If you wish to invest in a bike that offers great performance and saves you some space, there’s no better time than now to do both by investing in a folding bike. It can fit easily into small spaces and you can also carry it around with you.
The best folding bikes under $500 are the ZiZZO Urbano Folding Bike and the Schwinn Loop Folding Bike. The ZiZZO Urbano has double wall rims, ultra-light multi-terrain tires. The Schwinn Loop comes with the front and rear linear-pull brakes, providing reliable braking.
In this article, I will explore the top foldable bike options that are designed with lightweight materials and fold into a compact size.
Best Folding Bike Under 500 USD
- Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike (High End)
- Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Folding Electric Bike
- Outroad 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike (Budget Buy)
- WINDHORSE Folding Electric Bike
- Schwinn Hinge Adult Folding Bike
- Xspec 21-Speed Folding Mountain Bike
- EuroMini Zizzo Campo
- ZiZZO Urbano Folding Bike (Top Pick)
Compare Top Folding Bicycles Under 500 US Dollars
| Product | Overall Score | Bottom Lime | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 Schwinn Loop Folding Bike | 82 |  Comes with a nylon carry bag | Check Out On Amazon |
 Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 | 80 |  Comes with a helpful LED light | Check Out On Amazon |
 Outroad Folding Mountain Bike | 81 | Has an ergonomically adjustable design | Check Out On Amazon |
 WINDHORSE Folding Electric Bike | 79 | Features excellent disc brakes | Check Out On Amazon |
 Schwinn Hinge Adult Folding Bike | 77 | Backed by a limited lifetime warranty | Check Out On Amazon |
 Xspec 26 21 Speed Folding Mountain Bike | 78 | Comes with Shimano features | Check Out On Amazon |
 EuroMini Zizzo Campo | 84 | Features multi-terrain tires | Check Out On Amazon |
 ZiZZO Urbano | 86 |  Has an adjustable stem | Check Out On Amazon |
Detailed Analysis of the Best Folding Bike Under $500
It’s important to note that you’re not just looking for the best folding bike under 500 because it’s cheap, but because it’s durable, well-made, and suitable to your needs and preferences.
This means that it should be durable and offer the level of speed that you need for what you’re going to be doing with it.
Without further ado, here’s our guide on how to find the best cheap folding bicycle on the market.
1. Schwinn Loop Adult Folding Bike
Overall Score: 82
Schwinn is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality bikes including the cheapest folding bicycles and they certainly don’t disappoint with this particular model.
The folding bicycle is super convenient to assemble thanks to its loop folding structure, as you can set it up in two fell swoops.
It has the capacity to handle cyclists as tall as 6 feet and it’s designed for heavy-duty use in applications such as camping and raving.
Although it’s made from durable steel, this bike is small enough to fit into the back of your truck after folding it up nice and tight.
You’ll find that small hills and brisk gales are easy to tackle in this bike and this is all thanks to features like its seven-speed twist Revo-shifter courtesy of Shimano as is its Shimano Tourney rear derailleur.
Advantages
- Comes with fenders for the back and front of your bike.
- Allows you to shift between 7 different speeds.
- Comes with a rear carry pack and nylon carry bag.
- Only weighs about 33 pounds.
- Features 20-inch wheels.
Disadvantages
- Handlebar should have a better design.
2. Swagtron Swagcycle EB-5 Folding Electric Bike
Overall Score: 80
Next, in our quest for finding the best folding bikes under £500, we have the Swagtron Swagcycle EB5 Folding Electric Bike.
Right off the bat, it’s important to note that this bicycle is the most innovatively engineered model out there.
It features a rugged frame that’s surprisingly easy to fold, and it can handle up to 264 pounds of weight.
Not only is the frame of this bike foldable but the handlebars and stem are as well, which is what makes it so easy to carry.
Did we mention that this is an electric bike? Yep, Elon Musk eat your heart out!
Thankfully, it comes with a powerful battery that enables the bike to handle 30-degree hills and plains alike, and the height-adjustable seat and handlebar for complete control over the comfort level of your adventure.
Once connected, you can track your location, speed, and other aspects of your environment and performance. Overall, it’s great!
Advantages
- It comes in a sleek black and white design.
- Comes with a helpful LED light.
- Features a storage compartment for the charging cable.
- It’s completely foldable.
- Comes with a powerful motor and rugged battery.
Disadvantages
- This electric model can take some getting used to.
- It doesn’t offer much in the way of shock absorption.
3. Outroad 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike
Overall Score: 81
When it comes to looking for the best folding bike under 500 this model tends to come up a lot.
The Outroad 26 Inch Folding Mountain Bike is super easy to assemble and disassemble thanks to its removable hooks which makes it that much easier to unhook it at will.
It’s constructed from a lightweight carbon steel frame and comes with useful features such as reflectors on the back and front of the bicycle to keep you visible and safe on the road.
The rear kickstand will really come in handy when you’re parked somewhere and you can bring the bike to a complete stop within a moment thanks to the solid and easy-to-control brakes.
The only downside with this bicycle is that it doesn’t have the best design and color, but it’s hard to contain considering that its features make it the best folding bike under 200.
Advantages
- It can handle up to 300 pounds of weight.
- This bike is ideal for the daily commute.
- It has an ergonomically adjustable design with a convenient Quick Release feature.
- Comes with brake handles on the front and back.
- Constructed from a 26-inch 21-speed alloy frame.
Disadvantages
- There are noticeable defects on the wheel.
4. WINDHORSE Folding Electric Bike
Overall Score: 79
Here we have the simple yet effective WINDHORSE adult bike which comes with a variety of great features such as an aluminum frame that is both flexible and durable, reliable disc brakes for quick stopping power and bright LED lights for visibility.
You’ll find that folding this bike is relatively easy and it comes in black color with front and rear safety lights for a comfortable and safe riding experience.
Lastly, this bike is incredibly safe and easy to operate thanks to how smooth it is, and we definitely enjoyed the comfortable saddle which makes it possible to ride your bike for prolonged periods of time.
Advantages
- Comes with a convenient rear carry rack.
- Features back and front fenders.
- It can handle a large amount of weight.
- Features excellent disc brakes and components
- Durable carbon alloy frame that’s easy to fold.
Disadvantages
- You need to adjust the bike a bit before you use it.
5. Schwinn Hinge Adult Folding Bike
Overall Score: 77
As the name implies, the Schwinn Hinge comes in three different sizes and it’s one of the most accessible priced models on this list.
If you want to know what sets the three apart from one another, it’s the number of speeds and the derailleur that comes with one of them.
Notable features include a sturdy low stand-over steel frame, 20-inch alloy wheels and linear pull brakes.
There are fenders on the front and the back of the bike to protect your rear rack and back from getting mud and water splashes.
Speaking of which, the bicycle does come with a rear rack suitable for small loads. This is in addition to a nylon bag for extra storage.
Note that the Schwinn Hinge is ideal for daily commuting since it’s a foldable bike that you can quickly store away under your desk or train seat when it’s not in use.
Not only that, but this bike offers a really comfortable ride thanks to its compact pedals and lightweight frame, and in our opinion, it’s the best folding bike under 300.
Advantages
- It’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
- Offers optimal visibility through reflective sidewalls and fill wrap fenders.
- Constructed from lightweight allow and features 20-inch alloy wheels.
- It’s easy to fold.
- Suitable for bikers of different experience levels and applications.
Disadvantages
- There are missing parts.
6. Xspec 21-Speed Folding Mountain Bike
Overall Score: 78
Here we have the Xpec 21 speed folding mountain bike which measures 26 inches and can be enjoyed at different speeds depending on your preferences.
This versatile and flexible bike is powered by high-quality brakes that will bring it to a halt within a moment.
In fact, the disc brake technology that’s utilized in this bike rivals that of advanced V-brake systems.
Of note is the dual steel suspension system which is to be found on the back and the front of the bike, which makes it that much easier to enjoy a smooth ride.
Speaking of which, the double-wall rimmed wheels on this bike make for the most incredible ride of your life even when traversing through rough terrain.
Advantages
- Comes with Shimano features.
- There are shock absorbers on the front and the back.
- Features a durable high-tensile steel frame.
- Powerful brakes enable instant stopping power.
- This is a powerful mountain bike.
Disadvantages
- This bike is really heavy and can be difficult to carry for long distances.
7. EuroMini Zizzo Campo
Overall Score: 84
If you’re looking for cheap folding bikes for sale, then EuroMini has got you covered.
This brand specializes in making the best folding bike under 500 and has yet again created a fantastic model that offers great value for money.
This heavy-duty folding bike has the capacity to handle up to 300 pounds worth of weight. It’s made from high-quality materials such as aluminum which is what the frame is constructed from.
It’s the perfect endurance bike to bring with you on that camping trip, as it won’t take up too much space in your car.
It comes with nice features like a handy cargo track and fenders at the front and back to protect your clothes from getting dirty.
This means that you can also use this bike for the daily commute since it comes with a cargo rack to store even more stuff. What more could you ask for?
Advantages
- Made with a magnetic catcher to stay folded.
- Features multi-terrain tires.
- Accommodates cyclists of different heights thanks to the adjustable stem.
- Comes with a Shimano 7-speed derailleur.
- Made from high-quality parts.
- The frame is sturdy yet lightweight.
- It has the capacity to handle up to 300 pounds of weight.
Disadvantages
- The bike’s design is not the most appealing.
8. ZiZZO Urbano Folding Bike
Overall Score: 86
One of the best cheap folding bikes made in USA, the ZiZZO Urbano is a 20-inch marvel of design and engineering that’s made from lightweight aluminum and solid components that make it that much easier to handle different environments.
Another great feature of this bike is the fact that it’s designed to handle cyclists of different heights from five feet to six feet tall.
Not only that, but it has a weight carrying capacity of up to 240 pounds and it’s surprisingly comfortable too.
Advantages
- Comes with tires that can handle different terrains and double-wall rims.
- It can adjust to your height thanks to the adjustable stem.
- Comes with Shimano components.
- Constructed from aluminum alloy frame.
Disadvantages
- We wish the instruction manual was easier to understand.
How to Get the Best Folding Bike Under $500
Now that you have an idea of what the best folding bicycle under 500 is, it’s time to look at the different features and functions to keep in mind as you try to narrow down your options.
Parts
It’s nice to have a bike that has adjustable parts because this enables you to optimize the bike’s position according to your needs and customize it to ensure that you enjoy a comfortable ride.
Material
As with anything, it’s important to ensure that you have a durable bicycle that’s made from high-quality components and materials that can handle different types of terrain.
Steel and aluminum are probably the best materials in this regard.
Comfort
You also want to make sure that the bike you’re purchasing comes with a comfortable saddle, wheels, and pedals, which will eventually require replacement down the line as well.
Brakes
Bike brakes are essential to ensuring road safety and you’ll want to ensure that they’re easy to replace when you need to.
Electric vs. Standard
The great thing about being a modern-day cyclist is that you have the option to either choose an electric bike or stick with a standard bike.
As you can imagine, an electric bike is powered by a motor and battery which makes it easier to paddle and get from point A to point B in no time.
Check out my article on the best electric bikes under $1000 for cost-effective bikes with reliable battery life and dependable motor power.
Why Get a Folding Bike?
If you’re still on the fence, here are some benefits that come with using a folding bike:
They Are Lightweight
The great thing about a foldable bike for adults is that it’s super lightweight and yet it can handle a weight of up to 230 to 300 pounds which is great.
Great for Exercising
A foldable bike makes it that much easier to engage in daily exercise because it’s now convenient to carry your bike and take it with you anywhere.
Very Versatile
Because it’s foldable, this type of bicycle is really easy to store in most places, and carrying it is effortless due to its lightweight construction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Folding Bikes
What is the cost of a foldable bike?
Portable bikes for adults come in a wide variety of price ranges but of course, we focused here on finding the best folding bicycle under 500.
Feel free to check out my article on the best foldable bikes under $300, if you’re on the look for budget-friendly options with with adjustable components.
How can I fold a bicycle?
Folding a bike isn’t that hard.
You start by folding the pedals inwards and then lower the seatpost before you place the handle post and handlebar lower as well before you lift the safety catch from the main hinge.
Lastly, you’ll have to release the clamp, preferably with both hands.
Can I easily fold a bike?
Yes, you can fold a bike in a few easy steps.
How can I lock a foldable bicycle?
Look out for bikes with a magnetic catcher feature as that enables you to keep the bike secure whenever you fold it. Otherwise, you’ll have to keep it in a bag or strap it in place.
You can also check out my article on the best cable locks that are easy to use and carry at affordable prices.
Should I buy an electric foldable bike?
For the most part, electric bikes offer great value for money thanks to features like powerful motors and large display screens.
Built-in Lights, Fenders, and Racks Improve the Folding Bikes’ Practicality, Making Them an Excellent Choice for Urban Mobility….
So, what’s the best folding bike under 500? If you were to ask us, the ZiZZO Urbano Folding Bike deserves the top spot.
That’s because it comes with such features as 8 different speed levels, comfortable 20-inch wheels, different storage options, and back and front fenders to keep you clean.