Best electric folding bikes 2025: which one is right for you?
The right electric folding bike depends on your daily commute, your budget and how often you need to ride it. We compare three leading models according to the criteria that really count: weight, range and price.
Written by : Hanna Stevens | 3 november 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes
More about the author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is an avid cyclist who loves exploring new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire others to get on their bikes more often.
Key findings
Can't decide between Brompton and Tern? Read our article: Tern vs Brompton: which electric folding bike is right for you?
How do you choose the right folding bike?
- Do you have to carry it every day? Above 20 kg, it becomes difficult without an elevator. The Gocycle weighs 5 kg less than the Tern - and you can feel it after just one week.
- How many kilometers do you cover per day? A 400 Wh battery = about 3 to 4 days of 15 km journeys without recharging. In winter? Take off 15 to 20% because of the cold.
- Does your route include slopes? With 65 Nm of torque (Tern), you can climb a bridge without getting out of the saddle. With 35 Nm, you have to pedal harder.
Comparison of the three best electric folding bikes
| Model | Weight | Battery / Autonomy | Couple | Price new | refurbished |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brompton Electric | 16.7 kg | 300 Wh / 32-72 km | Front motor | 3 200 - 3 800 € | from €1,900 |
| Gocycle G4 | 17.1 kg | 300 Wh / up to 65 km | Front motor | 3 500 - 4 200 € | from €2,200 |
| Tern Vektron S10 | 22.1 kg | 500 Wh / up to 100 km | Bosch 65 Nm | 2 800 - 3 400 € | from €1,700 |
Brompton Electric C Line
The Brompton becomes so compact it fits under a desk. With its 16-inch wheels, you feel the irregularities of the road more - but you soon get used to them. Folds in 15 seconds: perfect if your train leaves in two minutes.
Choose it if: you take public transport every day and compactness is your top priority.
Please note: beyond 30 km per day, the small battery will require more frequent recharging. And the price remains high for the features on offer.
Gocycle G4
At 17.1 kg, it's the lightest of our selection. The quick-fold mechanism is intuitive and the finish top-of-the-range. Impossible to go unnoticed.
To choose if: weight is your number 1 criterion and you travel up to 20 km a day.
Please note: more limited range than models with larger batteries. 25 km daily commute in a headwind? You may find yourself running out of power.
Tern Vektron S10
The workhorse of folding bikes. The 65 Nm Bosch central motor climbs hills effortlessly. With its 500 Wh battery, you can ride all week without recharging.
Choose if you travel more than 20 km a day, have uneven terrain or want to avoid frequent recharging.
Please note: at 22 kg, this is not a bike that's easy to ride up four flights of stairs. Folded, it's still bulkier, fits in the train, but takes up more space.
Curious about other models? Check out our article on our favorite models from previous years.
Understanding the technical features of an electric folding bike
Wheel size :
- 16-inch: ultra-compact, but less comfortable on uneven surfaces
- 20-inch: a good balance between comfort and compactness
Torque (Nm) :
- 35 Nm: sufficient for flat terrain
- 65 Nm: ideal for slopes and additional loads
Autonomy :
Depends on wind, temperature, weight and assistance mode. A typical 15 km trip consumes around 20-25% of a 400 Wh battery.
How much does an electric folding bike cost?
- Entry-level (€700 - €1,300): basic brands, small batteries, heavy weight
- Mid-range (€1,300 - €2,800): good balance, reliable engines
- High-end (€2,800 - €4,500+): Brompton, Gocycle, Tern - premium quality and warranty
See also our other affordable electric bikes.
Why refurbished is smart
A refurbished Brompton at €1,900 is the same bike as a new one at €3,200:
- Complete 20-point inspection by specialists
- 1-year warranty on motor, battery and electronics
- Already tested in real-life conditions: small initial defects are corrected
- Savings of €800 to €1,500 (enough to buy anti-theft device, bag and rain gear)
At Upway, all reconditioned bikes receive new parts if necessary. And because they've already been used, you know they'll stand up to everyday use.
Practical checklist for electric folding bikes
Don't forget
- In winter: range is reduced by 15-20% due to the cold. Keep the battery warm.
- Wheels: small wheels (16") offer different behavior on cobblestones - get used to them.
- Weight: even 17 kg is heavy; test first if you don't have an elevator.
Conclusion: your best choice
- Budget < €2,000: opt for a Brompton (from €1,900) or a refurbished Tern (from €1,700)
- Daily train + light commute: Brompton Electric - compact and ultra-fast to fold
- Priority weight: Gocycle G4 - the lightest, but with reduced range
- Long journeys (> 20 km/day) or slopes : Tern Vektron S10 - more power, bigger battery
Start with a refurbished model: same quality, lower price, and you'll know if the folding is right for you. Most users keep it afterwards - because it simply works.
FAQ
How much weight can an electric folding bike support?
In general, between 100 and 120 kg in total (rider + luggage).
Brompton: 110 kg
Tern Vektron: 105 kg + child seat option
What to choose: 16" or 20" wheels?
16″ = ultra-compact, ideal for train and office (Brompton)
20″ = more stable and comfortable on long journeys (Tern, Gocycle)
How long does it take to fold a folding electric bike?
On average 10 to 20 seconds:
Brompton : ~15 s
Tern: ~20 s
Gocycle: fast thanks to its magnetic locking system
What maintenance does an electric folding bike require?
Lubricate hinges monthly, keep battery dry, carry out annual e-bike inspection.
Belt (Gocycle) = less maintenance than a chain.
When should you choose a central motor?
For slopes, longer trips or carrying luggage.
In flat cities or with combined train/bike use, a front engine is lighter and often more affordable.