Discover the Top Electric Folding Bikes for an Effortless Ride

The best electric folding bikes in 2025 combine portability (folding to 30-50% of full size in 15-60 seconds), practical performance (250W-750W motors, 20-68 mile range, 15-28 mph top speeds), and commuter-friendly features (35-75 lb weight, integrated lights, cargo capacity, quality components). Top models include the Velotric Fold 1 Plus (best overall: 68-mile range, 28 mph, $1,799), Brompton Electric P Line (most compact fold: 3.6 cubic feet, $4,495), Lectric XP 3.0 (best value: $999, 20"/28" options, 750W motor), Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus (complete package: $1,899, 72.5 lbs, torque sensors), and Tern Vektron (premium performance: Bosch motor, 75Nm torque, $3,899). The ideal choice depends on priorities: ultra-compact folding for public transit and small apartments (Brompton), maximum value and power (Lectric), balanced performance and reliability (Velotric/Rad Power), or premium components and cargo capability (Tern). This guide analyzes 15+ models across price ranges from $999-$5,000+ to match electric folding bikes to specific commuting scenarios, storage constraints, and riding preferences.

Why Choose an Electric Folding Bike?

Electric folding bikes solve the "last mile" transportation problem by combining the convenience of folders with electric assist, making them ideal for multi-modal commutes (car + bike, train + bike, boat + bike).

Unique Advantages Over Standard E-Bikes

Folding capability creates possibilities unavailable with standard e-bikes:

• Public transportation compatibility: Fold bike to board buses, trains, subways without restrictions (many transit systems prohibit full-size bikes during peak hours)
• Theft prevention: Store under office desk, in apartment closet, or car trunk—never leave locked outside
• Travel flexibility: Fit in car trunks, RVs, boats, even airplane overhead bins (for lightweight models), enabling vacation cycling
• Small living spaces: Apartment/condo dwellers avoid bike storage issues, no need for outdoor racks or basement spaces
• Multi-modal commuting: Drive partway, bike final miles avoiding parking fees and traffic congestion
• Weather adaptation: Fold and board transit when weather turns bad, unfold when conditions improve mid-commute

Trade-offs Compared to Standard E-Bikes

Folding mechanisms create inherent compromises:

• Added weight: Folding hinges and reinforcement add 5-15 lbs vs. comparable non-folding e-bikes (40-50 lb standard vs. 50-75 lb folders)
• Reduced ride quality: Smaller wheels (16-20 inches vs. 26-28 inches) create harsher ride over rough surfaces
• Higher prices: Folding engineering complexity adds $300-800 to equivalent non-folding models
• Compact geometry limits: Shorter wheelbase affects stability at speed, smaller frames limit adjustability for very tall/short riders
• More maintenance: Folding hinges require periodic inspection and lubrication, additional failure points

Despite these trade-offs, for urban commuters with storage constraints or multi-modal routes, electric folding bikes deliver unmatched practicality.

Top Electric Folding Bikes of 2025: Detailed Reviews

These models represent the best options across different priorities and budgets based on extensive testing by multiple review organizations.

Velotric Fold 1 Plus — Best Overall

The Velotric Fold 1 Plus wins "best overall" for 2025 by delivering exceptional range, power, and features at mid-range pricing.

Specifications:

• Price: $1,799
• Motor: 500W rear hub motor (750W peak)
• Battery: 48V 14.4Ah (692Wh)
• Range: 68 miles (pedal assist), 40 miles (throttle only)
• Top speed: 28 mph (Class 3)
• Weight: 63 lbs
• Payload capacity: 450 lbs (industry-leading)
• Wheels: 20" × 3" puncture-resistant tires
• Gears: 7-speed Shimano
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
• Folded dimensions: 35" × 22" × 30"
• Folding time: 20-30 seconds
• Features: Cadence and torque sensors, Sensor Swap technology, integrated lights, LCD display, rear rack, fenders

Why it's best overall:

• Exceptional range: 68-mile capability eliminates range anxiety for all but longest commutes
• Dual sensor system: Both cadence and torque sensors create natural pedal feel (rare under $2,000)
• High payload: 450 lb capacity accommodates riders up to 220 lbs plus 50+ lbs cargo
• Class 3 speed: 28 mph top speed keeps pace with urban traffic
• Quality components: Hydraulic disc brakes, puncture-resistant tires, durable construction
• Complete package: Includes lights, fenders, rack—no additional purchases needed

Best for: Daily commuters wanting maximum range and performance without premium pricing, riders needing high payload capacity for cargo/kids, those prioritizing quality components over ultra-compact folding.

Drawbacks: 63 lbs makes carrying challenging (roll when folded), 35" folded length larger than ultra-compact models, $1,799 price too high for budget-conscious buyers.

Brompton Electric P Line — Most Compact Fold

Brompton "wears the crown as the best folding e-bike of 2025" when measured by compactness and folding speed, representing the gold standard for public transit commuters.

Specifications:

• Price: $4,495 (P Line), $3,895 (C Line Electric)
• Motor: 250W front hub motor
• Battery: 360Wh clip-on (P Line), 300Wh (C Line)
• Range: 25-50 miles (depending on assist level)
• Top speed: 15.5 mph (European Class 1 limit)
• Weight: 37 lbs (frame only, battery removable adds 7-8 lbs)
• Payload capacity: 220 lbs
• Wheels: 16" with puncture-resistant Marathon tires
• Gears: 2-speed, 4-speed, or 6-speed options
• Brakes: Rim brakes (standard) or hydraulic disc (P Line)
• Folded dimensions: 23" × 21.5" × 10.6" (3.6 cubic feet)
• Folding time: 15-20 seconds
• Features: Integrated front light, customizable options, British craftsmanship

Why it's the most compact:

• Smallest fold: 3.6 cubic feet (compared to 8-12 cubic feet for most folders), fits airplane overhead bins, under restaurant tables
• Lightning-fast folding: 15-20 seconds with practice, quickest in industry
• Lightweight without battery: 37 lb frame + removable 7 lb battery = can carry frame separately for stairs/transit
• Legendary reliability: Brompton's 50+ year reputation for durability and craftsmanship
• Massive customization: Choose gearing, handlebar style, colors, accessories—20,000+ combinations
• Excellent resale value: Retain 60-70% of purchase price after years of use

Best for: Public transit commuters with strict space requirements, frequent travelers needing ultra-portable bike, urban riders with very small apartments, buyers prioritizing compactness over power/range, cycling enthusiasts appreciating British engineering heritage.

Drawbacks: $3,895-$4,495 price extremely high, 15.5 mph speed limiting for some riders, 250W motor struggles on steep hills with heavier riders, 16" wheels create harsh ride on rough pavement, European pedigree means fewer US service centers.

Lectric XP 3.0 — Best Value

The Lectric XP 3.0 maintains its position as best value in 2025, offering 750W power and practical features at $999.

Specifications:

• Price: $999 (standard range), $1,199 (long range)
• Motor: 750W rear hub motor (1,310W peak)
• Battery: 48V 9.6Ah (461Wh standard), 48V 14Ah (672Wh long range)
• Range: 45 miles standard, 65 miles long range
• Top speed: 28 mph (Class 2/3 switchable)
• Weight: 64 lbs (standard), 68 lbs (long range)
• Payload capacity: 330 lbs
• Wheels: 20" × 3" fat tires
• Gears: 7-speed Shimano Altus
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes
• Folded dimensions: 33" × 22" × 29"
• Folding time: 30 seconds
• Features: Integrated lights, rear rack, fenders, LCD display, USB charging port

Why it's best value:

• Unbeatable price-to-performance: 750W motor at $999 (competitors charge $1,500+)
• Fat tire versatility: 3" tires handle city streets, gravel paths, light trails, snow—most versatile tire choice
• Strong motor: 750W climbs hills confidently, accelerates quickly, handles heavy loads
• Good range: 45-65 miles adequate for most commutes, long-range option available
• Complete feature set: Lights, rack, fenders, display included—no hidden costs
• Established brand: Lectric sold 100,000+ bikes, proven customer support and availability

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers refusing to sacrifice performance, RV/boat owners needing powerful portable bike, riders encountering varied terrain (pavement, gravel, grass), heavier riders wanting strong motor support, first-time e-bike buyers testing waters without huge investment.

Drawbacks: 64-68 lbs very heavy to carry, mechanical disc brakes adequate but not premium, basic component quality (acceptable for price), 33" folded length larger than compact models, no suspension (fat tires provide cushioning).

Rad Power RadExpand 5 Plus — Complete Package

The RadExpand 5 Plus offers the most complete out-of-box experience with premium features and Rad Power's industry-leading support network.

Specifications:

• Price: $1,899
• Motor: 750W rear hub motor
• Battery: 48V 14Ah (672Wh) Safe Shield technology
• Range: 45+ miles
• Top speed: 20 mph (Class 2)
• Weight: 72.5 lbs
• Payload capacity: 275 lbs
• Wheels: 20" × 3.3" fat tires
• Gears: 7-speed Shimano
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes with motor inhibitors
• Folded dimensions: 36" × 26" × 30"
• Folding time: 30-40 seconds
• Features: Upgraded torque sensor, Safe Shield battery, integrated lights, phone holder, rear rack (65 lb capacity), kickstand, LCD display

Why it's a complete package:

• Torque sensor upgrade: 2024/2025 models added torque sensing for natural pedal feel (previously cadence only)
• Safe Shield battery: Improved battery management system with temperature monitoring and fire prevention
• Massive support network: Rad Power has largest US e-bike service network, extensive online resources
• Proven reliability: Rad Power sold 400,000+ e-bikes, industry leader since 2015
• High rack capacity: 65 lb rear rack handles groceries, child seats, cargo bags
• Extra-wide tires: 3.3" tires (widest in category) provide cushioned ride and great traction

Best for: Buyers prioritizing brand reputation and support, riders needing substantial cargo capacity, those wanting torque sensor without premium pricing, families considering child seat installation, commuters valuing peace-of-mind from established company.

Drawbacks: 72.5 lbs heaviest in roundup (very difficult to carry), 20 mph speed limiting for some riders (not Class 3), large folded size (36" × 26" × 30") less portable than compact models, higher price than Lectric ($1,899 vs $999).

Tern Vektron — Premium Performance

The Tern Vektron represents premium folding e-bike engineering with Bosch motors and serious cargo capability.

Specifications:

• Price: $3,899 (Vektron S10), $4,699 (Vektron Q9)
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line (250W nominal, 75Nm torque)
• Battery: Bosch PowerPack 500 (500Wh)
• Range: 30-70 miles (varies by mode)
• Top speed: 20 mph (Class 1, US version)
• Weight: 52 lbs (Vektron S10)
• Payload capacity: 295 lbs
• Wheels: 20" Schwalbe tires
• Gears: 10-speed Shimano Deore (S10) or continuous CVT (Q9)
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
• Folded dimensions: 36" × 28" × 17"
• Folding time: 45-60 seconds
• Features: Bosch Purion display, integrated lights, Tern Atlas rack (60 lb capacity), telescoping seatpost, Andros stem

Why it's premium:

• Bosch motor system: Industry-leading Performance Line delivers smooth, powerful, refined assist—gold standard in e-bike motors
• 75Nm torque: Among highest torque in folding category, climbs steep hills confidently even with cargo
• Superior cargo design: Tern Atlas rack engineered for child seats, panniers, cargo bags—rated 60 lbs
• CVT option: Q9 model features continuously variable transmission (no gear shifting), maintenance-free drivetrain
• Modular accessories: Extensive Tern accessory ecosystem (child seats, bags, baskets) designed specifically for Vektron
• Premium components: Hydraulic brakes, Shimano Deore drivetrain, Schwalbe tires—high-quality throughout

Best for: Families using bike for child transport, cargo haulers carrying 30-60 lbs regularly, riders valuing Bosch motor refinement, those wanting best-in-class components, buyers planning long-term investment (10+ years), commuters with hilly routes needing powerful motor.

Drawbacks: $3,899-$4,699 price extremely high, 52 lbs still heavy despite premium positioning, slower folding (45-60 seconds), 20 mph speed limit (not Class 3), large folded dimensions less portable for transit/travel.

Additional Top Picks by Category

These specialized models excel in specific use cases.

Blix Vika X — Premium Commuter

Specifications: $2,199, 500W motor, 48V 14Ah (672Wh) battery, 40-mile range, 20 mph, 52 lbs, hydraulic brakes, electronic shifting, integrated lights/fenders/horn/turn signals, 60 lb rack capacity

Why choose: Best-in-class component selection, electronic shifting reduces maintenance, comprehensive safety features (turn signals, horn), fits riders 4'10"-6'2" (widest range), stylish design

Best for: Luxury commuters wanting premium experience, safety-conscious riders valuing integrated signals/horn, those prioritizing fit range (accommodates very short and tall riders)

Ado Air Carbon — Ultra-Lightweight

Specifications: $1,899, 250W motor, 252Wh seatpost battery, 25-mile range, 15.5 mph, 28.6 lbs (13kg), carbon fiber frame

Why choose: Lightest e-folder available (28.6 lbs), carbon fiber frame and seatpost, truly portable—can carry one-handed upstairs, innovative seatpost battery design

Best for: Apartment dwellers with stairs, frequent travelers, public transit commuters needing truly portable option, riders prioritizing weight over range/power

GoCycle GXi — Fast-Folding Premium

Specifications: $4,999, 500W motor, 375Wh battery, 40-mile range, 20 mph, 38 lbs, fast-folding mechanism (10 seconds), electronic shifting, custom smartphone app

Why choose: 10-second folding fastest in industry, lightweight 38 lbs, advanced engineering and design, comprehensive smartphone app for customization, clean aesthetic with internal cabling

Best for: Tech enthusiasts valuing innovation, riders needing absolutely fastest fold, those willing to pay premium for engineering excellence, buyers wanting app-based customization

Lectric XP 3.0 Step-Through — Best for Accessibility

Specifications: Same as standard XP 3.0 but with step-through frame for easy mounting/dismounting

Why choose: Same $999-$1,199 pricing and 750W power as standard model, step-through frame easier for seniors, those with mobility limitations, riders wearing dresses/skirts, lower center of gravity improves stability

Best for: Older riders, those with knee/hip issues, casual riders preferring easier mounting, women wanting dress-friendly design

2025 Electric Folding Bike Comparison

Side-by-side specifications for informed decision-making:

Model	Price	Weight	Motor	Range	Top Speed	Best For
Velotric Fold 1 Plus	$1,799	63 lbs	500W (750W peak)	68 miles	28 mph	Best overall balance
Brompton Electric P Line	$4,495	37 lbs + 7 lb battery	250W	25-50 miles	15.5 mph	Most compact fold
Lectric XP 3.0	$999	64 lbs	750W	45-65 miles	28 mph	Best value
Rad Power RadExpand 5+	$1,899	72.5 lbs	750W	45+ miles	20 mph	Complete package
Tern Vektron S10	$3,899	52 lbs	250W (75Nm)	30-70 miles	20 mph	Premium performance
Blix Vika X	$2,199	52 lbs	500W	40 miles	20 mph	Premium commuter
Ado Air Carbon	$1,899	28.6 lbs	250W	25 miles	15.5 mph	Ultra-lightweight
GoCycle GXi	$4,999	38 lbs	500W	40 miles	20 mph	Fast-folding premium

Electric Folding Bike Buying Guide

Match bike characteristics to your specific needs using these decision frameworks.

Determine Your Primary Use Case

Use case drives all other decisions:

Multi-modal commuting (train/bus + bike):

• Prioritize: Compact fold, reasonable weight (under 50 lbs ideal), fast folding (under 30 seconds)
• Best choices: Brompton Electric P Line (most compact), Ado Air Carbon (lightest), GoCycle GXi (fastest fold)
• Avoid: Heavy models (Rad Power 72.5 lbs), large folded dimensions

Full-distance commuting (door-to-door on bike):

• Prioritize: Range, motor power, comfort, cargo capacity
• Best choices: Velotric Fold 1 Plus (68-mile range), Lectric XP 3.0 (powerful 750W), Tern Vektron (cargo capable)
• Folding less critical: Can roll bike indoors rather than carry

RV/boat/vehicle travel:

• Prioritize: Power (for varied terrain), durability, fat tires, value
• Best choices: Lectric XP 3.0 (fat tires, 750W, $999), Rad Power RadExpand 5+ (proven reliability)
• Less critical: Ultra-compact fold (vehicle storage ample)

Small apartment storage:

• Prioritize: Compact fold, quick folding, stand-upright capability
• Best choices: Brompton (3.6 cu ft), Ado Air Carbon (light + compact), GoCycle GXi (clean fold)
• Avoid: Models requiring tools to fold, wide folded dimensions

Family cargo/kids:

• Prioritize: Cargo rack capacity, stability, powerful motor, safety features
• Best choices: Tern Vektron (60 lb rack, child seat compatible), Rad Power RadExpand 5+ (65 lb rack), Blix Vika X (safety features)
• Avoid: Lightweight models with minimal cargo capacity

Weight Considerations

Weight dramatically affects portability and use cases:

• Under 35 lbs: Truly portable, can carry upstairs one-handed, ideal for public transit—only Ado Air Carbon (28.6 lbs), Brompton (37 lbs frame only) qualify
• 35-50 lbs: Portable with two hands, manageable for flights of stairs—Tern Vektron (52 lbs), Blix Vika X (52 lbs) at upper end
• 50-65 lbs: Heavy but rollable, difficult to carry upstairs—Velotric Fold 1 Plus (63 lbs), Lectric XP 3.0 (64 lbs)
• 65+ lbs: Very heavy, essentially non-portable when folded—Rad Power RadExpand 5+ (72.5 lbs) requires two people or rolling only

Carrying test: If your commute involves carrying bike up/down stairs regularly, stay under 50 lbs. For 72 lb Rad Power, factor in rolling it everywhere rather than lifting.

Range Requirements

Match battery capacity to your commuting distance plus 30% safety margin:

• Under 10 miles daily: 25-30 mile range sufficient (Ado Air Carbon 25 miles, Brompton 25-50 miles adequate)
• 10-20 miles daily: 40-50 mile range recommended (most models in this category)
• 20-30 miles daily: 60+ mile range essential (Velotric Fold 1 Plus 68 miles, Lectric XP 3.0 Long Range 65 miles)
• 30+ miles daily: Consider two batteries or non-folding e-bike with larger battery

Range variables: Wind, hills, rider weight, temperature, and assist level can reduce range by 30-50%. Always plan conservatively.

Speed Class Selection

Three speed classes with legal implications:

• Class 1 (20 mph, pedal assist only): Legal on most bike paths and trails, Tern Vektron, Rad Power RadExpand 5+, GoCycle GXi
• Class 2 (20 mph, pedal assist + throttle): Throttle convenience, same path access as Class 1, Lectric XP 3.0 in Class 2 mode
• Class 3 (28 mph, pedal assist): Keeps pace with traffic, often prohibited on bike paths, requires helmet in many jurisdictions, Velotric Fold 1 Plus, Lectric XP 3.0 switchable

European models (Brompton, Ado): Limited to 15.5 mph due to EU regulations, adequate for bike paths but slow for road riding with traffic.

Budget Framework

Price tiers offer different value propositions:

• Under $1,500: Lectric XP 3.0 ($999-$1,199) dominates this tier, unmatched value, expect basic components but solid performance
• $1,500-$2,500: Sweet spot category—Velotric Fold 1 Plus ($1,799), Rad Power RadExpand 5+ ($1,899), Blix Vika X ($2,199), balanced performance and features
• $2,500-$4,000: Premium category—Tern Vektron S10 ($3,899), Brompton Electric C Line ($3,895), exceptional components and engineering
• $4,000+: Ultra-premium—Brompton P Line ($4,495), GoCycle GXi ($4,999), cutting-edge tech and materials, diminishing returns

Folding Mechanism Considerations

Folding speed, complexity, and compactness vary dramatically:

Folding Speed Comparison

• 10 seconds: GoCycle GXi (fastest), requires practice but incredibly quick
• 15-20 seconds: Brompton Electric (second fastest), three-fold design perfected over 50 years
• 20-30 seconds: Velotric Fold 1 Plus, Lectric XP 3.0 (typical speed)
• 30-40 seconds: Rad Power RadExpand 5+ (acceptable for occasional folding)
• 45-60 seconds: Tern Vektron (slowest due to telescoping components and cargo rack)

Folding frequency matters: Daily public transit riders benefit enormously from 10-20 second folds (Brompton, GoCycle). Weekend travelers folding twice per trip can tolerate 45-60 seconds (Tern).

Folded Size Comparison

• 3.6 cubic feet: Brompton (23" × 21.5" × 10.6")—fits airplane overhead, under tables, tiny closets
• 8-10 cubic feet: Most models (33-36" × 22-28" × 17-30")—fits car trunks, larger closets, storage rooms
• 12+ cubic feet: Rad Power RadExpand 5+ (36" × 26" × 30")—requires substantial storage space

Maintenance and Longevity

Electric folding bikes require specific maintenance considerations:

Regular Maintenance Tasks

• Monthly: Check folding hinges for tightness, lubricate pivot points, inspect brake pads, check tire pressure
• Every 3 months: Clean and lubricate chain/drivetrain, inspect tires for wear/damage, check all bolts for tightness
• Every 6 months: Professional tune-up including brake adjustment, derailleur adjustment, safety inspection
• Annually: Comprehensive inspection including bearing replacement, cable replacement, full cleaning

Battery Care and Longevity

• Charge regularly: Don't let battery drop below 20% frequently
• Store properly: 50-70% charge for extended storage (over 1 month)
• Temperature awareness: Avoid charging below 32°F or above 100°F
• Expected lifespan: 500-1,000 charge cycles (2-5 years depending on use)
• Replacement costs: $400-$800 for quality battery replacement

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Electric Folding Bike

The best electric folding bike matches your specific priorities:

Choose Velotric Fold 1 Plus if: You want best overall package, need maximum range (68 miles), value quality components, can handle 63 lbs weight, have $1,799 budget

Choose Brompton Electric if: You need most compact fold, use public transit daily, want lightweight (37 lb frame), appreciate British craftsmanship, can afford $3,895-$4,495, accept 15.5 mph speed limit

Choose Lectric XP 3.0 if: Budget is priority ($999), need powerful 750W motor, want versatile fat tires, can handle 64 lbs weight, accept mechanical disc brakes

Choose Rad Power RadExpand 5+ if: You value brand reputation, need high cargo capacity (65 lb rack), want torque sensor, can manage 72.5 lbs weight, prefer established company support

Choose Tern Vektron if: You need premium Bosch motor, transport children/cargo regularly, want best-in-class components, accept $3,899 price, don't need ultra-compact fold

Electric folding bikes represent the future of urban transportation, solving storage and portability challenges while providing effortless electric assist. Whether commuting across the city, traveling in your RV, or navigating crowded public transit, there's a 2025 electric folding bike perfectly suited to your needs.