Folding bike test - methodology
The British magazine Cycling Weekly recently published a review of folding bikes. The editors assure us that the tests are conducted fairly and that the final results are based solely on their own opinion. It's important to note that only the best-selling bikes in the UK were tested.
Cycling Weekly journalists use test bikes on various terrains and over various distances to evaluate rides based on various factors. In the case of folding bikes, the folding mechanism is additionally checked for ease of use. Testers also verify the overall suitability of each bike for commuting, including how easy it is to carry and store.
It's worth a look - We're testing a folding bike!
How did the most popular brands in the UK fare?
Two Bromptons, the C Line and the P Line , took the podium! How relevant can Cycling Week's folding bike test and ranking results be to the Polish market? The specifics of cities like London are, of course, far different from those of Polish urban centers. There's no point comparing the density of the London Underground with Warsaw's. Furthermore, unlike in Poland, you won't be able to board a regular bike in London. But we agree without reservation with the recommendations regarding what to look for when choosing a folding bike.
Choosing a folding bike, what should you watch out for?
Due to their function, folding bikes are popular among commuters. Therefore, it's crucial to choose components that are easy to maintain and reliable. This is the most sensible approach, regardless of the results of this folding bike test.
Durable tires with good puncture protection are often top of the list. A flat tire is the last thing you want on your commute. Schwalbe and Kenda are popular manufacturers of small-diameter tires for folding bikes. Most are 1.75-2 inches wide. This provides good traction thanks to their large volume, which increases the contact patch with the road compared to traditional road tires.
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Also consider the number of gears. On flat city streets, a single gear will reduce maintenance costs and overall weight. However, for hilly terrain, folding bikes are available with three-chainring cranks and wide-ratio 11-32 cassettes. This allows for greater flexibility but adds weight.
Many folding bikes are equipped with hub gears, meaning the derailleur system is completely sealed. This, in turn, significantly reduces maintenance. Changing gears with a hub gear is often easier than using derailleurs for beginners. There's no need to worry about chain tension—you don't have to pedal to change gears. Furthermore, there's no derailleur to bend or damage, which is always a risk on a heavily loaded folding bike.
Disc brakes are also starting to appear on folding bikes, providing greater stopping power and control—especially in wet weather. However, they add more weight than rim brakes.
If you plan to ride in your office clothes and want to keep things as clean as possible, chain guards and fenders are essential. A belt drive, on the other hand, helps protect you from dirt and reduces maintenance costs.
Luggage racks, a frame-mounted pump, and integrated lighting are accessories you'd expect from higher-end models.
Not sure if a folding bike is for you? Rent one for a test ride!
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