Top 12 best Folding Bikes: Ranking 2021-2022 for Price/Quality and which adults should buy
Having your own bicycle is a great opportunity to actively spend time outdoors and keep fit.
But not everyone has enough space in the apartment to store the two-wheeled vehicle. The right thing to do in this situation is to buy a folding bicycle.
In terms of functionality and features these models are not inferior to the classic, but they are very easy to store and transport.
The main thing - choose a suitable model of folding bike, focusing on the intended style of riding and scope of use.
Also take into account the height and age of the user and the frequency of use of the bike.
Choosing the right device will help rating, which included the best models of folding bicycles according to the 2021-2022 in the price/quality ratio.
Top 12 best Folding Bikes 2021-2022
| Place | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Top 3 best adult folding bikes by price/quality for 2021-2022 | ||
| 1 | FORWARD Arsenal 20 1.0 (2020) | Check price |
| 2 | STARK Cobra 27.2 D (2020) | See price |
| 3 | FORWARD Tracer 26 3.0 (2020) | Learn the price |
| Top 3 best mountain folding bikes | ||
| 1 | STARK Cobra 29.2 D (2020) | Check out the price |
| 2 | STARK Cobra 29.2 HD (2020) | Check out the price |
| 3 | STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V011 (2020) | Learn the price |
| Top 3 best city folding bikes | ||
| 1 | STELS Pilot 710 24 Z010 (2018) | Check out the price |
| 2 | STELS Pilot 410 20 Z011 (2018) | Check out the price |
| 3 | FORWARD Arsenal 20 2.0 (2020) | Learn the price |
| Top 3 best inexpensive folding bikes | ||
| 1 | Desna 2500 | Learn the price |
| 2 | STELS Pilot 450 20 Z011 (2018) | Learn the price |
| 3 | Novatrack TG-30 (2017) | Learn the price |
Content
- Top 12 best folding bikes 2021-2022 ranking
- How to choose a folding bike
- Top 3 best adult folding bikes by price/quality for 2021-2022
- Top 3 best mountain folding bikes
- Top 3 best city folding bikes
- Top 3 best inexpensive folding bikes
- Types of Folding Bicycles and their brief description
- Shopper Reviews
- Useful Videos
How to choose a Folding Bicycle
Originally, folding bicycles were created exclusively for urban conditions.
But over time, manufacturers have improved their vehicles, and now the range of such devices is so huge that to pick a suitable device for height and riding style will not be difficult.
Simple rules can help you choose a model:
- Take into account the place of operation. If you need a bike only for city walks, choose a compact model with wheels of small diameter. If your bike will ride on the road, it is better to choose a vehicle with wheels of a larger diameter.
- Evaluate the convenience of the folding mechanism. Before buying, it is desirable to fold and unfold the device several times to make sure the mechanism works. It is also desirable that when folded, the bike can be rolled and not carried in the hands.
- Take the user's height and weight into account. The taller the user, the higher the frame should be. Its height is estimated only in the unfolded state.
It is also desirable to choose a device with shock absorption, especially if the bicycle is planned to ride on rough terrain.
Top 3 Best Adult Folding Bicycles by Price/Quality for 2021-2022
If you need a bike that combines a reasonable price with acceptable quality, you should consider one of the models described below. As shown by an analysis of user reviews, these bikes have been voted the best in this category.
FORWARD Arsenal 20 1.0 (2020).
This bike model is suitable for short city walks, and 
Not only adults, but also teenagers can use the vehicle.
The height of the frame is only one, so very high users will not suit the bike. But, for the owner to be most comfortable to ride, the manufacturer has provided height adjustment of the handlebar and seat.
The frame of the bike is steel and is characterized by increased strength, which provides good maneuverability and passability.
Despite this bike is not designed for cross-country rides and can not develop a high speed.
Rigid fork design provides an easy ride and reduces the vibration level when riding, but the shock absorption is not provided, so on rough roads, the bike will shake a lot.
Specifications:
- frame height 14 inches;
- wheel diameter of 20 inches;
- Number of speeds 1.
Pros of
- wide choice of frame colors;
- reliable steel frame, resistant to wear and tear;
- suitable for adults and teenagers;
- Does not take much space when folded;
- comfortable and wide enough seat.
Cons
- not suitable for cross-country travel;
- Not suitable for users taller than 170 cm.
STARK Cobra 27.2 D (2020)
On the outside this bike looks extremely simple, but for regular rides on asphalt and 
Its characteristics are enough to ride regularly on pavement and cross-country..
The frame, as well as the wheel rims, made of lightweight aluminum alloy. This makes the bike extremely light, and the folding design makes it easy to store and transport the device.
The height of the frame is quite impressive, so the model is only suitable for adults.
For a comfortable ride, the unit has a quality shock absorption and spring-elastomeric fork design.
The stiffness of the fork is adjustable so you can adjust the ride to the road surface..
The bike is very easy to fold without additional tools, which makes it easy to transport in the trunk of the car or on public transport.
Specifications:
- frame height of 18 or 20 inches;
- 27.5 inch wheels;
- 21 speeds.
Pros of
- comfortable curved handlebar design;
- included footrest;
- front and rear mechanical disc brakes;
- unusual design and a wide choice of colors of the body;
- wide and tenacious tires included.
Cons
- brakes need to be lubricated immediately after purchase;
- heavy gear shifting.
FORWARD Tracer 26 3.0 (2020)
This men's bike is available in only two colors, but it's the 
The technical specifications, and they are quite decent..
Since the model was released in 2021-2022, it fully meets the requirements of users. The height of the frame is optimal.
Together with the adjustable handlebar and seat height, this makes the model versatile and suitable for users of any height. The folding frame is made of aluminum alloy.
This material is very light, but it is strong enough, although the frame can bend if hit hard. Riding this bike on rough terrain will not be very comfortable, as it has no shock absorption.
The design of the fork is rigid, so the owner will feel a minimum of vibration when riding.
Technical characteristics:
- frame at 18 or 19 inches;
- 26-inch wheels;
- 3 speeds.
Pros of
- Sturdy steel saddle frame;
- footrest and fenders are provided;
- Reliable and high quality planetary hub;
- Increased maneuverability due to the large diameter of the wheels;
- you can adjust the handlebar stem.
Disadvantages
- no cushioning;
- many users find the saddle too rigid.
Top 3 best mountain folding bikes
If the user prefers to ride on rough terrain and off-road, it is better to immediately give preference to a mountain bike, which provides high cross-country ability on any road surface.
STARK Cobra 29.2 D (2020)
Quality and maneuverable mountain bike for adults, which is suitable for both 
for city walks and rides off-road.
Folding frame is made of aluminum alloy. It is lightweight and durable, but not as resistant to mechanical damage as steel. Therefore, a hard bump or fall can damage the frame, and it will have to be replaced.
To ensure the user does not experience discomfort when riding on rough terrain, the manufacturer has equipped the unit with a quality Hard Tail cushioning, and spring-elastomer fork design provides an optimal level of vibration even at high speed trains.
The fork spring stiffness as well as the handlebar height can be adjusted depending on the user's height and type of road surface.
Technical features:
- 18" or 20" frame
- 29-inch wheels;
- 21 speeds.
Pros of
- Simple and convenient folding frame design;
- The increased diameter of the wheels provides increased maneuverability;
- quality shock absorption;
- reliable mechanical brakes;
- suitable for travel on any road surface.
Disadvantages
- uncomfortable narrow seat;
- not a very good quality footrest.
STARK Cobra 29.2 HD (2020).
The cost of this bike is higher than average, but its functionality allows you to ride both on 
Asphalt or special cycle paths, as well as on rough terrain..
Aluminum frame allowed to make the bike extremely light, and the frame itself is very fast and easy to fold without using special tools.
This allows the bike to be folded in a minute, put in the trunk and unfolded for a walk.
Double aluminum rims are resistant to mechanical damage, and reliable shock-absorbing fork for high cross-country mobility and comfortable ride on any type of pavement.
Also included is a footrest, and the bike is equipped with a reliable hydraulic braking system that ensures complete safety on the road.
Specifications:
- frame of 18 inches;
- 29-inch wheels;
- 21 speed.
Pros of
- Ergonomic curved handlebar shape;
- wide enough pedal platforms;
- lightweight aluminum frame;
- easy and fast assembly;
- takes up minimal storage space.
Cons
- many users think the seat is too narrow;
- no trunk.
STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V011 (2020)
Bright, stylish and maneuverable mountain bike, which will give a real 
pleasure of walking in the city or on rough terrain..
The vehicle is available in several frame heights, so that each user can choose a product for their height. Aluminum alloy frame is very lightweight, but has a medium resistance to mechanical damage.
The bike has cushioning for a comfortable cross-country ride, and a soft fork for a smooth and easy ride.
For safe riding the device is equipped with a simple but reliable mechanical disc brake, and the pedal platforms are wide enough, so your foot will not slip while riding.
Specifications:
- 17.5, 18 and 19-inch frame
- 26-inch wheels;
- 21 speeds.
Pros of
- very easy frame folding mechanism;
- attractive appearance;
- wide enough and comfortable seat;
- there is a shock-absorption for cross-country travel;
- adequate price.
Cons
- inconvenient gear shifters;
- External clicks can be heard when applying the brakes.
Top 3 best city folding bikes
If the user does not plan to ride on rough terrain, the city bike with a folding design is perfect for him. When folded, it will not take up much space, but it will allow you to comfortably ride around town or on special bicycle paths.
STELS Pilot 710 24 Z010 (2018)
This compact but maneuverable folding bike is great for teenagers or 
adults weighing no more than 80 kg..
The model was released back in 2018, but has not lost its popularity until now. The frame has only one size, but by adjusting the height of the handlebar, the user can adjust the parameters of the vehicle to his physique.
The frame itself is steel and has a folding design.
These characteristics make the bike resistant to shock and mechanical damage, and facilitate its storage in the limited space of a city apartment.
No shock absorption in the bike, so riding on dirt on this bike will be uncomfortable.
But due to the rigid design of the fork, the bike user will not feel vibrations even when riding at maximum speed.
Specifications:
- 16-inch frame;
- 24-inch wheels;
- 1 speed.
Pros of
- very simple and clear folding frame design;
- soft and wide enough saddle;
- you can adjust the height of the handlebars;
- reasonable price;
- a reliable braking system.
Cons
- not a very good quality tires in the set;
- not the most convenient screw fixing the seat to the frame.
STELS Pilot 410 20 Z011 (2018).
This small but maneuverable bike is more suitable for teenagers and short 
adults.
The size of the frame is only one, so to pick up a model by height will not work. But, to adapt the parameters of the vehicle to the height of the owner, the manufacturer has provided a function to adjust the height of the handlebar.
The folding frame is made of steel. It is a very durable material, resistant to corrosion and mechanical damage. Because of this, the bike can be safely recommended to beginners who do not yet have enough riding skills.
There is no cushioning in the bike, so when riding on dirt, the user will feel a strong discomfort.
At the same time, in order to increase the comfort of riding, the device provides a rigid fork design, which reduces the level of vibration.
Technical characteristics:
- 13.5-inch frame
- 20-inch wheels;
- 1 speed.
Pros of
- Great for city rides;
- High strength steel frame;
- affordable price;
- rigid fork design;
- reliable brake system.
Cons
- some welds are not of sufficient quality;
- too rigid handles on the handlebars.
FORWARD Arsenal 20 2.0 (2020)
Bright, stylish and comfortable bike, designed for leisurely rides around town. The model is equipped with a female-type frame, so even teenagers who do not yet have enough skills can ride the bike.
The folding frame is made of steel. It is resistant to corrosion and is not damaged by falls and bumps. But it should be borne in mind that steel is a rather heavy material, and it is unlikely that you can easily carry a folded bike in your hands.
Since the manufacturer originally created the bike for walking around town, the vehicle does not have shock absorption.
But the user will not feel strong vibration during the trip due to the rigid design of the fork.
Technical characteristics:
- the frame of 14 inches;
- the wheels on 20 inches;
- 6 speeds.
Pros of
- Comfortable fit due to the clever design of the seat;
- easy and convenient shifting of speeds;
- reliable brake system;
- strong steel frame;
- democratic price;
- attractive appearance.
Cons
- too heavy for children and teenagers;
- Over time, the brakes start to squeak.
Top 3 best inexpensive Folding Bicycles
If you do not plan to use the bike often, it does not make sense to buy an expensive model. For short bike rides will be enough and inexpensive vehicle.
Desna 2500
Inexpensive, comfortable and maneuverable city bike domestic production 
Great for riding for children and adults.
It should be borne in mind that the maximum weight of the cyclist should not exceed 90 kg.
The frame is made of steel and has a folding design, so the vehicle can be easily stored and transported.
Riding a bicycle on rough terrain will be uncomfortable, as it does not provide shock absorption.
But the manufacturer tried to make riding as comfortable as possible and equipped the vehicle with a rigid fork, which reduces the vibration while riding.
The height of the handlebar can be adjusted according to the user's height.
Specifications:
- 14-inch frame;
- 24" wheels;
- 1 speed.
Pros of
- affordable price;
- very high-quality assembly;
- strong steel frame;
- When folded, it easily fits in the trunk of the car;
- there is a loud bell.
Disadvantages
- only one speed;
- no assembly instructions are included.
STELS Pilot 450 20 Z011 (2018)
Despite the fact that the model was released in 2018, its technical and operational 
characteristics are very worthy and will suit even the most demanding users.
The frame is foldable, made of steel, so it will not get damaged even in case of an accidental fall or a hard blow. The platform pedals are wide enough, so your foot will not slip during the movement.
The bike is available in only one frame height variant, but in order to adapt the height of the bike to the user's height, the manufacturer has provided an adjustable handlebar height.
No shock absorption, but the discomfort of riding on rough roads is prevented by a rigid fork design.
Technical specifications:
- bike frame size - 13.5 inches;
- 20-inch wheels;
- 6 speeds.
Pros of
- a sufficient number of speeds;
- quality disc brakes;
- you can adjust the height of the handlebars;
- suitable for children and adults;
- adequate price.
Cons
- Some users find the assembly too complicated;
- Not suitable for cross-country riding.
Novatrack TG-30 (2017).
Stylish, high-quality and inexpensive bike is ideal for those who like to leisurely 
ride around town..
The frame of the vehicle is steel, and has a high resistance to shock and corrosion.
The frame itself folds quickly and easily, so the bike can be stored in the pantry or transported in the trunk of the car.
There is no shock absorption in the device, but to reduce the level of vibration in the bike has a rigid fork design.
The low cost is also due to the fact that the model does not have a front brake. There is only a rear foot brake, but many users consider this design the easiest and most reliable.
Technical specifications:
- bike weight - 14.5 kg;
- 20-inch wheels;
- 1 speed of operation.
Pros of
- excellent build quality;
- affordable cost;
- a wide choice of colors;
- it comes with a bell;
- quickly and easily folded.
Cons
- it is difficult to adjust the height of the steering wheel;
- no front brake.
Types of folding bicycles and their brief description
All folding bikes are divided into types according to riding style (urban and mountain bikes), the age of the user (children, teenagers and adults) and the gender of the future owner (male and female).
But, since a much greater role is played by the mechanism of folding, it is worth considering in detail.
According to this criterion, bicycles are divided into three groups:
- Models that fold in half. This is the simplest and most versatile device. To fold such a vehicle, first lower the seat, then fold the handlebars and pedals, and at the very end - the frame.
- Multi-folding devices. In such bicycles not only the frame is folded in half, but also additionally fixed the rear wheel. Because of this, the folded bike takes up very little space and it can even be carried in a small backpack.
- Models with collapsible construction. Not the most convenient bikes, as without special keys they fold only partially, and all the other elements must be removed.
Customer Reviews
Helpful video
From the video you will get an overview of the best folding bikes:
