When buying a folding mountain bike every bike looks for portability and convenience. Over time, folding bikes have gained so much popularity such that setting out to buy one has become an uphill task.
With over 150 models to choose from, of course that is no child's play. That is why I came up with this folding mountain bikes review so as to make it easy for bikers whenever they set out to shop for a folding mountain bike.
The folding mountain bikes mentioned below have been subjected to lots of technological advancements and transformations, so as to give you the ultimate biking experience. Take a look:
My Top Picks - Best Folding Mountain Bikes
Sl | Name | What I Love Most | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
1. | Lightweight design, easy assembly, comfortable seat. | ||
2. | Durable wheel, disc braking system, suspension fork. | ||
3. | Dual suspension system, affordable price, Easy shifting. | ||
4. | Solid carbon steel frame, quick folding design, easy assembly. | ||
5. | Full suspension design, suitable for tall riders. |
Folding Mountain Bike - Buying Guide
Gears:
Settle for a folding mountain bike that comes with as many gears as you require. Be it a single speed, 18 speed and over 21 speed. Many people tend to assume that the foldable nature of the bike limits the number of gears that the bike has, which is not the case. The above-mentioned folding bikes are designed to provide you with up to 27 speeds.
Size Of The Bike:
When purchasing a mountain bike, it is paramount that you ensure that its size is best suited to your frame. Bike size is often looked at in two ways: the frame and the wheels. Folding bikes frames come in various sizes which range from 16 to 20 inches. While their wheels come in a range that lies between 16 to 28 inches.
It is recommended that while measuring the bike's height, its seat ought to be positioned beneath your crotch. Your legs should not be capable of extending fully on the pedals. In other words, your legs ought to have a small bend when completely extended.
Material:
A good folding bike is made of a material that is strong, durable and easy to transport. This means that it ought to be quite lightweight for you to carry when folded and compact enough to fit in your car. It is therefore recommended that you settle for a bike made of one of the following materials.
1. Aluminum:
This is quite popular a choice for bikers. This is because aluminum has a lightweight nature and long lasting at the same time. It is also affordable, hence you need not empty your coffers so as to purchase it. Another impressive thing about aluminum is the fact that it does not corrode or rust when left outside. The best folding bikes are made out of this material.
2. Steel:
Steel is also ideal especially if you are short of funds. However, due to its heavy nature, your bike will be equally heavy. It is also a strong material, hence you can rest assured that your bike will serve you for quite a long period of time. However caution must be exercised while using it so that its pain work does not get scratched, cracked or chipped, lest the steel underneath it corrodes or rusts.
3. Carbon Fiber:
If you do not mind spending a considerable amount of money on your folding bike, then one made of carbon fiber would be ideal. It is of a superior quality and it does not corrode. In addition, it is designed to last long and it is also quite lightweight hence carrying it from place to place will be a walk in the park. For people who ride often, this would be a worthy choice.
Handlebars:
Handlebars are also largely overlooked by bikers. You need handlebars that are adjustable for maximum comfort when handling different terrain. The handlebar should also be made of a material that is easy to grip. A firm grip is important because it ensures that you are always in control of your bike. You also have to check if you have easy access to the brakes when holding the bar.
Brakes:
Brakes are one of the most important safety features in any bike. That is why you should not compromise your bikes brake quality. Brakes are often installed in the front and rear wheels of the bike to offer maximum stopping power. Many bikes still use V-shaped rim brakes but manufacturers are leaning towards disc brakes. These offer greater stopping power and they are more durable. They are a bit more expensive than the V-shaped brakes.
Folding Technique:
This is the main reason for getting this type of bike in the first place. It enables you to transport the bike easily from one place to another. It is advisable that you settle for a folding bike whose folding mechanism is quick and quite easy. You need not strain to get it in and out shape whenever you need to use or store it. An ideal folding bike only requires one person to fold it and it takes a few seconds to fold and unfold it. There are two folding mechanisms available, and they include:
1. Split Fold:
This is quite popular a mechanism and it is designed to act as a hinge in the center of the folding bike. Its main advantage is that it folds very quickly, only that the bike tends to feel slightly bulkier at the end of it. However, if what concerns you the most is speed and convenience of folding, then this is ideal a folding technique.
2. Triangle Fold:
The triangle fold is over time becoming the choice folding technique for most bikes. This is because it is designed to keep this secure and intact and it also enables your bike to acquire a compact frame, hence it occupies less space. The only disadvantage of this mechanism is that it uses hinges and latched for it to be able to fold. This tends to be a little sophisticated and requires practice for you to be able to do it in seconds.
Pedals:
Pedals are an important part of biking and yet they are often overlooked. It is important for you to look for pedals that fit the size of your fit. This is important to avoid a situation where your foot slides off the pedals. Such an occurrence especially when going uphill will likely kill your momentum. It also is not safe. You can consider going for pedals with integrated straps to ensure your feet remain in place.
Best Folding Mountain Bike Review
1. Montague 2016 Paratrooper Pro Folding Mountain Bike
If you are a lover of products with a military edge in them, then the 2016 Montague Paratrooper Pro Folding Mountain Bike is ideal for you.
Just as its name suggests, it is best suited for paratroopers needs as it is quite dependable and tactical at the same time. It is designed to give you comfort, convenience and reliability at the same time.
Fast Folding Mechanism:
Montague has a fast folding mechanism which matches the bicycle's purpose as it is designed for easy and fast deployment. This enables you to fold it in a maximum of twenty seconds which is quite impressive given its big size. It not only saves your time but also is convenient and quite efficient for you.
Lightweight Design:
A lightweight design enables you to carry it easily for long distances if need be. It can be easily hoisted up your shoulder and carried without your feet giving it to its weight. It weighs 32 pounds which is quite manageable on the back.
27 speeds:
Another outstanding benefit brought about by this bike is the fact that it features 27 speed Shimano gearing. They are quite responsive and give you full control of your riding. You can ride on all kinds of terrain easily due to this feature.
Presence of Front Disc Brakes:
This being a mountain bike, front disc brakes are very necessary. These brakes enable you to brake easily and instantly on any terrain. They are also very reliable and convenient.
Sturdy Frame:
The 2016 Montague Paratrooper Pro bikes frame is built for deployment which makes it sturdy and durable. Its tires are toughened and its shock absorbers are designed to ensure that you have a smooth ride irrespective of the terrain.
Suspension Lock System:
The suspension lock system enables the Paratrooper to glide over obstacles easily without necessitating the need to halt. The bike's performance is also increased whenever you are riding on smooth surfaces by locking the bike's front suspension.
Stainless Steel Water Bottle:
The Montague Paratrooper also comes with a free stainless steel water bottle for you to carry your water easily whenever you are going out for a ride. It enables you to keep hydrated since riding sometimes causes one to break a sweat.
Assembly Guide:
1. Start by installing the seat post. Release the quick release lever and adjust the seat according to your height. Then tighten the quick release lever.
2. Install the pedals using the pedal wrench provided. The pedals are clearly marked so you can distinguish right and left.
3. Then install the handlebars using the hex wrench provided. Start by installing the handlebar stem then install the actual handlebars.
4. After that install the front fender and the rack stand.
Important Features:
FAQ:
Q: Can I adjust the handlebars as per my riding position?
A: Yes, you can.
Q: Is this bike comes with rack stand?
A: Yes.
Q: Is the seat of this bike has suspension?
A: No, the bike's seat has no suspension.
2. Cyrusher XF700 Folding Electric Bike 26 inch Mountain Bicycle
If you are looking for efficiency, convenience, and versatility all in one, then the Cyrusher XF700 electric mountain bike is the ideal folding mountain bike for you.
It has a wide array of speeds that you can choose from, and its frame is lightweight and built to last long time. On top of that, it is easy to navigate and quite easy to the eye too. It is bound to make you the envy of other bikers.
Durable Aluminum Alloy Frame:
As earlier mentioned, aluminum is an ideal material for mountain bikes due to its lightweight and durable nature. However, in our case, an aluminum alloy has been used. This guarantees you more longevity and dependability. This makes it one of the best and most durable mountain bikes in the market.
21 Speeds:
Equipped with 26-inch wheels, the Cyrusher features Shimano 21 speeds which give you the ultimate riding experience. This enables you to put little effort into pedaling thus reducing fatigue and enabling you to focus on the road instead. They also enable you to maneuver all kinds of terrain with ease.
Disc Brakes:
Cyrusher also has double mechanical disc brakes which are designed in a way that makes it easy for you to brake easily irrespective of the terrain you are riding on. These double mechanical disc brakes also come in handy whenever you are riding on slippery surfaces as they prevent slippage, thus are a safety precaution.
Read Also: Cyrusher FR100 Folding Mountain Bike Review
Full Suspension:
The bike comes with full suspension features that enable you to enjoy a smooth ride every time you set out due to is high-quality shock absorbers. They absorb all kinds of shock that your bicycle is subjected whenever you are riding it.
Electric Bike:
Cyrusher features 36 volts 10.4 AH hidden battery which enhances the bikes power. This complements its speeds making it easy to ride uphill without putting lots of effort into pedaling.
Assembly Guide:
1. Start by installing the handlebar. Ensure that the handlebar stem is perpendicular to the front bar.
2. Install the front lamp and adjust it to your preferred angle.
3. Install the front wheel and its quick release system and lock it in place.
4. Then install the pedals that have been marked to ease identification.
5. Install the saddle but keep it within safety line.
Important Features:
FAQ:
Q: Are the pedals foldable?
A: No, the original pedals can not fold. But you can replace them easily.
Q: What is the weight of this bike? What should I do when I need something to repair?
A: The bike weight is around 61 lbs including battery. If you need something to repair then take the bike to a repair shop near you.
Q: Can I ride this bike with full electric mode without pedaling?
A: Yes, you can.
3. Montague Paratrooper Folding Mountain Bike
Montague Paratrooper Folding Mountain is known for its durability and load bearing ability. The Montague Paratrooper is specially designed for paratroopers, daily commuters and weekend bikers.
It has a classic folding design, a rugged frame and toughened wheels which are designed to handle any kind of terrain.
24 Speeds Shifters:
Montague's 24 speeds enable it to tackle any terrain easily and at the same time enables you to go uphill without breaking into a sweat as they call for less pedaling. Therefore you can ride your bike at ease without straining and tiring your feet.
Front Suspension:
It has a superior front suspension which guarantees you a smooth ride irrespective of the terrain. This is brought about by its high-quality shocks which absorb any kind of shock that comes about whenever you ride on rough terrain.
Mechanical Disc Brakes:
Montague's mechanical disc brakes ensure that you enjoy a faster response and a more halting power and better performance, especially in wet conditions.
Full Sized Wheels:
Its full sized wheels and standard geometry ensure that you always get that ultimate riding experience that you have always wanted every time you ride your bike.
Rack Stand:
This bike comes with rack stand that enables you to carry any load that you intend to bring with you whenever you are going out. Its rack stand is strong enough to carry heavy loads.
Quick Folding Mechanism:
Montague is also designed to fold easily and quickly without the help of any tool. This saves you the trouble of using tools to fold your mountain bike, while at the same time saving your time. This is quite efficient and convenient.
Standard Components:
Montague is also built using standard components. It is therefore easy to get it fixed in any bike repair shop.
Assembly Guide:
1. Start by installing the seat post. Release the quick release lever and adjust the seat according to your height.Then tighten the quick release lever.
2. Install the pedals using the pedal wrench provided. The pedals are clearly marked so you can distinguish right and left.
3. Then install the handlebar using the hex wrench provided. Start by installing the handlebar stem then install the actual handlebars.
4. After that install the front fender and the rack stand.
Important Features:
FAQ:
Q: Is it easy to assemble the bike?
A: Yes, the assembly process is pretty straight forward.
Q: What is the wheel size of this bike?
A: Wheel size is 26"
Q: Does this bike come with folding pedals?
A: No, it does not.
4. Xspec 26" Folding Mountain Trail Bicycle Commuter Foldable Bike
If you are looking for a superior quality folding mountain that provides a smooth and efficient ride, then the XSpec is the bike for you.
Its convenience, ease of use and quick folding makes it one of the best folding bikes available in the market. It is also available in black, white and yellow thus you can choose the color that suits your liking.
Front and Rear Suspension:
This is among the features that make XSpec one of the best bikes. Its front and rear suspension incorporate superior quality shock absorbers which ensure that your rides are always undisturbed and comfortable. They enable the bicycle's wheels to glide over potholes, bumps, and rocks easily without hurting your back in the process.
Disc Brakes:
XSpec also has high performing disc brakes which ensure that you do not bump into anything easily. They ensure that you brake easily and provide your bike with more contact surface which helps you stop quickly, using minimal force.
21 Speeds Shifter:
XSpec features a 21 speed Shimano shifter which enables you to navigate different kinds of terrain easily. This enables you to focus on the road and less on pedaling. It also ensures that you do not get tired as a result of pedaling since you have enough gears to take you through any terrain or mountain climb.
Folding Mechanism:
It also has a quick and easy to fold mechanism which does not require the assistance of any tool. This is quite convenient and time-saving. Its pedals too can be folded for a slimmer frame.
Assembly Guide:
1. Install the handlebar stem then install the handlebar on it.
2. Install the seat and make sure it is within the safety line.
3. Install the front wheel and lock it.
4. Install the marked pedals and you are ready to go!
Important Features:
FAQ:
Q: What is the frame material of this bike?
A: The frame of this bike is made of steel and aluminum pieces.
Q: Can I fold the handlebar?
A: No, you can’t.
Q: Can I change the tires to a fat tire?
A: Yes You can.
5. Stowabike 26" MTB V2 Folding Shimano Gears Mountain Bike
Most novices agree that this is a top class folding mountain bike. It is perfect for riding in the mountains as it takes on the terrain easily and smoothly, thanks to its 18-speed gears and heavy duty nature.
Its dual suspension may even make it more comfortable than the modern bikes. The bike uses tech from the past such as V-brakes. It, however, doesn't make it any less safe than the other bikes.
Dual Suspension:
Stowabike boasts of a dual suspension mechanism which ensures that you do not feel any bumps on the way due to its superior quality shock absorbers which make part of the dual suspension mechanism. What better way to ride than with such.
Easy Folding Mechanism:
This bike is also fast and easy to fold and does not require the assistance of tools. It folds into a compact size which occupies less room either in your car or store.
18 Speeds Shifters:
Stowabike also comes with 18 Shimano speed shifters which enable you to ride with ease on any kind of terrain. All you need to do is adjust its gears to suit the terrain that you are riding on. This lets you ride quickly and easily. This bike also comes with v brakes. They may seem a bit out of place in this time of disc brakes but when properly fitted they work just as well. The brakes are made from steel and help you easily stop your bike whenever you need to.
Durable Steel Frame:
It is made from high-quality steel which makes it quite durable and capable of being ridden on rough roads with ease. The bike weighs just 36 pounds. I concede that it is not the lightest bike around but you shouldn't struggle to carry it around. The bike won't take up a lot of your space whether it is in the garage or in your trunk.
Assembly Guide:
1. Start by installing the handlebar on the preinstalled stem.
2. Install the seat using the quick release system provided.
3. Install the front wheel and lock it in place.
4. Install the pedals which are marked to ensure you install correctly.
Important Features:
FAQ:
Q: Is this a unisex bike?
A: Yes, it is.
Q: Is this bike good for mountain bike trails?
A: The answer is both yes and no. This is a cheap bike. So if you take it on rough trails then you can't use it many days. But if you use it on normal mountain bike trails then it will serve you for long time. Overall it is not for rough use.
Q: Are the pedals foldable?
A: No, the pedals do not fold.
Final Verdict:
From the above foregoing, I can make out that the Montague 2016 Paratrooper Pro Folding Mountain Bike is a cut above the rest. What makes it the best folding mountain bike is it superior features which include: a sturdy and well-grounded frame, matchless braking capability, a superior quality Shimano shifter and its ergonomic design. This mountain bike also has a fast and easy folding mechanism and it comes in a different sizes so that you may choose the one that best suits your style.
Relevant Resources:
Hello Guys! I am John Reese, a professional biker and my hobby is biking! I have been biking for last 10 years and I love using bikes while outing as well. Based on my experiences with the different type of bikes (mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid bikes); I am sharing my opinion about various bikes so that a beginner can get started right away. Happy reading!