Need a folding e-bike for commuting from home through ferry into NYC

bmfesta2009

bmfesta2009

New Member
Hey all.

I currently own a 2011 Trek Valencia+ that I've modified a bit and have really enjoyed. Unfortunately, for me to take it to the city on the ferry it's rather large so I'm looking for a folding e-bike that would give me similar performance and range. Here are my requirements:
  • At least 18 MPH assisted
  • At least 30 mile range
  • Waterproof
  • Folding frame
  • Easy to carry
  • Folds in less than one minute
  • Preferably very few to no loose parts when folded
  • Supports a 200+ lb rider and cargo (no need to exceed 250 lbs)

I've been doing my research and from what I can tell I'm considering the GoCycle GX, but I figured why not ask the community before I jump on a decision.
 
I just started on a Zizzo folder kit install. I choose a 36V 250W mid-drive because it's the smallest and lightest kit mid-drive. It hauls my fat arse at 18MPH. AND is extremely efficient as range goes. Waterproof? That's something a user needs to tend to. Don't expect waterproof without some modifications or due diligence. I use black RTV on battery seams as well as ACF50 or Boeshield on all connections.
 
Easy to carry and eBikes hardly ever go together. Hopefully you plan on removing the battery and putting it in a backpack. Moisture resistant will likely be the best you can get. Waterproof would imply it will work after submersion. No one uses waterproof connectors. They are just friction fit plastic. You'll have to coat them with RTV to make them more water resistant, and then you have a servicing issue. Sondors has trouble with their folding bikes because the notch for the wiring that comes out of the axle is on top. If you don't seal that with RTV, the motor fills with water. Several pictures of rusted armatures on the owners Facebook page.
 
Some really good information. And to be clear when I say waterproof I mean it needs to support use in all weather, rain more specifically than snow. I ride my Valencia in the rain all the time and it has no problems as it is well sealed....but then again it doesn't fold. And for easy to carry, again that would mean if when folded it easily rolls on it's own wheels with a handle for pushing that is easy to carry. A folding bike is a compromise so I get that, I'm starting with shooting for the stars and interested to see where I land.
 
If you're comfortable working on a bike, I'd suggest getting a non-electric brompton and adding a grin kit to it. It'll be the smallest folding bike you can ride on a regular basis, and end up costing about the same as the gocycle. Depending on which voltage battery you use, it'll do 20 or 28mph on flat ground. I've done this myself and couldn't be happier. After a few more rides I'll post a review in the brompton forum.
 
Trail Cruiser said:
Brompton electric.

Click to expand...


And you will need to carry that battery bag every single time you get off the bike ...
And those cables dangling off the frame scream “accidents+ product recalls”.
The designers of this e bike are probably using a ? for their commuting needs.
 
The Brompton eBike conversion can be neat and no dangerous wiring.
 
Ebiker01 said:
And you will need to carry that battery bag every single time you get off the bike ...
And those cables dangling off the frame scream “accidents+ product recalls”.
The designers of this e bike are probably using a ? for their commuting needs.
Click to expand...

And the alternative would be?

The go cycle requires the wheels to be removed before folding, so that's not ideal for quick fold-unfold and it is more cumbersome to carry the wheels instead of the battery with a shoulder strap.

The other light weight folding I see is the Qualisports Volador but it has smaller seat post battery and it is heavier.


The rest of the folding ebikes are almost twice as heavy as the Brompton electric.

Maybe you have a better suggestion.


ADDENDUM:

Correction, the Gocycle (GX version) can be folded without removing the wheels so it would also be a good recommendation.

 
Last edited:
Ebiker01 said:
And you will need to carry that battery bag every single time you get off the bike ...
And those cables dangling off the frame scream “accidents+ product recalls”.
The designers of this e bike are probably using a ? for their commuting needs.
Click to expand...

The OEM Brompton Electric is limited to 15mph, and has a fairly small battery which also limits your luggage options. I'm not sure if that meets the OP's needs. That's why I went with the purpose built kit with an S bag. And the bag is one of the main selling points. They mount to the frame, and you can distribute the weight of the bike and battery in two hands more evenly when carrying it. All bromptons look a bit odd and I can't blame you for wondering about the cables, but I'd suggest riding one before passing judgement. They're surprisingly solid, and the cables don't snag on anything.
 
Trail Cruiser said:
The other light weight folding I see is the Qualisports Volador but it has smaller seat post battery and it is heavier.
Click to expand...

+1 for the Volador - relatively light weight, very nice quality of construction, easy to wheel when folded, does 20mph on throttle only but shortens range (uses efficient MXUS hub drive), I've had it up to 25mph with PAS, easy 30+ mile range with PAS, the price is phenomenal.

I have the fat tire version of the Volador called the Beluga (two of them, his and hers). I weigh 200. Fun, folding bike. 100% satisfied.
 
Last edited:
Nice video. I tested a Pedego latch a year ago. I didn't think it would be rated #1 like it was , but having that solid base of dealers would certainly make a difference.

My wife and I ride converted folders. I sized the motor/battery for a 20 mile range and low speed. I've carried 30AH of spare packs in saddlebags for long treks, but these are fine for our daily rides, and I've only got about $600-700 each in them.
 
harryS said:
I've only got about $600-700 each in them.
Click to expand...
My new Zizzo folders were pretty cheap. I'm pleasantly surprised by the quality. Building them for multiuse trails we will travel to. I got tired of mounting a heavy rack and two full sized 50-60LB bikes onto the rack.
 
Trail Cruiser said:
And the alternative would be?

The go cycle requires the wheels to be removed before folding, so that's not ideal for quick fold-unfold and it is more cumbersome to carry the wheels instead of the battery with a shoulder strap.

The other light weight folding I see is the Qualisports Volador but it has smaller seat post battery and it is heavier.


The rest of the folding ebikes are almost twice as heavy as the Brompton electric.

Maybe you have a better suggestion.


ADDENDUM:

Correction, the Gocycle (GX version) can be folded without removing the wheels so it would also be a good recommendation.

Click to expand...

Another nice option besides the Gocycles but non foldable would be BESV PS1 -, they have a dealer in Ny- Greenpath in Bk.
Also Tern(can put 2 batteries) and Dahon Ikon which it is foldable but not sure if it’s still in production.
 
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