Folding bikes have indeed come a long way since their launch in the 1890s. Initially crafted for military use owing to their convenience, the humble yet efficient folding bike has found rising popularity among the riders of today. Known for its ease-of-use, premium quality and the ability to carry your favourite ride wherever you go, here's why your next ride should be a folding bike.

What is a folding bike?

A folding bike, much like its name, is a compact bike that can easily be folded to be carried anywhere you go. Being easily foldable makes it easier to store as well, thanks to its bendable and adjustable frame. This way, you can take your bike into buildings, public transportation and even on flights!

Folding techniques

Folding bikes have multiple variants when it comes to the technical aspect of the fold itself. You can choose your preferred model based on a variety of factors, such as the ease of folding, weight, ride quality, folding speed, and more. There are over 150 models to choose from today, offering a broad spectrum of features along with comfort, efficiency, speed and space considerations.

What are the advantages of a folding bike?

The need for the innovation of folding bikes arose when bikers found it extremely difficult to carry their bicycles as they travelled across cities as well as countries. The initial models for folding bikes were'nt as flexible, either: heavy, difficult to fold and uncomfortable to ride, it was'nt uncommon for folding bikes to go so far as to break down in a pile of wheels and frames whenever a rider attempted to fold them! However, in the 90s, railway as well as airport authorities made the regulations for carrying bikes while in transit stricter, making it crucial to invent a more convenient method for folding bikes. Luckily, the production of a highly compact folding bike would pass through these regulations and be lightweight enough to be carried by the rider, thus marking the beginning of the folding bikes we know and love today. They also offered travelling riders a smart and easy transport option.

Today, with over model variants and as well as developments in tire technology and frame design, folding bikes rank just as high as their conventional counterparts when it comes to weight, quality of the ride and performance. Although improvements can still be made when it comes to folding mechanisms and the time that it takes to fold the bike, folding bikes have definitely seen a marked rise in their ease and efficiency, and have opened up a whole new avenue when it comes to riding your bicycle.

How do I pick the right folding bike for me?

A lighter bike will be heavier on your wallet, however, folding bikes are absolutely on point when it comes to providing features that do justice to the cost. The price markup is due to the high quality of frame materials used, such as titanium and/or carbon fibre.

These folding bikes can snap into suitcase size in less than 20 seconds and can give you a ride of at least 80 to 160 kilometres. If you’re planning on an off-road #EverydayAdventure, going for a folding mountain bike with a tire size of 10.16 cms is the perfect option.

How to fold a folding bike?

Folding a folding bike is relatively easy. Here's a quick guide to folding your bike:

What is the best folding bike for touring?

Here's how to choose the perfect bike for touring:

A quick folding speed is ideal when you are touring because you are going to be folding and unfolding your bike multiple times through the day. Along with speed, folding size is crucial too that's what lets you carry your folding bike into public spaces with total comfort.

High-quality folding bikes provide an efficient and stable ride & that's why, while looking for an ideal folding bike ride, make sure it gives you a ride that lasts long and is comfortable.

What are the ideal accessories for a folding bike?

Folding bike accessories are just like any other bike and always use a folding bike helmet no matter where your ride is taking you. Other than that, accessories such as a GPS navigator, head and tail LED lights are also a few additions you could make onto your bike. Make sure you add these components after unfolding the bike and removing them before folding them.

How to lock a folding bike?

You should always lock up your folding bike after it's been folded. Locks for folding bikes range from a chain, long shackle u-lock or a folding lock. These let you hold onto to a higher number of bike components, thus securing your bike in the process. Always remember to remove any accessories from your bike before folding and locking.

So there are you are: all the reasons you could need to let your next buy be a folding bike. Are you ready to unfold the #EverydayAdventure with your very own folding bike?