We sell and service the new generation compact folding bikes and ride them enthusiastically ourselves. See also our electric bikes at Electric Bikes NW.
We invite you to visit our store, phone or email us. Ours is one of the last Internet shopping cart-free sanctuaries.
Folding Bikes West
4810 17th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107 - Map
ph: 206/547-4621
fx: 206/547-4841
Email form
Summer Hours:
Monday thru Friday: 11–6
Saturday: 11–4
In addition to the obvious criteria for selecting any type of bicycle here are a few specific to folders:
Most among us seem a bit hesitant at first attempt but after folding and unfolding just a few times the procedure reveals itself as amazingly simple, easy, predictable and quite enjoyable. Quick too: Folding or unfolding takes an honest 15-30 seconds depending on the bike model and the proficiency of the person. Part of foldability is also how simply, securely and elegantly the bike locks together as a package when folded.
Here the numbers speak for themselves (see Folded Dimensions Table).
For many riding conditions and riders it may be hard to suggest any significant real world riding difference between a large wheeled and a small wheeled, medium-to-high end bicycle. On a small wheeled bike the initial feel for the first time rider of quickness (or even of being twitchy) is typically swiftly transplanted by a sense of nimbleness. A small number of our test riders suggest a difference between riding a 16" versus a 20" wheel model. Does a 20" wheeled bike 'ride better' than a 16" one? Not if the 16" wheeled bike is a Brompton.
This is clearly another area where individual preference rules. However, we'd venture to suggest that the latest generation folders we sell all ride and handle amazingly well. In fact a fair percentage of our customers rarely fold their folders—they simply prefer them to larger wheeled bikes.
The number of gears may be less important than how low the lowest and/or how high the highest gear is—please check 'gear inches'. We offer folders from single speed to 24 gears. Some come with derailleur shifting, others with internal hubs or a combination hereof.
All of our brands offer a wide assortment of accessories such as rear or front luggage options, fenders, racks, lights, bags etc.
Folder models currently offered weigh between 19 and 33 lbs.
Copyright © 2010 EbikesNW
While some brands hawk 'folders' their bikes don't actually 'fold' (as on hinges) at all or only partially. These should factually and fairly rather be referred to as 'take apart' bikes and may require half an hour with bike tools to disassemble and fit in a suitcase. We do not carry any such brand.
We carry brands which truly and completely fold (as on hinges) and no parts need to be removed, i.e.: