Folding electric bikes have become extremely popular in Europe, where living and storage space is often limited, and public transportation plays a significant role in daily commuting. In contrast, in the United States, the prevalence of more spacious homes, ample storage, and personal vehicles might lead one to question the necessity of folding e-bikes. However, their compact and versatile nature makes them an attractive option. These bikes can be easily stored in small garages, transported in vehicles without the need for a bike rack, or taken on family road trips in an RV. Even if the folding feature is used infrequently, it offers convenience in unexpected situations.

Folding e-bikes may have some differences compared to traditional fixed-frame bikes, but these are usually minor. Modern folding bikes often come equipped with features such as fat tires, suspension forks for off-road riding, cargo racks, powerful motors capable of reaching Class 2 or Class 3 speeds, and efficient braking systems.

After extensive testing and riding a wide array of folding e-bikes, the reviewers at Electric Bike Report have compiled a list of their top picks. The goal is to help readers find a folding electric bike that suits their needs and budget.

Editor’s Note: This list was updated on November 11, 2023, to include new models of the best folding e-bikes.

Our Picks for the Best Folding Electric Bikes of 2023

Lectric XP 3.0

The Overall Best Folding Electric Bike, 2023
The Lectric XP 3.0 has secured its position as the Best Overall Folding Electric Bike by improving upon the previous XP 2.0 model. The latest iteration features an enhanced 500W motor that peaks at 1000 watts, with 55Nm of torque, as observed in performance evaluations.

With five levels of pedal assistance and a throttle, the XP 3.0 is classified as a Class 2 e-bike with a top motor-assisted speed of 20 mph. The bike has been upgraded with a 7-speed 11-28T Shimano Tourney drivetrain to eliminate issues experienced with the XP 2.0, allowing for efficient pedaling at Class 2 speeds. The included 10.4Ah battery provides a range of 25 to 50 miles, and there is an option to upgrade to a 14Ah battery for an additional 15-20 miles of range.

Since its launch, all XP 3.0 e-bikes have been upgraded with hydraulic disc brakes, setting a new standard for e-bike brands and further establishing Lectric’s lead in the market.

The bike’s fat tires and suspension fork make it suitable for rougher off-road conditions. During tests on dirt and gravel roads, the tires maintained performance and offered an enjoyable ride. The rear rack can support up to 150 lbs, allowing for passenger transport with a Passenger Mode that caps the speed at 10 mph for safety.

Weighing in at 65 lbs, the XP 3.0 is on the heavier side for a folding bike, but its sturdy construction, off-road capabilities, and reliability justify the trade-off. With a starting price of around $1,000, it represents a balance between quality and affordability, largely thanks to Lectric.

Ride1Up Portola

Best Bang-For-Your-Buck Folding E-Bike for 2023
The Ride1Up Portola is a formidable challenger to the highly popular Lectric XP. The bike impressed reviewers with its performance and value, especially given its price point of around $1,000, which was initially assumed to be higher based on its features.

While not perfect, the Portola’s only significant drawback is its size, which may feel cramped for riders around 6 feet tall or taller. However, it is an excellent option for riders under 6 feet or taller individuals who prefer a closer handlebar position and don’t require full leg extension.

Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5

The Best Class 2 Folding Electric Bike, 2023
The Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 is the top choice for the Best Class 2 Folding E-Bike in 2023. With a history dating back to its first version in 2015, Rad Power Bikes has refined the RadExpand through several iterations, demonstrating their expertise in producing a dependable and functional e-bike.

The RadExpand 5’s 750W motor provides smooth acceleration, maintaining control and stability. The 14 amp-hour (672 watt-hour) battery supports up to 40 miles of riding between charges.

The ability to take a folding e-bike almost anywhere is a key benefit. The RadExpand 5’s 20”x4” fat tires allow for adventures on various terrains, including dirt roads, pavement, and gravel. The latest model features wider 660 mm handlebars with a 6.9” rise for improved control and stability. Shifting is smooth, thanks to a MicroShift 7-speed mechanical shift unit.

Although hydraulic disc brakes are often preferred for their stopping power, the mechanical brakes on the RadExpand 5 performed above average. The rigid fork may make off-roading slightly rougher compared to bikes with suspension, but it is sturdy and reliable.

Given Rad Power Bikes’ reputation for customer service and the simple yet robust construction of the RadExpand 5, it offers significant value at an affordable price, earning its spot among the best folding e-bikes.

Lectric XP Lite

The Best Ultra-Affordable Folding Electric Bike, 2023
The Lectric XP Lite has redefined the entry point for purchasing a quality e-bike, with a price of around $800. It offers a single-speed drivetrain, a rigid fork, and a smaller battery, resulting in a lighter weight of 46 lbs. The 350W rear-hub motor, while less powerful than some others on this list, is sufficient for reaching speeds close to the 20 mph limit with pedaling.

The 7.8 Ah (374 Wh) battery may be small, but it is efficient, providing a range of 16 to 35 miles, which can be extended with more pedaling effort. The Lectric XP Lite demonstrates that it is possible to obtain a quality e-bike at an accessible price, making it the Best Ultra-Affordable Folding Electric Bike.

GoCycle G4

The Best Premium Folding Electric Bike, 2023
Designed by a former high-performance automobile designer, the GoCycle G4 boasts a sleek frame constructed from advanced materials. Weighing just 38 lbs, it emphasizes functionality with a hinge mechanism that allows for quick and easy folding.

The proprietary 500W front-hub motor, known as the Cleandrive, is compact and powerful, enabling comfortable speeds of around 15 mph and efficient hill climbing. The bike’s single frame size is highly adjustable, accommodating riders between 5’-4” and 6’-2”.

The G4’s 20”x2.25” road tires provide predictable handling and maneuverability. Its unique single-sided fork and rear swingarm allow for a tighter fold and easier tire changes or repairs. While the simple LED display is limited, pairing the bike with a smartphone enhances the riding experience by providing traditional ride data and allowing for motor output adjustments.

The GoCycle G4 stands out with its level of innovation and engineering, earning it the title of the Best Premium Folding Electric Bike.

Aventon Sinch.2

The Best Torque-Sensing Folding Electric Bike, 2023
The Aventon Sinch.2 incorporates upgrades common to the brand’s lineup, such as torque sensors, brake lights, and turn signals. It is one of the few folding e-bikes with a torque sensor, providing a natural ride feel as the motor responds to the rider’s effort.

With a 500W rear-hub motor and a Class 2 speed of 20 mph, the Sinch.2 offers ample power for its 68 lb weight. The bike prioritizes ride quality with the convenience of folding for transportation or storage.

Mechanical disc brakes were chosen for their durability, especially in a folding bike where hydraulic lines could be damaged. The torque sensor contributes to an increased range of 36 to 59 miles, depending on the pedal-assist setting.

The inclusion of brake lights and turn signals enhances safety, and while the Sinch.2’s 20”x4” street tires are not designed for rugged off-roading, the suspension fork smooths out rides on rough pavement or light dirt paths. With its performance and torque sensor, the Aventon Sinch.2 is named the Best Torque-Sensing Folding E-Bike.

Blix Vika+ Flex

The Best Modular Folding Electric Bike, 2023
The Blix Vika+ Flex leads in customization options among folding e-bikes, with a 110-lb cargo capacity and over 30 modular rack system accessories. Its classic design and durable aluminum components, such as the collapsible stem, contribute to a comfortable ride.

As a Class 2 e-bike with a 20 mph limit, the Vika+ Flex’s 500W rear-hub motor provides power for its mid-weight frame, even on steep inclines. The bike’s weight, including the removable battery, is 55 lbs (48 lbs without the battery), balancing a solid ride feel with ease of carrying once folded.

The bike can travel up to 45 miles on a single charge of its 48V, 12.8 Ah (614 Wh) battery, which recharges in 6 hours. Equipped with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, the Vika+ Flex demonstrated excellent performance in braking tests.

Despite its compact design, which may seem small for larger riders, Blix claims it can fit individuals between 4’-10” and 6’-2”. The magnets that help keep the bike folded are a thoughtful addition. Considering its features and customization potential, the Vika+ Flex is awarded the Best Modular Folding Electric Bike.

Evelo Dash

The Best Mid-Drive Folding Electric Bike, 2023
Creating a folding e-bike with a mid-drive motor and frame-integrated battery presents unique challenges, which is why they are rare. Evelo embraced this challenge with the Dash, which stands out for its efficiency and additional features.

The Dash is relatively lightweight for a folding e-bike at 49 lbs, making it easier to manage when storing in a vehicle’s trunk. It boasts a range of impressive features, including a 5-speed Sturmey Archer IGH, a Gates belt drive, hydraulic disc brakes, a throttle, and a bright color-LCD display.

While the bike’s name suggests high motor power, the Dash offers a pleasant pedal-assisted experience with features that minimize wear-and-tear and keep things clean when folded. It provides an enjoyable riding experience that encourages spending more time outdoors.

Denago Folding Model 1

The Best Folding Electric Bike for Hills, 2023
The Denago Folding Model 1 excels in speed, acceleration, and hill-climbing capabilities. Its 500W rear-hub motor propels the bike to a Class 3 speed of 25 mph with ease.

Weighing 62 lbs, the Folding Model 1 isn’t the lightest but remains manageable. The removable battery lightens the load when folded, and the quick-release clamp allows for rapid collapsing. Denago claims a folding time of 30 seconds, but with practice, this can be reduced to about 20 seconds.

The bike’s 48V, 692 Wh battery provides a range of 42 to 50 miles per charge. Despite having a JAK mechanical brake system, the braking performance is solid. The extended, collapsible stem affects handling crispness but accommodates riders between 5’-0” and 6’-1”. The 20”x3” street tires add maneuverability and comfort through the rigid frame.

The Denago Folding Model 1’s practicality, quick folding, and hill-climbing strength make it the Best Folding E-Bike for Hills.

Tern Vektron S10

The Best Folding Electric Bike for Cargo, 2023
The Tern Vektron S10 features one of the longest cargo racks on a folding e-bike, with a 59.5 lb capacity and compatibility with various accessories, including child seats. It is equipped with premium components, such as a Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor, Magura hydraulic disc brakes, and a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain.

At 39 lbs, the Vektron is easy to handle and portable. The design allows the bike to stand upright and be wheeled around, and Tern also offers a carry bag for transportation. It fits a wide range of riders, from 4’-10” to 6’-5”, due to telescoping seatposts with quick-release clamps.

Although testing time with the Vektron was limited to a brief ride at an e-bike convention, the bike made a strong impression, warranting its inclusion in the list of the Best Folding Electric Bikes.

How We Picked the Best Folding Electric Bikes

While personal preferences may influence the selection process, the goal is to remain objective and cater to diverse needs and riding styles. The list is based on extensive riding and testing experience, considering factors such as value, components and extras, unique qualities and features, purpose fulfillment, and ride feel.

Bottom Line: Matching Your Folding E-Bike to Your Needs

Folding e-bikes appeal for various reasons, including space-saving design, commuting convenience, and portability. It’s crucial to find a bike that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Not all folding e-bikes are equal, and some may not be suitable for certain uses due to weight or design. If folding features are not a priority, a full-size model may be a better choice. For those interested in folding bikes for their convenience, this list aims to be a helpful resource.

For newcomers to e-bikes, a buyer’s guide is available to provide guidance. For those with a clearer idea of what they seek, a comprehensive catalog of e-bike reviews is offered to assist in finding a suitable match. Good luck and enjoy the ride!