A recent study showed that the electric bike industry in the United States generated about 14 billion dollars in 2019. Another study has shown that approximately 3.7 million e-bikes were sold in Europe in 2019.
This just goes to show how more and more people are turning to electric bikes as one of their primary means of transport because of how eco-friendly and reliable they are.
Back then, e-bikes were quite costly because of all the extra electric components they had, but not anymore. If you are looking for an e-bike that has an affordable price tag without sacrificing its overall quality, we’ve got you covered.
Below are comprehensive reviews of the best folding e-bikes under $1000. These electric bikes offer nothing short of top-tier quality and performance at an affordable price!
Table of Contents
Best Folding Electric Bikes Under $1000 Reviews
1. SwagTron Swagcycle EB-5 Folding Electric Bike (Over 1215 reviews -4.1 star rating)
Nothing speaks class like the SwagTron EB-5 folding e-bike. Right out of the package, you’ll notice its sturdy and stylish aluminum-alloy bike frame.
This frame makes the bike lightweight (about 37lbs), which is perfect for people who require to carry it around often. What’s more, it is also rust-resistant, making it durable.
Another thing we like about the frame is that it doesn’t have lower strength, which increases its strength-to-weight ratio, enabling it to be lightweight for better control.
The bike comes in three colors; white, black, and blue, so you are guaranteed to find one that suits your fashion taste.
It has a unique folding mechanism that allows it to fold the pedals, frame, and handlebar makes it convenient and portable. However, you have to be careful since the kickstand spring interferes with the folding process.
The adjustable seat and seat stand enables this one-of-a-kind e-bike to accommodate riders of almost all heights. What’s more, it features a twin rail system that allows it to fit any type of seat.
It also features 360° adjustable handlebars for maximum comfort and control. The handlebars have control buttons, including an on/off dial and a red button that activates the e-bike’s electric side.
Once turned on, you can twist the throttle, activating the power-assist mode, enabling you to cruise to your destination easily.
Thanks to its high-quality 36-volt battery, you can ride using the power-assist mode for approximately 15 miles. It also enables the bike to ride for up to 15 miles per hour, which is impressive for an e-bike costing under $1000.
When the battery runs out, you can pedal manually, which is quite a hassle, especially when going uphill.
The front and rear brakes coupled with the auto guard safety feature offer maximum stopping power. This safety feature automatically disengages the motor immediately after hitting the brakes for safer stops. Its 14-inch wheels not only boost its stopping power but also makes it easier to ride on rough terrain.
We also liked that the battery fully recharges for 5 hours or less, which is quite convenient. The charging port features a rubber plug for added protection.
Pros
- 360° adjustable handlebars
- It is compact, especially when folded ( measures 26” 23.6” by 15.6” when folded)
- It comes pre-assembled
- Adjustable height
- Features an auto guard safety feature
- It is lightweight
Cons
- Most customers have pointed out that it is nearly impossible to ride this e-bike without the power-assist mode
- It has a weight limit of 264 pounds
- It doesn’t come with lights
Check out Best e bikes under 1000
2. ECOTRIC 500W 20” Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike
While this e-bike isn’t as advanced as other high-end electric bikes, it offers all the features you would expect in a bike within this price range. This makes it one of the best folding electric bikes under $1000.
Made with 6061 aluminum alloy material, this e-bike’s frame is lightweight but is still built to last. The e-bike’s overall weight is about 56lbs, which is relatively heavier than the SwagTron EB-5, but its folding mechanism makes it more portable.
Speaking of the folding mechanism, this exceptional e-bike is foldable at the upper tube, the pedals, and the handlebar stem. This folding technique ensures that everything else is folded in for better portability.
It also features a wider cushioned ergonomic seat for maximum comfort and control.
One of the features that make this bike one of the best cheap folding electric bikes is its powerful 500W rear hub brushless motor. Since there’s no friction between the motor’s inner components, it isn’t susceptible to wear and tear, making it more long-lasting.
This high-speed motor also enables the bike to travel at a maximum of 20 miles per hour, which exceeds most other e-bikes’ maximum speed limit.
It’s Shimano seven-speed gears enable you to be more in control of your bike, regardless of the kind of terrain you are riding on. Lower the gears when you need to pedal more and crank them up when you need to go downhill.
The highlight of this e-bike is its 20-inch wide and 4-inch fat tires. Their thickness enables them to absorb the impacts from rough road sections, allowing you to glide over any type of terrain easily.
It also features front and rear Tektro mechanical disc brakes with 160mm rotors, which provide exceptional stopping power. This enables you to apply less force to the levers when you want to stop the bike, preventing your hands’ muscles from becoming fatigued, especially during long rides.
We also liked the upgraded 36-volt removable lithium battery, enabling the bike to ride for 19-21 miles in electric mode and 33-36 miles in pedal mode.
The battery recharges under 5 hours, and it is detachable, making it easy to recharge it almost anywhere. The battery is equipped with an over-charge, short-circuit, charge-control, over-voltage, and temperature protection, so you’re guaranteed that it is built for the long run.
This bike also has three pedal assist modes and a twist throttle that activates the electric mode. While all the electric mode makes it easier to ride the bike, some customers have mentioned that it is still quite challenging to go uphill even when it’s in electric mode.
Pros
- It comes in a variety of colors; white-black, black-blue, and white-blue
- Mechanical disc brakes that provide incredible stopping power
- Maximum mileage of 20MPH
- Shimano seven-speed gears for more flexibility and control
Cons
- Its instructions manual is not that detailed
- It doesn’t come with lights
Check out our FAQ about Electric Bikes
3. Vivi 350W 26”-Wheels Folding Mountain Bicycle
While it is one of the most affordable folding electric bikes in the market today, it doesn’t compromise on quality and functionality.
It comes in two color variations; blue-back and white, which gives it that sporty yet classy look. As expected, its bike frame is made from sturdy aluminum alloy material, making it lightweight and durable.
This bike has no doubt the most effortless folding mechanism compared to most other folding e-bikes. It features a quick-release at the hinge, allowing you to fold it easily.
Measuring at about 35.9 inches high and 34.3 inches wide when folded, some customers have pointed out that it is compact enough to fit in a backpack! But with its 64lbs weight, it might be quite challenging to carry it in your bag. However, its compact design still allows it to fit in a car trunk, which is impressive.
The e-bike also features a 350W high-speed brushless motor, which is slightly less than the ECOTRIC’s motor, but it still enables the bike to ride at a maximum speed of 25km/h.
One of the things that set this electric bicycle apart from many other e-bikes is its maximum weight limit. It is designed to support riders who weigh up to 330lbs.
It also comes with adjustable handlebars, allowing you to adjust them forward if you want a more aerodynamic position and adjust them backward if you want a more relaxed and comfortable position.
Another one of its unique features is its dual carbon-steel suspension fork. This suspension effectively absorbs any impacts from bumpy road sections for more comfortable rides.
The 160mm dual disc brakes provide maximum stopping power, preventing you from applying too much force on the levers when you want to stop the bike. And there’s more; it also comes with 21 Shimano speed gears, enabling you to ride comfortably at different speeds across various terrains.
This e-bike comes with three pedal assist modes for riding manually and a twist throttle for activating the electric mode. Its detailed LCD allows you to switch between low, medium, and high pedal assist modes.
You’ll also like its 36-volt removable lithium-ion battery that takes about 4-6 hours to recharge and allows the bike to ride for 20-25 miles on electric mode. You can still go an extra 45-50 miles on your preferred pedal-assist mode level.
However, the battery is located outside the frame, making it more prone to damage. But, it comes with a waterproof removable battery pack for extra protection.
Pros
- 21 Shimano speed gears
- 160mm dual disc brakes
- It also comes with rear and front headlights
- Dual suspension fork
Cons
- The battery isn’t located inside the frame, making it more susceptible to damage
- The rear fender is pretty unstable
Check out Best e bikes under $2000
4. ECOTRIC Dolphin 20” Fat Tire Folding Electric Bike
Another top-notch folding electric e-bike from ECOTRIC is this Dolphin fat tire model. Judging by its style, this is the perfect cheap folding e-bike, especially for ladies.
Among the features that make it perfect is the step-through bike frame. Its design makes it easier for a female to climb onto and out of the bike without worrying about ripping their dress or skirt.
What’s more, the frame’s height also makes this bicycle suitable for riders of almost all heights. Step-through frames are also safer because it allows the rider to cross through the e-bike quickly if they lose balance, reducing the risk of accidents.
The general design tends to mimic the body shape of a dolphin (hence its name dolphin), making it look cute but classy.
Its 500W brushless motor provides more than enough power for the bike to travel at a maximum of 20 miles per hour. The dual disc brakes offer exceptional stopping power for safer and effortless stops.
The e-bike comes with 20-inch thick tires that soak up the impacts from bumpy road sections for more comfortable rides.
We were also impressed by its folding mechanism, allowing the frame and handlebars to be foldable for enhanced portability. Its seven-speed gears enable the bicycle to adapt well to any terrain, making your rides more comfortable and safe.
This electric bike features an electric and pedal-assist mode for more flexibility. You can cruise to your destination with ease, thanks to the electric mode that enables the bicycle to travel 18-23 miles. Exercise your muscles with the pedal-assist mode that allows the e-bike to travel for about 45-48 miles.
Its 12.5AH lithium-ion battery recharges for 6-8 hours, which is a longer period compared to other e-bikes. But, it still holds enough power to keep the bike going for quite a long time.
Pros
- Step-through bike frame
- Impressive design
- 20-inch fat tires
Cons
- Some customers have pointed out that the battery tends to lose a lot of power when riding uphill
5. Speedrid 500W 20” Fat Tire Electric Bike
Another cheap folding e-bike that will give you the value for your money is the Speedrid electric bike.
Its frame and wheels are made from aluminum alloy material, so it is built for the long haul.
With its 59lbs and straightforward folding technique, this e-bike is relatively portable. While its description says it supports a maximum weight of about 300lbs, some customers have pointed out that it can actually support riders of up to 420lbs!
The e-bike’s carbon-steel front suspension fork and its pair of 20-inch fat tires enable you to ride comfortably on any type of terrain. They both do a fantastic job of absorbing shocks and impacts on the uneven sections of the road.
It also comes with dual disc brakes that offer excellent stops. The 6 Shimano speed gears allow you to completely control your bike by easily changing gears depending on which terrain you are riding on.
Staying in complete control of your e-bike is easy thanks to the detailed LCD that shows all the bike’s vital information, including; the battery level, maximum speed, and more.
This e-bike features three riding modes; normal riding, electric, and pedal assist modes. You can use the throttle to activate the electric mode, allowing you to ride for about 20 miles.
On the other hand, the pedal-assist mode has five levels for extra flexibility. When in this mode, you will be able to ride for 20-40 miles.
We cannot forget its powerful 500W brushless motor that, apart from being durable, enables the bike to ride at a maximum speed of 22-24MPH.
While it is not the most sophisticated one around, this e-bike’s 36-volt battery still does a great job of keeping the bike going, especially when it’s on electric mode.
Pros
- A carbon-steel front suspension fork
- Dual disc brakes
- 20-inch fat tires
- 500W powerful brushless motor
Cons
- Some customers have mentioned that this e-bike cannot handle slopes that exceed 40°
6. ANCHEER 250W 26” Mountain Electric Bike
Wrapping up our best folding e-bikes under $1000 is the ANCHEER mountain electric bike. This bike is ideal for people who are for a simple but good-quality e-bike to commute to their destinations.
While its folding mechanism isn’t the best one yet, its foldable frame and pedals enable everything else to be nicely tucked in for better portability.
The highlight of this e-bike is its pair of 26-inch magnesium alloy integrated wheels. For starters, they are lightweight, allowing you to ride faster while being in more control of your bicycle. What’s more, they have a low density, enabling them to absorb vibrations from uneven road sections.
These wheels are also easy to maintain, making the entire bike very convenient. They are also quite stylish, adding fashion taste to the bicycle.
Its front and rear suspension fork and tires also enhance the e-bike’s comfort by absorbing the impacts from bumpy roads, allowing you to be at ease while riding.
The included 250-watt brushless motor isn’t that powerful compared to other e-bikes we have reviewed, but it still enables the bike to travel at approximately 15-17MPH. This maximum speed is quite enough if you are not planning on riding it off-road.
Its 21 Shimano speed gears are fine-tuned to help you be in control of your electric bicycle while riding on any terrain. It also comes with dual-disc brakes that offer amazing stopping power.
The e-bike has three pedal assist modes and a throttle. You can twist the throttle and ride for approximately 15 miles on electric mode. Thanks to the detailed LCD, switching between high, medium, and low pedal assist modes is easy. While in this mode, the bike has a mileage of about 15-20 miles.
Its 8AH battery has a 5-hour or less recharge time, which is convenient if you ask us.
Pros
- Magnesium alloy wheels
- Front and rear suspension fork
- It comes with dual-disc brakes
- It has a weight load limit of 330lbs
Cons
- The motor can be noisy when the bike is set to the highest level of pedal-assist mode
Check out Ancheer Bike Review
What to Look for When Buying the Best Folding Electric Bike Under $1000
Judging from our reviews, it’s safe to say that there are many great-quality e-bikes in the market. However, not all electric bikes are perfect for you. Well, let’s take a look at the factors to consider when choosing the best affordable folding electric bike for you.
1. Your Needs and Preferences
Before going shopping for an e-bike, it’s essential to determine why you need an electric bike in the first place. If you are looking for a bike to ride to and from work, then a good quality city e-bike is the best one for you. A good-quality city electric bike should be lightweight, allowing you to carry it around easily.
It should also have a comfortable seat and handlebars, enabling you to keep your spine upright to avoid unnecessary back issues. What’s more, it should also come with extra accessories like rear racks and fenders.
If you are looking for an off-road electric bike, more power and mileage should be on top of your list. These and many other factors will help you narrow down to the ideal folding e-bike for you.
2. Riding Modes
Many folding electric bikes, including those we have reviewed, have a pedal assist and full electric (throttle) mode. When shopping for an e-bike, it’s not only important to check the riding mode but the maximum mileage while in those modes.
Since it is an electric bike, a good-quality one should have more mileage while in electric mode. This is very helpful, especially if most of your rides are long-distant ones.
3. Battery Voltage and Capacity
When selecting an e-bike to purchase, it is advisable to check the battery’s voltage since it determines how much power it holds.
If you want a city e-bike, then a bicycle with a 36-volt battery is the perfect one for you. But, if you are looking for an off-road bike, a 48-volt battery is suitable as it holds more power to help race uphill. The voltage also determines an electric bicycle’s maximum speed. So, the higher the voltage, the higher the e-bike’s speed.
The battery’s capacity is also a vital factor to consider. This is because the higher the capacity it has, the higher the range of the e-bike.
You also need to pay attention to its size. A huge battery can be an inconvenience, especially if you will be carrying your folding e-bike often.
4 Type of Motor
An e-bike’s motor enables riders to ride their bikes in electric mode. Otherwise, it would just be like any other regular bicycle. There are two common types of motors found on e-bikes in the market today; the hub and mid-drive motors.
A hub motor is usually situated in the middle of the rear wheel or hub. Once it receives power from the battery, it begins turning, therefore propelling the tires and eventually the entire electric bike. On the other hand, a mid-drive motor is located right in the middle of the bicycle, between the pedals.
Hub motors possess a lot of power, which increases the bicycle’s maximum speed. Mid-drive motors offer longer mileage per battery charge.
Choosing between these motors comes down to how fast you want to ride.
5. Extra Features
These components are the icing on top of the cake, making an e-bike more convenient. Your needs and preferences will determine what accessories you want in an e-bike. If you will be riding mostly at night or in poorly lit areas, it is best to go for a bike with headlights. Other additional components include; a rear rack, bell, or horn, to name a few.
Final Thoughts on Best Folding eBike under $1000
Folding electric bikes have been the go-to means of getting around for most people because of how convenient, reliable, and safe they are. And the good thing is, there are a lot of cheap folding e-bikes available in the market today.
Hopefully, this all-inclusive guide will help you make a more informed decision on which one is the ideal one for you.
After extensive research, we decided to crown the SwagTron EB-5 folding electric bike with the title of “the best folding electric bike under $1000.” While it is almost in the same class as all the other e-bikes we’ve reviewed, this bicycle is way more adjustable, making it stand out from the others.
Its 360° adjustable handlebars, adjustable height, and twin rail system that fits any type of saddle make this bicycle the best affordable folding electric bike around.
