Folding bikes are gaining momentum as regards popularity. Even manufacturers are trying to build foldable bikes with the best features and make them convenient for commuters. The prime USPs of folding bikes are portability, lightweight, compactness, sturdiness, etc. Are you not using your cycle? The best thing with folding cycles is that you can fold them up and keep them in a dry place; it won’t take up a lot of space.
Furthermore, you can easily carry them on public conveyances such as buses, trains, metro, etc. Hence, there is no chance of your cycle getting stolen. Plus, if you are searching for gear cycles, your search is over since you will get excellent options in geared folding cycles that move swifter than fixed gear folding cycles.
Know the merits and demerits of folding cycles? Let’s jump right in…
Advantages
- Quality folding cycles: Yes, it might look like folding cycles are poorly made, but high-quality ones coming from the house of Dahon will change the perception forever. The folding bikes are made of top-notch quality aluminium, Chromoly steel, and titanium making them sturdy and dependable.
- Easily foldable: It doesn’t take more than 30 seconds to fold the folding cycles, easy, right? Bike commuters will fall in love with this attribute for sure. Learning how to fold the folding cycles is no rocket science; it is easy and super quick.
- Easy storing: The compact size of the cycle after folding is super convenient for storage. Minimum space is required to keep this brilliant invention.
- No chance of getting stolen: The folding cycles are lightweight, compact, and portable, owing to which you will be able to carry it with you wherever you go without having to leave your precious gear cycle unattended.
Disadvantages
- An affordable folding gear cycle is generally pretty heavy. The lighter ones might cost you a fortune.
- The price of the folding cycles is on the higher side because they come with a lot of features and, of course, the prime quality of turning into a compact size. If you compare the price with traditional non-folding bikes, the price might sting you. But, you have the power of the Bajaj Finserv Network Card, with which you can get your folding bike under the no-cost EMI scheme and avail attractive offers.
- If you do not like a bumpy and stiffer ride, it is best to not invest in folding cycles. The wheels are smaller in size, which is why the stiff ride might get to you. Of course, the suspension is not as good as a non-foldable cycle. However, you can try the Swagtron EB-8 fat tire foldable bicycle; it might be able to provide a smoother ride than the rest.
In the case of a non-foldable bicycle, the advantages and disadvantages are pretty straightforward:
Advantages
- Traditional gear cycles will not burn a hole in your pocket. There are cycles under 10000 INR available in India.
- Suspension and tire size will offer you the pleasure of a buttery smooth ride that will not be the case with folding cycles. The rolling resistance is minor as compared to a folding bicycle.
- Traditional gear cycles that are made of aluminium or even steel are lightweight. You can lift them up quickly without having to exert extra pressure on yourself.
- The non-foldable bikes are more comfortable for long-distance journeys.
Disadvantages
- The bulky size takes up space (a lot, actually). Hence, it is not ideal for your studio apartment or small house.
- Although the bikes can be chained, security is an issue; breaking the lock will not be a problem if a thief decides to steal your bike when left unattended.
- It is not portable. So, forget to carry it with you by bus or train or car.
The choices are different for every individual. So, it is best to choose the one that suffices your requirement to the fullest. Go through the pros & cons to decide which one is suitable for you.