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Over the last few years, folding bikes have become an established, respected category of the greater bicycle market. Although these bikes have been manufactured for over a century, they are only now achieving mass-market appeal as more eco- and health-conscious consumers are turning to cycle as a better way to recreate, run errands, and commute. This exponential growth in popularity has resulted in better and more folding bike models, making them an option worth considering.
Folding bikes are a great solution for many commuters. They are ideal for people who have limited storage space at home or those who want to avoid traffic jams while going into the office.
Even if you do not have a garage or a bike room at work, you can easily tuck your folding bike under the desk. So which model will be suitable for you? Let’s find out!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Lightweight Folding Bikes
- OUR TOP PICK: EuroMini ZiZZO Campo Folding-Bicycles
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: IDS unYOUsual Folding Bike
- BEST LIGHTWEIGHT FOLDING ELECTRIC BIKE: Jetson Bolt Full Throttle Folding Electric Bicycle
Comparison of the Best Lightweight Folding Bikes
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What Makes a Great Lightweight Foldable Bike?
A foldable bike is convenient, a bundle of fun, and a cycling problem-solver all packed into one small package. Following are some features that you should look for in a bike:
Compactness
A folding bike makes the commute easier as it can be folded and taken onto public transportation. It is also more secure as you can carry it into your office and not worry about it being stolen. Be certain to choose a model that you can easily carry up the stairs or take on the bus or subway.
Right Size
A lot of these models tend to be smaller, which can be a problem for people who are tall or heavy. Make sure you know the limitations of your chosen model before buying it.
Easy to Fold and Unfold
Some bikes come with just a couple of things that need to be adjusted before you can fold them up, while others have seven or eight things that you have to adjust before folding it.
Good-Quality Shocks
Many of the bikes available do not have good shocks. Research carefully before purchasing a bike because if it hurts to use the bike, the chances are that you will never take it anywhere with you.
What Are the Components of Lightweight Foldable Bikes?
Daily cycling can bring about a positive change in your life. Following is a list of components that help to make a good quality folding bike:
Frame
There are a number of options available when it comes to the frame material. Some manufacturers specialize in steel. They use high-quality brazing techniques to deliver a strong yet light folding bike. Others use aluminum as it provides a perfect balance between resilience and weight.
Some high-end models are carbon-framed, making them very lightweight. However, they are more prone to damage as compared to aluminum.
Folding Components
A folding bike needs the right components balanced perfectly with the ideal weight. Bikes with components that promote day-to-day convenience and ease of maintenance are preferred by commuters as they save time and effort.
Dahon Mariner 20" Folding Bicycle
Tires
Tires that provide a good level of puncture protection are often high on the list of bikers as they do not want to waste their time fixing flats. Tires that are two-inch wide deliver exceptional grip and ensure biker safety.
Gears
The number of gears on different bikes differ as they are designed for various terrains. Single-speed bikes are ideal for flat city streets as they cut down on overall weight and maintenance. However, bikes that have multiple gears are perfect for riding hilly terrain.
Brakes
Disc brakes provide greater control and stopping power, particularly in wet weather. These brakes can be found on folding bikes, although they are heavier and more expensive.
Fenders
When you cycle to your office, you want to ensure that your clothes are not spoiled by chain grease and road spray. For this purpose, fenders and chain guards are a useful addition. Integrated lights, frame-mounted pump, and provision for luggage are some other accessories that can come in handy.
Review of the Best Light Foldable Bikes
Everybody finds foldable bikes very convenient and practical; however, buying the best can be quite challenging. There are various brands available, with each one boasting top-quality construction.
However, not all models can deliver a satisfying riding experience. After a lot of consideration, we have chosen the following bikes that are sure to be some of the best models out there.
Best Overall:
EuroMini ZiZZO Campo Folding-Bicycles
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are pleasantly surprised by the quality and build of this bike. They also love the fact that it comes almost assembled and takes very little space in their car trunk. It rides very light on bumps and provides bikers with a smooth overall ride experience. Recent buyers highly recommend this bike to people looking for a lightweight, durable option.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The best thing about this folding bike is that you do not need the instructions that come with this unit as it comes almost fully assembled. It has a sleek and simple design that keeps it very lightweight at 28.5 lbs. The aluminum frame is light but durable, and it can be easily folded in minutes, thus making it easier to store it in a compact location or to carry it around when you are not riding it.
The EuroMini ZiZZO also features an adjustable alloy stem that makes it easier to be adjusted to your height. Its large tires, easy-to-use grip style shifters, and seven-speed choices make it relatively easy to ride on inclined slopes and rough terrains. Moreover, it allows bikers to enjoy a faster ride when they are on a flat road.
Bottom Line
The EuroMini ZiZZO Campo is a lightweight folding bike that is suitable for everyone. Outfitted with high-quality components and featuring sturdy construction, this bike is perfect for bike trails as well as the everyday commute. Its excellent all-terrain performance, contemporary style, and durable body are features that every cyclist will appreciate.
Best for the Money:
IDS unYousual Folding Bike
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What Recent Buyers Report
If you want a lightweight folding bike that you can easily assemble, many recent buyers recommend the IDS unYOUsual folding bike. It is sturdy, stable, and fits easily into their car, which they find very convenient. This bike has been purchased by many older people recently, and they found it very easy to assemble.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The IDS unYOUsual folding is a great option for all your cycling adventures. It folds easily to fit in your car trunk or under your desk. This lightweight bike weighs only 34 lbs, which makes it convenient to carry it on the subway. Moreover, it requires minimal assembly out of the box, thus making it a perfect option for people who do not have much technical know-how.
We are also pretty impressed with its excellent construction. It is designed with Shimano’s six-speed shifter that allows it to travel on rough terrain without any difficulty. The V-brakes ensure biker safety while the adjustable handlebar height delivers complete comfort.
Bottom Line
Featuring Shimano six-speed shifter and derailleur and 20-inch wheels, the IDS unYOUsual provides an efficient and durable ride that is comfortable for any terrain. Its assembly requires few simple actions, and it folds easily to save space. Its numerous features and excellent performance ensure a relaxing riding experience for all.
Best Lightweight Folding Electric Bike:
Jetson Bolt Full Throttle Folding Electric Bicycle
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What Recent Buyers Report
This folding electric bike runs pretty fast on flat ground and is able to clock up to 17mph, according to recent buyers. Moreover, the charge lasts a very long time, which buyers find very convenient. Buyers also find the collapsible handlebars very convenient as it allows them to store these bikes easily in their car trunks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With an impressive torque and 14-inch wheels, the Jetson Bolt folding bike can speed up quickly and can travel up to 15 miles. Its handlebars are fitted with various gadgets such as a cruise control button, battery meter, on/off switch, twist throttle, and horn, which all combine to provide users with better control and maneuverability.
This electric bike comes with LED lighting on the front and rear, which are built-in over the frame. It is very lightweight, with a total weight of 34 lbs. However, it can easily carry weights up to 250 lbs. In addition, it is designed with a 250-watt motor that makes it perfect for running errands, commuting, or leisure rides.
Bottom Line
Whether you are taking a leisurely cruise around the town or commuting to work, the Jetson Bolt electric bike is a smart and stylish option. It's easy to carry and store while its aluminum alloy frame ensures durability. Moreover, it is equipped with a lithium-ion battery and a 250-watt motor that takes about five hours to charge.
Editor's Pick:
EuroMini ZiZZO Via 27lb Folding Bike
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found the form, function, and fit of these bikes truly outstanding. They did not need to make any adjustments to gears and brakes. Moreover, the instruction manual comes with very clear instructions on folding and unfolding, which buyers find very helpful. This is a well-thought-out design that makes folding and unfolding the bike very easy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike has been designed with a number of unique features, which makes this one of the best options available. The best feature which we find truly awesome is the magnetic widgets that hold the two halves of this bike together. These magnets provide just the right amount of force, thus keeping it folded while moving it around. Moreover, they are easy to separate once you are ready to ride.
The EuroMini ZiZZO Via is designed with a collapsable, adjustable, and telescopic handlebar, which makes this bike suitable for riders of different heights. Moreover, this handlebar can be rotated to adjust to your preferred hand position while riding.
Bottom Line
All in all, this bike is perfect for the rider who is looking for the best of both worlds - an outstanding bike at an affordable price. Its seven speeds ensure that it is ready for any terrain, while the Kenda 1.95 all-terrain tires and V-style brakes provide you with the utmost confidence on the road. The EuroMini ZiZZO Via also features front and rear fenders that make it the perfect bike for all seasons.
5. Dahon Mariner 20" Folding Bicycle
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What Recent Buyers Report
This bike is far more superior in quality and performance as compared to previous bikes owned by recent buyers. They also state that it folds much smaller and neater than their previous models. Moreover, it is fast, and the shifting is effortless. It is very lightweight and takes up very little space, which enables buyers to take this bike with them on their vehicle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Dahon Mariner is inspired by seafaring bikers who find it hard to store their bikes on the limited space on their boat. Moreover, its portability is also perfect for urban users. This folding bike is designed with proprietary frame material Dalloy Sonus which makes this bike more responsive to the road, thus providing bikers with a better riding experience.
Thanks to this aluminum-based alloy, these bikes are also very lightweight. Another feature of this bike, which we find pretty impressive, is that it is designed with eight gears. This higher gear count provides bikers with more versatility when they are out riding terrain with different degrees of steepness. As a result, they can ride faster on flat land and can easily pedal up steep hills.
Bottom Line
Dahon has gained the reputation of one of the world’s leading folding bike manufacturers, and their products have become very popular in recent years. Although it is hard to go wrong with any of their models, this Mariner folding bike is an exceptional unit in terms of quality of components, rideability, and ease of use.
How Do I Choose a Lightweight Folding Bike?
Choosing the right folding bike can be quite difficult. However, by keeping the following qualities in mind, you can make this process easier:
Ease of Use
The main factor in deciding whether a particular folding bike is worth the investment is how easily it folds and unfolds. Most of these models are designed with their own particular learning curves, but the best are those that take only minutes to unfurl or stow.
Ride Quality
With an unconventional shape comes the possibility of unconventional ride quality. However, it should not be so. Although the ride experience would be slightly different as compared to traditional bikes, it should not be so different that it may feel like learning a whole new hobby.
Jetson Bolt Full Throttle Folding Electric Bicycle
Portable
A folding bike should be easy to stow and carry and not be cumbersome like a normal bike. It should be able to fold in a way that will enhance its portability. It is also an important consideration whether it needs dedicated garage space, can slide into a closet, or can sit in the hallway without making it difficult for you to move around.
Build Quality
Excellent build quality is vital in a folding bike as continuous folding and unfolding present a different kind of wear and tear that is not typically associated with bicycles. Each hinge and joint of the bike should be able to withstand thousands of folds and unfolds without showing much sign of degradation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Lightweight Folding Bike
Before buying a foldable bike, it is best to weigh its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of a Lightweight Folding Bike
The advantages of having a foldable bike far outnumber its disadvantages. These include:
Takes the Hassle Out of Your Commute
Whether you commute by car, train, or foot, your daily commute will become much faster and more enjoyable with a lightweight folding bike. If you live close to the train station, you can just hop on to your bike, ride to the station, fold it up, and carry it onto the train. It takes minimal space, which eliminates the need to worry about storage, paying any extra fees, or making sure that you are in the bike carriage on the train.
Saves Time
Folding bikes can help cut down on commuting time by making it easier to take your car part of the way, parking it, and then grabbing your bike to finish the remaining trip through congested traffic. This setting can prove ideal for more than just a work commute. You can have an enjoyable bike ride without having to attach bike racks to your car.
Easy to Store
Whether it’s the office, gym, or your home, these bikes fold up so small that you will hardly notice them. You can place them under your desk or pop them in a large locker, or if you are at home, you can just fold it up and keep it handy in the hallway or a cupboard. These bikes take up very little space as compared to traditional ones, which makes them perfect for most homes.
Jetson Bolt Full Throttle Folding Electric Bicycle
Disadvantages of a Lightweight Folding Bike
Folding bikes have the following disadvantage:
Small Wheel Size
The biggest drawback of a folding bike is its small wheel size. This can make these bikes quite sensitive to road bumps and imperfections. Moreover, small wheels can be less stable on quick turns, particularly at slow speeds.
Types of Lightweight Folding Bikes
The various types of folding bikes can be classified into the following categories:
Folding Mechanism
Not all bikes are constructed by following the same folding mechanism. The three most common types are:
Half/Mid Folding
These bikes are designed with a hinge that allows bikers to fold it mid-way horizontally. This hinge is typically operated with a quick-release mechanism, thus making it possible to fold the bike quickly.
Vertical Folding
In this type of bike, the hinge is midway on the bike, but the frame folds vertically. This is the most compact bike type as the seat post, and the handlebar also has quick-release hinges.
Triangle Hinge
These bikes allow the rear wheel and the rear triangle to be folded under the main tube. However, these bikes are not very common.
Electric Bikes
Electric bikes are the future of cycling. These types are designed with battery-powered electric motors that propel you forward, all or part of the time. They are non-polluting, quiet, and make cycling a whole lot more fun. Electric bikes can also be divided into three groups:
Pedal-assist
Similar to conventional bikes, these electric bikes need you to pedal in order to use the motor.
Throttle only
These bikes are designed with a motor that is controlled by a throttle. In these bikes, you do not need to pedal.
Pedal-assist 28mph
These are the fastest e-bikes with a maximum speed of 28mph.
Conclusion
Folding bikes have come a long way since their inception, which is why many people have become increasingly keen on them. With features like no extra parking requirement, the capacity to fold easily, and low maintenance, these lightweight folding bikes have become an excellent option for urban cyclists as well as long-distance travelers.
However, before you buy a particular model, make sure that you read the above reviews and other information regarding these exceptional means of transport so that you can choose a model that is perfect for you.
People Also Ask
There are many features to keep in mind when choosing a folding bike. Make sure that you look closely at all the options available before selecting one. The following are some of the commonly asked questions about foldable bikes. Answers to these will make it easier to choose a model that will make riding fun and convenient:
How Much Does a Lightweight Folding Bike Weigh?
olding bikes are designed to be lightweight and can be carried easily. Typically they weigh between 6.9 kg to 12.5 kgs.
How Much Does a Lightweight Folding Bike Cost?
You can find a lightweight folding bike to suit every budget. There are models that cost as low as $239, while the high-end units can cost up to $4,500.
Can You Carry a Lightweight Folding Bike in a Backpack?
A large number of folding bikes come with their carry case, which can come in quite handy while traveling. However, after years of development, bike designers have also created an electric bike that is only 17 inches tall when folded and can be easily stored in a normal backpack.
What is the Weight Limit on a Lightweight Folding Bike?
Lightweight folding bikes are quite durable and sturdy. They can accommodate a weight of up to 300 lbs.
