How to choose a folding bike
Folding bikes are ideal for work or school commute. You can easily fold your bike and take it with you on a bus or tram.
Frequently asked questions when choosing a bike
Can I ride a folding bike outside the city?
Yes. You can fold your bike and take it with you on a trip, for example.
Is it difficult to fold?
Folding bikes have a simple folding mechanism, so folding them is easy even if you are a total beginner.
How long does it take to put the bike together again?
It depends on your skills and experience, but generally, it shouldn’t take longer than a few seconds.
Important Parameters
Frame material
Steel frames are tough and cheaper than other options. The downside is their higher weight and tendency to rust.
Carbon frames are lighter, flexible, and don't weaken over time.
Duralumin frames are cheaper, but heavier than carbon frames.
Brakes
The most common are the so-called v-brakes, which brake by rubbing the friction pads against the rim. They are cheap, easy to maintain, but their braking effect drops when the mechanism gets wet. The second option are the disc brakes, which work equally well when wet or dry. On the downside, their maintenance is more difficult. Disc brakes are controlled by cable or hydraulically.
Glossary - Bikes
Gears
Featured on most bikes, gears allow you to select the degree of difficulty when pedaling. At low gears (e.g. when cycling uphill), pedalling is easier, but the pedal frequency increases at the same time. Conversely, when using a high gear (e.g. on a flat road), you pedal less but more forcefully. Gears are essential for anyone who plans to cycle on mixed or hilly terrain.
Frame
An ideal bike frame is lightweight and sturdy. Frame sizes are measured in inches or units, or sizes S, M, L, XL. Bicycle frames are typically made from steel, aluminium or carbon fibre. Steel frames were once common but are now in decline; while being strong and relatively cheap, they are heavier and subject to rust. Alloy frames are cheaper but heavier than carbon fibre frames, which offer a lighter, more flexible, and yet equally strong option.
Fork
The front fork is a key component of any bicycle and determines its overall quality. Suspension forks use compressed air or a spring system to insulate the rider from the roughness of the terrain. Air suspension is the more common option, despite it being more expensive than spring suspension; moreover, the air pressure can be adjusted to the weight of the rider. Spring suspension is the cheaper option and provides a slightly more sensitive damping; however, one disadvantage is that the spring force depends on the weight of the rider, and sometimes the spring can harden at low temperatures.
Glossary
Wheel diameter
20" wheels are the lightest and provide easy manoeuvrability and control. 24" wheels are faster and suitable for longer trips.
For more information on how to choose the right bike size, read our article.