How to fold a folding bike

Folding bikes usually fold up very quickly. But there are some steps you need to follow to ensure you’ve folded yours right. First, you’ll want to turn in your pedals and adjust your seat so it’s as short as possible. Then, you’ll want to remove your handlebars and fold down your handlebar post. Finally, unlock your bike’s center and fold the bike in half. These instructions may vary slightly from bike to bike, so be sure to read up on your particular model before folding.

Can you take a folding bike on an airplane?

Yes, you can often bring a folding bike with you onto an airplane. Specific policies vary from airline to airline. Usually, there’s a maximum weight and size allowance, and you may be charged an extra fee. So be sure to read up on your airline’s rules before bringing your bike with you to the airport. (You may have to deflate your tires, remove your handlebars, or pack your bike in a box—all things you’ll want to have done before you arrive at your gate.)

Are folding bikes dangerous?

Folding bikes are no more dangerous than any other kind of bike. Just make sure you’re following your model’s specific instructions for folding and unfolding. Many folding bikes have a safety hinge that locks into place once the bike is unfolded. You’ll want to take full advantage of this safety feature—and any other safety features your bike comes equipped with.

The 7 Best Folding Bikes of 2023

Bikes offer a convenient way to get from place to place while getting in some exercise along the way and engaging with the outdoors. But due to their (often large) size, bikes can be difficult to store at home and even harder to carry on-the-go. Thankfully, folding bikes provide a clever way around this common problem.

Folding bikes look a lot like their normal counterparts, but their ability to be compressed into a quarter of its original size makes them a space-saving dream. This efficient design can also maximize your thirst for adventure, as they’re particularly great for multimodal trips (trips where you’re taking more than one mode of transportation). When you're looking for the perfect ride, it's important to consider the weight, weight capacity, height capacity, and folded size. We made our recommendations with this criteria in mind, plus cost, speed, additional product features, warranty terms, and more.

Based on our reviews, here are the best folding bikes on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Tern Link C8 Folding Bike at REI

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Best Budget:

Xspec 7-Speed Commuter Bike at Amazon

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Best Mountain Bike:

Eurobike 26-Inch Mountain Folding Bike at Amazon

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Best Electric:

Tern Vektron D8 Folding Electric Bike at REI

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Best Budget Electric:

Swagtron EB5 14-inch Folding Electric Bike at Walmart

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Best Exercise Bike:

Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike with Pulse at Amazon

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Best for Commuting:

Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit?

4.7

Courtesy of Tern Bicycles

View On REI View On Ternbicycles.com

Pros

Classic design
8-speed gear shifter makes it easy to adapt to different terrain
Folds in just 10 seconds

Cons

Not a budget option

The Tern Link C8 Folding Bike is a great pick for those who want a premium bike at a more accessible price point. The versatile road bike boasts an eight-speed gear shifter, which makes it easy to climb hills and adapt to different terrain—great for those who are used to constantly shifting gears and pushing themselves working out on indoor cycling bikes. The bike’s aluminum frame is sturdy and durable, and its 20-inch tires will ensure all your rides feel smooth and comfortable.

Use the bike’s built-in racks and fenders to store your gear on longer rides. And rest assured knowing you can always fold the bike up and toss it in your trunk—it promises to fold to a fraction of its size in just 10 seconds.

Price at time of publication: $849

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 28 pounds | Weight capacity: 230 pounds | Height capacity: 4 feet, 8 inches to 6 feet, 3 inches | Folded size: 31.5 x 15.6 x 28.7 inches}

Walmart

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Xspecgear.com

Pros

Classic design
Beginner-friendly
Backed by a 30-day warranty

Cons

May take some time to assemble out of the box

The Xspec 7-Speed Commuter Bike is a classic road bike, available at an incredibly reasonable price point. The bike boasts a durable alloy frame and 20-inch tires, and its seven-speed gear shifter will help you navigate all kinds of urban terrain.

Take the beginner-friendly bike on a jaunt around the neighborhood, or ride it on your morning and evening commutes. Since it folds up small, you can easily toss it in the trunk of your car whenever you need to.

Price at time of publication: $250

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 36 pounds | Weight capacity: 220 pounds | Height capacity: 5 feet to 6 feet | Folded size: 29 x 13 x 24}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Classic design
Beginner-friendly
Suitable for both road and mountain biking
Arrives mostly assembled

Cons

Limited height capacity

The Eurobike Mountain Bike is a great do-everything option, fit for the person who wants to take their bike from their morning commute to an off-road adventure. The bike boasts a durable steel frame that will keep you supported on all your rides. Its 26-inch tires can handle a range of terrain, and its seven-speed gear shifter will ensure you can nimbly navigate anything that comes your way. Between uses, you can fold your bike up for easy storage. You can also throw it in your car and unfold it once you’ve found a path worth exploring.

Price at time of publication: $309

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 38 pounds | Weight capacity: 330 pounds | Height capacity: 5 feet, 5 inches to 5 feet, 9 inches | Folded size: 34 x 16 x 38 inches}

Courtesy of Rei

View On REI

Pros

Classic design
Doesn't require you to pedal as much
Fast; can reach 20 MPH

Cons

Must be recharged between uses
Expensive

The Tern Vektron D8 Folding Electric Bike is a versatile electric bike you can fold up in just 10 seconds. The eight-gear electric bike can reach speeds of 20 miles per hour. And the bike’s battery can get you through 56 miles of ride time on a single charge. (That said, it will need about five hours of charge time between uses).

The bike’s aluminum frame is adjustable, making it easy to find a fit that suits you just right. And since its hydraulic disc brakes promise all-weather stopping power, you won’t have to worry about taking it out in the rain. Hop on the bike any time you want a quick, smooth ride, and rest assured knowing you can always fold it up to save space.

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 49 pounds | Weight capacity: 230 pounds | Height capacity: 5 feet, 3 inches to 6 feet, 5 inches | Folded size: 33.9 x 16.1 x 26.8 inches}

Courtesy of Walmart

View On Walmart

Pros

Classic design
Doesn't require you to pedal as much
Fast; can reach 15.5 MPH
Ships assembled
Backed by a one-year warranty

Cons

Must be recharged between uses

At 37 pounds, the Swagtron EB-5 Folding Electric Bike is a surprisingly lightweight electric bike. And its budget-friendly price point makes it even more enticing. The beginner-friendly bike can reach speeds of 15.5 miles per hour, and it can travel up to 15.5 miles on a single charge. (That said, it will need 4 to 5 hours of charge time between uses).

Its durable rubber tires promise a smooth ride, no matter where you’re cycling. And its lightweight aluminum frame should keep your rides feeling quick and efficient.

Price at time of publication: $500

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 37 pounds | Weight capacity: 264 pounds | Height capacity: Not disclosed | Folded size: 26 x 15.6 x 23.6 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Macy's

Pros

Small space-friendly
Eight resistance levels
Built-in LCD monitor

Cons

Still very tall when folded

Outdoor bikes aren’t the only foldable options on offer. The Exerpeutic Folding Upright Exercise Bike is an exercise bike that folds up between uses, allowing you to get a great workout without sacrificing a ton of space.

The upright bike comes equipped with eight magnetic resistance levels you can use to scale the intensity of your workouts up or down. And its built-in LCD monitor makes it easy to track your ride distance and speed every time you hop on the bike. Sure, the bike may not be as heavy-duty or high-tech as some of its competitors. But it is a small space-friendly way to get a solid workout.

Price at time of publication: $190

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 39 pounds | Weight capacity: 300 pounds | Height capacity: 5 feet, 3 inches to 6 feet, 1 inch | Folded size: 22 x 20 x 55.5 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Classic design
Lightweight
Its pavement tires allow you to ride on roads, sidewalks, or slick surfaces

Cons

Best for short rides

The Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike is a lightweight step-through bike that’s great for commutes and short rides. Crafted from aluminum, the bike feels lightweight and nimble—exactly the kind of thing you want to be riding while navigating busy city streets. The bike’s seven-speed gear shifter will help you adjust to hills and other obstacles, and its 20-inch pavement tires promise a smooth ride on roads, sidewalks, and other slick surfaces.

The bike comes with a built-in rear cargo rack, which you can use to store your stuff. And because it folds up between uses, it’s easy to bring with you on the go.

Price at time of publication: $490

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 33 pounds | Weight capacity: 240 pounds | Height capacity: 4 feet, 6 inches to 6 feet, 1 inch | Folded size: 32 x 11 x 30 inches}

Final Verdict

If you want an entry-level folding bike you can take anywhere, the Eurobike Mountain Bike is an excellent option. The mountain bike is versatile enough to ride on city streets and off-ride trails. And since you can fold it up between uses, it should be easy to take on-the-go. If you’d prefer to invest in something you can use for years on end, the Tern Link C8 Folding Bike is a solid pick. The bike is versatile and durable, and it offers the quality of a premium bike at a more accessible price point.

What to Look For in a Folding Bike

Weight

Some bikes are heavier than others. If you’re shopping for a folding bike in an effort to save space in your home, weight might not matter to you very much. But if you’re hoping to throw your bike in your car and take it with you on the go, you may want to prioritize lighter-weight options. (Anything under 35 pounds can be considered lightweight).

Weight Capacity

You want your bike to be able to support you, so be sure to check the bike’s weight capacity before buying. This is particularly important if you plan to store gear—or other items—on your bike, as these may weigh down your bike.

Height Capacity

If you want to be comfortable on your bike, be sure to check its height capacity. While bikes can accommodate heights that fall outside their listed height capacity, you may not be comfortable riding a bike that’s too small or too large for you.

Folded Size

The primary benefit of a folding bike is its space efficiency. So double-check the folded size to ensure the bike will be as small as you need (or want) it to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to fold a folding bike

Folding bikes usually fold up very quickly. But there are some steps you need to follow to ensure you’ve folded yours right. First, you’ll want to turn in your pedals and adjust your seat so it’s as short as possible. Then, you’ll want to remove your handlebars and fold down your handlebar post. Finally, unlock your bike’s center and fold the bike in half. These instructions may vary slightly from bike to bike, so be sure to read up on your particular model before folding.
Can you take a folding bike on an airplane?

Yes, you can often bring a folding bike with you onto an airplane. Specific policies vary from airline to airline. Usually, there’s a maximum weight and size allowance, and you may be charged an extra fee. So be sure to read up on your airline’s rules before bringing your bike with you to the airport. (You may have to deflate your tires, remove your handlebars, or pack your bike in a box—all things you’ll want to have done before you arrive at your gate.)
Are folding bikes dangerous?

Folding bikes are no more dangerous than any other kind of bike. Just make sure you’re following your model’s specific instructions for folding and unfolding. Many folding bikes have a safety hinge that locks into place once the bike is unfolded. You’ll want to take full advantage of this safety feature—and any other safety features your bike comes equipped with.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.