Folding bikes are very trendy because of their versatility– since they’re compact, foldable, and easy to transport & store. But, there is a question that many people ask ‘do folding bikes break easily?’. If so, it may lead to several problems in the middle of your trip.
Listen, a folding bicycle from the reputed companies and good quality materials is less likely to break. However, the situation you’ll face is unexpected as you can’t fix it instantly without a professional. Yes, it’s also true that they’re prone to breaking down easily, sometimes.
Today, we’re going to discuss the issues, consequences, and probable solutions step by step. So, you’ve nothing to worry about. We’ll also describe the safety and durability to consider before getting yours. Let’s get started–
Why Do Folding Bikes Break Easily? Know The Facts!
Some folding bikes break easily until you maintain a certain weight capacity on them. It also happens you’re getting a bike with fragile mechanisms and low-quality materials. However, most of them are structurally robust and tend to have a long life expectancy.
This is to say, the design includes collapsible frames and isn’t strong enough to withstand the extra load sometimes– especially when the buckles are under stress. As a result, the buckle joints and layers lead to damage and vulnerability.
You may also hear another question ‘do folding bikes break in half?’ from the many bikers.
Why Do Folding Bikes Break in Half?
Yes, sometimes they break in half into two pieces if there is a potential fracture in the frame, buckles, or other folding mechanisms. As your bike has to coordinate and support each other materials in a complex way. Thus, components and prone to break in the middle.
But, what about the cracks and fractures? Don’t worry! We’ll also discuss the problems and suggestions to prevent them–
The folding bikes may simply crack or fracture because of faulty welding or joint alignments which even often happens to the budget foldable ebike and regular ones. Even they’re too good. However, you can prevent them by following recommended weight and pressure from the manufacturer.
In addition, try to minimize folding your bike often to prevent damage to the hinges, buckles, and joints.
Things that Impact the Durability of Folding Bikes
There are some factors you should know about that impact the durability of your foldable bike– including some internal and external things.
Frame Materials
When it’s about the crack and fracture of a bike, frame materials are a crucial factor to consider. You’ll find different materials that are less or more durable depending on the quality and types of metal they used. We’ll briefly look at them at a glance–
- Steel first, we have steel for bike frames to ensure durability. As it can withstand plenty of coating and stress while riding on the different surfaces. However, the bikes made from steel are a bit heavier than others.
- Aluminum is another most popular option for frames that comes with a relatively strong and lightweight. But, they’re less durable than stainless steel occupying the second position.
- Titanium is in the third position and is one of the most durable materials for standard bikes, electric bikes, or folding bikes. It’s robust, light, and comes with anti-corrode properties. That’s why they are quite expensive.
- Carbon fiber also ensures strong and lightweight metal for bike frames with durability and expensive price.
Weight & Capacity
The weight capacity of a foldaway bike is another significant factor that influences its durability. If the weight limits go above the capacity your bike had is tend to break easily. Usually, you can’t carry much weight on it like other normal bikes. Although, most of them are capable of going above 200-250 pounds.
Besides, there are also some folding bikes that have a low capacity– including the rider and luggage. This is just because of their low-quality frame materials, smaller wheels, and hinge points. However, it’s possible to take above 260-300 pounds weight using a standard or mountain bicycle.
Terrain Matters
The terrain you ride the bike is also responsible to crack and fracture, sometimes. Look! Most folding bikes are made to roam around the paved city road and smooth surfaces. But, if you hit the rough terrain it is more likely to have issues with the hinge, joint, and all that.
When it’s a mountain bike, they have thicker tires and a suspension system to tradeoff among the load, bike, and terrain. On the other hand, most foldable bicycles have no such features– some offers shock absorbent suspension, we must admit.
Weather Condition
Riding a folding bike in an adverse condition also affect the materials– including rainwater, snowfall, mud water, dirty splash, etc. from your environment. They will wear rust and lead the joints to weak and damaged. Try to choose a bike that offers IPx5 waterproof coating technology.
How You Can Fix a Folding Bike?
You’ve nothing to worry about if you encounter these issues since you can fix them easily. However, if you feel unsafe or complicated then take it to a bike shop or expert and it’ll be a relatively easier way. You might require some tools and knowledge possibly not in your home.
The common problems you may face with them are–
- The problem with the chain, it may loosen and break, sometimes
- The hinge, joint, and bolts loosen issues
- Flat tires and disc brakes
- Sudden derailleur complications
Can Folding Bikes Go Long Distance?
Yes, folding bikes can go for long-distance than conventional regular bikes. This is why they are most popular among regular commuters, city riders, or outdoor activists. Even some models can go uphill and in mountain areas like mountain bikes because of their versatility.
How Fast Can Folding E-bikes Go?
The Class 1 folding e-bikes can reach up to 20 Mph on regular terrain. However, some bikes go above this range simply– depending on the motor power, battery, and gear system. On the contrary, you can’t reach this speed when you’re riding on unpaved ground.
Some Important Terms Related to Folding Bikes
Electric folding bikes, type of bike, wheel size, commuter bikes, portable bikes, road bikes, non-folding bikes, urban cycling, aluminum frames, public transportation, city bikes, and foldable mountain bike.
Last Words
Folding bikes are still a good and viable option for many people despite several drawbacks. Actually, we tried to introduce the issues, causes, and possible solutions– before getting it too worst. We also discussed how different factors impact bike health and lead to breaks such as– fractures and cracks.
However, you’ve lots of options in the foldable bikes in the market with durable construction materials and longevity. So, you should decide before what fits your needs and purposes. That’s all about our question ‘do folding bikes break easily’.
