The Velotric Fold 1 has emerged as a noteworthy contender in the budget-friendly folding e-bike market, offering a blend of performance, convenience, and value. Designed to cater to urban commuters and recreational riders alike, this e-bike combines a robust motor, substantial battery capacity, and user-friendly features. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the specifications, performance, and overall riding experience of the Velotric Fold 1.
Design and Build Quality
The Velotric Fold 1 features a step-through aluminum alloy frame, facilitating easy mounting and dismounting—a particularly beneficial aspect for riders of varying heights and those with mobility considerations. The bike is available in three color options: Electric Blue, Stone Grey, and Pearl White, appealing to a range of aesthetic preferences. When folded, the bike measures approximately 33 inches in height, 38 inches in length, and 19 inches in width, making it compact enough for storage in small spaces or transportation in a vehicle trunk. However, at a weight of 63 pounds, it may be cumbersome for some users to carry over extended distances.
Motor and Battery Performance
Equipped with a 750W rear hub motor that peaks at 1,050W and delivers 70Nm of torque, the Fold 1 provides robust acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities. The motor supports three e-bike classifications:
- Class 1: Pedal assist up to 20 mph (throttle removed).
- Class 2: Pedal assist and throttle up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal assist up to 28 mph (throttle removed).
This configurability allows riders to adjust the bike’s performance to comply with local regulations and personal preferences.
The bike houses a 48V 12.6Ah (608Wh) battery, which is UL2271-certified and boasts an IPX7 weatherproof rating, ensuring durability and safety. Velotric claims a range of up to 55 miles on a single charge, though actual mileage may vary based on factors such as rider weight, terrain, and assist level. Notably, some reviewers have reported inconsistencies with the battery meter, making it challenging to accurately gauge remaining range during rides.
Riding Experience
The Fold 1 is designed with rider comfort in mind. It features a 60mm travel front suspension fork and 20×3.0-inch puncture-resistant Chaoyang tires, which together absorb road imperfections and provide a smooth ride. The bike’s low step-through frame enhances accessibility, and the adjustable handlebar and seat height accommodate riders of various statures. However, some taller riders (around 6 feet and above) have found the bike to be slightly undersized, even with maximum adjustments.
The inclusion of Tektro dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors ensures reliable stopping power, contributing to rider safety. The bike also comes equipped with full-coverage fenders, a 60-lux front LED headlight, and a rear light integrated with brake activation, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions.
Folding Mechanism and Portability
The Velotric Fold 1 employs a standard folding mechanism with hinges in the middle of the frame and above the head tube, allowing it to collapse into a compact form. The pedals also fold to further reduce its footprint. While the folding process is straightforward, some users have reported issues with the frame latch alignment, which can affect the ease of folding and unfolding.
Cargo Capacity
One of the standout features of the Fold 1 is its impressive payload capacity. The bike supports a total weight of up to 440 pounds, with the integrated rear rack rated for 120 pounds. This makes it suitable for carrying groceries, luggage, or even an additional passenger, adding to its versatility as a commuter e-bike.
User Interface and Controls
The bike is equipped with a 1.8-inch high-brightness LCD that displays essential information such as speed, battery level, and assist mode. While the display is easy to read in various lighting conditions, some users have noted that the text size is small, which may pose a challenge for quick glances during rides.
Assembly and Setup
Velotric emphasizes a user-friendly assembly process. The Fold 1 arrives fully assembled; riders simply need to unpack, unfold, and start riding. This convenience is particularly appealing to those who may not be mechanically inclined or prefer to avoid complex setup procedures.
Pricing and Value
Priced at $1,149, the Velotric Fold 1 positions itself competitively within the budget folding e-bike segment. Its combination of a powerful motor, substantial battery capacity, hydraulic disc brakes, and high payload capacity offers considerable value for the price. However, potential buyers should weigh these benefits against the reported issues with battery meter accuracy and size limitations for taller riders.
Conclusion
The Velotric Fold 1 stands out as a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and affordable folding e-bike. Its robust motor, configurable speed settings, and impressive cargo capacity make it suitable for a variety of urban commuting and recreational scenarios. While there are areas for improvement—such as battery meter accuracy and accommodation for taller riders—the overall package presents a solid value proposition in the competitive e-bike market.
