Best Budget Folding Electric Bikes Under $1000 – Affordable Friendly Options

Electric bikes are such an amazing and energy-efficient option for both city and adventurous riding. However, with an electric folding bike, you can do so much more, but more importantly, save a lot of space. 

Still, it can be quite confusing picking out the best ones that check many boxes such as reinforced durability, peak performance, and phenomenal functionality at a pocket-friendly price. We took the liberty of reviewing some of the best options on the market, and hopefully, they’ll wow you too.

#1. Lectric XP 2.0 Black

The Lectric XP 2.0 is the second generation of Lectric's original flagship offering—Lectric XP. This is an e-bike for the ordinary rider; if you're not an avid cyclist with a stuntman personality, this is an ideal e-bike for you as it can do everything you'll need it to do, on or off-road.

The XP 2.0 keeps the 500W brushless geared rear hub motor from its predecessor: the Lectric XP. This motor has a peak power output of 850W, 50W more than the XP’s peak power. This helps the XP 2.0 reach its advertised maximum speed of 28mph—keep in mind that there are other bikes in its category that go much faster than this, though.

 The 48V/9.6Ah li-ion battery is integrated into the bike's center frame and produces up to 45+ miles of range in ideal circumstances. It attains a full charge from empty in 4 to 6 hours. A few real-world testers have complained, though, that this battery doesn't deliver as much range as the XP.

Its braking power comes from its Tektro 160mm mechanical disc brakes. This new generation of Lectric e-bikes also comes with an adjustable hydraulic suspension fork in the front end to boost comfort when riding on any terrain type. Lectric has also included puncture-resistant CST 20" × 3" fat tires to boost the e-bike's terrain versatility and ride smoothness.

The throttle, five levels of pedal assist, and the 7-speed shifter combine to deliver excellent performance with the least amount of effort from the rider. There's also a large backlit LCD display in the middle of the handlebars where you can track all important metrics from your riding. 

The simple three-button control panel is to the left of the handlebars, and the Shimano speed shifter is to the right.

The XP 2.0 was also designed to be optimally portable and functional. It's a folding e-bike that doubles into itself to become about half its length. There's a large hinge in the center of the e-bike, foldable pedals, and quick-release mechanisms to collapse the handlebars and seat tube. These combine to make this e-bike portable and easy to store in narrow spaces.

The fact that it also weighs only 64lbs makes it lighter than many other electric folding bikes (there are a few other folding bikes that are lighter, though). The XP 2.0 is designed to carry 330lbs of maximum weight and also comes standard with full fenders and a rear rack.

Considering the e-bike costs around the $1000-mark, this is a really good e-bike overall.

#2. EBE1 Electric Bike

Most cyclists that have been leaning towards purchasing e-bikes through the years have a few things in common. They love adventure, style, technologically advanced motorable options, and increased versatility. 

Popular brands like Rad Power Bikes, Aventon, and Gotrax to name a few, tick off all these requirements. 

However, not all these brands have such an affordable foldable e-bike that still delivers on power, speed, and comfortable style. Some foldable e-bikes will even cost you in excess of $4000. Not the Gotrax EBE1. 

This foldable electric bike costs just $799 and comes with a lot of cool features including a rear air suspension. Let’s delve into some other features this e-bike has to offer. 

Features of the EBE1

1) Design and Engineering

 If you want to know the truth, many affordable foldable e-bikes won’t be the stallion of your dreams. They are smaller, slimmer, and simply more compact than the un-foldable options. 

This is great if you don’t mind small e-bikes, which is the very definition of the EBE1 foldable e-bike. However, if you love zooming around in an e-bike that screams strong and mighty, this is not the one. 

The frame measures a compact 33.9" x 15" x 33" length width and height respectively. This e-bike could practically fit in your closet without causing a hassle. Which is probably a win for cyclists who prioritize storage over design. 

2) Performance

When it comes to speed and functionality, this foldable e-bike sure has some cool features under all those foldable crevices. 

First of all, we find that the suspension was incorporated in the rear wheel, this enhances traction for riders and helps them achieve clean, prompt, and safe stops. Additionally, the handlebar comes fully equipped with pedal assist controls. 

This means you can drive faster and smarter on your own terms whenever there's a need for a little extra boost. 

#3. XP™ Step-Thru 2.0 White

The most significant difference between the XP Step-Thru 2.0 and the XP 2.0 isn't just in their names. This one has a unique step-through design that allows shorter riders to mount, dismount, and straddle the e-bike with ease.

Like the XP 2.0, it has the standard 500W brushless geared hub motor with an 850W of maximum output, producing a max speed of 28mph. Also, according to several reviews and tests, this bike isn't the best for climbing inclines.

On one particular test, the bike had an average speed of 10.2 mph when going up a 12-15% incline on full throttle, slowing down to under 5mph on the steepest portions of the hill. Using the fifth level of pedal assist, it achieved an average speed of 13.4mph, going just under 10mph sometimes.

There are other e-bike options better calibrated for people who frequently take hilly terrains, especially if you like to avoid pedaling altogether as often as possible.

The batteries are also the same as the XP 2.0's. It's a 48V/9.6Ah integrated battery with 4 to 6 hours of charge time and 45+ miles of range at the most. This battery pack would actually be considered below the current industry standard and may turn some buyers off.

The e-bike comes with 160mm mechanical disc brakes for braking power. Due to the bike's weight, though, there's a fair amount of skid when a rider applies the brakes at around 20mph. Some ride tests report an average braking distance of around 23 ft.

There's a suspension seat post, an adjustable hydraulic front fork suspension system, and puncture-resistant CST fat 20" × 3" tires for ride comfort. The Lectric XP had 4-inch fat tires, but the 3-inch tires on this electric bike make them more versatile and nimble to ride and control on any type of surface.

This step-through bike also has a 7-speed shifter, a throttle, and 5 different levels of pedal assistance, which help riders cope with most terrains without sacrificing performance and comfort. It also has an adjustable seat post and stem, utilizing simple quick-release clamps.

Like the XP 2.0, this step-through variant has exactly the same LCD display, headlamp and tail light fittings, net weight (64lbs), and payload capacity (330lbs). The bike frame measurements are the same: 67 × 25 × 47 inches when unfolded and 37 × 18 × 28 inches when folded. The only difference here is that the folding mechanism in the center frame is a few inches lower to the ground on the XP 2.0 Step-Thru than it is on the XP 2.0.

The rear rack and fenders also come standard with this electric bike. Also, the extra accessories you can get for this bike—like the comfort package seat post, front rack, and baskets—are relatively affordable.

This is clearly not the option for the high-performance e-bike rider, but it’s a solid low-maintenance e-bike that offers good value especially considering its current price of $999 (the original price is $1099)

Pedal Assistance

Pedal assistance is the signature advantage of most e-bikes. The power exerted from the motor makes pedaling a lot easier and relatively faster. Of course, you may have to turn it on first. 

The pedal assist should feel like an extra push or support for the feet as you pedal. 

Different motors guarantee various levels of motor assist, and for some foldable e-bikes, there may not be many options to choose from. This means there'll be more reliance on the throttle for extra speed.

Are Folding Bikes Good for Long Rides?

In most cases, foldable e-bikes are more suitable for shorter rides, however, they have the capacity to go the extra mile. They are still quite practical and, depending on the range and gear speeds, you’ll probably still enjoy a good tour around the city. 

Best Folding Electric Bike Under $1000

There are quite a good number of options to choose from when thinking of reliable electric folding bikes. However, for a budget option, the list is more streamlined because some cheaper options may compromise on quality. 

However, we found that the Nakto 250W, though small and slender, really offers impressive features for such an affordable price. The large comfortable seat is a plus. 

Additionally, the powerful motor and reliable battery make it an excellent option for riders that want a quality budget, foldable, and highly compact e-bike with a rack, good mileage, and suitable pedal assist. 

Choosing the right electric bike under $1000 that yet still needs to be foldable can feel a little intimidating, especially considering that many folding e-bikes are way expensive.

Typically, getting a folding e-bike means shelling out a pretty penny, which is a real concern for those on a budget.

The high cost is also a real concern for beginners since they don't want to pick an expensive model without knowing what is at stake.

However, with the growing demand for convenient mobility, many e-bike manufacturers are now producing more affordable folding electric bikes under $1000 that weren’t available years ago.

Here Is My List Of The Top Cheap Folding Electric Bikes That Don't Break The Bank.

How Low Can The Price Of A Foldable E-Bike Go?

First, understand that you get what you pay for, and in most cases, low prices mean quality issues.

However though, when it comes to electric bikes, “cheap” is quite a relative measure.

Typically, a decent foldable e-bike can cost over $2,500.

However, there’re some excellent folding electric bikes under $1000 available if your budget doesn’t stretch that far.

Most affordable folding e-bikes tend to be hybrids- these are bikes designed for everyday commuting and casual riding instead of a specific task like rugged, off-road terrain.

Generally, most of the affordable folding bikes are within the $500 and $1,000 range.

Of course, there’re some lesser expensive models such as Bestkucky Mini Electric Bike, Kepteen 350W Electric Bike, or TrekPower Folding Electric Bike.

But remember, we’re also looking at other elements such as practicality, ease of use, mileage, etc.

Yes, some of the mentioned cheap folding electric bikes models go as low as $300, but you’ll soon realize they’re not reliable, and can’t even handle the slightest of the rugged terrains.

On the other hand, affordable folding electric bike models under $1000 but within a $500 to $1,000 range strike a balance between cost and functionality.

Most of them have a motor rating from an upward of 250W, so they’re quite reliable even in the tough terrains, and will give you plenty of miles.

They also won’t disappoint you with their build quality or aren’t plagued by dodgy electronics.

For most models at this range, expect some common characteristics in their componentry such as:

1)Hub Motor

Many of the best folding electric bikes under $1000 use original industry standard and affordable hub motors instead of mid-drive motors.

Unlike the mid-drive, the hub motors don't allow natural maneuverability because they concentrate their weight on the front or the rear.

2)Cheaper Components

Folding electric bikes under $1,000 normally have cheaper design componentry.

But this doesn’t mean you’ll be riding around on a rattling tin can.

It just means the manufacturer puts the money where it matters most.

3)Range and Battery Integration

Most of the budget-friendly folding electric bikes don't hide their batteries with much elegance; instead, the battery sticks out at the top of the down tube, easily noticeable.

The range is also somewhat limited; most of them have a pedal-assisted range of 30 to 40 miles, but some might reach 50 miles (80 km).

What to Search for in a Good Folding Electric Bike Under $1000?

There is a diverse range of affordable folding electric bike available in the market suiting your different needs. The best way to determine which ones best for you is to balance the features that are extremely important to you according to your usage (listed below) with the budget in hand.

Battery 

One of the most important factors to consider before buying an folding e-bike is the runtime since it determines the amount of time you can use the powered product for. The greater the battery life- the further you will be able to ride the electric bike (range). 

Since battery capacities drain over time), it is better to invest in batteries from reputable companies with warranties; prolonging their usage.

Range 

The range of your folding electric bike is dependent on the amount of assistance needed and the terrain that is being ridden hence, it is crucial to choose a bike that offers enough range to help you reach your preferred destination. Most e-bikes offer a range between 20 miles and a little over 200 miles for the high end ones.

Speed

For regular usage a folding electric bike with a speed of 20mph is ideal however, it solely depends on your usage. Keep in mind that a higher speed would mean a faster battery drain.

Portability 

A lightweight collapsible would be an ideal choice since it is easier to transport and store. 

If you are planning to use your folding e-bike for inner-city transportation then foldable electric bikes are the way to go.

Weight 

A folding e-bike weighing less 20 kg would be considered light weight making it easier to carry around and easier to navigate through pot holes and rough roads. 

Durability 

Budget friendly electronics can be faulty and dubious hence, it is important to buy a folding electric bike from a reliable brand to ensure the products reliability. The motor, battery and electronics in an e-bike determine the longevity of its use. E-Bikes with Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice as they have a longer life and generate more power than others. 

However, there is no pre-defined standard that warns you whether the internal components of the folding electric bike are of high quality or not.

What Is The Best Folding Electric Bike To Buy If Your Budget Can Go a Little Further?

If a folding electric bike had all of the following features, it’d be closer to “best” than most others;

• Motor: The motor is the major determinant in an electric bike’s performance. It should feature a mid-drive motor with a power rating of 1000-watts to 750-watts with speed capped at 28mph. This will guarantee a smooth riding experience.
• Battery: Its battery should be nothing less than 48V to 64V. Most high-functioning electric bikes feature batteries from renowned manufacturers such as Samsung, LG Chem, et cetera.
• Range: The powerful motor and large-capacity battery should provide nothing less than 65 miles range per full charge.
• Brakes: The best electric bike must use the best materials in every aspect of its assembly. Hence, it should utilize more durable hydraulic brakes.
• Hardware: It should feature the best materials, hardware-wise. Steel and titanium alloys are among the best materials used for electric bikes.
• E-Systems: The best electric bike should feature cutting-edge software to manage its functions. It may have Bluetooth functionality along with an interactive TCD or LCD that allows you to switch modes, gears and lock the bike and battery.

Here is my top list if I were to have a bigger budget:

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Alternative Options We Also Like:

#1. Nakto 250W Fashion Foldable City Electric Bike

Foldable e-bikes are one of the most sought-after electric cycle types in the industry. The reason is simple, in extremely busy and populated towns, everyone is trying to save space. This is one of the reasons the Nakto Foldable E-Bike stood out.

This e-bike is quite compact in its full form, which makes it assume an even smaller size when folded. However, the Nakto is not just ‘small’ and convenient, there are other qualities that may attract avid cyclists to its slim and classy frame. 

Features of the Nakto 250W foldable electric bike

1) Motor and Power

Transitioning from a standard bike to an electric bike may seem a bit daunting for beginners. However, it just requires a little practice and some muscle memory to adapt to the pedal-assist option.

Thankfully, the Nakto’s motor which is located inside the rear wheel makes things a lot easier. As opposed to e-bikes that have the motor at the front wheel, this design allows a push-forward motion that makes it easier for new e-bike riders to adjust. 

Plus, the motor can generate up to 250 watts of continuous power, backed by a reliable 10 amp-hour lithium battery. Besides, Lithium-ion batteries are known to be one of the most efficient in the industry.

They know how to hold a long charge and are equally a bit durable. It’s safe to say that until the all-new post-lithium era is actualized, lithium-ion batteries are still the top choice for manufacturers that want to stay in the electric products race. 

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Nakto e-bike is its compact size. Of course, this may not deter fun-sized riders, but may be a downer for much taller and relatively larger users. 

Although there’s no point making exaggerated promises, the seats are at least adjustable from 23” to 26” for riders who need a little bit more height for a conveniently comfortable ride. 

It seems that the e-bikes frame was intentionally reduced to ensure it fits into smaller spaces and is stored easily for easy portability and mobility. The 42” long, 48” wide, and 30” high e-bike should conveniently fit in the trunk of your car, transport easily, and fit better in tighter spaces. 

#2. Ecotric 500W Dolphin Folding Fat Tire Electric Bike

For regular commuters, you’re probably already acquainted with the safety measures required for commuting to and from work or errands. However, it’s not always a walk in the park, there are real dangers to avoid. Especially if you have a hulk of an e-bike. 

However, with extra compact e-bikes like the Ecotric 500W Electric Bike, there’s literally less to fear on the road. First of all, the extra slim and compact form makes it easier to maneuver through tight spaces. 

It also helps cars avoid certain areas because of the possible proximity of the e-bike to tight corners. But, apart from the laudable compact form, what else is desirable about this e-bike? Let’s find out. 

This extra compact foldable electric bike stands out from the crowd with 20x4.0’ fat tires that guarantee more convenience on the road. There’s a usual trade-off with foldable e-bikes, the choice to go with small, slim tires or fat, durable, tires. 

The latter ensures more ride smoothness and helps keep those vigorous hits and bumps silent. The former helps to maintain a compact form through the entire frame. However, the fat tires should tone down road impact and hold up more weight. 

Additionally, there are the front and rear fenders to rave about. That extra protection from elements like stones, broken glass, dust, or mud helps immensely when you’re speeding down different terrains. 

Then there’s the thoughtful step-through design that makes mounting a lot easier. It may be true that this is a relatively low and compact e-bike, yet it’s still nice to know that stepping in and out comes with no strain whatsoever. 

The 500W rear hub motor in conjunction with the 7speed derailleur promotes more throttle/speed control when riding. Plus, thanks to the Ecotric smart LED display, the controls are quite accessible. 

You can keep tabs on statistics like time, distance, speed, and more while cycling long distances. Many aren’t so convinced about the braking system though, as they passed on hydraulic disc brakes and chose mechanical disc brakes instead. 

Still, if it’s any consolation, at least the battery promises long runtimes and efficient pedal assist efficiency with a simple twist on the throttle.