TOP 12 best folding bikes: 2024-2025 ranking in terms of price / quality and which one should be chosen by an adult
Having your own bike is a great opportunity to actively spend time outdoors and keep fit.
But not everyone has enough space in the apartment to store a two-wheeled vehicle. The best thing to do in this situation is to buy a folding bike.
In terms of functionality and capabilities, these models are not inferior to the classic ones, but they are very convenient to store and transport.
The main thing is to choose the right model of a folding bike, focusing on the intended style of riding and the scope of use.
Also take into account the height and age of the user and the frequency of use of the bike.
The rating, which includes the best folding bike models according to the 2024-2025 version in terms of price / quality ratio, will help you choose the right device.
Rating of the TOP 12 best folding bikes 2024-2025
| Place | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| TOP 3 best adult folding bikes by price/quality for 2024-2025 | ||
| 1 | FORWARD Arsenal 20 1.0 (2020) | Ask for a price |
| 2 | Stark Cobra 27.2D (2020) | Ask for a price |
| 3 | FORWARD Tracer 26 3.0 (2020) | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 best mountain folding bikes | ||
| 1 | Stark Cobra 29.2D (2020) | Ask for a price |
| 2 | Stark Cobra 29.2 HD (2020) | Ask for a price |
| 3 | STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V011 (2020) | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 best urban folding bikes | ||
| 1 | STELS Pilot 710 24 Z010 (2018) | Ask for a price |
| 2 | STELS Pilot 410 20 Z011 (2018) | Ask for a price |
| 3 | FORWARD Arsenal 20 2.0 (2020) | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 Best Inexpensive Folding Bikes | ||
| 1 | Desna 2500 | Ask for a price |
| 2 | STELS Pilot 450 20 Z011 (2018) | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Novatrack TG-30 (2017) | Ask for a price |
Content
- Rating of the TOP 12 best folding bikes 2024-2025
- How to choose a folding bike
- TOP 3 best adult folding bikes by price/quality for 2024-2025
- TOP 3 best mountain folding bikes
- TOP 3 best urban folding bikes
- TOP 3 Best Inexpensive Folding Bikes
- Types of folding bikes and their brief description
- Customer Reviews
- Useful video
How to choose a folding bike
Initially, folding bikes 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 it will not be difficult to choose the right device for height and riding style.
Simple rules will help you choose a model:
- Consider the place of use. If you need a bike only for city walks, choose a compact model with small diameter wheels. If the bike will be ridden off-road, it is better to choose a vehicle with larger diameter wheels.
- Evaluate the convenience of the folding mechanism. Before buying, it is advisable to fold and unfold the device several times to make sure the mechanism is functioning. It is also desirable that, when folded, the bicycle can be rolled, and not carried in hands.
- Take into account the height and weight of the user. The greater the height of the user, the higher the frame should be. Its height is estimated only in the unfolded state.
It is also advisable to choose a device with shock absorption, especially if you plan to ride a bike over rough terrain.
TOP 3 best adult folding bikes by price/quality for 2024-2025
If you need a bike in which affordable cost will be combined with acceptable quality, you should pay attention to one of the models described below. As shown by the analysis of user reviews, these bikes were recognized as the best in this category.
FORWARD Arsenal 20 1.0 (2020)
This bicycle model is suitable for short city walks, and 
not only adults, but also teenagers can use the vehicle.
There is only one frame height, so the bike is not suitable for very tall users. But in order for the owner to ride as comfortably as possible, the manufacturer has provided for adjusting the height of the steering wheel and seat.
The frame of the bike is steel and is characterized by increased strength, which provides good maneuverability and maneuverability..
Despite this, the bike is not designed for cross-country travel and is not capable of developing high speed.
The rigid fork design provides a smooth ride and reduces vibration when riding, but there is no shock absorption, so the bike will shake a lot on rough roads.
Specifications:
- frame height 14 inches;
- wheel diameter 20 inches;
- number of speeds 1.
pros
- wide choice of frame colors;
- durable steel frame, resistant to wear;
- suitable for adults and teenagers;
- does not take up much space when folded;
- comfortable and fairly wide seat.
Minuses
- not suitable for cross-country travel;
- Not suitable for users taller than 170 cm.
Stark Cobra 27.2D (2020)
Outwardly, this bike looks extremely simple, but for regular trips on asphalt and 
rough terrain its characteristics are quite enough.
The frame, as well as the wheel rims, are made of lightweight aluminum alloy. Thanks to this, the bike is extremely light, and the foldable design makes it easy to store and transport the device.
The frame height is quite impressive, so the model is only suitable for adults..
For comfortable trips, the device provides high-quality shock absorption and a spring-elastomer fork design.
Its spring rate can be adjusted to adjust the ride of the bike depending on the type of road surface..
The bike is very easy to fold without additional tools, which makes it easy to transport it in the trunk of a car or public transport.
Specifications:
- frame height 18 or 20 inches;
- 27.5 inch wheels;
- 21 speed.
pros
- comfortable curved handlebar design;
- in the kit there is a footboard;
- front and rear disc mechanical brake;
- unusual design and a wide choice of body colors;
- wide and grippy tires included.
Minuses
- brakes should be lubricated immediately after purchase;
- hard to shift gears.
FORWARD Tracer 26 3.0 (2020)
This men's bike comes in just two colors, but the 
technical characteristics, and they are very worthy.
Since the model was released in 2024-2025, it fully meets the requirements of users. Frame height is optimal.
In combination with adjustable handlebar height and seat, 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 at the same time quite strong, although the frame can bend under a strong impact.Riding such a bike over rough terrain will not be very comfortable, since it has no depreciation.
The design of the fork is rigid, so the owner will feel a minimum of vibration when riding.
Specifications:
- frame 18 or 19 inches;
- wheels 26 inches;
- 3 speeds.
pros
- strong steel saddle frame;
- the set includes a footrest and fenders;
- reliable and high-quality planetary bushing;
- increased maneuverability due to the large diameter of the wheels;
- steering wheel can be adjusted.
Minuses
- no depreciation;
- many users find the saddle too stiff.
TOP 3 best mountain folding bikes
If the user prefers to ride cross-country 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 29.2D (2020)
Quality and agile mountain bike for adults, which will fit and 
city walks, and off-road trips.
The folding frame is made of aluminum alloy. It is light and strong, but not as resistant to mechanical damage as steel. Therefore, in case of a strong impact or fall, the frame may be damaged, and it will have to be replaced.
To ensure that the user does not experience discomfort when riding over rough terrain, the manufacturer has supplied the device with high-quality Hard Tail shock absorption, and the spring-elastomer fork design ensures an optimal level of vibration even when driving at high speeds.
The stiffness of the fork spring, as well as the height of the steering wheel, can be adjusted, focusing on the height of the user and the type of road surface.
Specifications:
- frame 18 or 20 inches;
- wheels 29 inches;
- 21 speed.
pros
- simple and convenient folding frame design;
- the increased diameter of wheels provides the increased maneuverability;
- high-quality depreciation;
- reliable mechanical brakes;
- suitable for travel on any road surface.
Minuses
- uncomfortable narrow seat;
- not very good quality pad.
Stark Cobra 29.2 HD (2020)
The cost of this bike is above average, but its functionality allows you to ride both 
asphalt or special bike paths, as well as cross-country.
The aluminum frame made the bike extremely light, and the frame itself folds very quickly and conveniently without the use of special tools.
This allows you to fold the bike in a minute, place it in the trunk and unfold it at the place of the walk..
Double aluminum rims are resistant to mechanical damage, and a reliable suspension fork provides high cross-country ability and comfortable riding on any type of road surface.
Also included is a footrest, and the bike itself is equipped with a reliable hydraulic brake system, which guarantees complete road safety.
Specifications:
- frame 18 inches;
- wheels 29 inches;
- 21 speed.
pros
- ergonomic curved steering wheel;
- Sufficiently wide platform pedals;
- lightweight aluminum frame;
- easy and quick to assemble;
- takes up minimal storage space.
Minuses
- many users find the seat too narrow;
- no trunk.
STELS Pilot 950 MD 26 V011 (2020)
Bright, stylish and maneuverable mountain bike that will give you a real 
the pleasure of walking in the city or rough terrain.
The vehicle is presented in several frame heights, so each user will be able to choose a product for themselves according to their height. The aluminum alloy frame is very light, but has an average resistance to mechanical damage.
For comfortable riding on rough terrain, the bike has shock absorption, and for a smooth and easy ride - a soft fork.
For safe riding, the device is equipped with a simple but reliable mechanical disc brake, and the platform pedals are wide enough so that the foot will not slip off while riding.
Specifications:
- frame for 17.5, 18 and 19 inches;
- wheels 26 inches;
- 21 speed.
pros
- very simple frame folding mechanism;
- attractive appearance;
- Sufficiently wide and comfortable seat;
- depreciation is provided for trips over rough terrain;
- adequate cost.
Minuses
- inconvenient speed switches;
- extraneous clicks are heard when the brakes are applied.
TOP 3 best urban folding bikes
If the user does not plan to ride on rough terrain, a foldable city bike is perfect for him. When folded, it will not take up much space, but at the same time it will allow you to comfortably ride around the city or special bike paths.
STELS Pilot 710 24 Z010 (2018)
This compact yet agile folding bike is perfect for teenagers or 
adults weighing no more than 80 kg.
The model was released back in 2018, but has not lost popularity so far. The frame has only one size, but by adjusting the height of the steering wheel, the user will be able to adjust the parameters of the vehicle to suit their physique.
The frame itself is steel and has a folding design.
These characteristics make the bike resistant to impacts and mechanical damage, and facilitate its storage in the limited space of a city apartment.
There is no cushioning in the bike, so it will be uncomfortable to ride off-road on this bike..
But due to the rigid design of the fork, the bicycle user will practically not feel vibration even when riding at maximum speed.
Specifications:
- frame 16 inches;
- wheels 24 inches;
- 1 movement speed.
pros
- very simple and clear folding frame design;
- soft and fairly wide saddle;
- steering wheel height can be adjusted;
- democratic value;
- reliable braking system.
Minuses
- not very high quality tires included;
- not the most convenient screw securing the seat to the frame.
STELS Pilot 410 20 Z011 (2018)
This small but maneuverable bike is more suitable for teenagers and shorter 
adults.
There is only one frame size, so you won't be able to choose a model according to your height. But, in order to adapt the parameters of the vehicle to the height of the owner, the manufacturer has provided a function for adjusting the height of the steering wheel.
Folding frame made of steel. This is a very durable material, resistant to corrosion and mechanical damage. Thanks to 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 off-road, the user will feel severe discomfort..
At the same time, to increase riding comfort, the device has a rigid fork design, which reduces the level of vibration.
Specifications:
- 13.5" frame;
- wheels 20 inches;
- 1 movement speed.
pros
- great for city trips;
- high strength steel frame;
- democratic value;
- rigid fork design;
- reliable braking system.
Minuses
- some welds are not of good quality;
- handlebars are too hard.
FORWARD Arsenal 20 2.0 (2020)
Bright, stylish and comfortable bike designed for leisurely trips around the city. The model is equipped with a female type of frame, so even teenagers who do not yet have sufficient skills can ride a bike.
Folding frame made of steel. It is resistant to corrosion and is not damaged by drops and bumps. But it should be borne in mind that steel is a rather heavy material, and it is unlikely that it will be possible to easily carry a folded bike in your hands.
Since the manufacturer originally created a bike for walking around the city, the vehicle does not provide cushioning..
But the user will not feel strong vibration during the trip due to the rigid design of the fork.
Specifications:
- frame 14 inches;
- wheels 20 inches;
- 6 speeds.
pros
- comfortable fit due to the well-thought-out seat design;
- easy and convenient to switch speeds;
- reliable braking system;
- strong steel frame;
- democratic value;
- attractive appearance.
Minuses
- too heavy for children and teenagers;
- over time, the brakes begin to squeak.
TOP 3 Best Inexpensive Folding Bikes
If the bike is not going to be used often, it makes no sense to buy an expensive model. For short bike rides, an inexpensive vehicle is enough.
Desna 2500
Inexpensive, comfortable and maneuverable city bike of domestic production 
perfect for kids and adults to ride.
In this case, 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 foldable design, so the vehicle can be easily stored and transported..
Riding a bicycle on rough terrain will be inconvenient, as it does not provide depreciation.
But at the same time, the manufacturer tried to make riding as comfortable as possible and provided the vehicle with a rigid fork, which reduces vibration while riding..
The handlebar height can be adjusted according to the height of the user.
Specifications:
- frame 14 inches;
- wheels 24 inches;
- 1 movement speed.
pros
- democratic value;
- very high quality assembly;
- strong steel frame;
- when folded, it fits easily into the trunk of a car;
- there is a loud bell.
Minuses
- only one speed of movement;
- There are no assembly instructions 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 be damaged even if it is accidentally dropped or hit hard. The platform pedals are wide enough, so the foot will not slip off while moving.
The bike is presented in only one version of the frame height, but in order to adapt the height of the bike to the height of the user, the manufacturer has provided for adjusting the height of the steering wheel.
There is no shock absorption, but the rigid fork design prevents the unpleasant sensations from riding on rough roads.
Specifications:
- bike frame size - 13.5 inches;
- wheels 20 inches;
- 6 travel speeds.
pros
- a sufficient number of speeds;
- quality disc brakes;
- steering wheel height can be adjusted;
- suitable for children and adults;
- adequate cost.
Minuses
- some users find 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 take it easy 
ride around the city.
The frame of the vehicle is steel, and has increased resistance to impact and corrosion.
The frame itself folds quickly and easily, so the bike can be stored in a pantry or transported in the trunk of a car..
There is no shock absorption in the device, but the bike has a rigid fork design to reduce the level of vibration.
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 simplest and most reliable.
Specifications:
- bike weight - 14.5 kg;
- wheels 20 inches;
- 1 operating speed.
pros
- excellent build quality;
- democratic value;
- a wide selection of colors;
- there is a bell included;
- folds quickly and easily.
Minuses
- difficult to adjust the height of the steering wheel;
- no front brake.
Types of folding bikes and their brief description
All folding bikes are divided into types according to the style of riding (urban and mountain), the age of the user (children, teens and adults) and the gender of the future owner (male and female).
But, since the folding mechanism plays a much larger role, it is worth considering in more detail.
According to this criterion, bicycles are divided into three groups:
- Models that fold in half. These are the simplest and most versatile devices.To fold such a vehicle, first lower the seat, then fold the steering wheel and pedals, and at the very end, the frame.
- Multifold devices. In such bicycles, not only the frame is folded in half, but the rear wheel is additionally fixed. Thanks to this, when folded, the bike takes up very little space and can even be carried in a small backpack.
- Models with a collapsible design. Not the most comfortable bikes, because without special keys they fold only partially, and all other elements need to be removed.
Customer Reviews
Useful video
From the video you will get an overview of the best folding bikes:
