Folding Bikes: Everything You Need to Know
Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a convenient and efficient way to get around. They offer the convenience of being able to fold up and store in small spaces, making them ideal for commuters or those who live in apartments with limited storage space. Folding bikes can be brought on all trains at no extra cost, although certain services may require that they be transported in a protective carrying case. On some services, folding bikes are limited to one per vestibule area during peak times.
Folding bikes come in a variety of styles, sizes and weights, so there is sure to be one that fits your needs. Common folding mechanisms include mid-horizontal fold, triangle/vertical fold and swivel fold. Depending on the brand and model, folding bikes can have anywhere from one to 27 gears, allowing you to customize your ride according to your terrain and riding style. With so many options available, it’s easy to find the perfect folding bike for your needs
Best Folding Bike Guides
Folding bikes are a great option for commuters who need to travel by multiple modes of transport. They are easy to store, making them ideal for taking on public transport during rush hour. The upright riding position makes them suitable for virtually any type of clothing, and they are far less likely to get stolen due to their compact form. Cycling on a folding bike offers the same health benefits as regular cycling, and they are becoming increasingly popular with a high resale price.
When choosing a folding bike, there are several factors to consider. Folding bikes typically use 20-inch wheels for a manageable size and light weight when commuting. 700c wheels offer a smooth ride and maximise pedalling input for longer distances. For off-road riding on bumpy trails, folding fat bikes with 4-inch tires provide extra cushioning and stability. It’s important to choose the right type of bike depending on your needs and budget, as some brands have a higher price tag but can be more durable and offer better performance.
Folding bikes come in a variety of sizes, allowing riders to choose the perfect fit for their needs. The most common size is 20 inches, which is ideal for commuting and city riding. This size offers a lightweight frame that can be easily folded up and stored away when not in use. It’s also great for those who want to take their bike on public transportation.
Who Buys Folding Bikes?
Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular with commuters and travelers alike due to their portability, security and storage options. People with limited space can benefit from the compact size of a folding bike, as it takes up little space on public transport or in a car boot. Folding bikes also make it easier to travel with a bike, as they can be stored inside and are less likely to be stolen – over 77,000 bikes are stolen each year in the UK.
The global folding bike market is currently worth around a billion pounds and is predicted to grow to 1.6 billion by 2028. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing demand for cycling infrastructure worldwide, which has led more people to purchase folding bikes as an easy and convenient solution for commuting or traveling. Folding bikes make up 4% of all bikes sold in the UK, indicating that this type of bike is becoming increasingly popular among cyclists.
Types of Folding Bikes
Folding bikes are a great way to get around, as they can be easily stored and transported. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and weights, so there is something for everyone. Common folding mechanisms include mid-horizontal fold, triangle/vertical fold and swivel fold. Folding bike gears can range from single-speed up to 27 speeds, allowing riders to choose the best option for their needs.
Folding bikes are also convenient when it comes to public transport. Most trains allow folding bikes on board at no extra cost, although some require them to be transported in a protective carrying case or stowed as luggage. On London Overground, one folding bike per vestibule area is allowed at peak times. With all these options available, folding bikes make it easy to get around without having to worry about storage or transportation issues.
Small, Compact Folding Bikes
Compact folding bikes are a popular choice for those who are looking for a small and lightweight bike that is easy to transport. These bikes are typically designed to fold down to a very small size. Making them perfect for commuters who need to take their bike on a train or bus. As well as those who live in small apartments and don’t have a lot of storage space. Compact folding bikes often have smaller wheels than mid-size or full-size folding bikes. Which can make them less stable at higher speeds but also easier to carry and store. They are also typically more affordable than larger folding bikes, making them a good choice for those on a budget.
Mid Sized Folding Bikes
Mid-size folding bikes are a good compromise between compact and full-size folding bikes. They are larger than compact folding bikes and offer a more comfortable ride. However, they are still small and lightweight enough to be easily transported. Mid-size folding bikes often have larger wheels than compact models. Making them more stable at higher speeds and provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces. They may also come with additional features such as suspension forks or seat post suspension to increase comfort. Mid-size folding bikes are a good choice for those who need a bike that is easy to transport but also want a more comfortable and stable ride. They may be slightly more expensive than compact folding bikes but are still generally more affordable than full-size models.
Full Sized Folding Bikes
Full-size folding bikes are the largest and most comfortable type of folding bike. They are designed to ride and feel like a traditional bike, with full-sized wheels and a more upright riding position. Full-size folding bikes are ideal for those who want a bike that is easy to transport. However, still want the comfort and stability of a standard bike. They are typically heavier and more expensive than compact or mid-size folding bikes. They do however offer the best ride quality and the most comfortable seating position. Full-size folding bikes are a good choice for those who will be using their bike for longer rides. As well as those who place a high value on comfort and stability.
Most Popular Folding Bike Brands
Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular as people look for more convenient and space-saving ways to get around. There are a variety of folding bike brands on the market, each offering different features and benefits. Brompton is an iconic brand that offers a subscription service for their folding bikes, while Tern offers lightweight, non-electric and electric folding bikes with sustainability in mind.
Hummingbird produces the world’s lightest folding bicycle, while Bickerton Portables has five models of folding bikes to suit all kinds of riders. Raleigh is a popular folding bike brand known for its affordable and attractive Stowaway model, and Dahon is the world’s largest folding bike manufacturer, with the Boardwalk being one of their best-selling models. B’TWIN is Decathlon’s bike brand, offering quality folding bikes at budget prices such as the Tilt 500.
Folding Bike Prices
Folding bikes are a great way to get around town without having to worry about parking or storage. They are also incredibly convenient, as they can be folded up and stored away in a small space when not in use. The prices of folding bikes vary greatly depending on the quality and features you’re looking for. Entry-level models from Tern and Dahon start at around £400 – £450, while premium models can cost upwards of £2,000. For those looking for the best of the best, Brompton and Hummingbird offer top-of-the-line folding bikes that can cost close to £4,000. On the other hand, B’TWIN 500 is one of the most affordable quality folding bikes available at around £300.
Recommended Folding Bikes by Budget
Folding bikes are a great way to get around town, and they come in a range of prices to suit any budget. Entry-level folding bikes can cost as little as £300 – £400, making them an affordable option for those who don’t want to break the bank. For those looking for something more high-end, there are folding bikes that can cost upwards of £3,000.
Folding Bike Weight
Folding bikes are a great option for those who need to travel with their road bike or store it in a small space. They typically weigh between 11.5 kg and 12.5 kg. They can however, range from under 7 kg to over 14 kg depending on the folding mechanism, tyre size, and frame material used. Hummingbird offers the lightest folding bike in the world at 6.9 kg. While Brompton’s T-Line weighs 7.45 kg and Raleigh’s Stowaway weighs 14.5 kg.
Most full-size bicycles have weight limits of between 125 kg and 136 kg. Folding bikes usually have a lower limit of 100-110 kg due to their smaller frames and components. Steel frame bikes such as Brompton can comfortably carry up to 110kg. Whereas lightweight folding bikes such as Hummingbird have a weight limit of 110kg. This is mainly due to their smaller size and lighter materials used in construction. Ultimately, when choosing a foldable bicycle it is important to consider the weight of the rider and the type of terrain they will be riding on.
Folding Bike Wheel Sizes
Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular due to their portability and convenience. When choosing a folding bike, it is important to consider the wheel size. Folding bike wheel sizes typically range from 14” to 20”, with 16” being the most common. Smaller wheels offer faster acceleration and agile manoeuvring, while 20” wheels provide a smoother ride. However, smaller folding bike wheels are often stronger than larger wheels on full-sized bikes, but less comfortable on bumpy terrain.
When selecting a folding bike, it is also important to buy the right size frame for you. Consider the clearance from the crossbar and reach from the saddle to handlebars for a comfortable riding position. Reputable bike shops will normally offer to adjust handlebars, saddle height and tilt for comfort, pedal-power and control. This will ensure that your foldable bike fits you properly and provides an enjoyable riding experience.
Folding Bike FAQs
Folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and portability. They can be folded up and stored away when not in use, making them ideal for commuters who need to take their bike on public transport. Folding bikes are also great for touring, as they can be easily transported from place to place. Despite their smaller size, folding bikes are just as safe and reliable as regular bikes and are manufactured to rigorous safety standards.
Most folding bikes come in one size but can be adjusted to fit the rider’s height. Additionally, many retain a high resale value so you don’t have to worry about losing money if you decide to sell it later on. On public transport, folding bikes can usually be brought on at no extra cost, although some services may require them to be transported in a protective carrying case. On London Overground, folding bikes are limited to one per vestibule area during peak times. With all these features combined, it’s easy to see why folding bikes are becoming increasingly popular.
What Folding Bikes Are Available With Electric Motors?
There are many types of folding bikes that come with electric motors. These are often called e-folding bikes or electric folding bikes. An electric folding bike can offer some advantages over both electric and foldable bikes. Some popular brands that offer electric folding bikes include GoCycle, Brompton, and Tern. E-folding bikes typically have a small electric motor that provides assistance to the rider while pedalling. Making it easier to ride up hills and over longer distances. They may also come with features such as removable batteries and LED lights. Not forgetting built-in displays that show information such as the current speed and battery level. A folding electric bike is considered a convenient and eco-friendly option for commuters who want to save time and energy on their daily commute.
Advantages Of An Electric Folding Bike
An electric folding bike can offer some advantages over both electric and foldable bikes. For one, it combines the convenience of a folding bike with the added power and range of an electric bike. This makes it a great option for commuters who need to travel longer distances. Or those who need to ride up hills. An electric folding bike also has the added benefit of being able to fold up and be stored in small spaces. Making it a convenient and space-saving choice for those who live in apartments or small homes. Additionally, electric folding bicycles are often more portable than regular electric bikes. As they are lighter and easier to carry when they are folded up. Overall, electric folding bikes offer a unique combination of convenience, portability, and electric power. Making them a popular choice for commuters and urban riders.