Best folding electric bikes: 5 must-have choices (2022–2026)
People buy folding electric bikes because they lack space somewhere: on the train, in a closet, in the trunk of their car, in their lives. However, too often, folding electric bikes are compared as if they were conventional electric bikes: motor, battery, price. But the real difference lies elsewhere: how often you fold the bike, how much of a hassle it is on a daily basis, and above all, what kind of bike you're left with once you start riding.
Let me introduce you to five models. Five bikes that consistently come up year after year in serious tests and buying guides: two Bromptons, a GoCycle, a Tern, and a MiRider.
Written by: Jos Mans | January 28, 2025 | Reading time: 5minutes
About the author: Jos Mans
Jos is a writer and cyclist, most often both at the same time. With thousands of miles under his belt and just as many words on paper, he combines his two great passions: being on the move and telling stories.
Key findings
- Compactness and ease of use outweigh raw power.
- Bosch + utility (Tern Vektron) is the most sensible choice, while Brompton and GoCycle win on compactness, design, and riding feel.
- refurbished bikes refurbished particularly appealing when it comes to folding bikes: the folding points, small wheels, and connectors wear out faster, but they are also checked more carefully.
- The central question: bend because it is essential, or bend because it is convenient?
The real question to ask yourself
I deliberately phrase it in a very clear-cut way, because it halves the stress of choosing:
Fold because it's essential: train/subway, small living space, stairs.
→ You need something extremely compact and quick to fold.
Foldable for convenience: car, RV, boat, trailer, small shed.
→ The bike can be a little larger, as long as it remains comfortable to ride.
If you don't decide this from the outset, you often end up with a bike that, in theory, can do everything, but in practice is just too big for public transport and just too difficult to fold up often. Take a look at the folding electric bikes on Upway filter by weight and dimensions when the information is available: this will eliminate 80% of the bad options.
Still unsure? Read this article too.
What is rarely said explicitly: compactness vs. driving feel
An honest electric folding bike is always a compromise. You gain space, but you lose out on one or more of these points:
- Small wheels = amplified sensations: every bump in the asphalt is felt more quickly. The wheels, bearings, and brakes suddenly become much more important than on 28-inch wheels.
- Bend points = risk of play: this is not necessarily a problem, but on a refurbished bike, it is essential to check.
- Better handling = less compactness: the closer a bike's handling is to that of a "traditional" electric bike, the less compact it is when folded.
That's why focusing solely on the motor or range is a mistake. With a folding bike, maneuverability and folding logic are at least as important to your everyday satisfaction as the motor label.
The 5 Best Folding E-Bikes (2022–2026)
1. Brompton Electric P Line – the king of trains and public transport
Why is he on the list?
It is still the gold standard for those who fold very often. Ultra-compact, quick to fold, premium finish.
Highlights
The folded size and portability are the number one selling points. This is the bike you choose if you literally take your bike everywhere with you.
Weakness
The handling is quite lively and direct; not everyone appreciates this characteristic if comfort is their main priority. The battery solution is also less "integrated" than on some newer models.
To be verified as refurbished
Hinges (set), fasteners that do not close properly, cables and connectors around the battery and cockpit.
2. Brompton Electric G Line – a Brompton, but more like a “bike”
Why is he on the list?
For those who want Brompton's compactness but find the classic version too limited in terms of stability and versatility.
Highlights
A more stable and versatile character than the traditional Brompton experience.
Weakness
The compromise makes sense: more "bike" generally means less ultra-compactness than originally promised.
To be verified as refurbished
Folding and locking points, as well as brakes, rims, or discs (this model is designed for more intensive use, so wear and tear may be higher).
3. GoCycle G4 – the stylish folding bike that rides really well (with a strong ecosystem)
Why is he on the list?
This is the kind of folding bike that wins over even people who normally dislike folding bikes.
Highlights
Premium driving feel and finish; tech/app integration is consistent with the concept.
Weakness
Proprietary ecosystem. Everything goes through GoCycle: parts, updates, specific components. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but you have to accept this dependency.
To be verified as refurbished
Stability of the app and firmware, battery, charger, and contacts, paying particular attention to play, bearings, and brakes.
4. Tern Vektron S10 – Bosch reliability in a folding version
Why is he on the list?
This is the folding bike for those who want above all a practical electric bike and only fold it occasionally (trunk, shed, boat).
Highlights
The Bosch ecosystem inspires confidence: in practice, this means service logic and a solid network. It behaves like an "adult" electric bike with a folding option.
Weakness
Weight and maneuverability when carrying. This isn't the bike you want to ride up stairs every day.
To be verified as refurbished
Bosch diagnostics and updates (if available), condition of hinges, luggage rack, and any misalignment due to load.
5. MiRider One – the smart choice offering good value for money (vacations, cars, motorhomes)
Why is he on the list?
For those who want something compact without breaking the bank, the MiRider One is an attractive option.
Highlights
Relatively easy to handle and often very good value for money.
Weakness
Less "carry-on size" than Brompton; the small wheels remain a point of concern in terms of comfort and stability on poor road surfaces.
To be verified as refurbished
Play in the stem and folding points, condition of brakes, and actual battery range.
Practical guide: how to test it in 3 minutes
If you only do one test (or analyze one ad), do these three mini-tests:
- Stair test: carry it up one flight of stairs (or pretend to). Where do you hold it? Does it cut into your hands? Is it unbalanced?
- “Cold hands” test: fold and unfold it in 20–30 seconds, without taking excessive care. Just like a Tuesday morning at 8:12 a.m.
- Pavement test: 100 meters of poor asphalt or pavement. Listen to the noises, feel if the handlebars are searching for their trajectory, and observe the braking behavior.
My recommendation
If you fold your bike every day (train, stairs, office), I would choose the Brompton Electric P Line: it's the most consistent in terms of compactness and predictability. If you want more stability and a more "bike-like" ride, the Brompton Electric G Line is a better choice, with slightly less compactness as a trade-off.
If you prioritize utility and smooth operation, and folding is a bonus rather than a necessity, the Tern Vektron S10 is the best choice (the Bosch ecosystem makes all the difference in everyday use).
The GoCycle G4 is ideal for those who want a premium feel and technology, provided they accept a closed ecosystem.
The MiRider One is the smart choice for cars and vacations, as well as for short trips; however, it is not the most comfortable or stable on uneven surfaces.
refurbished bikes refurbished particularly relevant for folding bikes: the folding points, small wheels, and connectors are precisely the areas that cause problems later on. The additional layer of control, such as that offered by Upway, is a real advantage here.
To conclude
The best folding electric bike is neither "the most powerful" nor "the fastest." It's the one you continue to fold, carry, and handle without irritation, week after week.
FAQ
Which folding electric bike is best for trains and public transportation?
Brompton generally remains the benchmark, as compactness and portability are at the heart of the design. The P Line is the most compact option. However, be aware of the riding experience and daily battery management.
Is the Tern Vektron really a folding bike?
Yes, but with a different purpose. It is primarily a practical electric bike that can also be folded for storage or transport. Don't expect to happily carry it up and down stairs every day.
What are the most common mistakes people make when buying an electric folding bike?
People focus on the motor and battery, forgetting the reality of folding: speed, portability, noise on cobblestones, and actual compatibility with your train, trunk, or basement. With a folding bike, this isn't a minor detail—it's the main issue.
What should you pay particular attention to on a refurbished folding bike refurbished
Check the hinges and locking mechanisms, bearings (the small wheels quickly show signs of wear), and battery connectors/wiring.
Are small wheels always uncomfortable?
Not always, but they are less tolerant. Poor road surfaces, speed bumps, and tram tracks are more noticeable. The choice of tires tire pressure are therefore more important than one might think.