The Best Folding Electric Bikes for 2024
As the electric bike movement continues to gain momentum in the UK, it's no surprise that numerous brands, both established and emerging, are now venturing into the world of folding eBikes.
Folding electric bikes offer a safe, convenient, and practical way to get from point A to point B. Whether you're traveling a short distance from your local tube or train station, dealing with limited storage space at home or work, or planning adventures worldwide with the need for a portable electric companion, a folding eBike is the ideal solution.
At Fully Charged, our team of eBike specialists and technicians has rigorously tested a range of major folding eBike brands, including Gocycle, Tern, Carrera, Furo, Raleigh, and the Electric Brompton. Our focus is on curating the finest products in the world. Instead of offering a vast array of folding eBikes, we aim to provide a selection that not only offers immense enjoyment but also lasting quality. From traditional icons reinventing themselves to cutting-edge carbon-fiber-infused lightweight models and fold-ups featuring the renowned Bosch eBike System, here are our top four folding eBikes for 2024, offering the most compact, easily transportable, and enjoyable rides in this category:
Gocycle G4i
Enter the world of folding mastery with the Gocycle G4i. As the UK's leading electric bike specialist, we've tested a wide range of folding electric bikes, and the Gocycle G4i stands out as a top performer.
The Gocycle was born in a London flat in 2009 and has since made a significant impact on the electric bike industry with successive generations of improvements on an already acclaimed product. The Gocycle, despite its compact appearance, provides the familiar touchpoints of a standard bicycle, offering an upright riding experience.
Weighing in at 16.6kg, the G4i is lightweight for an eBike, thanks to a carbon-fiber front fork and midframe. It folds within 10 seconds, and its standout feature is the new G4drive™ electric motor, which delivers more power and operates silently. With enhanced lower-end torque, it offers better acceleration, making it ideal for uphill climbs and traffic light starts.
The G4i is part of the Gocycle Generation 4 range and features electronic predictive shifting, fully integrated cabling, a daytime running light, and a 375Wh battery discreetly fitted in the downtube, providing up to 50 miles of electric assistance.
The G4i represents the future of cycling, offering the aesthetics of a full-sized eBike within a compact frame.
£3999.00
ORDER THE GOCYCLE G4i
Tern Vektron S10 Gen 3
The Tern Vektron is a standout in this category as the only premium folding electric bike offering extreme comfort, powerful performance, and an extended range of up to 80 miles, thanks to the Bosch eBike System.
Reliability is a key consideration when choosing an electric bike, and the Tern Vektron S10 delivers on that front. With the Generation 3 Performance Line motor replacing the Active Line motor in the 2021 model, you get 300% pedal assistance and 65Nm of torque. The Vektron S10 features a 400Wh Bosch PowerPack, the largest battery capacity among our selected fold-up models.
With a Shimano Deore ten-speed derailleur gearing system, the Vektron S10 is well-equipped for hill climbs. It can carry up to 27kg on its rear rack, making it versatile for both urban and rural use.
At 22.65kg, the Vektron is slightly heavier due to the Bosch eBike System, but it remains reasonably compact with 20" wheels. When folded, it can stand either horizontally or vertically on provided pegs.
The Tern Vektron S10 is an excellent choice for those seeking a folding eBike for extended journeys on various terrains.
£3,700.00
ORDER THE TERN VEKTRON S10 GEN 3
Brompton E-Bike M6L - 6 Speed
Brompton, an internationally acclaimed brand, known for its iconic folding bicycle, has introduced a battery-assisted model to its lineup. The M6L - 6 Speed retains the charm of the traditional Brompton design while offering battery power and nimble performance.
With a 16" wheelbase and an M-Type handlebar for an upright riding position, the M6L features a full range of 6 gears suitable for urban commuting. The hub motor is fitted into the front wheel, and the 36V battery pack sits exposed under the handlebars, like a front pannier. This placement can create a slightly imbalanced handling dynamic, particularly over bumps.
Weighing in at 18.31kg, the Brompton Electric M6L offers the convenience of folding, allowing you to charge and store it indoors. While it may take some getting used to the narrow handlebar and small wheels, Brompton's reputation for quality and innovation speaks for itself.
Currently, we do not stock the Brompton at Fully Charged, as we believe there are more comfortable options available. However, we keep an eye on their advancements in the eBike space.
£3215.00
VIEW THE BROMPTON ELECTRIC
Furo X Max
The most affordable of the four folding electric bikes featured, the Furo X Max has gained popularity in London as a lightweight option tailored for urban living.
Weighing just 15kg, the Furo X Max is the lightest among these models, thanks to its carbon-fiber frame. Equipped with 20" all-terrain tires, it offers added comfort on the road.
The Furo X Max features a 9-speed Shimano gearing system, a 375Wh battery, and a BAFANG rear hub motor. While it lacks the fast-folding mechanism of the Gocycle G4 range or the Electric Brompton, it provides good value for money.
At this price point, some compromises are made in terms of construction, build quality, and the overall riding experience compared to the Gocycle G4 or the Tern Vektron S10 Gen 3. However, Furo is a brand to watch for potential premium offerings in the future.
£1799.00
