lightweight folding ebike

Best lightweight Folding Electric Bike

Finding the perfect lightweight folding electric bike can be a game-changer for commuters, travelers, or anyone short on storage space. This article will help you discover the best models that balance portability, performance, and ease of use. Whether you’re looking for something compact to fit in your apartment or a foldable bike to carry on public transportation, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the top lightweight e-bikes to make your daily commute or adventure easier.

Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 PLUS Lightweight Foldable E-Bike

swagtron eb5 pro plus

Specifications

  • Motor Power: 250W
  • Top Speed: 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
  • Battery: 36V Lithium-ion (Removable)
  • Range: Up to 15.5 miles per charge
  • Charging Time: 4-5 hours
  • Weight: 37 lbs (16.8 kg)
  • Wheel Size: 14-inch air-filled tires
  • Max Load Capacity: 264.5 lbs (120 kg)

One of the standout features of the Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 PLUS is its impressively lightweight design. Weighing just 37 pounds, this e-bike is perfect for anyone seeking a compact and portable solution. Whether you’re living in a small apartment or constantly on the go, the EB-5 PLUS can be folded down to a manageable size, making it easy to store or carry with you. Its foldable frame means that it’s not just for commuting it’s great for RVers, boaters, or even people who need to carry their bikes upstairs.

The Swagcycle EB-5 PLUS features a five-speed drivetrain and 14-inch wheels, designed to deliver a smooth ride despite its smaller size. Powered by a 281Wh battery and a 250W motor, it can reach speeds of up to 15 mph. While the range is about 15 miles, an optional spare battery can extend that for longer trips. This makes it ideal for quick city commutes, neighborhood rides, or short errands.

Although we haven’t tested it ourselves, this model’s combination of affordability, portability, and functionality makes it a popular choice. Its affordable price has even dropped recently, making it one of the most budget-friendly options in the folding electric bike market. The lightweight, foldable, and compact nature of the Swagcycle EB-5 PLUS makes it a versatile solution for riders looking for convenience without compromising on features.

Perfect for commuters, travelers, and urban dwellers alike, this e-bike delivers both practicality and performance.

Qualisports Volador 20 Folding Electric Bike: A Lightweight Solution

Specifications

  • Motor Power: 350W geared hub motor
  • Top Speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)
  • Battery: 36V 7Ah LG lithium-ion (removable seat post battery)
  • Range: Up to 31 miles (50 km) with pedal assist
  • Charging Time: 3.5 hours
  • Weight: 41.2 lbs (18.7 kg) with battery
  • Wheel Size: 20 inches x 1.95 inches
  • Frame: 6061 Aluminum alloy mid-step folding frame

The Qualisports Volador 20 sets itself apart with its ultra-lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 36 pounds making it one of the lightest folding electric bikes on the market. This makes it an ideal choice for commuters who need a portable and easy-to-carry e-bike, especially for those who regularly navigate public transportation or tight spaces like small apartments or offices.

Equipped with 20-inch wheels and a 350W motor, the Volador balances power and portability. While it’s not the fastest bike out there, its modest speed and functionality are more than enough for urban rides and short commutes. The seven-speed gearing gives riders the flexibility to tackle slight inclines or adjust to city streets without any fuss. Its quick-release levers further add to its convenience, allowing riders to quickly fold and unfold the bike within seconds.

The Volador is particularly popular among pilots and frequent travelers due to its compact size and easy storage. You can easily stash it in the trunk of a car, under a desk, or even in a small plane living up to its reputation for being a go-anywhere, lightweight option. While it may not be the choice for those seeking high-speed thrills or advanced features, it’s perfect for riders who value convenience, portability, and simplicity in a compact electric bike.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, foldable e-bike that makes navigating subways, buses, or even planes easier, the Qualisports Volador 20 is worth considering.

Tern Vektron S10 Gen 3: The Folding E-Bike That Doesn’t Compromise on Performance

Specifications

  • Motor: Bosch Performance Line, providing up to 65 Nm of torque
  • Battery: Bosch PowerPack 400Wh (range of up to 62 miles or 100 km)
  • Top Speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)
  • Weight: 48.5 lbs (22 kg)
  • Wheel Size: 20 inches
  • Gears: Shimano Deore 10-speed
  • Brakes: Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes
  • Folding Mechanism: Features the OCL+ frame joint, designed for strength and smooth folding
  • Max Load Capacity: Up to 275 lbs (125 kg) for the rider

The Tern Vektron S10 Gen 3 is a game-changer in the world of folding electric bikes, delivering performance and stability that rival full-sized models. What sets this e-bike apart is its ultra-responsive Bosch Performance Line motor, providing 65 Nm of torque, powered by a 400Wh Bosch PowerPack. The motor delivers smooth pedal assistance up to 20 mph, making this Class 1 e-bike perfect for commutes, errands, and even light cargo transport. The compact, folding design doesn’t sacrifice stability or ride quality, which is rare for foldable bikes.

At just under 48.5 pounds, the Vektron S10 may not be the lightest option out there, but its folding mechanism and high-quality build make it ideal for riders who need a portable bike without sacrificing performance. Unlike many folding e-bikes that suffer from wobbly frames or handlebar posts, the Vektron S10 offers a solid, balanced ride, even on hilly terrain or rough roads. This makes it perfect for urban dwellers who need a bike that folds compactly yet feels like a full-sized e-bike when riding.

The Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain ensures smooth shifting, while Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, even during high-speed descents. These high-quality components make the Vektron S10 not only practical but also a joy to ride, whether you’re commuting or running errands.

Designed for those with limited storage space but unwilling to compromise on performance, the Tern Vektron S10 delivers top-tier handling, convenience, and power in a compact, foldable package. This e-bike is the ideal solution for professionals and city commuters who need both portability and reliability.

Fiido D3 Pro Mini Electric Bike: The Perfect Compact Ride

Specifications

  • Motor: 250W brushless geared motor
  • Battery: 36V, 280.8Wh lithium-ion
  • Top Speed: 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
  • Range: 37.2 miles (pedal assist), 15.5 miles (throttle)
  • Charging Time: 5 hours
  • Weight: 38.6 lbs (17.5 kg)
  • Wheel Size: 14 inches (14×2.125 CST tires)
  • Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes (front and rear)

Let me tell you, I’m really impressed with the Fiido D3 Pro Mini Electric Bike. This little guy is probably the most compact e-bike I’ve come across that I would use in the real world. Weighing just 38.6 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight and easy to handle. Unlike most electric bikes that are bulky and tough to carry, the Fiido D3 Pro makes commuting and navigating urban areas so much easier especially if you need to lug it up some stairs or into a cramped office space.

Now, technically, it’s not a full-on folding bike, but you can still compact it down by lowering the seat post, folding the pedals, and the handlebars. This makes it super portable and great for throwing into your car trunk or tucking away at home. The bike is sturdy despite its lightweight aluminum alloy frame, and trust me, it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy when you’re riding it.

For taller riders (like me, at 6 feet), you might worry about how you’ll look riding a smaller e-bike. But surprisingly, it doesn’t feel awkward at all. The bike is designed for riders between 5 feet and 6.5 feet, and it can handle a generous load up to 265 pounds. It’s not built for speed, maxing out around 16 mph, but the 250W motor and three levels of pedal assist make for smooth and efficient rides perfect for city commutes or casual weekend adventures.

In short, the Fiido D3 Pro is a fantastic lightweight option for anyone needing a compact, portable e-bike without sacrificing quality or performance. It’s ideal for first-time e-bike buyers or anyone looking for a manageable ride in tight urban spaces.

Gocycle G4 Mini: A Premium Lightweight Folding E-Bike with Formula 1 Inspiration

Specifications

  • Motor: G4drive™ front hub motor, 500W (US) / 250W (EU), with traction control
  • Battery: 36V 10.4Ah lithium-ion, offering approximately 375Wh capacity
  • Range: Up to 40 miles (65 km) depending on pedal input
  • Charging Time: 3.5 hours
  • Weight: 37.2 lbs (16.9 kg)
  • Frame: Hydroformed aluminum front frame, carbon fiber mid-frame, and magnesium Cleandrive™ system
  • Wheel Size: MotoGP-inspired 20-inch wheels, infused with silica for superior grip
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Display: Micro-LED fuel gauge and speed indicator on the handlebar

The Gocycle G4 Mini truly lives up to the hype as one of the most lightweight and portable folding e-bikes available today. Weighing in at just under 38 pounds (17.8 kg), it’s designed to be compact without sacrificing performance. Whether you’re commuting to work, navigating tight urban spaces, or simply needing an e-bike that’s easy to store in small apartments or car trunks, the G4 is an ideal choice.

What sets this e-bike apart from many others is its Formula 1-inspired design. The founder’s background with McLaren is evident in the single-sided front fork and carbon fiber components, making it sleek and structurally sound. The G4 Mini boasts proprietary 20-inch wheels and a 250W front hub motor (500W in the U.S.), which delivers a smooth, quiet ride even on busy city streets.

For quick adjustments, the G4 folds down easily with just a few clicks and is ready to go. The hydraulic disc brakes and predictive electronic gear shifting ensure precise control, while the removable 10.4Ah lithium battery offers a range of up to 40 miles per charge, perfect for longer commutes or weekend outings. Charging takes about 3.5 hours, so it’s easy to top off between rides.

With its folding design, lightweight build, and attention to detail, the Gocycle G4 Mini delivers a premium riding experience. Though it’s pricier, it’s an excellent investment for riders who need performance, portability, and cutting-edge features in one sleek package.

VALK Shuttle 5 Electric Folding Bike Gen II: Your Lightweight Commuting Companion

Specifications

  • Motor Power: 250W rear hub motor
  • Battery: 36V 7.8Ah removable lithium-ion battery
  • Range: Up to 40 km (25 miles) per charge
  • Top Speed: 25 km/h (15.5 mph)
  • Weight: 20 kg (44 lbs)
  • Wheel Size: 20 inches
  • Frame: 6061 Aluminum Alloy
  • Brakes: Front and rear disc brakes (mechanical)
  • Gears: Shimano Tourney 7-speed derailleur with RevoShift

If you’re looking for a lightweight folding e-bike that packs both practicality and power, the VALK Shuttle 5 Gen II could be just what you need. Weighing in at around 22 kg (48 lbs), this e-bike strikes the perfect balance between portability and functionality, making it ideal for those tight on space or frequently on the go. Whether you’re navigating city streets or squeezing into small storage areas, the Shuttle 5 folds easily for seamless transportation.

Powered by a 250W rear hub motor and a 36V 10Ah battery, the Shuttle 5 offers pedal assistance to help you cruise at speeds up to 25 km/h. You’ll appreciate the responsive motor, especially when tackling light inclines or fighting through headwinds. The five levels of pedal assist allow you to control how much help you need, making it adaptable for both flat city rides and slightly more challenging terrain.

The 20-inch wheels and sturdy aluminum frame provide a smooth and stable ride, even on rougher paths, while the front suspension adds some comfort, though you may feel the bumps a bit more due to the lack of rear suspension. That said, this e-bike is designed for urban commutes and light recreational use, so it’s perfectly suited for paved roads and bike paths.

Overall, the VALK Shuttle 5 Gen II is an affordable, lightweight folding e-bike that’s perfect for commuters who want portability without sacrificing performance. At under $1,200, it’s a practical choice for anyone needing a reliable and compact ride.

XP Lite 2.0 Lectric: Affordable and Lightweight Folding E-Bike for Everyday Use

Specifications

  • Motor: 300W rear hub motor (819W peak), delivering 28Nm of torque with Stealth M24 technology, making it 400% quieter than average e-bikes.
  • Battery: 48V lithium-ion, available in Standard (7.8Ah) or Long-Range (14Ah) options.
  • The range is up to 45 miles with the Standard battery and up to 80 miles with the Long-Range upgrade.
  • Weight: 49 lbs, making it highly portable for a folding e-bike.
  • Top Speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)
  • Wheel Size: 20 x 2.5 inches, equipped with puncture-resistant tires with a reflective strip.
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors for reliable stopping power.

If you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight folding e-bike, the XP Lite 2.0 from Lectric is a top contender. At just 47.5 pounds, this bike folds down effortlessly, making it perfect for city dwellers or commuters who need a compact and easy-to-store option. Whether you’re catching the subway, storing it at work, or tucking it into a small apartment, the XP Lite 2.0 is designed for convenience.

One of the standout features is the price at $799, it’s hard to find another folding e-bike with this level of quality and features. You get hydraulic disc brakes, which are typically reserved for more expensive models, and a 300W rear hub motor that provides smooth, quiet power. The motor is responsive enough to handle city hills, though it’s not a speed demon. It tops out at 20 mph, which is more than adequate for daily commuting and leisure rides.

Folding the XP Lite 2.0 is a breeze, with a smooth hinge mechanism that doesn’t feel stiff or clunky. When folded, the bike measures 36 by 16 by 27 inches, making it easy to stash in tight spaces. The single-speed drivetrain and 20-inch tires make it a straightforward, no-frills ride perfect for casual riders who want reliability without unnecessary complexity.

Overall, the XP Lite 2.0 is an excellent balance of value, portability, and performance, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a lightweight folding e-bike on a budget.

Comparison table for the e-bikes, with a special focus on compactness and lightweight features:

E-Bike ModelWeightMotor PowerBatteryWheel SizeFolding MechanismCompactness (Folded Dimensions)Notable Features
Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 PLUS37 lbs (16.8 kg)250W281Wh14 inchesFull frame foldsCompact, easy to carry upstairs, fits small spacesLightweight, low price, ideal for RVers and boaters
Qualisports Volador 2036 lbs (16.3 kg)350W36V, 7Ah20 inchesFull frame foldsCompact, fits in trunks and small apartmentsLightweight, suitable for commuters, quick-release levers
XP Lite 2.0 Lectric47.5 lbs (21.5 kg)300W36V, 7.8Ah (upgradeable)20 inchesFull frame folds36 x 16 x 27 inchesBudget-friendly, hydraulic brakes, color display, smooth folding
Fiido D3 Pro Mini38.6 lbs (17.5 kg)250W36V, 7.8Ah14 inchesHandlebars and pedals foldCompact, easy to store, lightweightCompact for urban use, no full suspension, ideal for short commutes
Gocycle G4 Mini38 lbs (17.8 kg)250W (EU), 500W (US)36V, 10.4Ah20 inchesFull frame foldsVery compact, easily portableFormula 1-inspired design, carbon fiber parts, smooth folding
Pedal Dynamo Plus Mini~40 lbs (18 kg)250W36V, 7Ah16 inchesFull frame foldsCompact, medium portabilityAffordable, simple, best for short city commutes
VALK Shuttle 5 Gen II48 lbs (22 kg)250W36V, 10Ah20 inchesFull frame foldsMedium compact, slightly heavierFront suspension, good range for price
Tern Vektron S10 Gen 348.5 lbs (22 kg)Bosch 250W400Wh Bosch PowerPack20 inchesFull frame foldsAffordable, simple, and best for short city commutesBosch Performance Line motor, excellent for commuting, solid build

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