Packed small, practical and always and everywhere with you when you need it - the folding bike is the "nipper" on two wheels. And even if the compact minis do not yet unfold at the touch of a button, they are ideal companions for short journeys or as a supplement on public transport. They are the trump card when storage space is at a premium, for example in the car, on a sailing boat, in a motorhome - or even in a city flat.
But how practical are the e-folding bikes really? Apart from the fact that the bikes can be folded into more or less manageable packages, our test reveals clear differences in terms of equipment and suitability for everyday use. This is literally noticeable when it comes to weight, as the folded packages need to be carried. Heaving a folding bike weighing more than 20 kilograms into a tram or car boot requires some effort. Only two of the test bikes weigh less than 20 kilograms, the heaviest even weighs more than 25 kilograms - which is about as much as a full-size touring pedelec.
We have tested these folding pedelecs:
- BBF Monaco
- Falter E 5.1
- Flyer Pluto 3.01
- QWIC Compact FN7
- Tern Vektron (E-BIKE test winner)
Heavy is light what
Of course, the battery and motor weigh a lot, but it would be possible to save weight on the drive: Folding bikes are primarily used for short distances, for which they do not actually need a large and heavy battery. The motor also raises the system question with regard to the intended use: hub motors are not as intuitive to ride and as sensitively controlled as centre motors, but they are lighter. However, the test field also provides the acid test: despite the front hub motor, the Qwic is the heaviest in the comparison, but this is mainly due to the heavy frame and suspension fork.
This shows how, in addition to the drive, the rest of the equipment also affects the weight. This requires potential folding bike buyers to make fundamental decisions. Hydraulic rim brakes such as Magura's HS11 or disc brakes are heavier than V-brakes, but they brake better and are safer over the long term. On the other hand, V-brakes are acceptable on lightweight pedelecs as long as they are well maintained and precisely adjusted. The best compromise between safety, freedom from maintenance and low weight in this test is achieved by the Falter E 5.1; with hydraulic rim brakes, gear hub, pannier rack and mudguards, it remains under 18 kilos. Only the BBF Monaco is even lighter, but you have to do without mudguards, pannier rack and lighting system. The Tern Vektron offers the best equipment with the Bosch Active motor and Deore disc brakes from Shimano.
Securely locked
It is pleasing to note that all folding pedelecs are designed to be very torsion-resistant and stable to ride. Secure and sufficiently dimensioned folding hinges fix the frames firmly and stably. All hinges are fitted with safety devices to prevent unintentional opening, and almost all of them engage automatically. The folding mechanism works in the same way on all pedelecs. A hinge in the centre of the central frame tube divides the frame into two roughly equal halves so that the front and rear wheels are next to each other. The handlebar mast is folded down using a second hinge. With a little practice, this takes less than a minute.
As the bikes are only available in one frame size, the seat post and handlebar mast or stem should be adjustable over as wide a range as possible. However, the handlebar height cannot be adjusted at all on the Falter, and the Tern offers very little adjustment range for the handlebars.
The riding characteristics of the pedelecs are impressive. The ride comfort is not great due to the system; this could only be changed with a great deal of design effort, but would make the bikes significantly more expensive (and heavier).
Anyone deciding in favour of a folding pedelec should, despite the versatility of the bikes, be aware of the intended use. If you want to ride and fold (and carry) frequently, you will prefer a lightweight bike. If you only want to transport it folded occasionally, you can set other priorities. It is therefore highly recommended to test ride, fold and carry the bike before buying.
The complete article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorThe details of the folding pedelecs tested
THE DETAILS OF THE FOLDING PEDELECS IN THE TEST
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorTest result BBF Monaco
BBF Monaco
The 37 millimetre narrow tyres and the low weight of 16 kilos characterise the handling of the BBF: it rolls extremely light-footedly and can be manoeuvred agilely around even the tightest corners. The hub motor also has little trouble with the low weight and pushes the bike convincingly. This guarantees a fun ride, even if the narrow tyres hardly bounce at all. The drive is cadence-controlled, so its power cannot be regulated via the pedalling force: Only the selected assistance level determines how fast the bike goes and how hard the motor pushes. The inexpensive Tiagra gears from Shimano with a double chainring work with sufficient precision. V-brakes are no longer the first choice on heavy and dynamic pedelecs; they are fine on the lightweight Monaco, but require regular maintenance. The folding hinges are stable and the locking levers engage automatically. The operating instructions do not explain how to fold the bike, but it is largely self-explanatory. A safety catch between the fork and chain stay prevents the bike from unfolding.
Conclusion: Agile and light, with a convincing hub motor. No mudguards, pannier rack or lights
Overall rating* 2.6
Comfort 3.2
Fork Aluminium, rigid
Suspension none
Security 2.3
Brakes Shimano V-brake
Flutter safety high
Drive 2.6
Motor system/battery Ansmann HR hub/216 Wh
derailleur gear Shimano Tiagra, 10-speed; 52/42; 11-25
Starting and pushing aid no
Practice 2.7
Tyres CST Reflex 37-451
Weight (v/h in %**) 16.3 kg (40/60)
Service 4.0
Guarantee 2 years
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,059 mm
Saddle height above ground 913 mm
Step-through height 610 mm
Seat length (min/max) 620/630 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 18/115 mm
Handlebar width 580 mm
Permissible total weight 120 kg
Folding dimensions L x D x H 89 x 42 x 61 cm
Price 1,999 Euro
Reference/Info www.bbf-bike.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The full article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorTest result Falter E 5.1
Falter E 5.1
You can hardly see the motorisation on the lightweight folder; the hub motor is inconspicuously located in the front wheel and the small battery can be removed from the central frame tube. The drive is cadence-controlled and pushes as soon as the pedals move. Its power can be adjusted in three support levels on the handlebar display. You sit comfortably, and the wide tyres at least provide a little cushioning. With the wide handlebars on the torsion-resistant handlebar mast, the bike is easy to control, it runs cleanly straight ahead and tracks true through the bends, the hydraulic rim brake HS11 from Magura decelerates safely and with good modulation. The pedelec is well made, the folding hinges are stable and secure. Unfortunately, the hinge lock on the handlebar mast does not engage automatically, so you need to bear this in mind when setting up the bike. To fold, the saddle support is first pushed all the way down and the frame is folded at the centre tube. The package is secured against unfolding with straps.
Conclusion: Well equipped and lightweight. Rides safely, has a clean finish and can be folded compactly.
Overall rating* 2.0
Comfort 3.0
Fork Aluminium, rigid
Suspension none
Safety 1.5
Brakes Magura HS11
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.6
Motor system/battery 8FUN VR hub/204 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 7
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.2
Tyres Kenda Reflex 50-406
Weight (v/h in %**) 18.0 kg (50/50)
Service 2.3
Guarantee 2 years
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,029 mm
Saddle height above ground 997 mm
Step-through height 535 mm
Seat length 662 mm
Handlebar camber -12 mm
Handlebar width 600 mm
Permissible total weight 105 kg
Folding dimensions L x D x H 78 x 47 x 67 cm
Price 1,799 Euro
Reference/Info www.falter-bikes.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The full article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorTest result Flyer Pluto 3.01
Flyer Pluto 3.01
The Pluto is the only bike in the test that has a Speedlifter instead of a folding handlebar mast. The stem is therefore infinitely adjustable in height, but the bike can be folded smaller than its competitors. The drivetrain with Panasonic mid-motor is tried and tested, the informative display and control satellite are impressive and the motor power is intuitively controlled via the pedal force. However, the motor could develop its power a little more lively; at more than 24 kilos, the bike is relatively heavy. As the drive does not have a gearshift interruption, you have to take the pressure off the pedals when changing gear to ensure that the gears engage precisely. The frame of the Pluto is very stiff, the bike rolls perfectly straight ahead and also takes fast bends with confidence. However, the heavy bike would benefit from higher-quality brakes instead of the V-brakes. The Pluto is placed on the centre stand for folding. As with the other bikes, the front section of the frame is folded backwards. A safety catch between the fork and chainstay prevents it from unfolding.
ConclusionProven mid-engine, smooth to ride, stable centre stand. Heavy, large folding size
Overall rating* 2.1
Comfort 2.8
Fork Rigid aluminium
Suspension none
Security 2.1
Brakes Shimano V-brake
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.4
Motor system/battery*** Panasonic MM/432, 540, 648 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 8
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 1.8
Tyres Schwalbe Big Ben Reflex 55-406
Weight (v/h in %**) 24.5 kg (38/62)
Service 1.5
Guarantee 10 years frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,084 mm
Saddle height above ground 993 mm
Step-through height 420 mm
Seat length (min/max) 631/681 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) -50/94 mm
Handlebar width 640mm
Permissible total weight 130 kg
Folding dimensions L x D x H 90 x 41 x 92 cm
Price 3,399 Euro
Reference/Info www.flyer-bikes.com
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The full article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorTest result QWIC Compact FN7
QWIC Compact FN7
At 25.6 kilos, the Qwic is heavier than many touring bikes, but the frame is sensationally stiff. Both are noticeable when riding. The bike doesn't lose its composure, but requires a little more pressure when turning. The drive is cadence-controlled and pushes as soon as the pedals turn. Speed and power are regulated via eight support levels, with the test bike pushing up to 30 km/h in the highest setting. The bike is very manoeuvrable, but the upright riding position does not encourage cornering. However, the V-brakes at the front and roller brakes at the rear are not suitable for a bike in this weight class. The folding hinges are stable and the locking levers engage precisely. An automatic locking lever lock is installed on the handlebar mast, while the frame tube has to be secured manually. To fold, the stand is folded in and the crank arms are positioned horizontally. The frame hinge is then opened and the frame folded. The handlebar mast can then be folded down and the seat post inserted.
Conclusion: Very stiff and heavy frame, safe to ride, solid workmanship
Overall rating* 2.3
Comfort 2.7
Fork Suspension fork N.N.
Suspension none
Security 2.1
Brakes Shimano V-brake (v), roller brake (h)
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.6
Motor system/battery Qwic VR hub/375 Wh
Gear hub Shimano Nexus 7
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 2.5
Tyres CST Reflex 53-406
Weight (v/h in %**) 25.6 kg (43/57)
Service 3.0
Guarantee 5 year frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,050 mm
Saddle height above ground 910 mm
Step-through height 495 mm
Seat length (min/max) 534/555 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) 192/313 mm
Handlebar width 580 mm
Permissible total weight 130 kg
Folding dimensions L x D x H 85 x 48 x 79 cm
Price 1,949 Euro
Reference/Info www.qwic.de
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The full article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
###new-page###Test 2017: Folding pedelecs with electric motorTest result Tern Vektron
Tern Vektron
With disc brakes and derailleur gears from Shimano's Deore groupset as well as the Bosch drive, the Vektron is equipped to a very high standard for a folding bike. The pleasantly wide handlebars have comfortable ergo grips. The stable bike rolls well in a straight line and also takes fast bends with ease - the equipment and riding characteristics can keep up with a full-size city pedelec, and the folding mini is not overly heavy. The folding mechanism is easy to operate and the hinge locks engage automatically. The strut between the top tube and seat tube makes it easier to carry. Solidly built and very well equipped, the Tern Vektron is a fully-fledged pedelec - the well thought-out and, as with all bikes, quick-to-learn folding option is on top, so to speak.
Conclusion: High-quality and harmoniously equipped, stable and manoeuvrable
Overall rating* 1.8
Comfort 2.8
Fork Aluminium, rigid
Suspension none
Safety 1.5
Brakes Disc, Shimano Deore
Flutter safety Very high
Drive 2.0
Motor system/battery Bosch Active/300 Wh
derailleur gear Shimano Deore, 10-speed; 11-34
Starting and pushing aid Yes
Practice 1.8
Tyres Schwalbe Big Apple Reflex 55-406
Weight (v/h in %**) 22.1 kg (41/59)
Service 1.5
Guarantee 10 years frame
CE Yes
Geometry
Wheelbase 1,056 mm
Saddle height above ground 1,010 mm
Step-through height 594 mm
Seat length (min/max) 599/662 mm
Handlebar camber (min/max) -85/24 mm
Handlebar width 620 mm
Permissible total weight 105 kg
Folding dimensions L x D x H 88 x 44 x 67 cm
Price 2,999 Euro
Reference/Info www.ternbicycles.com
*The E-BIKE judgement is independent of price. Grading key according to school grades from 1 (very good) to 5 (poor).
**Percentage weight distribution front wheel to rear wheel, provides information about the centre of gravity of the bike.
***The values of the test model are printed in bold.
The complete article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
