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Folding e-bikes are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. As a sustainable means of transport that can get you to your destination in good time and without breaking a sweat, it’s no wonder that they’re more and more common on the roads today.
Whether you’re navigating a bustling city, or boarding public transport, a fast-folding e-bike is critical. In this article, we’ll cover the fastest folding electric bikes available on the market today. However, “fastest folding electric bike” can have two meanings: the fastest bike to fold, and the fastest in terms of speed. In this article, we’ll cover both!
Fastest E-Bikes to Fold
In the first half, we’ll look at the 5 folding e-bikes which are the fastest to fold. These are the choices for those who want to make their bike as convenient as possible, folding in the blink of an eye so that you don’t spend precious minutes faffing around with your bike on the platform before catching your train. These are especially useful for those who might have multiple stages of their commute.
Fastest Folding Electric Bikes
In the second half, we’ll turn to speed and look at the fastest folding electric bikes to ride. Here, we’ll cover our list of the fastest folding electric bikes to ride. These are great options for people looking to get to their destination quickly. We’ll look at some of the top speeds available, as well as some general information about usability.
With folding e-bikes, there’s something for everyone. From fat-tired bikes that can navigate difficult terrain, to long-range bikes that are equipped for the commute with some distance involved.
Fastest Electric Bikes to Fold
Here’s our list of 5 of the fastest folding electric bikes. All of them fold in under 20 seconds (some with a little more practice required than others).
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Compact Fast-Folder
Brompton Electric C-Line
A lightweight, compact fast-folding e-bike that makes a great commuter.
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Extremely Fast Folder
Hummingbird Folding Electric Bike Gen 2.0
The lightest and fastest folder on our list, but comes with a price tag.
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Discreet Quick-Folder
Carbo Model X
Carbon Fiber fast-folding e-bike with commuter-friendly carbon belt drive.
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Fast-Folding on a Budget
BTWIN Tilt 500E Folding Electric Bike
Affordable folding e-bike that does all the basics well.
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Fat-Tired Fast-Folding Fun
Engwe EP2 Pro
Fast-folding fat-tired e-bike that can take some punishment.
Is It Hard to Fold a Folding Bike?
It isn’t at all hard to fold a folding bike. In fact, folding bikes have seen a number of improvements over the years in terms of design and technology, meaning that the folding mechanisms are generally now more robust and user friendly. These improvements have increased their speed, efficiency and durability.
The ease in which a folding bikes folds (and unfolds) is a constant concern of folding bike manufacturers, and so there are constant developments to make them as convenient as possible to use. These days, the vast majority of folding bikes can be folded in under 30 seconds, and many are even quicker than that.
A lot also depends on the mechanism used. There are many types of folding mechanisms, from the classic fold, to the triangular hinge, or even the vertical fold. There are also variations between brands, as we will see a little later on.
Electric folding bikes may have some differences when it comes to folding. Normally, folding e-bikes are heavier than their non-electric counterparts due to the extra components required.
This means that they may take a little longer to fold, or, due to the additional weight, be a little more difficult to fold. These issues are normally negligible though, and are a small price to pay for the electric benefits.
Fastest Folding E-Bikes
1. Brompton Electric C-Line
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£2,995
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$3,704
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€3,464
Prices are approximate
- Folding Time: < 20 seconds
- Weight: 17.4kg
- Range: 70km
- Wheel Size: 16”
- Folded Size: 64.5 x 56.5 x 27cm
- Gears: 6-Speed
Established brand name
Good Range
Made in England
Sub 20 second folding time
The Brompton Electric C-Line is easy to fold, taking less than 20 seconds to do so, making it one of the quickest and most convenient folding bikes on the market. This iconic electric bike has a sleek, classic design that is both timeless and aesthetically pleasing.
The Electric C-Line features a separate battery that can be easily removed to take along anywhere for convenient charging. Unlike other folding e-bikes, the streamlined design of the Brompton Electric C-Line ensures that there are no bulky, unappealing features.
By incorporating state-of-the-art smart-phone technology and pedal-assist capabilities, the Brompton Electric C-Line can easily adapt to your riding preferences.
With a reinforced steel frame built to last, the elegant electric Brompton C-Line is available in four colours. Not only does this e-bike offer an impressive range of up to 80 km, but it also comes with a 3-year electric warranty and a 7-year frame warranty.
Hand-built in London/Sheffield, Brompton is a household name when it comes to folding bikes, and the C-line certainly isn’t an exception to the rule.
2. Hummingbird Folding Electric Bike Gen 2.0
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£4,495
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$5,560
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€5,200
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 10.3kg
- Range: 50km
- Wheel Size: 16″
- Folded Size: 117 x 60 x 20cm
- Gears: Single-Speed
5 second folding time
Extremely lightweight
Iconic yellow colour
Introducing the Hummingbird Electric – a commuter’s dream. Folded and ready in just 5 seconds.
Weighing a mere 10.3 kg – it’s the world’s lightest folding electric bike. Whilst being lightweight, however, its premium carbon fiber frame ensures both strength and durability.
Choose from four vibrant colors, including the glorious Hummingbird Yellow. For a personalized touch, opt for a custom color at an additional cost.
Equipped with a powerful 250W motor and a 158Wh battery, this bike is perfect for all commutes, short or long. Plus, its seamless integration means no visible wires, motor, or battery. It can handle the distance, yet doesn’t scream ‘electric bike’.
The Hummingbird Electric goes beyond expectations, offering an effortless companion Smartphone App. Activate the motor remotely, track your progress, and enjoy the added security of the active electronic locking system.
It’s definitely an investment, but if you’re looking for the best on the market, we believe you needn’t look further.
3. Carbo Model X
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£2,799
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$3,463
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€3,237
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 13.3kg
- Range: 30 to 55km
- Wheel Size: 20”
- Folded Size: 80 x 60 x 33cm
- Gears: Single-Speed (9-Speed also available weighing 15.3kg)
Less than 10 seconds to fold
Lightweight
Commuter friendly carbon belt drive
In under 10 seconds, the Carbo Model X effortlessly folds, making it a great option for those who plan on taking their bike on public transport.
A classy, single-speed electric bike with a carbon belt drive for a quiet, smooth ride. At a mere 13.3 kg, the Carbo Model X is very lightweight, especially for an e-bike.
With an integrated battery in the seat post, this bike boasts a beautifully classic design that appeals to all. The seat post and stem are adjustable for convenience, and the 20″ wheels ensure stability and a comfortable ride.
Practical features include front and rear lights, a rear USB port, and a low-maintenance carbon belt instead of a traditional chain.
If gears are your preference, choose the 9-speed Model S. Though slightly heavier at 15.3 kg, it remains one of the lightest folding e-bikes available.
A true marriage of style and functionality, the Model X is an excellent fast-folding e-bike.
4. BTWIN Tilt 500E Folding Electric Bike
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£800
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$990
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€925
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 18.6kg
- Range: 20 to 35km
- Wheel Size: 20”
- Folded Size: 83 x 67 x 45cm
- Gears: 6-Speed
Affordable
Reliable
Only 15 seconds to fold
With its lightweight design, the Tilt 500E can be efficiently folded in under 15 seconds, a remarkable feat for a folding bike in this price range. Once folded, it becomes conveniently compact for easy transportation over shorter distances.
Regarded for its balance of affordability and quality, Decathlons Tilt 500E is incredibly popular, and it’s no surprise. Thanks to its three electric assist modes and an impressive range of up to 35 km, it’s perfect for longer daily commutes.
This versatile bike offers a 6-speed gearing system in addition to the motor, providing an array of riding options. Its user-friendly display and simplistic control panel, along with the cadence pedal sensor, ensure a seamless and enjoyable riding experience. Everything that you need and nothing that you don’t.
The Tilt 500 also features ergonomic grips and saddle, an adjustable stem, and 20″ wheels. Additionally, the powerful aluminum V-brake system automatically disengages the electric assistance when applied, which is a nice feature.
Let’s face the reality – the price of a folding electric bike can be a significant barrier for many. However, Decathlon provides an affordable option for a comfortable, safe, and reliable assisted commute, making it a practical choice for discerning riders seeking quality and convenience. It isn’t the best option on the list, but it’s a great affordable one.
5. Engwe EP2 Pro
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£949
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$1,173
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€1,100
Prices are approximate
- Weight: 32kg
- Range: 50 miles (80km)
- Wheel Size: 20 x 4.0 Fat Tires
- Folded Size: 81 x 38 x 76cm
- Gears: Shimano 7 Gears
- Folding Time: 10 seconds
Fat tires
Rugged
Fast
The Engwe EP2 Pro is a remarkable folding electric fat bike that effortlessly combines convenience and exhilarating riding experiences. Impressively, it folds in around 10 seconds, making it one of the fastest folders on this list.
It’s a rugged and impressive bicycle, but considering as well the fact that it’s folding, it’s excellent. The fat tires give a great versatility, making it a great folding e-bike for when you don’t know what you’re up against. And with a top speed of an impressive 45 km/h, it’s not just tough, it’s fast as well.
At the heart of this masterpiece is the powerful rear wheel hub motor, available in either a vigorous 750W international version or a refined 250W European version. Conquer any terrain with ease, including the most challenging hills and off-road trails.
Fastest Folding Electric Bikes (by Speed!)
So we’ve covered the e-bikes that fold the fastest, but what about the folding e-bikes that have the highest top speeds? Here’s our list of 3 of the speediest folding e-bikes for those who want the combination of adrenaline and convenience.
It’s important to note here, however, that there are limitations when it comes to usage. E-bikes are restricted by laws that vary across the world. For example, in the USA federal law imposes speed limits depending on the class category of the e-bike, ranging from 20-28 mph. These depend on the intention of usage and the location in which you’re cycling, amongst other things.
In the UK, the electric motor must not propel the e-bike beyond 15.5 mph. There are also other restrictions specific to the UK which you can keep updated with here. Aside from the specific e-bike speed restrictions in place, there are also powering limitations. A motor must not exceed a maximum output of 250 watts.
Without further ado, let’s look at 3 of the fastest folding e-bikes on the market.
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Military Inspired
Hi Power Cycles Recon
Designed for paratroopers, a folding e-bike that can handle heavy loads.
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Quickest Folding E-Bikes by Speed (Top 3)
1. Hi Power Cycles Recon
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£3,100
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$4,000
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€3,600
Prices are approximate
- Top Speed: 45mph / 72kmh
- Weight: 69kg
- Range: 70km
- Wheel Size: 19”
- Gears: Single Speed
Fast e-bike that folds
Military inspired
Big wheels
The Hi Power Cycles Recon is a high speed folding electric bike. It might look like a regular bike, but this electric folding beast can reach a top speed of 45mph (with the highest power motor option of 2000w).
The Recon design was based on the Montague; a folding e-bike initially developed for US military use in Iran and Afghanistan.
It’s got an extremely powerful mid motor, big wheels, and a range of gearing systems.
The bike is finished with powerful Magura hydraulic brakes, a suspension with 100mm of travel and Kenda tires which should perform OK on most surfaces.
With it’s top configuration, in the UK at least, this bike is considered too powerful to be used on public roads and is deemed illegal. However, there may be modifications that can be made in order to meet local laws and regulations. It’s important to confirm these before purchasing.
It’s not a commuter as such, but rather, something more akin to a dirt bike or off-road motorcycle.
2. FIIDO D3 Pro
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£565
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$699
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€653
Prices are approximate
- Top Speed: 15.5 mp/h / 25 km/h
- Weight: 17.5kg
- Range: 20 to 60km
- Wheel Size: 14″
- Gears: 7-Speed
- Fold-Up Size: 125cm x 40cm x 63cm
25 km/h top speed (limited)
Discreetly fast
Half-folding design
Are you seeking an electric bike that can keep up with your weekend adventures? Look no further than the FIIDO D3 Pro, complete with grippy 20” tires that can handle any terrain you throw at it.
With a striking hardtail inspired design, this folding e-bike effortlessly blends style and functionality. Its high torque motor is capable of taking on daunting hills and bridges, providing an exhilarating and effortless riding experience.
It boasts a 60km battery life, ensuring you can complete that Sunday ride with ease. Plus, with a maximum speed of 25 km per hour, you’ll be zipping around town faster than you ever imagined.
Please note that in the UK, the FIIDO D3’s top speed potentially classifies it as a motorbike, as such, riders may need to obtain insurance and licensing accordingly. Always ensure that you keep up to date with and obey local laws as they are subject to change.
3. Blix Vika+ Flex
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£1,535
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$1,899
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€1,775
Prices are approximate
- Top Speed: 24 mph – 39 km/h
- Weight: 23.5kg
- Range: 43km (Outdoor Gear Lab tested)
- Wheel Size: 20″
- Gears: 7-Speed
- Fold-Up Size: 91cm x 33cm x 45cm
Can hold top speeds
Great colour options
Neat luggage rack
With top speeds of nearly 40 km/h, the Vika+ Flex from Blix is a versatile and compact folding electric bike that offers exceptional performance and stability. It’s got a mighty 500w motor, meaning it has some serious power for its size.
In addition, an optional protective carrying bag is available for added convenience. This matches really well with the luggage rack on the back.
Designed to meet the needs of daily commuters and urban riders, it combines speed, power, and range amongst a number of other useful features. It’s reliable while being more portable than its competitors.
It’s a smooth ride, thanks to its larger wheels and excellent bump absorption capabilities. It also has a great performance/cost ratio.
As with all folding e-bikes, make sure that they fit the legal requirements of wherever you plan to use them.