

If you climb stairs more often than you climb hills, opt for a singlespeed or a model with fewer gears. Super light models like the Zizzo Liberte are designed to fold for easier carrying and transport, and weigh much less than folding cargo bikes like the Tern GSD, which only allows the handlebar to fold down in order to help increase storage options.Ī folding bike's overall weight will typically decrease when it's composed of higher-quality parts and lighter frame materials, such as carbon fiber and titanium, but this also means the bike gets more expensive. The bikes included in this roundup range from 23 to 74 pounds. A model with a lot of versatility might even be suitable for more than one member of your family. Most folding bikes come “one size fits all” with lots of built-in adjustability.

Courtesy of Tern Size, Weight, and Folding Mechanism

Just because folding bikes are practical, it doesn’t mean they can’t be fun. From lightweight singlespeeds to cruisers to e-bikes, almost every kind of bike can be found in a folding version. There is a wide range of options, so consider your specific needs and prioritize your preferences. Cost depends on build quality, size, functionality, and additional features like electric assistance and cargo space. The bikes recommended below range from $300 to $5,400. The Expert: As a semi-regular bike commuter and former test editor, I’ve spent many hours hauling groceries, getting to work, and going on dates on electric and/or cargo folding bikes- I even raced a crit on a folding bike once.
