Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Dahon Dream D6 | Minimum folding speed |
2 | Strida LT | The most compact |
3 | SHULZ Hopper | Minimum weight |
4 | Desna 2200 | Best price. Versatility |
5 | STELS Pilot 710 24 | The best combination of price and serviceability |
1 | Brompton M3R | Manual assembly. club culture |
2 | STELS Pilot 970V 26 | The optimal ratio of functionality and quality of parts |
3 | Stark Cobra | High permeability |
4 | SHULZ Easy | The best option for tall cyclists |
5 | Altair City 20 (2021) | Reliable folding mechanism |
1 | Xiaomi Himo C20 | Large power reserve |
2 | ElBike Galant | The most popular. PAS system |
3 | Hiper Engine BF200 | Maximum load |
4 | Eltreco Leto | The best novelty of 2019, high-quality assembly |
5 | SHULZ E Goa | Most attractive hybrid price, light weight |
The popularity of cycling is growing every year.In many countries, almost all citizens have switched to bicycles, and the state encourages this in every possible way by creating the appropriate infrastructure: dedicated roads and bicycle parking. Thus, the number of cars on the streets of the city is reduced, which means fewer harmful emissions, accidents and traffic jams.
In a big city, especially with a developed network of bike paths, a folding bike is the best means of transportation. A bicycle is good for health - riding it gives a much-needed cardio load to a city dweller. If you need to cover a long distance, the folding model can be transported by public transport, and in a small apartment it requires almost no storage space.
The mechanisms by which a bicycle is folded are very different. The easiest way to reduce its dimensions is to fold the frame in half. This design is used in inexpensive models in order to be able to transport them in a car without special roof rails. And some bikes are specially designed to fold comfortably. In any case, when choosing a specific model, you need to take into account several important criteria that directly affect the comfort of the cyclist:
- Wheel size. Most really compact models have 20-inch or smaller wheels, but there are also full-size options.
- frame material. Steel is cheaper, but heavier than aluminum.
- Number of speeds. For flat terrain, a single-speed bike is fine, for hills and country walks, more gears are needed.
- Depreciation. Almost all city bikes have a rigid frame and are designed for good asphalt.If you plan to ride on uneven surfaces, it is better to have a model with at least minimal cushioning.
- Weight and compactness. They are essential if you need to lift the bike up the stairs to the apartment.
- Convenience and speed of folding.
Our review contains the most popular folding bikes that have the maximum number of positive ratings from real buyers. When distributing places in the ranking, the following were taken into account:
- reliability and convenience of design;
- the reputation of the manufacturer;
- price-quality ratio of the model;
- owner reviews after several months of operation.
The best folding bikes for the city
This category includes bikes with a traditional straight fit, which are also called city bikes. Some owners use them primarily for walking in parks and green areas, while others use them for work or business. In the first case, the compactness of folding is important for transportation in a car, bus, elevator, in the second case, it is desirable that the bike be light and take up as little space as possible when folded during storage.
5 STELS Pilot 710 24
Country: Russia
Average price: 7000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
This bike is a good solution for a limited budget. It is a full size 24" wheel. The simple yet reliable design with chain drive and traditional foot brakes does not cause problems in operation. Ease of maintenance and high maintainability are the advantages of this model. The wide range of colors offered by the manufacturer makes it possible to choose a vehicle to your liking, even the most fastidious.
Buyers praise the wide seat, comfortable steering wheel and good tires. The bike folds and unfolds easily. Among the advantages and weight, which is 17.6 kg. For transport in a car or compact storage, this is also a great option.
4 Desna 2200
Country: Russia
Average price: 7890 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
Folding bikes, also called folders, are traditionally considered an expensive pleasure, but the Desna company considered that it was not necessary to overpay for convenience and comfort. Despite the miniature size, the 2200th model is a full-fledged transport for an adult thin rider of average height, although most often it is bought by children 7-10 years old with the expectation of operation up to adolescence. The design is also universal, suitable for both women and men.
The main motive for buying this bike, according to the owners, is its compactness when folded, due to which it is very convenient to store it on the balcony of an ordinary apartment, in the trunk of a car and in the office under the desktop. Thoughtful frame geometry provides the right fit, but you should not count on long distances - there is no high-speed transmission or depreciation here. The steel frame is quite weighty, 14.5 kg, so the child will not carry his own transport, he will need help
3 SHULZ Hopper
Country: Russia
Average price: 19000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
This is the smallest Shulz model. Due to the fact that the bike frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloy, its weight is only 9.5 kg. The folding mechanism has an automatic lock, and the steering wheel is easily adjusted to a specific rider.Folded dimensions are only 75 x 63 x 36 cm.
Owners note the reliability and convenience of folding, as well as the compactness of the bike. With it, you can easily move around in the subway, and in the apartment it practically does not take up space. Users are also pleased with the versatility of the model - the handlebar and saddle can be adjusted for both a teenager and an adult man up to 185 cm tall.
2 Strida LT
Country: Great Britain
Average price: 33000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Bright colors and original design immediately distinguish this model from the mass of others. The specially designed triangular frame allows the Strida LT to be folded into a nearly flat design measuring just 23x51x114cm, while being able to carry the bike like a suitcase with a wheeled handle. The model has repeatedly become the winner of numerous industrial design competitions and for good reason: it is light, maneuverable and comfortable, despite the unusual fit.
Strida LT owners praise the high build quality, the thoughtfulness of all nodes and the ease of folding. The maximum height and weight with which the bike can be operated is 190 cm and 100 kg. Its only drawback is the high price.
1 Dahon Dream D6
Country: USA (manufactured in Bulgaria)
Average price: 30517 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
Dahon is the undisputed leader in the production of folding bikes, the owner of 220 patents and the founder of the technologies on which 98% of modern bikes with a similar folding system are built. The new 2021 Dream D6 is built on a steel frame, weighs 11.7 kg and folds in just 10 seconds, which is 30-60% less compared to other “folders”.The simple and functional folding mechanism is specially designed for easy transport and storage in confined spaces.
With a 20" wheel diameter, a 6-speed shifter, combined with classic V-brakes, provides convenient speed selection and smooth deceleration. Attachments are from the Japanese corporation Shimano, designed for a comfortable ride around the city. In the reviews, users indicate that the model is balanced price and quality, convenient for a rider up to 190 cm tall and weighing up to 105 kg and indispensable when you have to travel part of the way in public transport
Best Folding Bikes for Cross Country
In cases where a bicycle is needed for frequent trips along country roads, walks through the forest or movement in cities located in hilly areas, good depreciation and comfortable gear changes are indispensable. In this category, only the most successful models of folding bikes with a high level of cross-country ability.
5 Altair City 20 (2021)
Country: Russia
Average price: 8100 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.0
A domestic brand bike is the best choice for lovers of daily walks in the suburbs. A convenient and simple transformation system allows you to easily take it by bus or car to the location. One foot brake, 1-speed transmission and 20-inch wheels make it an off-road bike, but it should be comfortable on light terrain. A rigid steel fork will dampen bumps in the road, and a spring-loaded saddle will ensure the comfort of the cyclist.
According to reviews, many people like the model.It is really convenient in all respects, suitable for use in a city with not the most ideal roads, it goes easily, without squeaks, it folds up quickly. There are also complaints: the paint peels off in some places, you need to regularly renew the coating, the chain breaks quickly when overloaded, the bearings wear out completely in 2 years. But the bike is inexpensive, fully maintainable, and spare parts for it can be bought at any store.
4 SHULZ Easy
Country: Russia
Average price: 20000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
The SHULZ Easy is a rare find in the category of folding bikes for tall and heavy riders. Its reinforced frame can withstand weights up to 110 kg. Handlebars with adjustable stem and height allow you to customize the bike for yourself as accurately as possible. A large trunk, fenders, 7 speeds and the trademark easy folding characteristic of all SHULZ models - this is the list of advantages of the model.
Users note the excellent rolling and good maneuverability of the bike, as well as ease of transportation and compactness when folded. According to reviews, it even fits in the trunk of a small car, and in winter it can be stored under the bed. Since the design of the model does not provide for depreciation, it is more suitable for driving on good asphalt than on dirt roads.
3 Stark Cobra
Country: Russia
Average price: 16500 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
This bike is designed for those who like to spend weekends in the country riding on difficult terrain. The model has large 26-inch wheels, a suspension fork and 21 speeds, while it fits freely in the trunk of a car. In the subway, train and other public transport, the bike is also transported without problems.
Buyers like the powerful aluminum alloy frame, disc brakes and original design, as well as the stylish color scheme of the model. Excellent cross-country ability and at the same time good speed characteristics are also among the advantages of STARK Cobra. Cons - rather weak depreciation and the absence of automatic locks in the folded position.
2 STELS Pilot 970V 26
Country: Russia
Average price: 14000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The undoubted advantage of the STELS Pilot folding mountain bike line is the ability to choose the frame size: 17.5, 18 or 19 inches. They also have big wheels, a suspension fork and 21 speeds. And all this at a more than reasonable price. The aluminum frame and compact dimensions when folded make it easy to lift the bike in an elevator or store it in an apartment without taking up the entire balcony.
The owners praise the excellent ratio of functionality, quality of parts and the low weight of the model. Disadvantages - fragile plastic pedals, tight folding mechanism - as a rule, do not bother satisfied customers.
1 Brompton M3R
Country: Great Britain
Average price: 114000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
Bromptons are made by hand at a factory in London and stand out with their aristocratic design, unchanged since 1980. In addition to unsurpassed build quality, the M3R boasts the smallest dimensions in its segment - when folded, it turns into a compact cube the size of a carry-on suitcase.Many travelers take advantage of this by buying a special suitcase for transportation or using a packing box.
Another important feature is the ability to attach the bike bag to a special latch near the handlebars, which does not interfere with folding the bike. The M3R is equipped with a 3-speed planetary hub from the legendary manufacturer Sturmey-Archer, which is great for climbing uphill. And Brompton equipment is considered the most reliable - people ride them for 15 years, in the world and in Russia there are entire communities with clubs, services, shops and even branded bike races.
The best folding hybrids
For those who need to travel long distances in the city or rough terrain, a hybrid is ideal: you can ride both by pedaling and with the help of a motor. More advanced versions of electric bikes allow you to vary the ratio of pedal effort and engine power to select the most comfortable driving mode. But even the simplest hybrid models significantly save the time and effort of the cyclist. At the same time, the folding mechanism allows, if necessary, to transport the device in public transport or conveniently place it in a small apartment.
5 SHULZ E Goa
Country: Russia
Average price: 49000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
Despite the fact that the model belongs to the budget, this did not affect the quality of the assembly, components, and functionality. According to the owners of the electric bike, it is very maneuverable due to its low weight (17.5 kg), slowly consumes the charge in urban road conditions when 2-3 power modes out of 5 are activated.The speed range includes 3 positions, but they are quite enough for comfortable movement.
The model develops at a maximum of up to 24 km / h, without requiring physical effort. A Panasonic lithium-ion type rechargeable battery charged from a conventional outlet, high-quality circuit protection, a frame design convenient for women, and practical Kenda K1045 tires are bright pluses that attract potential buyers. The absence of a cushioning system, according to users, does not worsen the experience of the trip. When folded, the bike stands out for its compactness (82x68x35 cm). Additionally, the model is equipped with a touch screen, a bell, a trunk, disc brakes, folding pedals, fenders and reflectors.
4 Eltreco Leto
Country: Russia (produced in South Korea and China)
Average price: 57000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
An unusual curved aluminum alloy frame, a light weight of 21.5 kg, a whole range of technical amenities for the rider, and an optimal price have already made the hybrid actively sold, despite its still short presence on the domestic market. Users single out the build quality among the main advantages of bicycle equipment, since it undergoes multi-stage testing not only at factories, but also upon acceptance in Russia.
The vehicle is equipped with 20-inch wheels with aluminum rims and supports 7-speed mode, additionally has assistant modes for selecting individual riding characteristics. The maximum speed reaches 25 km / h, the run time on one charge is within 35 km. The front soft fork with shock absorption, a comfortable seat help to avoid discomfort during trips.The model is equipped with front and rear V-Brake brakes, folding pedals, luggage carrier, fenders of a special design.
3 Hiper Engine BF200
Country: UK (made in China)
Average price: 54650 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
Let no one be confused by the "childish" wheel diameter of 20 inches in this model - its steel frame and double aluminum rims can withstand a rider weighing 120 kg. In mixed mode, when the electric motor helps to pedal, it is permissible to increase the load to 130 kg. At the same time, the bike quickly accelerates to a maximum (25 km / h), then you can turn on the chic “cruise control” function and enjoy giving rest to your hands. Naturally, it is advisable to use this opportunity only on highways.
The brake system of the BF200 consists of two disc modules that provide effective braking in all weather conditions, do not require adjustment and constant maintenance and last for many years. The reviews report good frame quality and strong assembly, a fairly large range (30 km) and good grip. It is convenient that the seat is adjustable without a key - you can ride in turns with the children. The only thing missing is shock absorbers and a more comfortable saddle.
2 ElBike Galant
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Average price: 49900 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.6
The ElBike Galant bicycle hybrid is so popular that the domestic manufacturer produces 3 modifications: 250, 350 and 500 watts. The folding frame has a special design and allows you to compactly fold the bike together with the handlebars. The model is suitable for use by the whole family, as it has a comfortable fit for teenagers and women and can withstand a load of up to 130 kg.The most budget version with a 250-watt motor drives up to 35 km on an electric drive, up to 60 km in a mixed one (electric + pedals).
There are 3 driving modes with a maximum speed of 28 km / h. One of them is the Pedal Assist System, which helps the rider to pedal with the help of a motor wheel and creates the effect of going downhill. The bike is controlled by a button, a charge indicator is placed on the steering wheel. The battery is quick-detachable, which allows you to charge it separately from the bike and easily preserve the structure for the winter. Production and assembly is carried out partly in Russia, partly in Taiwan, but they must undergo triple quality control.
1 Xiaomi Himo C20
Country: China
Average price: 44990 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.7
As much as 80 km at speeds up to 25 km / h allows you to drive in combined mode (electric motor + battery) this "pocket" bike. It looks impressive in both gray and white, quite in the spirit of modernity - it’s a pleasure to ride in this and in the capital. The frame material is aluminum alloy, the seams are strong, the build quality is excellent, the saddle height is adjustable. With its own weight of 21 kg, the device can withstand a load of up to 100 kg, so that an adult cyclist will not experience problems on it.
The battery is removable, if necessary, it can be recharged separately from the electric transport - it will take about 5 hours to fully charge. The 250 W motor power is enough to go uphill without pedaling, and no driving license is required. If it suddenly runs out of power, you can drive in the usual way - 6 speeds to help. Many comfort elements are thought out: a pump built into the seat, folding pedals, a swiveling headlight, fenders and a footrest are included in the package.