Folding bikes are brilliant for commuters, city dwellers and everyone else short on space. They can be packed down small, so you can fit them into the busiest of trains or the smallest of apartments. Read on for our buyer's guide, and find out which one's right for you…
First off, let's be clear – not all folding bikes are made equal. There's a huge variety of designs out there, in a range of wheel sizes, and you will see a few turkeys. Depending on your budget, compromises have to be made somewhere on foldability, ride, handling or spec.
However, the best designs pack down small and quickly, can be easily carried then stored under your office desk, and offer a ride quality not far off most full-sized bikes. They'll also last you a long time if properly cared for… but they don't exactly come cheap.
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What will you use it for?
The Brompton has one of the best folds in the business
Not all folding bikes aim to pack down as small as possible. It's possible to buy folding bikes with full-size wheels that offer exactly the same riding position as their non-collapsible brethren, but they might not be the best choice if you have to battle busy rail networks twice a day. So consider your specific needs before you buy.
The good news is that many folding bikes come with luggage racks or fixings. Other essentials like mudguards and lights are readily available, and while you might have to forgo that water bottle cage, that’s no great hardship for short urban journeys.
Beware thieves
How much do I need to spend?
Under £500 / $750 / AU$1,000
Tern Link B7
Dahon Vitesse
Strida
Under £1,000 / $1,500 / AU$2,000
Brompton
Montague Urban
Bike Friday Pocket Llama
Over £1,000 / $1,500 / AU$2,000
Birdy City
Airnimal Chameleon Performance Sport
Summary
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