A folding e-bike gives you flexibility: ride, fold it, carry it onto a train or into your workplace. For UK commuters, the ideal models strike a balance of compactness, decent battery, good support and durability. Below are solid folding e-bikes available or commonly imported in 2025. We focus less on flashy claims and more on what truly matters: service, reliability, and real usability on British streets and in typical storage constraints.
Quick Picks
- Editor’s Pick: Brompton Electric C Line — unmatched build, parts network, and fold compactness.
- Lightweight Option: Fiido D3 Pro — very compact and manageable weight for frequent lifts.
- Best Mid-Range: Engwe EP-2 Boost — good battery and features without going premium.
- Budget Option: Btwin Electric Folding Bike — decent entry point with decent UK backing.
Spec Table
| Model | Motor | Battery (Wh) | Claimed Range | Weight | Warranty | RRP (£) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brompton Electric C Line | 250 W rear-hub | ~300 Wh | ~40-50 mi (depending on assist) | ~17.3 kg (UK spec) | Brompton: 5-yr frame warranty (UK, subject) | ~£3,000+ (varies) | premium commuter folding |
| Fiido D3 Pro | 250 W hub | ~360 Wh | ~45–60 mi in ideal (eco) | ~16 kg (claimed) | (seller standard) | ~£363 (UK listing) Fiido D3 Pro | ultra-compact city commutes |
| Engwe EP-2 Boost | 250 W rear hub | ~374 Wh (13Ah×36V) | ~50 mi (manufacturer claim) | ~24.5 kg | (standard import warranty) Engwe EP‑2 Boost | balanced commuter/fold | |
| Btwin Electric Folding Bike | 250 W hub | ~— (Decathlon spec) | ~25–40 mi (UK urban estimate) | ~22 kg | Decathlon 2-yr / component warranties | £799.99 (Decathlon UK) Btwin Electric Folding Bike | entry/retailer support |
| Fiido M1 Pro | 250 W hub | ~360 Wh | ~50–55 mi (eco mode) | ~26.8 kg | (as listed) Fiido M1 Pro | good range folding | |
| U1 Foldable Electric Bike | 250 W hub | ~— | ~20–30 mi (urban use) | ~16 kg (claimed) | (importer warranty) U1 Foldable Electric Bike | ultra-short commutes | |
| Hitway BK5 | 250 W hub | ~360 Wh | ~30–45 mi (claim) | ~22 kg | (import warranty) Hitway BK5 | budget mid-range folding | |
| Basis Hybrid Full Size Folding | 250 W hub | ~360 Wh | ~30–45 mi | ~23 kg | (store warranty) Basis Hybrid Full Size Folding Electric Bike | hybrid-style folding |
Mini Reviews
Brompton Electric C Line
Good bits:
- Superb fold and porting features — very compact, easy to carry.
- Strong UK dealer & parts network helps with servicing over time.
- Solid brand reputation and build quality reduce long-term risk.
Watch-outs:
- Very expensive compared to other folding e-bikes.
- Battery is modest — you may run out if using high assist on hills.
Best for commuters who want reliability, proven brand support, and compact fold.
Fiido D3 Pro
Good bits:
- Excellent compactness and low weight make it easy to carry up stairs.
- Surprisingly capable battery for its size.
- Good value for what you get — motor, battery, fold in one package.
Watch-outs:
- Limited support in the UK; import warranties may be harder to enforce.
- Component quality (e.g., brakes, small bits) is modest — may need earlier upgrades.
Best for short urban commutes with lots of folding, minimal lift strain.
Engwe EP-2 Boost
Good bits:
- Balanced between weight and battery capacity; decent for mid-distance commutes.
- Good features for the price (often comes with lights, fenders).
- Reasonable “full” bike dynamics when unfolded.
Watch-outs:
- Heavier than ultra-compact models, so harder to carry long distances.
- As an import, warranty, and servicing may rely on a third party or courier.
Best for those wanting a folding commuter that still feels like a “real bike.”
Btwin Electric Folding Bike
Good bits:
- Sold via Decathlon UK, which offers physical support, returns and parts.
- Good entry point with a trusted retailer backing.
- Decent for short-to-mid commuting without over-spec.
Watch-outs:
- The weight is higher than specialist folding models, making stairs harder.
- Battery and range are often modest — be conservative on expectations.
Best for those who want an accessible folding e-bike with UK backing, minimal risk.
Fiido M1 Pro
Good bits:
- Stronger battery relative to many folders, giving better real-world range.
- Fat tyres help with rough roads and potholes.
- Versatile: ride long stretches, fold when needed.
Watch-outs:
- Heavy (~26.8 kg) to carry upstairs or over obstructions.
- The folding mechanism is larger, not as neat as pure folders.
Best for riders who need both range and foldability, tolerating extra weight.
U1 Foldable Electric Bike
Good bits:
- Very light folding design, great for minimal storage space or lifts.
- Simple and no-frills, fewer things to break.
- Works fine for very short urban commutes.
Watch-outs:
- Range and battery likely limited — borderline for longer commutes.
- Import warranty is uncertain; parts might be harder to source.
Best for very short rides and tight storage — ideal for short-distance commuters.
Hitway BK5
Good bits:
- Good battery size for its class, putting it ahead of many budget folders.
- Competitive price-to-feature ratio.
- Basic but usable build, enough for daily urban travel.
Watch-outs:
- Component quality (gears, brakes) may need upgrading for heavy use.
- Warranty and after-sales heavily reliant on the seller/importer.
Best for those wanting a “step up” folder on a budget.
Basis Hybrid Full Size Folding
Good bits:
- Hybrid-style with a folding option helps balance between full frame and folder.
- More comfortable ride than tiny-wheeled folders.
- Good choice if you want a folding bike that feels more stable.
Watch-outs:
- Heftier folding package and bulk — not ultra compact.
- Aftermarket, so support / parts are likely limited.
Best for commuters who want folding convenience but a more stable ride feel.
Buyer Tips
- Always check folded dimensions and weight — a heavy fold is often unusable in practice.
- Prefer brands or sellers with UK service or stock parts — import-only bikes may leave you stranded.
- Inspect the hinge and locking mechanism carefully before buying — this joint sees the most stress.
Are folding e-bikes legal on UK roads?
Yes — if the motor is ≤ 250 W and cuts out by 15.5 mph (electric assistance).
Can I take a folding e-bike on a train or bus?
Often yes — they fold small enough to count as luggage in many cases, but check specific transport policies.
How often do these batteries last?
Typically 500–800 full cycles before capacity falls noticeably, so plan replacement or reserve.
Does a small wheel size feel worse?
On rough roads, yes — small wheels magnify potholes; good tyres and suspension help.
Should I prioritise warranty or specs?
Warranty and parts support often matter more — a mid-tier model you can fix is better than a flashy one you can’t maintain.
See also our Best E-Bikes Under £1,000 guide.