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SP26S Folding Bike
amazon.com
$304.98
Courtesy of Retailer” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wsUN.b6ZeOL.fktf5uqYHg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMjQy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_men_s_health_348/d902e8220d3ef5b0816a858cc2ff8ffd”/>
Shop Now
SP26S Folding Bike
amazon.com
$304.98
Courtesy of Retailer
How to Find the Best Folding Bike for You
Like traditional two-wheelers, folding bikes come in all shapes and sizes. While there is no one best folding bike to rule them all, there are a few basic things to consider when shopping for the best folding bike for you.
Wheel Size
As with traditional two-wheelers, wheel size matters. For folding bikes, the smaller the wheels, the more compact and portable the bike will be when folded. However, smaller wheels can also make riding over uneven terrain difficult or uncomfortable. The most common tire size for folding bikes is 20 inches, which provides a good balance of transportability and ride comfort. If you’re planning to take your new folding bike away from smooth city surfaces, consider a model with fat tires of at least three, ideally four, inches for a more comfy ride.
Weight
Although they’re more portable overall, folding bikes are often heavier than comparably sized two-wheelers. If you’ll need to transport your new bike over longer distances (into and out of an office building, for example) or live in a fifth-floor walk-up, you’ll want to ensure you can physically carry it.
Portability
Some folding bikes are more portable than others. If you’re especially size-conscious, consider the folded or collapsed dimensions of any bike you’re shopping for to ensure it’ll fit inside your closet, under your bed, in the trunk of your car, or in whatever compact space you need it to fit.
Electric or Non-electric
Consider whether you want an electric or non-electric model. In the U.S., electric folding bikes are classified as Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3. Class 1 bikes are designed with a motor (maximum 750 watts) that “pedal-assists” your riding up to 20 miles per hour. Class 3 bikes are often equipped with a 750-watt motor but enough juice to take you up to 28 miles per hour. Some of the best folding electric bikes are designed as hybrid models. They may be sold as a Class 2 e-bike, for example, but customers have the option of “unlocking” Class 3 features.
Budget
Folding bikes vary widely in price. If you’re shopping on a budget, know that you can find a decent model for a few hundred dollars. Midrange models can be had for under $800. For those looking to splurge, however, there are plenty of high-end, premium options for several thousand dollars. It all depends on what features you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend.
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Is It Worth Buying a Foldable Bike?
Folding bikes tend to prioritize being more portable than comfortable. That’s not to say folding bikes provide zero comfort. Most models feature smaller dimensions and smaller tires, which means they’re not going to be quite as cushy (especially on longer rides) as a full-sized two-wheeler. That said, a folding bike might be worth the trade-offs if you live in a small space, or storage is at a premium in your home.
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What Is the Disadvantage of a Folding Bike?
Again, folding bikes tend to be smaller overall. The main reason this matters is that the (usually) smaller tires mean they’re not as comfortable to ride over long distances, like on an extended commute to work. They’re much better suited for sidewalks and smooth city streets over, say, hardcore trail riding or even gravel paths. They’re also typically more expensive than traditional bicycles since the designs and frames are more complex, and you’re paying for the convenience of that added portability.
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Are Folding Bikes Hard to Pedal?
They’re not necessarily hard to pedal. But, due to their smaller dimensions and wheel size, they are usually harder to pedal and navigate than their full-sized counterparts. In our experience, it’s typically a matter of riding a new folding bike for a while to get used to the feel. Ultimately, however, it comes down to personal preference, so we recommend trying in-store before buying whenever possible.
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Read More on the Best Biking Equipment
Best Folding E-Bikes | Cheap E-Bikes | Best Bike Helmets | Best Air Bikes | Best Exercise Bikes | Best Cycling Shorts
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