Folding e-Bikes hold at the center of the frame and the steerer tube near the handlebars. Some models even have folding pedals and integrated stands or wheels to facilitate propping the bike up or rolling it when folded.
Why Brompton Folding E-Bikes Are So Darn Good
Written by: Rémy Rossi | August 7, 2025 | Time to read 5 min
Full-featured electric bikes you can roll like luggage and carry up a flight of stairs— Brompton is the king of folding bicycles for a reason.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Cobblers, blacksmiths, and steeplejacks— the tradespeople of a bygone era are few and far between these days (or completely extinct), but craftsmanship is still around if you know where to look. England has an especially strong history of quality bike manufacturing, and renowned brand Brompton continues to make top-notch folding bikes in its West London factory. Folding e-Bikes are Brompton’s latest innovation— I’ll explain what sets these models apart from the rest.
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What are Brompton bicycles?
Brompton is a British bicycle manufacturer that specializes in folding bikes, known for their especially good portability and design. The bikes are all made in Greenford, London, rather than overseas, and there’s a range of regular folding models and electric folding bikes. In the industry, Brompton is generally considered the king of folding bikes due to the premium quality and compact size of their bikes that are packed with convenient features.
Brompton P Line vs. C Line folding electric bikes
When it comes to electric folding bikes, Brompton offers two models: the P Line and C Line. Both options are great folding e-Bikes that can fit under your desk, but there are some subtle differences. The higher-end P Line is around 20% lighter due to its premium titanium and steel frame and otherwise shares the same specs as the C Line.
There’s a 250W front hub motor and compact 16” wheels in a setup with mudguards, Dynamo lighting, and folding pedals. The 321 Wh battery pack attaches to the front of the bike and can be easily removed when folding the bike. There are small rollers built into the bike so that, when folded, the bike can easily roll through a transit station or on the sidewalk. The P Line model weighs just 35 pounds with the battery. Both models are available in 4-speed and 12-speed options as well as versions with a mid-height or high handlebar.
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Benefits of Brompton folding electric bikes
Fast to fold
The folding mechanisms of collapsible bikes are actually quite difficult to get right— but Brompton has always excelled in this area. Low-quality electric folding bikes can be cumbersome and awkward, but Brompton models easily transform into a portable package in under 20 seconds. Of course, there’s always a learning curve to fold it down as fast as possible, but these bikes are intuitive and user-friendly. Trust me, I’ve seen a lot of electric folding bikes, and there are some truly irksome designs out there that you’d do your best to avoid.
Lightweight to carry
Electric bikes inevitably add weight, but Brompton knows how to deal with that appropriately. At just over 34 pounds, the P Line model is impressively lightweight, so you can easily lift or carry it when necessary— the C Line weighs 36.5 pounds. Folding e-Bikes from other brands can weigh nearly twice the amount, effectively removing the possibility of carrying them upstairs. Brompton e-Bikes, however, are still actually portable on and off the ground.
Ultra-portable & detachable battery
Brompton cleverly decided to attach the battery to the front of the bike, where it can be easily removed. That allows the bike to fold up smaller and weigh less— riders carry the battery separately in the handy battery bag that keeps it protected and portable for off-the-bike charging— it can be carried like a tote bag. The battery can also be replaced with a luggage rack or bag if you need more cargo space. This modular setup works great for people who are on the move and need to save as much space as possible.
Easy to roll
A huge advantage of Brompton bikes is their ability to roll when folded. There are small roller wheels built into the frame that move to the underside of the bike in the folded position. The seatpost can be locked halfway so you can comfortably push the bike along the floor of a transit station, mall, or sidewalk. The rollers also prop up the bike so it’s self-supported when folded. Other models may have an integrated kickstand for this purpose or a single wheel, but Brompton outshines the rest with its advanced system for super-easy portability.
Powerful and durable parts
All that portability and space-saving prowess doesn’t compromise the performance of Brompton bikes either. The P Line and C Line models feature premium parts that are built to last through the trials of daily riding and urban use. There are quality 4-speed or 12-speed drivetrains, a balanced geometry, and a powerful 250W motor with three pedal assist levels. For such small bikes, they get pretty close to mimicking the feel of larger, full-sized models.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fold an electric bike?
How much do e-Bikes weigh?
Most standard e-Bikes weigh between 20 and 25 kilograms, or around 45 to 55 pounds. Performance-oriented e-MTBs are on the lighter side despite the added suspension, ranging from 15 to 28 kilograms. Folding e-Bikes designed for commuters usually weigh around 20 kilograms for portability. On the heavier end, electric cargo bikes tip the scales at up to 40 kilograms.
What is the warranty on Upway bikes?
Upway offers a one-year limited warranty on all its e-Bikes that covers mechanical and electrical defects. We also provide guaranteed delivery and will compensate as warranted in the rare case of any shipping damage.
Key Takeaways
- Folds Fast, Rolls Easier: Brompton bikes fold in under 20 seconds and roll smoothly while folded, making them perfect for transit or small spaces.
- Light but Mighty: Weighing just 35 lbs with a detachable battery, the P Line is built with premium materials for easy carrying without sacrificing performance.
- Designed for Urban Life: With a 250W motor, multiple gears, and modular add-ons, Brompton folding e-Bikes are tailored for city dwellers who demand portability and power.
