It might be a bit hard to believe, but you can totally get a fantastic folding electric bike under $500! Sure, it might take a bit of searching, but fear not, your quest ends right here.
Before we dive in, there’s one thing to keep in mind. These folding electric bikes won’t have all the high-end features, long mileage, or top-notch build quality you’d find in a pricey $7,000 Riese & Muller. After all, they’re only $500, so just remember that when you check out what they have to offer and what they might lack.
Best Folding Electric Bikes Under $500
Ancheer 16”
Engwe T14
Ancheer 14”
Sailnovo 14”
Swagcycle EB5Ancheer 16”
Specs
- Range: 30 miles (48km) max
- Weight: 47.3lbs (21.5kg)
- Wheel Size: 16”
- Motor: 36V 250W brushless rear hub
- Battery: 36V 8Ah Lithium-ion
- Top speed: 15.5mph (25km/h)
Pros
- Quickly foldable
- Good range for price point
- Reliable double disc brakes
- Lightweight frame
- Three riding modes (including throttle)
Cons
- No LCD display
- No suspension
- Single-speed drive
Best Deal
The Ancheer 16″ features a 36V 250W brushless rear hub motor and a 36V 8Ah Lithium-ion battery, enabling a top speed of 15.5mph and a maximum range of 30 miles. Weighing only 47.3lbs, it’s lightweight and easy to carry.
The bike’s folding mechanism is quick and hassle-free, making storage and transportation a breeze. You can collapse the stem and fold the pedals along with the frame, ensuring minimal dimensions when folded.
Though the 250W motor might not seem powerful to some, it provides a good balance between speed and range, offering up to 30 miles of riding on the lowest pedal assist level. Additionally, you have three riding modes to choose from and a throttle option for extra power when needed, though it may affect the battery life.
While the Ancheer 16″ lacks suspension and a speedometer or distance display, it compensates with reliability, featuring double disc brakes for safer rides.
If you found the Ancheer 14″ too small, this model is a great alternative. Despite a few drawbacks, such as being a single-speed bike, it remains a solid choice for those on a budget seeking their first folding e-bike.
Engwe T14
Specs
- Range: 50 miles (80km) max
- Weight: 68lbs (31kg)
- Wheel Size: 20”
- Motor: 48V 350W brushless rear hub
- Battery: 48V 10Ah Lithium-ion
- Top speed: 20mph (32km/h)
Pros
- Unique quadruple suspension
- Quick folding frame with removable battery
- Powerful 680W peak motor
- Reliable dual disc brakes
- Stellar range for the price point
Cons
- No LCD screen
- Weighs more due to iron frame
- Single-speed drivetrain
Best Deal
The Engwe T14 boasts a powerful 48V 350W brushless rear hub motor, peaking at 680W, allowing smooth cruising at 20mph. The energy is supplied by a removable 48V 10Ah Lithium battery, offering an impressive range of up to 50 miles (80km) on pedal assist and around 30-35 miles on full throttle, depending on your weight and terrain.
One exceptional feature of the T14 is its unique quadruple suspension system, combining four different shock absorbers to ensure a supremely comfortable riding experience. The padded wide saddle adds to the comfort.
The bike also comes with a rear passenger seat, which is quite rare for folding ebikes under $500, but do check the payload capacity before carrying a passenger.
Stopping power is reliable, thanks to the dual disc brakes, and the 14” vacuum rubber tires with anti-skid tread ensure safe braking on any road.
However, keep in mind that the T14 is a single-speed bike and lacks a speed or distance display. Its iron frame contributes to a slightly higher weight compared to other options.
Ancheer 14” 500W
Specs
- Range: 20 miles (32km) max
- Weight: 39.7lbs (18kg)
- Wheel Size: 14”
- Motor: 48V 500W brushless rear hub
- Battery: 48V 7.5Ah Lithium-ion
- Top speed: 20mph (32km/h)
Pros
- App sync functionality
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Powerful 70Nm motor
- Cruise control feature
Cons
- Unsuitable for tall riders
- No gears
- No suspension
Best Deal
Ancheer has truly pushed the boundaries of what’s possible within a small price range! With a 500W motor generating 70Nm of torque, this budget-friendly folding electric bike delivers a surprising punch. Not stopping there, it even comes with App control functionality, allowing you to connect it to your phone via Bluetooth for speed adjustments, ride monitoring, and error diagnosis.
Beyond its impressive performance, the Ancheer 14″ boasts a sleek and unique design, inspired by the grace of dolphins. The streamlined frame minimizes drag force, enhancing both style and efficiency. The one-piece wheels add a touch of sophistication, making it a head-turner on the streets.
Weighing in at just under 40lbs, this eBike is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Its compact size ensures hassle-free transport, though taller riders above 5’10” might find the 14″ wheels less suitable.
While the bike lacks gears and suspension, it remains a sturdy option for beginners and urban riders.
Sailnovo 14”
Specs
- Range: 18-30 miles (30-48km) max
- Weight: 46.6lbs (21kg)
- Wheel Size: 14”
- Motor: 36V 350W brushless rear hub
- Battery: 36V 10.4Ah Lithium-ion
- Top speed: 18.6mph (30km/h)
Pros
- Comfortable saddle
- Comes with LCD screen
- Comes with unique tail light
- Removable battery design
- Central shock absorber
Cons
- Not suitable for riders above 5’10”
- Single-speed drivetrain
Best Deal
Cruise around town with style and ease, all while saving big on your wallet!
What sets this eBike apart is its powerful 350W motor in the rear, providing ample power for your urban adventures. Plus, the 36V 10.4Ah Lithium-ion battery ensures a great mileage for the price, and the best part is that it’s removable.
With three riding modes – pedal assist, pure-electric, and throttle, you can also choose your preferred riding style.
Safety is paramount, and the Sailnovo 14″ doesn’t disappoint. It’s equipped with reliable dual disc brakes on both wheels, guaranteeing smooth stops and secure rides. The LCD screen keeps you updated on all your ride parameters, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
For added comfort, this eBike boasts a unique central shock absorber and a comfortable saddle, giving you a smooth and enjoyable ride every time. And let’s not forget the stylish design and eye-catching lights on both the front and rear. The attractive tail and stealth battery add to the overall charm.
The only downsides are its single-speed drivetrain and a recommended rider height limit of 5’10”. However, if you stay within these limits and stick to city riding, the Sailnovo 14″ offers an unbeatable budget-friendly eBike solution.
Swagtron Swagcycle EB5
Specs
- Range: 15.5 miles (25km) max
- Weight: 37lbs (16.8kg)
- Wheel Size: 14”
- Motor: 36V 250W brushless rear hub
- Battery: 36V 7.8Ah Lithium-ion
- Top speed: 15mph (24km/h)
Pros
- Quick and easy folding
- Removable battery
- Super-compact build
- Lightweight frame
- Reliable build
Cons
- No suspension
- Single-speed bike
- No LCD screen
Best Deal
If you’re after a foldable electric bike that’s incredibly compact and lightweight, the Swagtron Swagcycle EB5 is your best bet.
This folding ebike is incredibly lightweight, tipping the scales at just 37lbs (16.8kg), making it easy to carry around and store in tight spaces. Its compact design allows you to fold the main body frame and collapse the stem, reducing it to minimal dimensions of 26×15.6×23.6″.
Although it’s a single-speed bike without an LCD screen, the LEDs keep you updated on the battery status.
The powertrain may not be as robust as some other eBikes under $500, but it still serves as a reliable last-mile solution or a suitable ‘first bike’ for those who meet its weight and height requirements.
And, if range is a concern, the swappable battery design allows you to carry a spare battery with ease!
How to Choose Best Folding eBike Under $500?
Now that we have discussed a couple of choices, if you find yourself undecided on which folding e-bike to go after, consider the following factors to help you make the best decision:
- Intended Use: Think about how you’ll use the e-bike most often. Are you planning to commute to work, explore the city, or enjoy off-road adventures? Understanding your primary use will guide you towards the most suitable option.
- Folded Size: Pay attention to the dimensions of the electric bike when folded. Ensure it fits comfortably in your living space, car trunk, or wherever you plan to store it when not in use.
- Range: Check the bike’s battery range, indicating the distance it can cover on a single charge. Opt for a range that meets your daily commuting or riding needs without worrying about running out of power.
- Battery Performance: Consider the battery’s charging time and lifespan. A quick charging battery and a longer lifespan will provide more convenience and value in the long run.
- Build Quality: Look for an ebike made from durable materials that can withstand daily use and various weather conditions.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for the e-bike that offers a comfortable saddle, adjustable handlebars, and a smooth suspension system to enhance your overall riding pleasure.
- Motor Power: Depending on your riding preferences and local regulations, choose an e-bike with an appropriate motor power (e.g., 250W, 350W) that complies with your region’s laws.
- User Reviews: Read reviews from other users to learn about their real-world experiences with the eBike models you’re considering.
- Warranty and Customer Support: Look for brands that offer good warranty coverage and reliable customer support in case of any issues or concerns.
Summing Up
Finding the best folding electric bike under $500 is definitely possible with the great options we’ve explored. Although these affordable eBikes may not have all the fancy features of more expensive models, they still provide a wonderful introduction to the world of electric biking. So, take into account your specific needs, budget, and how you plan to use it, and make a well-informed decision.
If you want to explore more ebike options under $500, please visit this page. Otherwise, if you can increase your budget, you can also explore these fantastic ebikes under $1,000 or these ones under $2,000.
