look for high-end or advanced e-bikes for the best experience. For example, we recommend Thunder or Aries for those who frequently navigate challenging regions or like living on the edge by taking on thrilling adventures.
Once you’ve identified your needs, you must decide on a price range to further narrow your search. It is important to note that higher-end folding e-bike models are more costly and require more maintenance, so you should only invest in them if they cater to your needs.
Low-end e-bike models below £800 may seem like a good deal, but they likely won’t last you long, warranting replacement after a few months. And you have to ensure that your safety is not compromised if you’re buying a low-end version. We recommend looking for a mid-range electric folding bike if your budget is restricted.
Note that you can always buy in instalments through companies like Snap Finance and Klarna. The Cycle to Work scheme in the UK is also a brilliant solution, where your employer pays for the e-bike and adjusts your upcoming salaries to make up for it. This gives them tax benefits and lets you pay for your electric folding bike hassle-free.
An important part of choosing the best electric bike for yourself includes finding trustworthy sellers that can guide you toward making the right choice. You can easily search for websites online that sell electric folding bikes. Good sellers often allow you to check an e-bike before purchasing it for your satisfaction.
Due to the constant increase in the prices of gasoline and the need to control carbon emissions, electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular worldwide. However, the laws concerning the use of electric bikes differ across different countries.
Due to the constant increase in the prices of gasoline and the need to control carbon emissions, e-bikes are becoming increasingly popular worldwide. However, the laws concerning them differ across different countries.
The relevant laws and regulations in some major countries are:
You must be aged over 14 years to ride an electric bike in the United Kingdom. All electric bikes are known as EAPCS (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles), and you don’t require to register them or get a licence to ride them.
Legal electric bikes must have a maximum power output of 250 Watts to be driven on roads, and the motor should not propel the bike when it’s travelling more than 15.5 miles per hour. If your e-bike does not meet standard EAPC rules, you must get it registered separately.
Due to a lack of regulation by the federal government, the laws regarding electric bikes in the USA differ per state. Most e-bikes fall in the bicycle category, and riders must follow similar rules as bicycles.
Generally, any e-bike with a motor wattage of fewer than 750 watts and a top speed of 20 mph does not require any licence or registration. Most states require you to wear a helmet while commuting an electric bike. Some states also regulate the areas where you can ride your e-bike.
In Australia, power-assisted and pedal-assisted electric bikes have different regulations. Power-assisted electric bikes are allowed to have a maximum motor wattage of 200 watts, whereas pedal-assisted electric bikes can go up to 250 watts.
Pedal-assisted bikes can go up to speeds of 25 km/h and require you to wear a helmet. On the other hand, power-assisted e-bikes can only go up to 10 km/h. You must register an e-bike if it has a motor wattage of over 250 watts.
You are required to wear a helmet when riding an electric bike in Australia. Your e-bike should have a horn and working brakes and be visible at night. Riders under 12 years are allowed to ride their e-bikes on footpaths. However, your e-bike must have pedals to be considered a bicycle.
All European Union countries require registration and insurance for e-bikes. Using helmets is mandatory; the rider should be at least 14. An e-bike can have a maximum motor wattage of 250 watts and a top speed of 15.5 mph to be road legal.
Riders must stick to the designated cycling lanes and have one hand on the handlebar. In most countries, you must keep your e-bike on the right side of the road and gesture with appropriate hand signals when turning. When walking it, you can use the sidewalk.
Power-assisted bicycles in Canada can have a maximum motor wattage of 500 watts and a top speed of 32 km/h. No licence or registration is required for these electric bicycles in Canada. However, e-bikes with a higher motor wattage require a licence and registration.
You must wear a helmet when commuting on an e-bike in any part of Canada. The minimum age to ride an electric bike varies between 12-16 years in different states of Canada.
China has the highest number of electric bike users. The relevant e-bike regulations are constantly changing in China. As of 2019, all e-bikes can have a maximum motor wattage of 400 watts.
E-bikes here can have a maximum speed of 20 km/h to 25 km/h. Your e-bike should weigh at most 55 kilograms and be equipped with pedals. They should have the option to be ridden both manually and electrically.
While electric bikes are easy and safe to ride, there are several safety tips that you need to keep in mind when riding an electric bike.
Helmets are required to reduce the risk of any serious injuries when riding an electric bike.
If cycle or bike lanes are available, stick to them to ensure your safety. You should also follow all traffic laws.
Your bike should be equipped with a horn and reflectors. Reflectors will allow your electric bike to be visible at night.
You should keep your electric bike well-maintained. The brakes of your bike should be in working condition to avoid any accidents. And the tyres should provide adequate traction for a smooth ride.
You should avoid using your smartphone while cycling, as it can lead to fatal accidents. Ride safely and predictably. Make sure you signal when turning and stay in your lane.
Folding electric bikes are a relatively newer addition to the transportation family. These e-bikes make travel easier while also being easy to store in small spaces. You do not need to refuel them; instead, you can recharge their batteries to keep them running.
Depending on your needs and usage, different types of folding e-bikes are available in the market. They vary in size and weight, which affects their ultimate performance.
Other features, such as the type of brakes or motors used in the electric bike, affect its efficiency and performance. An advantage of using electric bicycles is that they’re environmentally friendly. Although, you have to maintain your electric bike regularly so that performance isn’t affected.
If you want to buy a good electric folding bike, contact us so we can help you!
All folding e-bike versions may not be suitable for long-distance rides. A mid to full-sized electric folding bike is most suitable for long-distance rides as they provide more stability at higher speeds.
Folding electric bikes with a throttle, like our E-Movement’s Panther or Hunter Extreme, can be used for off-road adventures. For the most comfortable off-road experience, go for full-suspension e-bikes.
E-bikes suited for off-road adventures are sturdier and faster but are more challenging to store in small spaces because of their heavier frames.
With solar panels becoming more accessible than ever, you don’t need non-renewable resources to charge your bike. So, generally, it is possible to charge an electric folding bike using solar power. Just buy a solar panel that is compatible with your e-bike and connect!
During summer you’ve seen a lot of people out riding e-bikes. You get excited. You jump online and do a quick bit of research, order the first Chinese e-bike under $1000 and it arrives a month later… and falls apart a month after. You don’t want to do that! Take your time, do a little bit of due diligence and make sure you’re getting the best e-bike for you. Here are the 12 most important things to consider when buying an electric bike.
The answer really depends on what you will use the bike for. Are you going to be zipping around the city delivering food? Are you trying to take the edge off your commute? Or are you an off-grid rider looking to tear up the trails at every opportunity? Perhaps you don’t know and just want to test ride a few to find out what fits; a local dealer can help you there. If you already have a pedal bike that suits all of your needs, ask the dealer about conversion kits.
Related: ENVO D35 vs Rad Power RadCity 4
Buy local if you can. Buying online is risky for an investment like this. Sure, there are tons of options to buy e-bikes online, but you can’t get a feel for how the bike rides, the quality, or effectively communicate with the dealer to see if they’re trustworthy.
There are so many advantages to purchasing an e-bike face-to-face, asking all your questions and knowing the people to call if you have an issue. The dealer can talk through your needs and help you find the best e-bike for you.
E-bikes are not disposable products! As an investment, it’s best to have a local business supporting you for years to come. When you support their business, they’ll support you back. Reliable after-purchase customer service is invaluable. Also, when you fancy an upgrade, you’ll know where to go for a solid product and a fair deal. As an electric bike dealer in Canada, we understand the value of this long-term relationship.
You may groan at this one. As e-bikes become more popular, people see them and want their own one straight away. That fear of missing out kicks in and they just want to get in on the action. It’s okay to treat yourself and get a cool new piece of kit that’s as fun as it looks. However, it’s still designed for transport, so you don’t want to skimp on the price. This doesn’t mean overpay – a $10,000 electric bike is not what you’re after – it just means that an e-bike is an investment as much as it is a recreational device.
Cheap electric bikes - $700US and below.
These are Chinese imports which have a reputation for breaking easily. You get what you pay for.
Budget electric bikes - $700 - $1500.
These will be e-bikes aimed at beginners. They do the job and can last quite a while, with a further range and better specs than the cheaper models. They just won’t do anything special and you may find yourself wanting to upgrade sooner than you expect.
Mid-tier electric bikes - $1500 - $2500.
A leap forward in quality, these bikes are recommended if you’re going to use the bike often and want it to hold up long-term. You can expect components from trusted brands, a more thoughtful design and an adaptable riding experience.
Premium electric bikes - $2500 - $4000.
In this range, the bike will have all specialized parts from name brands, including the drive system. Read up on the components to see if you’re actually getting a premium e-bike or if the dealer has simply pumped up the price.
Ultra-premium - $4000 and above.
These are for true enthusiasts who know their stuff and understand why they want parts costing $1000+ per component rather than a whole bike.
The bottom line: it’s tempting to see two e-bikes that look similar and go for the cheaper one, but when you look closer, you’ll realise that the slightly higher price tag could reflect a drastically better machine which will last you more than a year.
You should expect your electric bike to last at least five years with regular servicing, and that your battery should last from 600 to 800 full charge cycles. Check out reviews and speak to the dealer about the average lifespan of the bike or conversion kit you’re investing in.
Choose an electric bike you can manoeuvre comfortably. E-bikes are generally heavier than their traditional bike counterparts due to the motor and battery weight, usually in the 5-7kg range. So, while an e-bike glides around smoothly on a ride, they can be tough to lug up a flight of stairs. If your health restricts you or you’re not overly strong, a smaller, foldable bike may be ideal, so you can take them into the gym/office/bus with you and not have to worry so much about theft or space. Bigger and taller riders will usually prefer a larger frame and wheels to ride comfortably. If you already have a bike which you love and fits you, you might consider a conversion kit.
The fun stuff. The power of your e-bike depends on your weight and if you intend to ride up a lot of steep hills. If you’re commuting through Vancouver and are fairly small, 250 watts will probably do you. If you’re a bigger person, or think you’ll be going out riding in hilly terrain, 500 watts is probably more your speed. However, the downside of higher power could be less range or a heavier, more costly battery.
If you test ride at a local dealer, you’ll be able to feel the difference. If you’re too heavy for the power range, the bike will feel sluggish, but a bigger battery may feel more cumbersome when moving the bike without pedal assist.
Watt Hours (WH) is another metric which can leave new electric bike riders scratching their heads. The range of your e-bike per-charge will depend on your weight, the level of assist you use and the terrain. Your dealer will have done the math for you, but this is a general range at a cruising speed. Knocking out a 5-mile morning commute each day means you can get away with a smaller battery. If you ride long distances regularly, a battery of 400 watt-hours or more is most appropriate.
Can you maintain your e-bike easily? Many e-bike brands have come and gone in recent years. If you buy an unknown brand or from an online seller, you could end up with a product made from the cheapest possible parts and no support. An established dealer will have a history of customer support and a continued supply of spare parts for all versions of their electric bikes.
Check if your seller has designed the electric bike with modular components which can be easily replaced and upgraded. At EBikeBC, we designed our flagship ENVO D35 with high-quality, modular components for this very reason.
There are a few things to look out for to keep yourself safe on an e-bike. Your brakes need to have stopping power to match your motor. Hydraulic disc brakes are ideal for this. Smart cut-off will ensure smooth stopping and restarting so you don’t jolt or kick out on a ride. Also check for suspension on the fork and seats, as well as integrated lights and reflectors. All of these safety features, big or small, add up to the safest possible ride.
Buying an e-bike is an investment, so you should expect a warranty on parts, motor and battery for the first two years. Most manufacturers will offer this as standard if their product is up to scratch.
To keep your investment safe from thieves, your e-bike should have a lockable battery and a quick release front wheel. If somehow a part is taken, such as the LCD monitor, a reliable dealer can easily replace it.
The best e-bike in Vancouver is the one which can stand up to the rain. You want your LCD, battery, controller and motors to all be splash resistant so you don’t have to worry about riding in the rain or leaving the bike outdoors. You’ll want the electrical components to be dust proof too.
So there you have it. Those are our buying tips for getting the best electric bike. Did we miss anything? Comment below! If you want to enquire about a new e-bike, get in contact today!