Folding bikes have gone from quirky city tools to must-have transportation for commuters, apartment dwellers, and weekend explorers. In 2025, the innovation in frame design, materials, and compact folding tech has never been better — giving riders more quality options than ever before.
Whether you’re short on storage space, combining bike rides with public transit, or just want a ride you can toss in the trunk for impromptu adventures, today’s folding bikes offer real freedom without compromising performance.
In this guide, we’ll review the best folding bikes of the year, covering top-rated models, bestsellers, and expert picks — all non-electric (we’ve got a separate guide for e-folders). You’ll discover which models excel for commuting, which offer unbeatable value, and which strike the perfect balance of portability and ride comfort.
So if you're ready to skip the traffic, save space, and simplify your ride — let’s find your perfect match.
Top Folding Bikes of 2025
Before we dive deep into the details, here’s a quick side-by-side look at the top-rated folding bikes of 2025. These picks cover every rider type — from budget shoppers to performance-driven commuters.
Use this table to compare weight, fold size, gears, and pricing — then scroll down for full reviews, pros and cons, and buying tips.
| Bike | Weight | Folded Size | Gears | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brompton C Line Explore | ~27 lb | 25″ x 23″ x 11″ | 6-speed | ~$1,850 | Best Overall |
| Dahon Mariner D8 | ~27.5 lb | 25″ x 12″ x 31″ | 8-speed | ~$600 | Daily Commuting |
| ZiZZO Campo | ~28–29 lb | 27″ x 31″ x 13″ | 7-speed | ~$350 | Budget Pick |
| ZiZZO Liberté | ~23 lb | 27″ x 31″ x 12.5″ | 8-speed | ~$480 | Lightweight Portability |
| Tern BYB S11 | ~28 lb | 13″ x 31″ x 20″ | 11-speed | ~$2,500 | High Performance |
⚠️ Note: All bikes listed are non-electric. Prices and specs are approximate based on U.S. availability in 2025.
Best Overall Folding Bike: Brompton C Line Explore
If you ask any folding bike enthusiast to name the gold standard, chances are they’ll say “Brompton.” And for good reason.
The Brompton C Line Explore is the ultimate blend of craftsmanship, portability, and urban performance. Hand-built in London with a patented 3-part fold that shrinks it to the size of a briefcase, this bike is designed to go anywhere — under your desk, on a train, in the trunk, or even on a plane.
Despite its small 16″ wheels, the C Line Explore rides smoother than you’d expect. Thanks to a thoughtfully engineered geometry and durable steel frame, it feels stable and quick, especially in tight city conditions. The 6-speed drivetrain gives you enough range to handle hills, bridges, and fast flats with ease.
Key Features
- Weight: ~27 lbs
- Folded Size: 25″ x 23″ x 11″
- Speeds: 6-speed internal + external gearing
- Frame: Steel (hand-brazed)
- Tires: 16″ Brompton-specific
- Extras: Optional rear rack, fenders, carrying bag, custom accessories
Pros
- Smallest fold in the industry — fits under most desks and in airplane overhead bins
- Tough and timeless — steel frame is built to last a lifetime
- Commuter-ready — folds in ~20 seconds, easy to carry, ultra-compact
- Customizable — handlebars, gearing, saddle, and color options to suit your ride
Cons
- Premium price tag — starting around $1,850
- Availability — high demand sometimes means waitlists or limited stock in the U.S.
- Small wheels — while agile, may feel twitchy to new riders used to full-sized bikes
Best For
Urban commuters, transit riders, and frequent travelers who need the most portable, premium folding bike on the market.
💬 “The Brompton fold is unmatched. I can roll it into my office, pop it under my desk, and ride home in 30 seconds flat.” — Jason Wright
🛒 Buy It On:
🔗 Official Brompton Website
🔗 REI – Brompton C Line Explore (Check U.S. stock & availability)
Best Folding Bike for Commuting: Dahon Mariner D8
When it comes to everyday utility, few bikes deliver like the Dahon Mariner D8. With commuter-ready features, a solid mid-range price point, and a reliable folding design, this bike is a favorite for city riders who want practicality without the premium price tag.
Built with a rust-resistant aluminum frame (ideal for wet or coastal cities), the Mariner D8 comes fully loaded with fenders, a rear rack, and an 8-speed drivetrain — no add-ons required. Whether you’re zipping through morning traffic or cruising home after dark, this bike is made to handle the daily grind.
The fold is quick and intuitive thanks to Dahon’s patented ViseGrip hinge system. While not as compact as a Brompton, it folds small enough to fit under a desk or in most closets and car trunks.
Key Features
- Weight: ~27.5 lbs
- Folded Size: 25″ x 12″ x 31″
- Speeds: 8-speed Shimano Altus
- Frame: Dalloy aluminum alloy
- Wheels: 20″
- Extras: Rear cargo rack, full fenders, kickstand
Pros
- Commuter-ready out of the box — includes rack and fenders
- 8 speeds offer enough range for hills and mixed terrain
- Quick and sturdy fold with frame lock
- Rust-resistant finish — great for humid or rainy environments
Cons
- Larger folded size than some compact models
- Mid-tier weight — not heavy, but not featherlight
- No carrying bag or rollers — can be awkward to carry long distances
Best For
Urban commuters, students, and practical riders who want a dependable, comfortable, and fully-equipped folding bike for daily use — without spending a fortune.
💬 “I use my Mariner every day. It folds fast, fits on the train, and has space for my backpack and groceries.” — Sam Fields
🛒 Buy It On:
🔗 Amazon – Dahon Mariner D8
🔗 JensonUSA (Free shipping available in the U.S.)
Best Budget Folding Bike: ZiZZO Campo
If you’re just getting into folding bikes or want a reliable ride without spending big, the ZiZZO Campo is the best value on the market. Priced under $400, it’s one of the most popular entry-level folding bikes sold in the U.S., and for good reason — it’s simple, lightweight, and surprisingly capable for its price.
Built with an aluminum alloy frame, the Campo weighs around 28–29 pounds, which is lighter than many folding bikes in this price range. It folds down in seconds using a mid-frame hinge and adjustable stem, and it even includes a built-in magnet to keep the frame securely closed when folded — a small but welcome touch.
While it doesn’t come with extras like fenders or a rack, the Campo is designed to be easily upgraded. It’s ideal for flat to moderately hilly terrain thanks to a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and 20″ wheels that offer decent stability without adding bulk.
Key Features
- Weight: ~28–29 lbs
- Folded Size: 27″ x 31″ x 13″
- Speeds: 7-speed Shimano Tourney
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Wheels: 20″
- Extras: Magnet lock, adjustable handlebar stem
Pros
- Under $400 — incredible value for the quality
- Lightweight for the price range
- Simple, clean folding mechanism
- Shimano components and reliable shifting
- Fits a wide range of rider heights (up to ~6’3″)
Cons
- No rack or fenders — add-ons will cost extra
- Not ideal for frequent hill riding or long-distance commutes
- Less refined ride feel than higher-end models
Best For
Budget-conscious riders, casual commuters, students, and weekend adventurers who want an affordable folding bike that’s easy to ride and store.
💬 “I wasn’t sure a folding bike could be this affordable AND solid. Perfect for my short commute and easy to toss in the trunk.” — Britney Chester
🛒 Buy It On:
🔗 Amazon – ZiZZO Campo
🔗 ZiZZO Bikes Official Site
Best Lightweight Folding Bike: ZiZZO Liberté
If your daily routine includes stairs, buses, or tight hallways, every pound matters. Enter the ZiZZO Liberté — one of the lightest folding bikes you can buy under $500, weighing in at just 23 pounds. It’s designed for commuters who value portability above all, and it delivers in every way that counts.
Despite its featherweight frame, the Liberté doesn’t skimp on performance. With an 8-speed Shimano drivetrain, double-wall alloy rims, and precision welds, it rides confidently through city streets, park paths, and campus shortcuts. The aluminum frame keeps the weight low without sacrificing strength, and the folding process is smooth and fast — perfect for multi-modal travel or tight storage spaces.
What sets the Liberté apart is how effortless it feels. You can lift it with one hand, carry it up a flight of stairs, or roll it into your office without breaking a sweat. It’s also one of the few sub-25 lb bikes that doesn’t come with a luxury price tag.
Key Features
- Weight: ~23 lbs
- Folded Size: 27″ x 31″ x 12.5″
- Speeds: 8-speed Shimano
- Frame: Lightweight aluminum alloy
- Wheels: 20″
- Extras: Quick-release seatpost & wheels, magnet closure
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight — easy to carry, store, and transport
- 8 speeds offer great versatility for commuting or moderate hills
- Smooth, stable ride for a sub-25 lb folder
- Under $500 — rare to get this combo of weight + price
Cons
- No built-in rack or fenders
- Less comfort on rough roads due to slimmer tires and no suspension
- Limited to riders under ~240 lbs (check specs if close to limit)
Best For
Apartment dwellers, frequent transit riders, or anyone who needs an ultra-light folder that still performs like a full-sized commuter bike.
💬 “I carry this into the office, fold it in 10 seconds, and store it under my desk. You won’t find a better lightweight folder at this price.” — Brady Coleman
🛒 Buy It On:
🔗 Amazon – ZiZZO Liberté
🔗 ZiZZO Official Website
Best Performance Folding Bike: Tern BYB S11
If your idea of a folding bike goes beyond commuting — and into serious, high-speed riding — the Tern BYB S11 is built for you. Designed with road-bike-level performance in mind, this premium folder delivers a ride that feels solid, responsive, and fast… without giving up the convenience of a compact fold.
The BYB (short for “Bring Your Bike”) uses a double-fold design that’s 30% smaller than traditional 20″ folders, yet still offers the handling and comfort of a full-sized bike. It’s equipped with an 11-speed Shimano drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and a stiff frame geometry that eliminates the “flexy” feeling many folders suffer from.
Tern didn’t stop at just performance — the BYB S11 includes integrated rolling wheels and a rear rack that doubles as a kickstand, so you can trolley the folded bike like luggage. Whether you’re racing the clock on your commute or taking longer rides on the weekend, this is the folding bike that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Key Features
- Weight: ~28 lbs
- Folded Size: 13″ x 31″ x 20″
- Speeds: 11-speed Shimano
- Frame: Hydroformed aluminum
- Wheels: 20″
- Extras: Rack, fenders, hydraulic disc brakes, roller wheels
Pros
- Best-in-class ride quality — feels like a full-sized performance bike
- 11 gears for serious commuting or hilly rides
- Folds smaller than most 20″ bikes despite high-spec build
- Rolls when folded — no need to carry
- Integrated rack and disc brakes make it fully commuter-ready
Cons
- Expensive — premium pricing around ~$2,500
- Complex fold — not as beginner-friendly as simpler models
- Heavier than ultralight options
Best For
Riders who want a high-performance, commuter-ready folding bike that rides like a regular bike — with no shortcuts. Ideal for longer urban commutes, multi-surface routes, or fitness-focused cyclists with limited storage.
💬 “The Tern BYB rides like my full-size bike but folds small enough to fit next to my desk. It’s my daily ride now — rain or shine.” — Graham Simpson
🛒 Buy It On:
🔗 Tern Website
🔗 Find a Tern Dealer
How to Choose the Right One
Not all folding bikes are created equal — and finding the right one comes down to matching your needs, budget, and riding habits. Below is a breakdown of what really matters when choosing your perfect folding companion.
1. How Will You Use It?
Your lifestyle should lead your decision. Are you a daily commuter, weekend explorer, student, or traveler?
- Daily commuter: Look for 6–8 speeds, fenders, and a rear rack (like the Dahon Mariner D8).
- Apartment dweller: Prioritize a compact fold and light weight (try the Brompton C Line or ZiZZO Liberté).
- Weekend rider or traveler: Focus on comfort, reliability, and easy transportability (like the Tern BYB S11 or ZiZZO Campo).
2. Wheel Size & Ride Quality
Most folding bikes have 16″ or 20″ wheels. Here’s the tradeoff:
- 16″ wheels (e.g., Brompton): Super compact but may feel twitchy on rough roads.
- 20″ wheels (e.g., ZiZZO, Dahon, Tern): More stable and comfortable, closer to a traditional bike feel.
Rule of thumb: The larger the wheels, the smoother the ride. The smaller the wheels, the tighter the fold.
3. Weight & Portability
If you’ll be carrying your bike often, weight matters. Most folding bikes weigh 23–30 lbs, but anything under 25 lbs (like the ZiZZO Liberté) is considered lightweight.
Bonus tip: Some bikes roll when folded, like the Tern BYB — a huge plus for commuters.
4. Gearing & Terrain
-
Flat cities or short rides: A single-speed or 3-speed may be enough.
-
Hills or longer commutes: Choose 6+ speeds. Performance models like the Tern BYB S11 offer 11-speed drivetrains.
5. Budget & Value
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great folding bike. Here’s a rough breakdown:
-
Under $400: Basic folders like the ZiZZO Campo — great for light, occasional use
-
$500–$1,000: Commuter-ready bikes like Dahon Mariner D8 — a solid balance of price and performance
-
$1,500+: Premium options like Brompton or Tern — built for durability, comfort, and compactness
6. Folding Mechanism & Ease of Use
There are a few main folding designs:
-
Mid-fold frame: Most common (Dahon, ZiZZO)
-
Tri-fold: Most compact (Brompton)
-
Double hinge vertical fold: Advanced and compact (Tern BYB)
Look for bikes that lock securely when folded and don’t require too many steps — especially if you’re folding multiple times per day.
7. Maintenance & Build Quality
Stick with known brands. They offer better hinge systems, more durable frames, and easier access to replacement parts. Avoid super-cheap knockoffs with weak latches or generic parts.
If you want low-maintenance:
-
Choose bikes with internal gearing
-
Look for aluminum or steel frames for longevity
Pro tip: Make a shortlist based on your use case, then compare weight, fold size, and reviews. A bike that’s perfect on paper isn’t perfect if it’s a pain to carry.
FAQs About Folding Bikes
Are folding bikes good for commuting?
Absolutely. Folding bikes are perfect for city commuting. They let you bypass traffic, hop on public transit, and store your bike under your desk — no bike racks or street locks required. Models like the Dahon Mariner D8 and Brompton C Line Explore are built specifically with commuters in mind, offering the right blend of comfort, gear range, and portability.
Can you ride a folding bike long distances?
Yes — many folding bikes can handle 10–20 mile rides comfortably. If you’re planning longer rides, look for models with:
- Larger 20″ wheels for better rolling efficiency
- Multiple gears for hills and varied terrain
- A stiffer frame for stability (like the Tern BYB S11)
For true long-distance touring, consider a higher-performance model with a full gear range.
Are folding bikes slower than regular bikes?
Not necessarily. While smaller wheels can affect speed slightly, ride quality depends more on gearing and build. Bikes like the Tern BYB S11 or ZiZZO Liberté can keep pace with traditional bikes in most city environments. You may not win a race — but you’ll win at convenience.
How much should I spend on a folding bike?
Here’s a simple guide:
- $300–$500: Great for beginners or casual riders (ZiZZO Campo)
- $600–$1,000: Solid commuter bikes with comfort and versatility (Dahon Mariner D8)
- $1,500+: Premium builds with top-tier components and the most compact folds (Brompton, Tern)
Your budget should reflect how often and how far you’ll ride.
Do folding bikes require special maintenance?
Not really. Folding bikes use standard bike components, so basic maintenance is the same: keep your chain lubed, tires inflated, and gears tuned.
Unique folding parts — like hinges and latches — just need occasional checks for tightness and cleanliness. Stick with reputable brands, and you’ll have no trouble sourcing parts or servicing the bike.
Can I bring a folding bike on a train or plane?
Yes — this is one of the biggest perks of a folding bike. Most models fold small enough to:
- Board public transit without restrictions
- Fit in the trunk of a car or a closet
- Check as luggage on a plane (especially when placed in a travel bag or case)
Brompton, for example, is often used by frequent flyers because it folds small enough to be carried onto many flights.
Which Folding Bike Is Right for You?
Whether you’re commuting through downtown, hopping on a train, or storing your ride in a studio apartment, a folding bike offers the freedom to ride — without the bulk of a traditional bike.
In 2025, the market has something for everyone:
- Go premium with the ultra-compact and handcrafted Brompton C Line Explore
- Commute with confidence on the Dahon Mariner D8
- Ride light and fast with the ZiZZO Liberté
- Start smart with the ZiZZO Campo
- Or go all-in on performance with the Tern BYB S11
Each model we’ve reviewed here is highly rated, widely loved, and built for U.S. riders looking to make the most of small-space mobility.
If you’re still unsure which bike fits your lifestyle, revisit the comparison table or check out our Folding Bike Buying Guide above.
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