New folder for me, unfit, 60, heavy, 6ft3in.

[chris74]

As above I am unfit, 60, 6ft3in tall and at the top end of the weight range for most electric bikes.

I am looking for a pedelec that I can put in the car for days out and use with our caravan. It must fold to make security easier whilst we are away - we don't have an awning - and so that we can use public transport - including buses - where necessary and so that it can be put in the car. A rack is a no go area.

I am happy, and able, to pedal when the going is easy but would like help with hills, long inclines and headwinds. I want a bicycle with powerful electric help rather than an electric bike that you can peddle in an emergency. I don't want it to be any more expensive than necessary as it will not get everyday use.

I have tried a no electric Brompton and it was OK but the front end flexed as I pedalled. I have traditionally ridden a 24in frame Peugeot Hybrid with Deore XT gears.
Suggestions please.

I am posting the same question for my wife seperately.

 

[patpatbut]

Try to contact Woosh bikes for a test ride. They do have folders that might fit the bill

 

[Deleted member 4366]

AFAIK there's only one bike that meets those requirements. It'll fold to put it in your car, but don't expect it to fit in a cupboard or under the bed.

http://www.wooshbikes.co.uk/?zephyr-b

 

[lendmeyourear]

Hi Chris74. I've owned 2 folders, still use a Wisper 806 for a short commute daily. My first was a second hand 16" wheel - cheaper make, bought for £325. The advertised 20 mile range was actually 7, I wasn't impressed! I would strongly advise caution if you buy used, it is very difficult to ascertain just what the realistic battery range is from what people claim. There's no way of knowing how well the battery has been treated. (The worst thing is to leave a battery flat, that kills them off very quickly). And a folder I suspect is often put away for long periods with little thought given to it.

And things like weight, terrain etc makes a huge difference. My Wisper has done 1400 miles, I look after the battery very carefully, (9aH). At half power on the flat pedaling it will do the 30 mile quoted range. (I weigh 80 kilos). At full power pedaling with a couple of small hills thrown in, that drops to 12.

The other issue is wheel size and suspension. My 20" wheel Wisper has no front suspension, the ride is rock hard. The 16" with front suspension was a nicer ride. I'd also countenance rear wheel drive. With front drive you will get wheelspin on wet/muddy/loose surfaces. There's also a bit of torque steer effect, when pulling away, the front does tend to try and pull a bit to one side.

So I would focus on battery size, front suspension, rear wheel drive.

 

[Emo Rider]

Check out the Freego folder at a dealer nearest you. A well built piece of kit and there is a £100 cash back offer on right now.

 

[Deleted member 4366]

So I would focus on battery size, front suspension, rear wheel drive.

Good points; however OP is big and heavy, so his main focus should be motor torque. When you reach 100kg, most 250w ebike motors are insufficient to get you up steep hills. You need something like a Bafang BPM or Ezee motor. Crank drives can do it too, but you have to do more pedalling, so no good if you're unfit or have stiff joints.

 

[trex]

@chris74. The zephyr-B will suit your height and weight.
you've be hard pushed to find an e-folder with a big fat BPM motor, sensored hydraulic brakes and remote lock fork like the Zephyr-B. Not for under £1,000 anyway. A lot of bike for the price.

 

[chris74]

Cambridge here we go.

Thank you.