If you're shopping for a new bike and you have concerns about bike storage space, or transporting a bike without it being disruptive, consider buying a folding bike. Folding bikes—which are also called folders—offer many of the same benefits as bikes with standard size wheels (26-inch for mountain bikes, and 700c for road bikes and hybrid bikes) and also have additional features that make them ideal for managing and storing in cramped quarters. If you want to pack a bike and take it with you on a road trip, or you have to manage lugging a bike up and down narrow stairs or into an elevator, consider buying a folding bike.
How can you narrow your search and still find a good deal on a folding bike? Like standard-sized mountain and road bikes, folding bikes can be expensive. The most expensive folders, like some models made by Brompton, can set you back more than $4,000. For those with a bike shopping budget that doesn’t include a lot of zeros, ACTIVE.com suggests the best budget folding bikes that offer many of the same features and benefits as more expensive models but without the additional drain on your bank account.
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The Best Budget Folding Bikes - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Budget Folding Bike: Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
- Best Budget Folding Electric Bike: Vivi Electric Bike
- Best Budget Folding Mountain Bike: 21-Speed Mountain Bike
- Best Budget Lightweight Folding Bike: Zizzo Forte Heavy-Duty Folding Bike
- Best Budget Folding Bike for Beginners: Zizzo Campo 20-inch Folding Bike
- Most Comfortable Budget Folding Bike: Gyroor Folding Electric Bike
Best Overall Budget Folding Bike - Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 35"H x 35"L x 15"W
- Weight: 33 lbs. (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 230 lbs.
- Wheel size: 20"
The Schwinn Hinge Adult Folding Bike is our pick for the best overall budget folding bike. This folder with 20-inch wheels fits most adults who stand between 4-foot-9 and 6-foot-2. The seven-speed bike allows for easy on and off with a step-through design and a folding joint secured by a quick release at the center of the aluminum frame. The seatpost and handlebars also feature a quick release and telescoping mechanisms to make folding and unfolding a simple, quick, and easy affair. Once collapsed and secured, you can carry the Schwinn Loop folding bike by the saddle; however, the heavy-gauge nylon bag that comes with it is an alternative for toting the 33-pound bike once you've reached your destination and folded it.
Other notable features include rear carrying rack, full fenders to keep you clean and dry while riding, and reliable brakes and gearing systems from component manufacturers Shimano and SRAM. The Schwinn Loop folding bike arrives mostly assembled and only requires minor adjustments. This bike rates well for reliability as an urban bike that can also handle light cargo.
What We Like
- Well-designed and well-manufactured for durability and reliability
- Small footprint when collapsed
- Full fenders and chain guard for clean commuting
What We Don't Like
- Steel fork adds weight to aluminum frame
- Folding/unfolding process could be more intuitive
BUY: Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
Best Budget Folding Electric Bike - Vivi Electric Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 34"H x 36"L x 10"W
- Weight: 60 lbs. (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 330 lbs.
- Wheel size: 26"
If your cycling route regularly includes some unpaved sectors, or you just want to arrive at your destination sweat free, the Vivi Electric bike is an excellent option. The Vivi Electric bike features a three-mode motor that can offer up to 500 watts’ boost. The 360Wh lithium-ion battery is removable for easy charging, and depending on a few factors, you could get up to 50 miles between charges. The throttle, motor, and battery status indicator are within easy reach on the adjustable handlebars. A reliable 21-speed Shimano drivetrain and powerful mechanical disc brakes provide efficient shifting and effective stopping when well maintained. The Vivi folds in half from the center of the frame, and a quick release lever makes the folding and unfolding process relatively simple. Some taller riders may need to adjust the saddle height to get the Vivi to completely fold into a closed position.
The full-size aluminum folding electric mountain bike is available in red, white with black, or white with blue and is meant for riders between 5-foot-3 and 6-foot-2. The Vivi has front and rear suspension to smooth the ride and improve traction when riding off road. At 60 pounds, it is not a lightweight folding bike; however, with full-size wheels and a battery-powered pedal-assist motor, the Vivi Electric bike may be the speediest folding bike option.
What We Like
- 3 electric operation modes with up to 500W boost
- Disc brakes for improved control
- Full suspension for a smoother ride
- Removable battery for easy charging
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- No battery overcharging-protection feature
- Small mudguards may not keep you completely clean and dry
BUY: Vivi Electric Bike
Best Budget Folding Mountain Bike - Xspec 26" 21-Speed Mountain Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 41”H x 32”L x 22”W
- Weight: 42.5 pounds (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 220 pounds
- Wheel size: 26”
Off-road riding aficionados will appreciate many features of the Xspec 26-inch 21-speed folding mountain bike including the front and rear suspension, knobby tires, and quality Shimano drivetrain in a budget-minded package. With full-size, 26-inch mountain bike wheels, riders between 4-foot-8 and 6-feet tall should be able to roll on- and off-road smoothly with ease.
The hinge at the junction of the top tube/down tube makes for straightforward folding. We just wish the shift and brake cables would be tidier when this bike was stowed. When folded, the 26-inch wheel bike takes up slightly more than half its fully extended size, which makes it a great choice for those who do not want to compromise the benefits of 26-inch wheels; for example, tire selection. Although the steel construction adds some weight, it's also a durable material, which is great when you want to toss the Xspec into the bed of a pickup or car trunk and not worry about damaging the frame.
What We Like
- Full-sized mountain bike wheels allow higher top speed
- Mechanical disc brakes offer improved stopping
- Front and rear suspension smooth ride and improve traction
What We Don't Like
- Steel frame may be prone to oxidation
- Flimsy pedals
BUY: Xspec 26" 21-Speed Mountain Bike
Best Budget Lightweight Folding Bike - Zizzo Forte Heavy-Duty Folding Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 42"H x 51"L x 21"W
- Weight: 28 lbs. (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 240 lbs.
- Wheel size: 20"
The Zizzo Forte Heavy-Duty folding bike ticks the boxes for portability. Taking up a relatively small amount of space when folded thanks to compact but effective 20-inch wheels, this bike also boasts a weight of about 28 pounds (claimed), which is less than half the weight of some other folding bikes. The Zizzo Forte's diminutive size makes it an excellent choice for those who have to manage going up and down stairs, or sharing an elevator, or cramped public transit spaces. This small and light folder is designed for those needing discrete storage without occupying a lot of space.
Shimano, a go-to brand for bicycle components, is known for high quality and reliability across its range of products. The Zizzo Forte is equipped with the workhorse Shimano Tourney rear derailleur and shifters. Other features include the relatively small footprint when folded, a rear carrying rack, full-wrap fenders, and a budget-friendly price tag. The one-size-fits-most aluminum frame should accommodate riders between 4-foot-11 and 6-foot-3 and is rated to carry up to 300 pounds.
What We Like
- Compact when folded means simple storage
- Shimano drivetrain for reliable shifting
- Available in three colors
What We Don't Like
- V-brakes lack stopping power in wet conditions
- Seat post and handlebars may slip if not cinched tight when unfolded
BUY: izzo Forte Heavy-Duty Folding Bike
Best Budget Folding Bike for Beginners - Zizzo Campo 20-inch Folding Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 27"H x 31"L x 13"W
- Weight: 29 lbs. (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 240 lbs.
- Wheel size: 20"
The Zizzo Campo 20-inch Folding Bike is very similar to the Zizzo Forte, with a few key differences. Both bikes fold to the same dimensions and both bikes are claimed to weigh nearly the same, but the beginner-focused Zizzo Campo is rated to carry 20 percent less combined rider and cargo than the Forte. The recommended maximum weight capacity of the Zizzo Campo folding bike is 240 pounds. Zizzo folding bikes are low-volume when folded, which makes them good choices for those who have saving space, easy portability, and carrying it discreetly at the top of their bike shopping checklists. The center joint features a magnetic retention system to keep the bike compact when properly folded. A quick-release lever locks the frame into place for riding. Although the Campo has mounting points that can accept a rear carrying rack, it does not come with a rack, unlike its heavy-duty sibling.
The Zizzo Campo is outfitted with a Shimano Tourney rear derailleur and shifters, which are superior to most gear components at the same price point. The saddle, also the same model outfitted on the Forte, should be adequate for most riders but could be swapped out if one has a preferred perch.
What We Like
- Relatively lightweight makes for easy carrying
- Small footprint when folded for discreet storage
- Shimano derailleur and shifters for reliable shifting
What We Don't Like
- Magnetic retention system may allow bike to unfold unexpectedly
- Does not include fenders or mudguards
BUY: Zizzo Campo 20-inch Folding Bike
Most Comfortable Budget Folding Bike - Gyroor Folding Electric Bike
SPECS
- Dimensions: 37"H x 43.3"L
- Weight: 43 lbs. (claimed)
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs.
- Wheel size: 14"
The Gyroor Folding Electric bike gets top marks for comfort, which is provided by a rear suspension system, wide 14-inch tires, and a supportive saddle that should be comfortable for most. This folder also features a 450-watt motor with three modes and a claimed range up to 25 miles. Motor and battery status are easily viewed and managed from modules on the handlebars. It should be noted that the battery and motor add weight to the Gyroor, and although this folder is small, it weighs about 43 pounds (claimed), which does not place it in the lightweight category.
The Gyroor C3 comes with mudguards that do not provide as much coverage as full fenders, but they provide ample shielding from dirt and water thrown from the relatively small wheels. This bike is equipped with a built-in lighting system to make it safer to see and be seen while riding in low light, mechanical disc brakes for powerful and effective stopping, and a folding mechanism that's unique among our picks for best budget folding bikes. The frame does not fold nor hinge, but the seatpost telescopes into the seat tube and the handlebar folds down and is stowed next to the front wheel.
Editor's note: As of December 2022, the Gyroor C3 folding bike model has been recalled as the battery pack can potentially ignite. Check for a 10S4P battery pack if you have this model. You can find more details on the manufacturer's website.
What We Like
- Motor adds up to 450W boost
- Rear suspension for comfortable ride
- Mudguards to prevent dirt and water splash
- Disc brakes for effective control
What We Don't Like
- Relatively small wheels limit top speed
- 5 hours to full battery charge
BUY: Gyroor Folding Electric Bike
What to Look for in a Folding Bike
If you're shopping for a folding bike, you'll want to keep in mind all of the tips and suggestions that apply to shopping for a standard bike, plus a few that are specific to folders. Bikes equipped with disc brakes are more powerful and offer better stopping in all weather conditions. The range and battery life claimed for e-bikes is always for a best-case scenario, and may not account for rider and cargo weight, terrain and road conditions, elevation gain, wind, and other factors that will impact a bike's range and time between battery charges.
Many folding bikes are one-size-fits all, made to accommodate most riders taller than 4-foot-10 and shorter than 6-foot-2. All folders have a maximum recommended weight. This rating is important for bikes that have a hinge in the center of the frame or other points where the bikes are meant to be sectioned. If you plan to haul any cargo, you'll want to keep within the recommended maximum weight, which also includes your bodyweight.
Footprint
One of the most important benefits of a folding bike is being able to collapse it into a relatively smaller footprint for convenient, non-riding travel and storage. When shopping for a folder, consider the bike dimensions when it is collapsed. A folder with standard size wheels will have a bigger footprint—requiring more space for storage or extra care and handling if you’re lugging it onto a crowded subway commuter car—than a folder with small wheels. Some folding bikes can be substantially reduced in size through origami-like folds, while others can be only partially folded, requiring less time and work.
Features
Some of the distinctive features of folders are unique to this type of bicycle. Clamps and fasteners that offer simple, speedy, accurate, and reliable folding and unfolding are at the top of the list. Also, mudguards or fenders on bikes that are used for commuting. A rear and/or front cargo rack to help haul your stuff is also on the list of nice-to-have features. Folders with pedal-assist motors require batteries that need to be recharged, and a modular battery pack that can be removed from the bike simplifies charging. Bikes with internal battery packs that cannot be removed should have easily accessed charging ports with seals that are effective at preventing dirt and moisture ingress.
Weight
How much should a budget folding bike weigh? It depends. As a reference point, one of the lightest folding bikes available weighs just 15 pounds, which is less than many top-end race bikes. Generally, the more cash you hand over for a folder, the less it will weigh. The exceptions are folders with battery-powered pedal-assist motors, which add weight. Also, consider materials: Folders fabricated from aluminum may weigh less than identical bikes made of steel. What’s more, folding bikes with smaller wheels, fewer gears, and narrower handlebars will weigh less than bikes with full-size components.
Benefits of a Folding Bike
When shopping for a folding bike, you’ll want to keep sight of why a folding bike may be advantageous. Many of the benefits of a folding bike are directly proportional to the features offered, and most center around the packability, storability, and small footprint when folded. If you live in a walk-up apartment or home with limited storage space, work in an office environment that does not provide a lot of room for a full-size bike, or need to discreetly bring a bike onto public transit, a folder with small wheels may be best for you. A folder with standard size wheels will allow for faster top speeds but comes with the trade-off of being slightly more cumbersome to tote around.
FAQs About Budget Folding Bikes
Are budget folding bikes worth it?
If you have limited storage space or a multi-mode commute—like riding to or from a train station or a bus stop—that would be complicated by a full-size bicycle, or if you live and/or work in an environment with limited options for safely and effectively storing a full-size bike and have a limited amount of money for this purchase, then a budget folding bike may be worth it. Folding bikes in the budget category will have lower-tier components that will weigh more and may require more maintenance compared to higher quality parts that are lighter but more expensive.
Are folding bikes slower than normal bikes?
Many folding bikes have 20-inch or smaller wheels, which are not as fast as 26-inch mountain bike wheels or 700c road bike wheels. In an effort to keep the overall weight of a folding bike relatively low, many models have fewer gears than a standard bike, which also limits top speed compared to a standard or normal bike gearing.
Are folding bikes hard to carry?
Many folding bikes collapse or fold in a way that allows them to be carried by the saddle, which can be used as a handle. Some folding bikes come with a carrying bag, which may make it easy. Some models of folding bikes are equipped with small, caster wheels that allow you to wheel a folding bike to and from storage once folded. When shopping for a folding bike, consider the overall bike weight. A 60-pound folding bike will be more challenging to carry up or down stairs than a 29-pound model. Also, folders with 14-inch wheels may be easier to carry than models with larger wheels. In addition, note the folded dimensions, and whether any part of the bicycle protrudes and could snag on something or someone when being carried.
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