Imagine cycling to the park on a sunny day, meeting friends, and then folding up your bike in a matter of seconds to stash in their car trunk. Your imagination isn't running wild: This is now possible and economical. Europe is big on bicycles, including the ones that fold. In the U.S. folding bicycles allow you to take your bike on public transportation or inside a work area or home much easier than ever before. There are small-wheel and standard-wheel folding bikes that rival regular bikes in handling and aerodynamics. Yes, you can get a full-size mountain bike weighing 31 lbs. and riding on 26-inch wheels down to a compact size. You pay for convenience, though, as a folding cycle usually costs more than a traditional cycle with comparable features.
What to Look for
With features like aluminum frames and ergonomically designed saddles, these folding bikes are light and comfortable for around-town riding. You can find sporty models with adjustable handlebars and drive-trains with enough speed settings for urban maneuvers, or even a mountain bike for back roads that also folds.
If you are interested in a folding bike, think about how a non-folding bike feels. You want the same strength of structure that you find in all bikes. You shouldn't be worried about a bump in the road just because you are on a folding cycle. Also, the folding process should be simple. You may not be able to do it as fast as the cycle's manual claims, but it should be headache-free with no tools required. Many folding cycles come with a free carrying bag, which is a nice feature if you will be shouldering the weight often.
If you purchase a cycle from a store, try the compacting process after taking it for a spin. Each manufacturer has its own unique technology. For one cycle, you may have to release levers, retract the post, fold in and then re-clamp the levers, while another model may just need the release of a latch and a few spins of the hand to remove the front wheel. If you want the bike to be safe, you have to follow the reconnection and locking instructions to the letter. With practice it will get easier, but it should be fairly simple from the start.
Common Pitfalls
Some folding cycles offer a rougher ride than traditional cycles due to their smaller-diameter wheels. Adding a suspension system improves comfort but may require more power from you. Common folding technologies that incorporate frame modifications can mean a less stable structure than a conventional cycle. Longer seat posts and handlebar stems also may lessen structural integrity. Check independent reviews, and research respected brands to find a safe model. Think how far you will carry the bike: Entry-level folders may come in heavier materials. Look for optional folding pedals; regular pedals could be cumbersome during transport. Depending on your budget, the comfort of a folding cycle could be lower, but the convenience high--and performance possible.
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