Folding bikes aren’t cheap. The price tag goes even higher when you add an electric motor for an extra push. Budget will probably be the biggest limiting factor when it comes to buying an electric folding bicycle. However, there are various other factors that you need to consider to ensure that you get the best folding electric bike for your particular needs and preferences.
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Table of Contents
The lighter the bike, the better
Most people who opt for a folding bike have limited space. They are often people who live in small apartments in the middle of large cities. If this describes you, then there is a good chance that you will have to carry your bike a lot. Whether it is up several flights of stairs or just into the bus or subway, it makes sense to choose a bike that you can easily carry.
Most traditional folding bikes are about 20 pounds in weight. Add a battery pack and electric motor and this weight increases by several pounds. Be sure to check the total weight of the bike and determine whether you can comfortably carry this load.
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A stable frame
In many cases, in order to have a very light frame, manufacturers will compromise on stability. As you search for the lightest possible bike you can get, be sure that stability won’t be an issue. You’ll need to find the right balance of stability and weight.
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Dimensions when folded
Limited storage space is one of the most common driving forces for people looking into purchasing electronic folding bikes. However, just because a bike can fold doesn’t mean that it will fit in the available space.
Check the dimensions of the bike when folded. It shouldn’t be too bulky or unwieldy for the space you have available. This would defeat the purpose of having a folding bike in the first place.
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What and where you will use it
Your needs and preferences should be central in narrowing down your choices. You should consider what you will use the bike for, and how often you will use it. For example, if you live in a hilly area, you may consider a bike with a sturdier frame and multiple gears. You may also need more power in your bike for that climb. If you’re only commuting within the city on smooth roads, you can do with a single gear and lower power.
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Weight and height restrictions
Many folding bikes come with height and weight restrictions. This is because of the construction of the bike. The geometry is trickier and the wheels are often smaller. You also have to ensure that the bike has enough power to shift the total weight put on it. This is both for safety and comfort. For example, if you searched for mens electric bikes for sale, you will most likely come across larger bikes with more power.
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Ease of folding
The whole point of having a folding bike is that you can store it away quickly and easily. However, not all folding mechanisms will be easy for you to manage. It’s therefore important to ensure that you can handle the folding and storage easily. You would have to handle the bike physically before you can determine this.
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Take it for a test ride
This brings us to the final point. You can’t make a decision about any particular bike without first experiencing what it is like to ride it. Take the bike of your choice out for a test ride. You may also want to try other models and compare your experience. Only then can you make a conclusive decision.
Folding bikes are practical, fun and convenient. Apply the tips above to ensure that you get the best value for your money.