Folding E-Bikes vs. Regular E-Bikes: Which One is Right for You?

Electric bikes have increased in popularity in recent years. This is a great improvement for the environment and individuals. Ebikes have many benefits; however, it is a subject of a whole another article. In this article, we will focus on folding and regular eBikes. Their difference is clear from the name, on the other hand both have advantages and disadvantages. We will try to explain these points to you so you can buy the best eBike that fits your needs.

What are Folding E-Bikes?

As a pedestrian, we at least see one folding eBike daily on the bike path or a subway. These popular models have advantages and disadvantages as we stated above. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of folding eBikes. 

Starting with advantages, we can put “portability” at number one. You might be an electric biker but still want to use transportation methods like subway since it ensures you can cross long distances. If you have a folding eBike, you can easily just fold it and take it with you wherever you go. In subway for example, you do not have to be worried about the occupied space since they shrink in size by up to two times. This also provides flexibility since you can use many transportation methods while carrying your bike with you and make switching afterwards.

Another advantage is “storage”. Especially in city centers, a minimal life might be preferred because of life conditions. That causes people to choose more compact and space saving items. Storing a regular bike might be a big problem if you are one of them. In addition, you might have a car and want to have something that fits in your trunk. Thanks to their foldability, these eBikes are a lifesaver in this case.

If we continue with the disadvantages, the first thing we should state is “weight”. Even if it is a folding eBike, it is still an eBike that contains a battery and other heavy parts. We should state that being able to carry your eBike to the subway is a big plus but this process might not be as easy as pie. That is why you should check how lightweight the eBike you are planning to buy is. Second thing that can be considered as disadvantage is “performance”. Folding eBikes might have smaller wheels compared to regular bikes. This creates performance quality decrease in different terrains like rough paths. 
The last disadvantage is the “range”. Folding eBikes have a more limited battery time compared to regular bikes. If you are planning to have long rides, these ones might not be the best choice for you. You may need to charge folding bikes more compared with the regular ones. 

Let's check our folding e-bikes here.

What are Regular E-Bikes? 

After examining some aspects of folding eBikes, now we are ready to talk about regular eBikes. First advantage of regular eBikes compared with the folding ones is “performance”. They provide more battery life and they are more suitable for different terrains. If you want to have long rides that includes rough path that you will need to have a smoother ride, regular eBike is more suitable for you.

Second advantage is “comfort”. As we stated above, regular eBikes have bigger wheels. This provides a more balanced ride that is necessary for long trips. Shock absorption and handling provide decreased strain on the body, which is also important for long distances. Besides that, “variety” is the third beneficial thing of regular eBikes. Even if you can satisfy your daily needs like commuting biking with a folding eBike, a regular eBike can answer all of your adventurous plans like riding in different terrains.
The disadvantages of the regular bike are not different from the advantages of a folding eBike. For example, they create a storage problem by taking up a lot of space. It is hard to store regular bikes especially within narrow spaces. Their other problem is that they are not portable. It is hard to carry them up in stairways, or placing them to the car trunk. You may need to dismiss the possibility of using a subway with regular bikes. Closely related to the previous disadvantage, the last one is “flexibility”. Unfortunately, regular bikes are not flexible like folding eBikes. Therefore, it is hard to carry them to the public transportation vehicles. 

Let's check Ape Ryder's commuter e-bikes here.

Key Considerations 

We talked about disadvantages and advantages of two eBike types. However, this kind of comparison might not be enough to choose between them. That is why we will touch upon key considerations you should consider while choosing between folding eBikes and regular eBikes.

What kind of commute are you planning? Folding eBikes are perfect for short urban commutes since they provide ease of storage and portability. Likewise, within the city you may need to use public transport with your eBike and folding eBikes presents ease to carry. On the other hand, if you are planning long rides, regular eBikes are more suitable for you. Regular eBikes provide long battery life and comfort due to their structure. It is ideal for long distances.

How much storage space do you have? If your storage space is limited, folding eBikes are perfect for you because they provide an important decrease in their size by folding them. If storage space is not a big problem for you and you already have a place to store an eBike like a warehouse, a regular eBike will not create any problem. 

What kind of terrain do you plan to use your eBike on? Terrain type is very important while choosing between the two types of eBike. If you do not want to limit yourself and want to achieve big adventures in rough paths, you should totally chose a regular bike. If this is not your plan, an eBike will be your company while going to work, shopping, and city rides, then folding eBike is a perfect option for you. 

As a last question, what is your budget? Price range is wide when it comes to eBikes. Most of the times folding eBikes are pricier compared with the regular eBikes. However, remember that that is not a rule. You should clarify your personal needs that includes your budget and choose one of these perfect eBikes!