The folding electric bike has become a must when discussing the development of ranges from different manufacturers. This category of electric bikes is intended for a particular profile of cyclists. We will therefore focus in this article on the different models on the market, their uses and the advantages and disadvantages of such a bike.

Choosing the right folding electric bike

Electric bikes are attracting a lot of interest and the use of folding bikes as a means of transport has grown in recent years with the congestion of city centers. Here is a selection of the best folding electric bikes 2021 :

Gocycle G4: the top of the range

Gocycle brand bicycles are renowned for their advanced technology and reliability . The Gocycle G4 is the big novelty for 2021. Here are some of the advances on this new generation of bikes:

With its G4 model, Gocycle is unveiling a new motor called the G4DRIVE . It is one of the smallest motors in the world , it is smooth and quiet . It is more torquey and more powerful than its predecessors.

The Gocycle G4 features a unique frame design. It is composed of 3 main elements: the central element made of a single hydroformed aluminum piece , the rear part in magnesium and the front fork in carbon fiber . The simplicity of the design and the quality of the components used make it a bike of formidable reliability.

The single-arm front fork typical of the gocycle design is now made of carbon fiber and the cables connected to the motor are fully integrated, which allows more reliability .

In order to improve grip at all times, Gocycle offers new tires treated with silica, inspired by the world of motorcycle competition .

This new bike incorporates a USB port located in the handlebars that will allow you to charge your phone or other accessories.

Moma E 20 Pro: the king of cities

The Moma E 20 Pro is a 100% urban bike designed to explore the city effortlessly. Its 250W motor and its 4 levels of assistance allow it to adapt to any situation.

Equipped with a 7005 aluminum frame, it is a rather light e-bike. Its maximum speed is 25 km / h and its autonomy of 120 km (depending on weight, type of terrain and level of assistance used) allows you to cover great distances. Its battery is also integrated into the frame and removable.

The LCD screen , installed on the handlebars, informs us at any time of the level of pedaling assistance, the remaining battery capacity, the distance traveled, etc. A USB port is also integrated into the display controller which will allow you to charge your phone during your journeys.

It is equipped with 7 speeds and Shimano components, 20 inch wheels, front suspension and hydraulic disc brakes. It also has all the necessary accessories: front and rear LED lighting, rear luggage rack integrated into the frame, mudguards, kickstand, bell, comfort saddle, ergonomic wrists, and an adjustable stem to ensure optimum comfort and avoid that your back does not suffer.

Eovolt city 4 speed: the French featherweight

The City 4Speed ​​is a folding , lightweight and ultra-compact electric bike. Ideal for motorhomes , boat owners or simply for city dwellers who want a practical electric bike for their daily trips.

Small and discreet when folded, the EOVOLT City 4Speed ​​bike allows you to optimize your space .

The EOVOLT folding electric bike is equipped with an LG lithium -ion battery integrated in the seatpost, which combines aesthetics and practicality.

Indeed, beyond offering a more attractive visual , this new system is very practical because it allows you to recharge the battery of your EOVOLT bike without having to move it.

With its weight of 14kg , it is one of the lightest on the market!

The folding electric bike, for what use?

Driving around town

The “ commuters ”, grouping people who go to their place of work daily , make identical journeys every day. They often need to combine several modes of transport.

During his journey, the user will therefore use several means of transport : RER/metro or tram/metro for example.

In this case, the folding bike will be used to start or end a journey or to join two modes of public transport a few kilometers apart.

To go on holiday

It is in this configuration that the potential of the folding electric bike is revealed. Indeed, you have decided to go on vacation by car, train, camper or even plane? The question of the means of transport once arrived at destination arises each time.

The folding electric bike is the right, practical and economical solution for getting around.

The advantages of the electric folding bike

Take it everywhere

The number 1 advantage of the foldable electric bike is obviously its compact size . Its foldable configuration will allow you to take it everywhere with you.

For city dwellers , you can easily put it in an elevator and then store it in your apartment without it taking up too much space.

Likewise at your workplace , you can keep an eye on your bike while being comfortably seated at your desk.

Uncompromising agility

Its small size allows it to squeeze through traffic. You will also have your feet firmly on the ground and will therefore be completely safe for your daily journeys.

The limits of the folding electric bike

A basic design

The very design of the frame can make certain models of bicycles fragile. The folding system has a lot to do with it. Indeed, the hinges and openings allowing the folding of the bike can wear out over time and therefore weaken the bike.

Basic comfort

The riding position on this type of bike can be uncomfortable for tall people. Indeed, the different models of folding bikes have identical sizes for the most part. The very design of the bike means that the handlebars are very close to the saddle.

On the other hand, these bikes are equipped with small wheels to make them more compact. This makes the bike less stable and comfortable to ride on rough roads.

Heavier than it looks...

We often think that the folding bike is lighter than a classic bike because of its small size , but that's not true! Indeed, in order to solidify the structure of this type of bike, manufacturers use more robust and therefore heavier materials. Folding electric bikes have, on average, a weight of 20kg .

So if you thought you could take your bike along the corridors of the metro and then unfold it at the exit to continue your journey, you are completely wrong!

It may be possible to go up and down a few steps, but if your goal is to find a means of transport that complements public transport, prefer an electric scooter , for example.

Conclusion

The folding electric bike is a good solution in two following cases:

- The first is if you need to store or park your bike at your home or office . In this case, the compact size is a real plus because the bike takes up little space. However, be careful because if you live or work on the upper floors, it is necessary to have an elevator .

- The second is if you want to enjoy your bike once you arrive at your destination when you take your car or the train . You will have a bicycle at your place of vacation , walk or in your motorhome if you are lucky enough to have one!

For the vélotaf , we advise you to use a classic electric bike because it will allow you to make your entire home-to-work journey with more comfort than a folding electric bike.

In summary, the folding electric bike is more to be considered as an extra bike than a mode of travel in its own right.

You are now all familiar with the electrically assisted bicycle, but have you ever heard of the fast electric bicycle called a speedbike ? It looks like an electric bike but it belongs to the same category as mopeds because this bike allows its user to ride up to 45 km/h using assistance. From a legal point of view, it is therefore subject to the same constraints as a scooter: registration , insurance , approved equipment . In this article, we are going to introduce you to this newcomer to the electric bike segment.

What is a speedbike?

The speed bike looks like a classic electric bike in every way: a frame, handlebars, pedals... But on closer inspection, the presence of a rear- view mirror , a license plate , powerful lights and a horn show that this bike uses the codes of the scooter .

Under the law, the speedbike is indeed considered 50cc . Where a so-called "classic" electrically assisted bicycle offers pedaling assistance of up to 25 km/h , the speedbike can push this assistance up to 45 km/h !

This bike cannot be considered as such because the power of its motor can exceed the 250W authorized for classic pedelecs and generally offers capacities of 350W or 500W. In addition, the electric assistance is active up to 45 km/h, and no longer up to 25 km/h. These technical characteristics therefore place the speed bike in the same category as mopeds .

Why choose a speedbike?

This type of bike is comfortable on all terrains . The speedbike allows you to move up to 45 km/h thanks to the pedal assistance. This is equivalent to using a scooter or a small displacement motorcycle. Like the VAE, it requires little physical effort thanks to the power deployed by the motor to help you move forward.

The speedbike is also an ecological and economical means of transport. You move without emitting co2 while saving fuel, parking and maintenance. The last essential point is the ease of movement . If you made the choice of the speed bike it is above all to save time in transport. No more traffic jams, set off to conquer the bitumen!

Choosing a speed bike is therefore choosing a fast and versatile means of transport. Indeed, thanks to its autonomy and its capacities, it allows you to cover long distances effortlessly and at a faster pace than a conventional electric bike. Before opting for this type of bike, it is therefore necessary to define precisely what your needs are and what use you want to make of this new transport.

All about the legislation

Registration and insurance

Here are the conditions for driving a speed bike:

• Be at least 14 years old .
• Hold an A, B, AM or BSR permit.
• The bike must be registered .
• Insurance is compulsory and the certificate (the green sticker) must be affixed to the front of the fork, in other words on the fork or on the mudguard (art. A211-10 of the Insurance Code).
• At a minimum, you must be covered by moped liability insurance , which covers damage to third parties.
• It is forbidden to install a baby seat or a trailer .

Helmet and gloves required

To ride a classic electric bike, wearing a helmet is optional. In the case of the speed bike, wearing a helmet is compulsory !

But be careful, you don't have to choose just any helmet. In France, regulations require the wearing of an ECE2205 approved helmet .

You will also need to wear motorcycle- approved gloves . The standard that defines them ( EN13594:2015 ) provides for two levels of protection: 1 or 1KP and 2KP.

Where should I drive?

Forget bike lanes, as a speedbike user you are bound to ride on the road .

No authorization for traffic in the opposite direction on one-way streets, forest paths , or tracks prohibited to motor vehicles is granted.

Your fast e-bike looks and rides like a bicycle, but legally it's closer to a scooter .

The best speedbikes 2021

Mustache Friday 27 FS speed dual

The Friday 27 FS Speed ​​is the ultimate mobility solution for cyclists because the longer the distances, the greater the time saved! The Friday 27 FS Speed ​​is on average faster than cars or scooters in urban and suburban environments, and even in the countryside . Your journey time remains stable whatever the traffic conditions… or in the event of a public transport strike!

The Friday 27 FS Speed ​​is available in 2 versions : single or dual battery. The single battery version allows you to cover a wide radius at high speed for your daily challenges. In the Dual version, you can cover even longer distances with 1125 Watts of autonomy, so you increase the autonomy of the bike by 80% and can extend your playground.

Simply let yourself be guided by the Nyon connected speedometer with integrated GPS function .

With a maximum torque of 85 Nm and a light weight of only 2.9 kg , the Performance Line Speed ​​motor will accompany you up to 45 km/h easily and safely.

The frame of the Friday 27 FS Speed ​​offers 100mm of travel front and rear. The Magura brakes specifically developed for Speed ​​use will stop you in the pocket, even at high speed. Finally, the 35 mm wide Mustache rims shod with Schwalbe Super Moto-X tires will ensure comfort, traction and durability!

Riese & Müller SuperDelite GT touring

The Superdelite GT Touring model was designed to cover long distances. Discover nature with complete peace of mind with this bike which offers optimal safety and total comfort with its high quality equipment. It is your best ally in your travels: you will be able to discover a new place every day with complete peace of mind!

Whether you are at work, on the weekend or on a cycling holiday, the Superdelite GT Touring will satisfy the needs of the most demanding.

This speed bike is equipped with the latest generation of Bosch Performance Line CX motors. The bike is equipped with Magura MT5/MT4 hydraulic disc brakes (front/rear) as standard, Shimano Deore XT Shadow + 11 derailleur, Suntour Aion fork and Suntour rear suspension.

To see and be seen at night, the Superdelite is equipped with highly efficient Supernova lighting.

Stromer ST3

The Speed ​​Bike Stromer ST3 allows you to quickly cover long distances, while keeping the pleasure of riding on a dynamic , comfortable , well-balanced bike.

The connected OMNI system allows you to manage motor assistance, personalize your settings, receive a set of statistics, display autonomy, etc.

The Stromer ST3 is equipped with 27.5" wheels and a complete set of accessories: mudguards, luggage rack, mirror. For safety and visibility, the front headlight (900 lumen max) is combined with the taillight. Stromer Daylight The rear lighting incorporates a safety brake light system.

The Speed ​​Bike Stromer ST3 uses the SYNO Drive II rear wheel motor. Powerful, silent, it offers 3 modes and a maximum torque. of 44 Nm. The 814 Wh battery provides good autonomy, rated at 150 km by the brand, in optimal conditions of use.

Conclusion

As you will have understood, the speedbike is the ultimate electric bike . This is a niche market that caters to a targeted clientele . Its high price and approval constraints can be a barrier to purchase for some users. However, this new type of bike turns out to be a real alternative to the car or public transport in town.

The uses of a bicycle are many. There are a multitude of accessories allowing you to customize your bike according to your needs. With the development of electric bicycles, a new type of accessories has appeared on the market.

We have divided the accessories into 5 categories in order to guide you in your future choices.

Safety accessories

In France, every day, more than 1000 bicycles are stolen . This represents 1 bike theft per minute per year! A few simple steps can allow you to better secure your bike and limit theft of it.

Secure your bike with a lock

No matter how long you leave your bike unattended, always secure it with a lock . But be careful, the choice of lock is important! Prefer quality locks so as not to have any unpleasant surprises.

ABUS STEEL-O-CHAIN ​​8807 Lock

The Steel-O-Chain 8807 from the German brand ABUS is a secure lock for your bike.

Composed of 7 mm square links, it is covered over its entire surface with a fabric sheathing to prevent scratches on your paintwork. The anti-theft bicycle chain and some elements of the closure are made of special case-hardened steel.

The ABUS Steel-O-Chain 8807 bicycle lock has a class 8 security level and comes with 2 keys.

Kryptonite Evolution lite mini 6 U-lock

With the Evolution Lite Mini 6 model, Kryptonite offers the lightest U-lock in the High Security range.

Weighing 747 g , the Lite Mini 6 is a lock offering an excellent level of security with its 11 mm diameter hardened steel shackle. Compact, it is easy to transport when traveling and its Flexframe attachment is compatible with all types of bikes .

With 7/10 protection from Kryptonite, the Lite Mini 6 combines both lightness and very good security.

Marking made compulsory

Since January 1, 2021, bicycle marking has become mandatory for all purchases of new bicycles (and used bicycles from July 1, 2021). This is the registration of your bicycle. In order to fight against theft, engraving/marking allows you to register your bike in a national directory . This official database makes it possible to find the contact details of the owner in the event of loss or theft of a bicycle.

ICA Bike marking by Auvray Antitheft

All Garrett Miller bicycles are equipped with an ICA Bike marking label. It is resistant to bad weather , the test of time as well as tearing in case of theft. We take care of all the registration procedures. All you have to do is stick the supplied label on the frame of your bike and download the mobile application allowing you to easily check the status of your bike. If by bad luck this happens to you, you can report the loss or theft of your bike on this application in one click.

Insurance to drive with peace of mind

The purchase of a VAE is a significant investment and the risks of vandalism, breakage or theft are very present. The subscription to an insurance is not compulsory for an electric bike but we strongly recommend it.

The bike must meet the following homologation conditions in order to be insured:

• the motor power must not exceed 250 watts
• the assistance must stop when the speed of 25 km/h is reached
• the motor must engage only when the cyclist is pedaling

Insurers offer contracts adapted to the value of the bike and its use . The amount of compensation paid in the event of theft generally depends on the purchase value of the bicycle. The cost of insurance therefore varies according to many criteria. This can range from 80€ to more than 300€ per year. Ask your insurer for a quote that meets your needs.

Visibility accessories

Bicycle lighting is an obligation ! The Highway Code stipulates that your bike must have equipment to make you visible when the weather deteriorates or night falls. An observation also shows that cyclists are very often poorly lit.

See and be seen with lights

Lezyne micro drive pro 600xl front and rear light kit - 600 Lumens

The Lezyne Micro Drive 600 XL lamp and its rear lamp offer high performance lighting for all your trips at the end of the day or at night.

It is easy to attach to almost all frames and handlebars with the silicone strap. It is possible to rotate the support 360° with ease.

It has 8 brightness modes , including a "Daytime Flash" mode to stay visible in the middle of the day. There is also an Overdrive racing mode and an economy mode.

Lezyne front and rear lights are waterproof (waterproof IPX6).

Protective accessories

The essential helmet

Wearing a helmet is not compulsory but in the event of a fall, it will be the most important safety element. Several studies have shown that head trauma is the leading cause of death among cyclists.

The helmet is not a flawless bulwark in the event of a head impact . However, it greatly reduces the risk of trauma and injury by absorbing shock.

Recall ! The bicycle helmet must be replaced after a fall or impact even if no major damage is visible. Its effectiveness will indeed be less and will not protect you properly.

Thousand Heritage Collectible Helmet

Elegant and lightweight , Thousand bicycle helmets are inspired by the vintage spirit of Californian bikers from the 50s and 60s.

The coating of the helmet is rubberized (easy to clean), the attachment system is magnetic and the straps are made of genuine leather (vegan).

The inside of the helmet has 7 ventilation points.

It has EN 1078 and CPSC approval as well as a patented integrated system allowing it to be quickly attached to your lock .

Gloves for protection, control and comfort

There are 3 main uses for wearing cycling gloves: protection in the event of a fall, control of the handlebars and practicality in cold weather.

Thousand Bullit leather gloves

Designed to ride in style, the Thousand Bullitt vintage cycling gloves are very comfortable and offer essential cushioning for the road.

Made of genuine leather, these lightweight gloves (35g) have vents to let your hands breathe during journeys.

Its shockproof structure has been designed to protect your hands in all conditions.

Useful bicycle accessories

For some users, the electric bike replaces the car or public transport. It was therefore necessary to develop utility -type accessories in order to be able to go to work, go shopping or transport all types of objects. Here are some examples of must-haves for everyday travel:

Panniers / luggage racks to go to work

It is surely the master accessory for transporting objects. The panniers fit easily on any bike and allow you to carry bulky objects during your trip: laptop, binder, documents, etc.

Double pannier 500 2x20l Decathlon

This bag is designed for daily cycling in town and on the road and allows you to carry your shopping and various everyday items.

The load limit is 7kg per side.

This double pannier is compatible with all our bikes equipped with luggage racks, including electric bikes.

A basket for shopping

It attaches to the front or back of your mount, the basket is the essential tool for an outing to the market on Sunday morning.

Bicycle basket 500 front 12l Decathlon

This basket has been developed to transport your belongings on the handlebars of your bike. The basket is removable, it supports a maximum load of 5kg and has a capacity of 12 liters .

A phone holder to guide you

Have you decided to go to town to join your friends in this new trendy bar but you have no idea how to get there? Do not panic ! Get a smartphone holder .

SHAD SG70H smartphone holder for 6.6" handlebars

Consider the Shad SG70H smartphone holder to install your phone on the handlebars of your bike.

The fixing system comes with the support which has a quick release system.

The stand can rotate 360 ​​degrees to adjust the display to your liking.

Everything has been thought out for the protection of your smartphone with the presence of an internal protective cover, a zippable water-resistant cover as well as a " security strap " to hang on the handlebars.

maintenance accessories

Take care of your bike with maintenance products

Proper maintenance of your bike is essential to extend its life . After each outing, be sure to perform a quick cleaning.

Muc-off Waterless Cleanser

This high performance Muc-Off cleaner allows for quick cleaning and waxing , requiring no water.

It cleans your bike in seconds, for a streak -free shine. Since it does not use water, this product keeps your electric bike in good condition without the risk of oxidation .

Its innovative formula encapsulates dirt and prevents scratches . Useful for removing dirt between heavy washes.

Conclusion

We have therefore seen in this article the different types of accessories that have become essential for the use of an electrically assisted bicycle. You can now make your choice according to the use you make of it on a daily basis !