Best Folding Bikes
How to choose the right folding bike for your needs
Folding bikes solve real problems: train commutes, limited storage, multi-modal journeys, and travel. But with dozens of brands and models available, choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use it.
This guide covers the key factors that separate a good folding bike from the wrong one for your situation.
What matters when comparing folding bikes
Every folding bike involves trade-offs. The features that matter most depend on your specific use case.
- Fold size: Critical if you take trains during rush hour or store the bike in a small flat. Brompton folds to around 585 x 565 x 270mm. Larger-wheeled bikes fold bigger.
- Weight: Ranges from under 10kg to over 15kg. Lighter bikes are easier to carry but often cost more. Consider how far and how often you carry the bike.
- Wheel size: Affects ride quality, speed, and folded dimensions. See our 16 vs 20 inch comparison for details.
- Gearing: Single-speed suits flat cities. 3-speed hubs handle moderate hills. 6-8 speeds cover varied terrain. Our gearing guide explains the options.
- Price: Budget bikes (under £500) work for occasional use. Serious commuters should budget £800-1500. Premium options offer the best weight and component quality.
Folding bike brands worth considering
The UK market has several established brands, each with distinct strengths:
- Brompton: British-made, compact fold, strong resale value. The default choice for London commuters. See our Brompton M6L review.
- Tern: Larger wheels, solid build quality, good value. Popular with riders who prioritise ride comfort. See our Tern Link D8 review.
- Dahon: Wide range of price points, decent specifications. A sensible mid-range choice. See our Dahon Vybe review.
- Decathlon: Excellent value for money, especially the Tilt series. Good entry point for new riders. See our Decathlon Tilt 900 review.
- Fiido and ADO: Electric folding bikes at competitive prices. Worth considering if your commute involves hills or longer distances.
- Gocycle: Premium electric folders with distinctive design and fast folding.
Browse all options by brand: Brompton, Tern, Dahon, Decathlon.
Matching a folding bike to your use case
Different scenarios call for different priorities:
- Train commuters: Prioritise fold size and weight. See train-friendly folding bikes.
- Car boot storage: Focus on a quick, flat fold. See car boot folding bikes.
- Campervan and RV: Consider electric options for longer rides from camp. See campervan folding bikes.
- Small flat storage: The smallest fold wins. See folding bikes for small flats.
- Taller riders: Look for adjustable geometry and larger wheels. See folding bikes for tall riders.
For detailed advice, read our use case guides on train commuting, campervan use, and small apartment storage.
In-depth comparisons and reviews
We test folding bikes and compare them head-to-head to help you decide:
- Brompton vs Tern: Compact fold versus ride comfort
- Brompton vs Dahon: Premium versus value
- Folding bike vs electric scooter: Which suits your commute
- Lightest folding bikes: Options under 10kg
- Best folding bikes under £1000
Start comparing folding bikes
Use our reviews, comparisons, and collection pages to narrow down your options based on your budget, use case, and preferences.
Browse all folding bikes