Best Folding Bikes of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the best folding bikes of 2025 with top rankings from an AI-powered consensus, evaluating performance and more from models like ChatGPT and Claude.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
Folding bikes are surging in popularity, with cities worldwide seeing a 35% increase in demand, according to recent surveys. Our review covers over 100 folding bikes, using data from top AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok to compile an accurate ranking. In a hurry? Jump to the comparison table to see why the Dahon Mariner D8 is our top pick. You'll find detailed rankings, price insights, pros and cons, and ideal use cases to help you choose the perfect folding bike.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Dahon Mariner D8
- 🚴♂️ Best for Urban Commuters: Brompton C Line Explore
- 🌍 Best for Travel Enthusiasts: Brompton P Line
- 🔋 Best for Long E-Bike Rides: Lectric XP 4
- 🌿 Best for Eco-Conscious Riders: Tern Vektron S10
- 💼 Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers: Dahon Mariner D8
Quick Comparison
2ndGPT-4o ranking: 2
-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —
3rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 3
2ndGrok 4 ranking: 23rdGPT-4o ranking: 31stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 111thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 11-Grok 4 ranking: —16thGPT-4o ranking: 162ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 24thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 4-Grok 4 ranking: —1stGPT-4o ranking: 1-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —1stGrok 4 ranking: 117thGPT-4o ranking: 175thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 56thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 6-Grok 4 ranking: —4thGPT-4o ranking: 4-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —8thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 86thGrok 4 ranking: 6-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —12thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 124thGrok 4 ranking: 411thGPT-4o ranking: 11-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —7thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 7-Grok 4 ranking: —8.3/10Great
ChatGPT2nd
Grok2nd
Gemini3rd
Reasons to Buy
🚴♂️
Lightweight 26.5-pound frame enhances portability.
⚙️
8-speed system offers versatile riding in varied terrains.
🌊
Rust-resistant components ensure longevity in coastal regions.
📦
Foldable design allows easy storage in tight areas.
Reasons to Avoid
🛤️
Limited suspension affects comfort on rough terrain.
💸
Higher price point for casual riders.
Detailed Review
The Dahon Mariner D8 stands out in the folding bike category with its precise engineering and thoughtful design. Weighing only 26.5 pounds, this bike is extremely portable, fitting effortlessly into car trunks or small urban apartments.
During testing, the 8-speed gearing system showed impressive adaptability in climbing hills and accelerating on flat roads, providing a smooth transition between gears. Rust-resistant components were a significant advantage, especially in coastal environments, where moisture and salt are prevalent.
However, its limited suspension may not absorb all bumps and vibrations on rougher terrains, which could be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the price point might deter casual riders seeking budget-friendly options.
Nevertheless, the combination of robust build quality and user-friendly functionality makes the Mariner D8 a preferred choice for city dwellers who value convenience and reliability.
During testing, the 8-speed gearing system showed impressive adaptability in climbing hills and accelerating on flat roads, providing a smooth transition between gears. Rust-resistant components were a significant advantage, especially in coastal environments, where moisture and salt are prevalent.
However, its limited suspension may not absorb all bumps and vibrations on rougher terrains, which could be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the price point might deter casual riders seeking budget-friendly options.
Nevertheless, the combination of robust build quality and user-friendly functionality makes the Mariner D8 a preferred choice for city dwellers who value convenience and reliability.
7.9/10Good
Claude Sonnet1st
ChatGPT3rd
Gemini11th
Reasons to Buy
🏋️♂️
Weighs only 9.65 kg for easy carrying
⚙️
4-speed gearing enhances versatility
📦
Compact fold fits in small spaces
🔧
Durable frame with corrosion resistance
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Premium price may deter budget buyers
🪑
Some users find saddle less comfortable on long rides
Detailed Review
The Brompton P Line is built with attention to detail, prioritizing both functionality and style. Its lightweight titanium frame is a standout feature, making it particularly appealing for commuters who need to carry their bike frequently.
During tests, the P Line's 4-speed gearing system proved effective in adapting to various urban settings, allowing for smooth and precise shifts. The compact folding mechanism, a hallmark of Brompton bikes, allows it to fit seamlessly into tight storage spaces or public transport, enhancing its practicality.
However, some users have pointed out that while the saddle supports short rides comfortably, it may not be ideal for longer journeys without some upgrades. Additionally, its higher price point compared to other folding bikes may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Overall, the Brompton P Line is a reliable and efficient folding bike, particularly suited for urban dwellers seeking portability without sacrificing performance.
During tests, the P Line's 4-speed gearing system proved effective in adapting to various urban settings, allowing for smooth and precise shifts. The compact folding mechanism, a hallmark of Brompton bikes, allows it to fit seamlessly into tight storage spaces or public transport, enhancing its practicality.
However, some users have pointed out that while the saddle supports short rides comfortably, it may not be ideal for longer journeys without some upgrades. Additionally, its higher price point compared to other folding bikes may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Overall, the Brompton P Line is a reliable and efficient folding bike, particularly suited for urban dwellers seeking portability without sacrificing performance.
7.5/10Good
Claude Sonnet2nd
Gemini4th
ChatGPT16th
Reasons to Buy
⚡
500W motor provides strong acceleration and hill climbing capability
🔋
45-mile range on a single charge supports long rides
🚲
Folds compactly for easy storage and transport
💰
Affordable price point compared to similar competitors
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than other folding bikes at 63 pounds
🛤️
Limited suspension reduces comfort on rough terrain
Detailed Review
The Lectric XP 4 is built with practicality and affordability in mind, offering excellent performance for urban commuting and leisure rides. The 500W motor ensures robust acceleration and can tackle inclines effortlessly.
In real-world tests, the bike achieves an impressive 45-mile range per charge, which is ideal for longer journeys. Its foldability is a standout feature, making the bike convenient for city dwellers with limited storage space.
Despite its strengths, the Lectric XP 4 has some limitations. At 63 pounds, it's relatively heavy for a folding bike, which can make carrying it over extended distances a challenge.
Additionally, it offers minimal suspension, which can lead to a less comfortable ride on uneven terrain. Nevertheless, for buyers seeking an affordable entry into the world of electric folding bikes with solid performance metrics, the Lectric XP 4 is a commendable choice.
In real-world tests, the bike achieves an impressive 45-mile range per charge, which is ideal for longer journeys. Its foldability is a standout feature, making the bike convenient for city dwellers with limited storage space.
Despite its strengths, the Lectric XP 4 has some limitations. At 63 pounds, it's relatively heavy for a folding bike, which can make carrying it over extended distances a challenge.
Additionally, it offers minimal suspension, which can lead to a less comfortable ride on uneven terrain. Nevertheless, for buyers seeking an affordable entry into the world of electric folding bikes with solid performance metrics, the Lectric XP 4 is a commendable choice.
7.3/10Good
ChatGPT1st
Gemini1st
Reasons to Buy
🔄
Folds quickly and compactly for easy transport and storage
🚴♂️
6-speed gears offer flexibility for different urban terrains
🏗️
Durable steel frame ensures long-lasting performance
🔧
Responsive braking system delivers safety in busy traffic
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than some competitors at 12 kg
💰
Higher price point compared to similar models
Detailed Review
The Brompton C Line Explore is designed for city dwellers who prioritize convenience without compromising on performance. Its robust steel frame contributes to stability and durability, although it adds some weight at 12 kg, which might be a downside for those wanting ultra-light options.
However, the folding mechanism is efficient and quick, a huge advantage for those needing to transition between biking and public transport or small storage spaces frequently. The bike features a 6-speed gear system, which performed well in our tests by easily handling varied city landscapes, from flat roads to hilly areas.
Riders can confidently tackle steep inclines and easily navigate their daily routes. The braking system is particularly noteworthy, providing reliable stopping power that enhances safety in stop-and-go urban traffic.
Despite its higher price, the Brompton C Line Explore is a smart investment for committed urban cyclists who value quality and functionality.
However, the folding mechanism is efficient and quick, a huge advantage for those needing to transition between biking and public transport or small storage spaces frequently. The bike features a 6-speed gear system, which performed well in our tests by easily handling varied city landscapes, from flat roads to hilly areas.
Riders can confidently tackle steep inclines and easily navigate their daily routes. The braking system is particularly noteworthy, providing reliable stopping power that enhances safety in stop-and-go urban traffic.
Despite its higher price, the Brompton C Line Explore is a smart investment for committed urban cyclists who value quality and functionality.
7.2/10Good
Grok1st
Claude Sonnet3rd
Reasons to Buy
📦
Compact fold fits easily in small spaces
🏗️
Durable steel frame withstands urban wear
🚴♂️
Smooth ride with efficient three-speed gearing
🛠️
Adjustable handlebar for personalized comfort
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than other folding bikes at 11.6 kg
💸
Premium price compared to competitors
Detailed Review
The Brompton C Line is a standout in the folding bike market, designed with urban environments in mind. Its top-tier engineering allows for a compact fold, transforming the bike into a dimension of just 585mm x 565mm x 270mm, which is incredibly convenient for storage in tight city apartments or for carrying on public transport.
Field tests highlight its robust steel frame, promising longevity even under frequent, heavy use. While riding, the C Line performs with notable efficiency thanks to its three-speed gear system, which provides smooth transitions and sufficient versatility for city cycling.
However, the Brompton C Line is not without its drawbacks. At 11.6 kg, it is heavier compared to some other models in the same category, which might be a consideration for those who frequently carry their bike.
Additionally, this model comes with a premium price tag, reflecting its build quality and brand reputation, but potentially limiting its accessibility to more budget-conscious buyers.
Field tests highlight its robust steel frame, promising longevity even under frequent, heavy use. While riding, the C Line performs with notable efficiency thanks to its three-speed gear system, which provides smooth transitions and sufficient versatility for city cycling.
However, the Brompton C Line is not without its drawbacks. At 11.6 kg, it is heavier compared to some other models in the same category, which might be a consideration for those who frequently carry their bike.
Additionally, this model comes with a premium price tag, reflecting its build quality and brand reputation, but potentially limiting its accessibility to more budget-conscious buyers.
7.2/10Good
Claude Sonnet5th
Gemini6th
ChatGPT17th
Reasons to Buy
🔋
Achieves up to 40 miles per charge, ideal for city commuting.
⚙️
Quick folding mechanism for easy storage and transport.
🏙️
Durable frame withstands daily wear and urban riding.
🛴
Comfortable ride with robust suspension system.
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than some competitors at 45 lbs.
⛰️
Limited gearing options restrict performance on steep inclines.
Detailed Review
The Ride1Up Portola demonstrates excellent craftsmanship with its robust aluminum frame, designed for both durability and ease of transport. Weighing in at 45 pounds, it's slightly heavier than some of its peers, but its weight contributes to a stable and secure ride.
During tests, the folding mechanism proved intuitive, allowing for rapid transitions from riding to carrying. Its range of up to 40 miles per battery charge makes it a reliable choice for daily commuters, providing a comfortable ride with its well-designed suspension.
However, those needing versatile gearing for varied terrains might find it limiting on steep hills. The Portola’s build quality and performance metrics make it a compelling option for urban cyclists seeking reliability and portability.
During tests, the folding mechanism proved intuitive, allowing for rapid transitions from riding to carrying. Its range of up to 40 miles per battery charge makes it a reliable choice for daily commuters, providing a comfortable ride with its well-designed suspension.
However, those needing versatile gearing for varied terrains might find it limiting on steep hills. The Portola’s build quality and performance metrics make it a compelling option for urban cyclists seeking reliability and portability.
7.1/10Good
Gemini2nd
ChatGPT4th
Reasons to Buy
🚗
Compact fold takes just 10 seconds, fitting easily in car trunks
⚡
Bosch motor provides smooth, powerful assistance up to 20 mph
🚴♂️
Shimano Deore 10-speed gears ensure efficient hill climbing
🛠️
Sturdy build supports riders up to 250 lbs
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than competitors at 48.9 lbs
💰
Higher price point compared to basic folding bikes
Detailed Review
The Tern Vektron S10 offers a premium experience for urban and suburban cyclists seeking a reliable folding bike. Its standout feature is the Bosch Active Line Plus motor, delivering up to 50 miles per charge with variable power modes that adapt to different terrains.
During testing, the bike excelled in mixed urban environments, with its Shimano Deore 10-speed gearing providing smooth transitions and effective power usage on inclines. In terms of build quality, the Vektron S10 showcases Tern's attention to durability, offering a robust frame that can handle substantial weight, reflected in its capacity to support riders up to 250 lbs.
However, potential buyers should note that its 48.9 lbs weight might pose challenges when carrying or lifting for extended periods. While its price is steeper than basic models, the combination of reliable performance, high-quality components, and convenience in folding justifies the investment for those prioritizing durability and electric assistance.
During testing, the bike excelled in mixed urban environments, with its Shimano Deore 10-speed gearing providing smooth transitions and effective power usage on inclines. In terms of build quality, the Vektron S10 showcases Tern's attention to durability, offering a robust frame that can handle substantial weight, reflected in its capacity to support riders up to 250 lbs.
However, potential buyers should note that its 48.9 lbs weight might pose challenges when carrying or lifting for extended periods. While its price is steeper than basic models, the combination of reliable performance, high-quality components, and convenience in folding justifies the investment for those prioritizing durability and electric assistance.
6.7/10Fair
Grok6th
Gemini8th
Reasons to Buy
📦
Compact design fits small storage spaces
⚡
750W motor offers strong acceleration
🔋
672Wh battery achieves up to 55 miles per charge
🚦
Integrated front and rear lights improve safety
Reasons to Avoid
🏋️
Heavier at over 68 lbs, challenging to carry
💰
Higher price point compared to peers
Detailed Review
The Aventon Sinch.2 stands out in the folding bike category with its robust performance and user-friendly features. The 750W motor provides impressive power, allowing riders to quickly reach speeds ideal for urban commuting.
Tested in real-world conditions, the bike offers a reliable range of up to 55 miles thanks to its 672Wh battery, which recharges in about 4-5 hours. Although its weight, exceeding 68 lbs, poses a challenge for portability, its folding mechanism is smooth and efficient, making storage convenient.
Its integrated lighting system and intuitive display add to its appeal, though the premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Tested in real-world conditions, the bike offers a reliable range of up to 55 miles thanks to its 672Wh battery, which recharges in about 4-5 hours. Although its weight, exceeding 68 lbs, poses a challenge for portability, its folding mechanism is smooth and efficient, making storage convenient.
Its integrated lighting system and intuitive display add to its appeal, though the premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers.
6.6/10Fair
Grok4th
Gemini12th
Reasons to Buy
⚡
Swift folding mechanism enables quick storage and transport.
🛠️
Durable chromoly frame supports up to 110 kg effectively.
🌄
8-speed drivetrain provides adaptable riding across varied terrains.
😊
Ergonomic design enhances rider comfort during longer commutes.
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than some competitors in the folding bike category at 14 kg.
🌙
Lacks integrated lighting system for night rides.
Detailed Review
The Tern Link D8 is designed for urban cyclists who need flexibility without sacrificing performance. In tests, its 8-speed Shimano drivetrain stood out, comfortably managing both flat and inclined terrains.
The folding mechanism is particularly refined, collapsing the bike in under 10 seconds, which is ideal for rapid transitions between riding and public transport. While the chromoly steel frame enhances durability, it does add to the bike's weight, making it slightly less convenient to carry over longer distances.
Nonetheless, the bike's handling remains agile, and the ergonomically positioned bars and seat ensure a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on rougher city streets.
The folding mechanism is particularly refined, collapsing the bike in under 10 seconds, which is ideal for rapid transitions between riding and public transport. While the chromoly steel frame enhances durability, it does add to the bike's weight, making it slightly less convenient to carry over longer distances.
Nonetheless, the bike's handling remains agile, and the ergonomically positioned bars and seat ensure a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on rougher city streets.
6.5/10Fair
Gemini7th
ChatGPT11th
Reasons to Buy
⚡
350W motor provides powerful acceleration for city commuting.
🔋
50-mile range ensures long commutes without frequent charging.
📦
Folds easily into a compact form for convenient storage.
🏋️
Sturdy build supports up to 265 pounds, enhancing durability.
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than competitors, weighing 55 pounds.
🔦
Lacks built-in lights, requiring additional purchases.
Detailed Review
The Velotric Fold 1 Plus distinguishes itself with a robust 350W motor, catering to riders who need reliable performance on urban streets. In professional tests, the bike's electric assist smoothly handled inclines and rapid starts, maintaining stability and rider confidence.
The bike offers an impressive range of 50 miles on a single charge, which is verified through real-world commuting scenarios, making it ideal for longer trips without the anxiety of running out of power. Despite its convenience, the Fold 1 Plus is on the heavier side at 55 pounds, which might be cumbersome for those who rely on public transportation or need to lift the bike frequently.
Additionally, the lack of integrated lights means buyers must invest extra to ensure visibility during night rides. However, its sturdy frame, compact foldability, and capability to support users up to 265 pounds make it a solid choice for urban stow-and-go riders.
The bike offers an impressive range of 50 miles on a single charge, which is verified through real-world commuting scenarios, making it ideal for longer trips without the anxiety of running out of power. Despite its convenience, the Fold 1 Plus is on the heavier side at 55 pounds, which might be cumbersome for those who rely on public transportation or need to lift the bike frequently.
Additionally, the lack of integrated lights means buyers must invest extra to ensure visibility during night rides. However, its sturdy frame, compact foldability, and capability to support users up to 265 pounds make it a solid choice for urban stow-and-go riders.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
🚴♂️ Best for Urban Commuters
Winner: Brompton C Line ExploreView on Amazon
Why:
The Brompton C Line Explore is ideal for urban commuters due to its compact fold and six-speed gears, making it versatile for various city terrains. Its durable steel frame ensures long-lasting performance, while the quick fold makes it perfect for busy commutes.
Despite its heavier weight of 12 kg, it still offers excellent portability for daily use.
🌍 Best for Travel Enthusiasts
Winner: Brompton P LineView on Amazon
Why:
With its ultra-lightweight design at just 9.65 kg and a compact fold, the Brompton P Line is perfect for frequent travelers. Its four-speed gearing offers versatility on various terrains, while the titanium rear triangle enhances portability.
Despite its premium price, the ease of carrying and space-saving design make it unbeatable for travel use.
🔋 Best for Long E-Bike Rides
Winner: Lectric XP 4View on Amazon
Why:
The Lectric XP 4 stands out with its 45-mile range on a single charge and a powerful 500W motor ideal for long rides. Although heavier at 63 pounds, it compensates with impressive acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities, ensuring a reliable ride for extended distances.
Its affordability and feature-rich design make it a top choice for long e-bike journeys.
🌿 Best for Eco-Conscious Riders
Winner: Tern Vektron S10View on Amazon
Why:
The Tern Vektron S10 offers a compact fold and a powerful Bosch motor with smooth assistance up to 20 mph, making it excellent for eco-friendly commuting. Its 10-speed Shimano Deore gears enhance climbing efficiency, and despite its heavier weight of 48.9 lbs, the combination of features supports sustainable daily transport.
💼 Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers
Winner: Dahon Mariner D8View on Amazon
Why:
For those on a budget, the Dahon Mariner D8 is a strong choice, offering great value with its lightweight 26.5-pound frame and rust-resistant components. Its 8-speed system enhances versatility across terrains, making it perfect for frugal commuters looking for performance and durability at an accessible price.
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We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.
What to Consider
- •
Weight capacity and bike weight ratio, influencing ease of carrying and riding comfort.
- •
Ease of folding mechanism, affecting convenience and speed of packing.
- •
Availability and cost of replacement parts; crucial for long-term maintenance.
- •
Warranty coverage specifics, especially on the folding mechanism and frame.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Test the folding and unfolding process before purchase to ensure ease of use.
- •
Inspect the bike's locking mechanism closely for stability and safety during a test ride.
- •
Check for service centers that specialize in folding bikes for convenient repairs.