Lightest folding e-bike

Gotrax R1 Folding

Carrying up stairs, onto a train or into a small car boot.

Our pick: Lightest folding e-bike. The Gotrax R1 Folding is a folding e-bike with 500W of peak motor power and 374Wh of battery, about $660 on Amazon. It suits carrying up stairs, onto a train or into a small car boot. The catch: small 48V 7.8Ah battery: about 15 miles on throttle. Reliability reviews are mixed (47 positive, 32 negative).

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White / 20 inchabout $660Black / 20 inchabout $660

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Type: Folding
Motor: 350W (500W peak)
Battery: 374Wh
Top speed: 20 mph (listing)
Range claimed: up to 40 mi
Range, real world: about 10 to 20 mi
Tyres: 20 x 2.6 in
Suspension: None
Brakes: mechanical disc
Frame: Folding
Weight: 45 lb

Specs are the maker's own, from the Amazon listing. Real range is our estimate from the battery size.

Why we pick it

45 lb: about half a fat-tyre folder
Folds to 37 x 18 x 28 inches
UL 2849 certified; sold and shipped by Amazon
Buyers rate foldability 44 to 5

The catch

Small 48V 7.8Ah battery: about 15 miles on throttle. Reliability reviews are mixed (47 positive, 32 negative).

Folding e-bikes in one line

Folds in the middle to fit a car boot, a closet or a train. Usually 20-inch wheels.

Real range vs advertised · Torque vs cadence sensors

Questions about the Gotrax R1 Folding

Is the Gotrax R1 Folding a good e-bike?

Lightest folding e-bike. 45 lb: about half a fat-tyre folder. Folds to 37 x 18 x 28 inches. The catch: Small 48V 7.8Ah battery: about 15 miles on throttle. Reliability reviews are mixed (47 positive, 32 negative).

How far does the Gotrax R1 Folding really go?

The listing claims up to 40 miles. With a 374Wh battery, expect about 10 to 20 miles in real riding (roughly 20 to 30 watt-hours per mile with a mix of pedalling and throttle). Hills, cold weather, heavier riders and throttle-only riding cut it further.

How fast does the Gotrax R1 Folding go?

The listing gives 20 mph. That is the Class 1 and 2 limit, allowed on most bike paths.

Who is the Gotrax R1 Folding for?

Carrying up stairs, onto a train or into a small car boot.

What Gotrax says about it

Powerful Riding PerformanceDiscover adventure with the GOTRAX R1 e-bike! Equipped with 20"*2.6" tires and a potent 48V battery, conquer any terrain - commuting, campus, park, and beyond. With a peak power of 500W (350W rated power), the powerful motor allows you to reach a max speed of 20mph with ease. Whether for work, school, or outdoor exploration, the R1 electric bike fulfills needs.
Effortless ControlExperience peak efficiency and convenience with our e-bike featuring a spacious smart display, granting easy access to crucial ride data. Charge the 48V/7.8Ah battery in 5.5 hours via two options, for up to 15.5 miles pure electric or 25 miles PAS range. Whether commuting or leisure riding, this e-bike delivers unmatched versatility and performance.
Foldable and Portable DesignGOTRAX's foldable electric bikes offer outdoor enjoyment with compact portability. They fit in car trunks or subways for smooth commutes, unfolding easily for adventures. (Folded size:37.4*17.7*27.5inch) Pre-ride: Ensure proper battery installation, turn the key clockwise to the end to activate battery.
Reliable ComponentsOur tailor-made transmission system is built to withstand the beach and mountain terrain, ensuring utmost durability. Dual disc brakes ensure potent stopping, enhancing safety and comfort. Enhanced visibility via bell, LED headlight, and rear reflector ensures night rides are as secure as daytime. With these safety elements, ride confidently regardless of time or road conditions.
3 Riding Modes & Customer SupportWe provide 365-day parts support and 24/7 customer assistance. Experience versatile riding with our 3-modes electric bike! GOTRAX R1 is UL2849 certified and we put your safety first.

From the Amazon listing. Speeds, ranges and power are the maker's own figures.