Tern Eclipse X22 Folding Bike

The Tern Eclipse X22 is a folding bike built around a simple contradiction: it rides like a full-sized road bike but folds down in 10 seconds. This is possible because Tern has engineered it with 26-inch hand-built wheels and race-tuned geometry that feels familiar to anyone used to drop-bar riding, yet the frame folds compact enough to store indoors or carry onto trains and buses. For commuters and urban cyclists who want proper road-bike performance without being tied to leaving the bike locked outside, this is the appeal.

The specification list reads like a road bike more than a folder. You get a Shimano 105 drivetrain with 22 speeds and gear inches suitable for longer rides and varied terrain, paired with Shimano hydraulic disc brakes that offer genuine stopping power in wet weather and heavy traffic. The wheels use straight-pull Sapim spokes laced into Kinetix Pro X rims, and they're shod with Kojak road tyres that have puncture protection built in. The VRO handlebar stem lets you adjust your riding position to suit your body and the type of riding you're doing that day. Everything is finished in a stealth black SR-71 matte colour with red Syntace accents, and the hydroformed fork adds rigidity without weight.

What makes the Eclipse X22 different from most folding bikes is how it behaves when you're actually riding. The 26-inch wheels give you momentum and rolling speed that smaller-wheeled folders struggle to match, and the geometry keeps the bike stable enough for sustained speed on longer commutes. The hydraulic brakes inspire confidence in urban riding, and the wide gear range means you're not grinding up hills or spinning out on flat sections. The drawback is that a larger wheel and full-sized frame mean the folded package is bigger than ultra-compact folders, so it's a trade-off between portability and ride quality.

This bike is suited to riders who commute regular distances—five to fifteen kilometres is realistic—and need to combine cycling with public transport or office storage. The fold and theft protection matter here, but so does having a bike that doesn't feel compromised the moment you start pedalling. Urban cyclists and weekend commuters who want speed and comfort without sacrificing the ability to carry their bike up stairs will find the Eclipse X22 delivers on both fronts. It's a used example in good working condition, so viewing photos and visiting for collection is essential to check the frame and components before deciding.