11.07.2024 | Reading time - 8 min(s)

Best Electric folding bikes - Brompton

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Posted in: Electric Bikes, Folding Bikes

We here at Edinburgh Bike Coop are massive fans of the Brompton folding bike - its unassisted and their folding electric bikes. In this article we are going to explore everything Brompton electric bikes - the fold, the P line and C line and then go on to have a look at the electrical system and the benefits of this and why these are among the best folding electric bikes. Finally, we will have a look at the frequently asked questions about Brompton electric and Brompton in general.

Contents and Quick Links

Brompton Overview
Brompton Electric Battery and Motor
Brompton C Line Electric Range
Brompton P Line Electric Range
Top C Line Electric Bikes
Top P Line Electric Bikes
Brompton Compared to Other Folding Bikes
Frequently Asked Questions

Brompton Folding Bicycle

Brompton overview

Brompton are a British company, formed in London, and are still manufactured there to this day and we are very proud to be Brompton bike dealers. They set out to make an exceptionally compact, lightweight bike that would be perfect for city riding and cycle paths and could easily be folded down for public transport and storage at home or at work with one of, if not the, best folding mechanism in the business. The small wheels allow the Brompton to fold down to it's compact shape and give the bike its unique city handling.

The Brompton electric bikes aimed to keep all of these attributes but with added assistance for longer rides or for a less strenuous commute or leisure ride. The folded bike easily fits in tight busy spaces so you do not need to lock it outside as it can go wherever you go.

Bromtpon Folding Bike Folded

Key Features

Here are the key features of Brompton bicycles.

The Fold

Brompton are renowned in the cycling world for having the most compact and simplest folding and unfolding mechanism. A Brompton bike folded can be stored on buses, trains, car boots or under your desk at work. They are unobtrusive when folded and can be placed in cupboards at hoome to keep them safe and out of the way.

Security

Due to the extremely small size when folded, a Brompton can be taken with you when you go into shops, your work or into a house or a flat so you do not need to lock the bike outside. Because of this, a Brompton has far lower risk of getting stolen than non folding bikes that you need to lock up outside.

Brompton Matcha Green

Options

All Bromptons are built around this simple and compact fold and the same shape frame and forks but this doesn't mean you don't have options. Brompton bikes can cater for different rider preferences for shape as there are three distinct handlebar heights, low, mid and high for different heights and different riding positions.

There are also different specifications to choose from from the number of gears to the frame material used. Bromptons are available in C-line, P Line and T Line in the non-electric versions and the Electric C Line and Electric P Line (more on these electric bikes in a bit). The difference between these bikes is the frame material and this makes a difference to the weight of the bike and the comfort offered. Here is an overview of the different types.

Brompton C Line - The frame, Forks and neck of this bike are mnade from steel which offers a very comfortable ride quality.

Brompton P Line - Here, the main frame is the same as the C Line (steel) but the rear triangle and forks are upgraded to titanium. More comfortable than steel and a much lighter weight saving.

Brompton T Line - This one is not available as an electric bike but it is worth mentioning anyway. This bike has a full titanium frame for the lightest weight and the most comfortable ride. This comes at a price though as titanium is an expensive material and it costs a lot of money and time to engineer.

Brompton Close Up

Brompton Battery and Motor

As we are focusing on the electric Bromptons in this article, it makes sense to look at the motor and battery systems as these stay the same for all electric Bromptons. First up, we will look at the technical spec of both and then go on to give the specific advantages of the Brompton electric set up.

Motor

The motor on all Brompton bikes is a front hub motor that offers 250 watts of power to give great assistance around towns and on hills. A front hub motor that is controlled with a torque sensor was a very deliberate choice for Brompton as this helps keet the weight and foldability down to the minimum. In fact, the Electric C Line Explore's weight starts from 17.3kg for the lightest version.

Battery

The battery is also standard for all Bromptons and this attaches to the front carrier block. The battery capacity is 300Wh for approximately 30 miles of use on a single charge (depending on how you use it). The beauty of this design is that the battery is easily removable quick release mechanism and has a handy shoulder strap so you can carry this along with your Brompton when you are at work, at home or out and about.

A nice feature that the Brompton battery has is a USB port to charge portable devices while on the go that is useful for your phone or external lights.

The Bromptons are also unique as they do not have a handlebar mounted remote as this, and the associated wiring, would interfere with the fold mechanism so you control the assistance modes by pressing the button on the top of the battery itself. You also control the lights from the top of the battery.

Brompton Electric Folding Bike

Brompton C Line electric range

The first model we will look at is the C Line folding Electric bike range. As we mentioned above, the C Line frame and forks are steel and this bike is available with a low, mid or high handlebar for different heights and preferences. So even though Brompton's are 'one-size', they can be adapted to many different people.

The biggest difference when choosing a Brompton C Line electric bike is what gearing to look for. Here, we will give each option and what that means for the gearing you get on the bike.

C Line Explore - When you see 'Explore' after the C Line, that means that this is the 12-speed version. 12-speed Bromptons are a very new development and they now allow riders to tackle even the steepest climbs. The 12 gears are made up of a combination of a 3 speed internal hub and 4 external sprockets for far greater gear range than on previous Bromptons.

C Line Urban - The 'Urban' in the title means that this is the 4-speed version with four external sprockets. This option would be the lighter weight bike in the C Line Electric range.

Roller Frame Options - These Bromptons also come with the option of an extra Roller Frame which allows you to put pannier bags on the rear as well as offering a handy way to wheel your bike when partially folded.

Electric Brompton Folding Bike

Brompton P Line electric range

The P Line Brompton folding e bike is the upgraded frameset over the C Line electric. The main frame is still steel but the upgraded sections are the fork and the rear frame - these are now made of titanium to reduce weight and improve comfort. The front hub motor and battery are identical so you get the same power from the motor and the same battery life.

Like the C Line folding e bikes, the P Line also comes with a chice of handlebar heights and choices of different gearing depending on the model you choose. The P Line folding electric bikes is available as the P Line Urban or the P Line Explore.

P Line Urban - The P Line Urban Urban refers to the gearing and 'Urban' denotes that this is the 4-speed version with four external sprockets. This option would be the lighter weight bike in the P Line Electric range.

C Line Explore - When you see 'Explore' after the P Line, that means that this is the 12-speed version. 12-speed Bromptons are a very new development and they now allow riders to tackle even the steepest climbs. The 12 gears are made up of a combination of a 3 speed internal hub and 4 external sprockets for far greater gear range than on previous Bromptons.

Brompton Folding Bike racing green

Top C line electric bikes

We stock various Brompton C Line folding electric bikes so we are going to have a look at some of the best ones here including a list of the colours available.

Brompton Electric C Line Urban High Handlebar 2024 Folding Bike

The Electric C Line Urban High HB. The original folding bike, loved by hundreds of thousands, with the added oomph and ease of electric. It is a real-life magic carpet ride. There when you need it, tucked away when you do not.

Brompton have been unlocking cities around the world, underground and overground, since 1975, connecting people and places with their famous folding bikes. And for a bike that is given so much, would it be fair to ask for more? Well, why not? Because we could all use a little help, whether it is work or play. Here is the bike you have been waiting for.

Hills? Errands? Weekend adventures? With the Smart Pedal Assist, you can go further, faster and even higher. The compact motor does the hard work for you. And when it is time to go again, rest easy knowing the lightweight battery quickly detaches from its secure mount, so you can take it with you and charge wherever is convenient. With the most compact folding e-bike, you can do it all.

We stock this model in the Yuzu Lime colour (pictured above), Dune Sand and Pop Lilac.

Brompton Electric C Line Urban Mid Handlebar 2024 Folding Bike

This is the same bike as the above but with the Mid handlebar. The Brompton Electric C Line Urban Mid HB would be a choice for shorter riders or for those that want a slightly more agressive position than the High handlebar. The Urban has the super light 4-speed gearing to make this a lightweight, assisted option for those looking for less effort in their commute or leisure rides.

This particular model is stocked in the Yuzu Lime, Dune Sand and the Matte Black.

Brompton Electric C Line Urban Mid Handlebar Pop Lilac 2024 Folding Bike

We have included this to showcase the beautiful new C Line Urban Pop Lilac colourway but here is another of the C Line Urban with the Mid handlebar. Lightweight 4-speed gearing and good power for the hills on your commute or leisure ride.

Top P line electric bikes

For those that want the upgraded frame for lighter weight and a more comfortable ride quality. The P Line electric bikes come with a titanium rear frame and fork to keep the weight down and the comfort up. Here is a look at our top models in stock.

Brompton Electric P Line Urban High Handlebar Folding Bike

The lightest Brompton Electric bike ever. The Electric P Line Urnab High HB is available from just 15.6 kg with the battery pack ready for riding. Designed for the best performance, with its titanium Advance Rear Frame and premium, weight-saving components. You can carry it, lift it, and ride it further.

This P Line urban features the superlight 4-Speed gearing and the High handlebars for taller riders or people who prefer a more upright sitting position. This features the same powerful front hub motor and 300Wh battery life, perfect for commuting or leisure rides.

Here are the top features of the Brompton Electric P Line

Folds in less than 20-seconds – tows and rolls easier than ever.
The compact Superlight 4-speed gearing system gives you everything you need to connect the city and beyond. Shifting is smooth and simple with a single gear lever.
The Brompton Advance Suspension block comes as standard, sharpening control and handling. Add all the other Superlight parts and the premium touchpoints to the mix, and you have a truly next-level electric experience.
The innovative dual-locking seat post means you can steer the folded bike by the saddle.
The larger, lighter Advance Roller Wheels glide from street to building. And there’s the Brompton-engineered Roller Rack (available as an optional extra).
The 341-gram rack is designed around the centre of gravity to minimise the feeling of weight, making your folded bike feel like a super light suitcase.
The compact Brompton Electric 300wh lithium-ion battery packs in the power. And when it comes to charging, it’s as easy as plugging in your phone
Remove the battery pack (2.9 kg including bag) with one quick click. Plug into any regular socket. Fully charge in 4 hours*. Boost for less if you’re short on time
*Reduce to just 2-hours with the Brompton SuperFast Charger

Brompton Electric C Line Explore Mid Handlebar 12-Speed 2024 Folding Bike

The Electric C Line Explore - 12 Speed from Brompton is the ultimate bike, perfect for adventurous individuals. Giving you the freedom to explore new horizons, expert engineering lets you experience complete mindfulness with nothing but the breeze on your skin to occupy your mind.

The original folding bike, loved by hundreds of thousands, with the added oomph and ease of electric. It's a real-life magic carpet ride. There when you need it, tucked away when you don't.

We've been unlocking cities around the world,underground and overground, since 1975 - connecting people and places with our famous folding bikes. And for a bike that's given so much, would it be fair to ask for more? Well, why not? Because we could all use a little help, whether it's work or play. Here's the bike you've been waiting for.

Hills? Errands? Weekend adventures? With Brompton's Smart Pedal Assist, you can go further, faster and even higher. The compact motor does the hard work for you. And when it's time to go again, rest easy knowing the lightweight battery quickly detaches from its secure mount, so you can take it with you and charge wherever is convenient. With the most compact folding e-bike, you can do it all.

Key features of this bike

12 speed - The lowest gear ever. The highest gear ever. And lots of small steps between, making this an even more comfortable ride for touring, exploring, commuting and beyond.
Front and rear mudguards - Mudguards with a rubberised flap provide better protection from the elements.
Brompton saddle - Brompton standard saddle with black rails 147mm width.
250w hub motor - The compact 250-W hub motor does the hard work for you.
Smart pedal assist - Hop on and choose from three levels of Smart Pedal Assist.
Dynamo lighting - 40 Lux Busch & Muller AVY LED front and rear lamp powered by the main battery.

Brompton compared to other folding electric bikes

It is worth a comparison between Brompton and other folding electric bikes to see the pro's and con's of each as there are certain trade-offs Brompton make for the most compact size and ligher weight electric bikes. The other folding bike we have experience of is the Tern Vektron and it has it's own unique set of characteristics.

The Fold

Brompton - Super compact and quick fold made possible by the front removable battery and front hub motor.

Tern Vektron - Not quite as compact a fold and is a little more involved when folding. This is due to the more powerful mid drive motor and larger battery sizes. The Vektron also has larger tyres meaning it does not fold as small.

Motor

Brompton - Front hub driven to allow a compact fold. This motor is not as powerful as a mid drive motor.

Tern Vektron - More powerful but more chunky resulting in a less compact fold.

Battery sizes

Brompton - 300Wh battery for approximately 30 miles of use (dependent on a number of factors)

Tern Vektron - 400Wh battery sizes for approximately 40 miles of use (dependent on a number of factors)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lightest Brompton e-bike?

This would be the Brompton P Line Urban Mid handlebar due to the lightweight titanium rear triangle and lightweight finishing kit. The Urban has the 4-speed lightweight gearing.

If you want the 12-Speed C Line Explore verison then there is a small weight penalty due to the 4-speed external gears with the extra 3-speed internal hub.

Can I still carry luggage with the battery on a Brompton e-bike?

Yes, if you were to opt for the 'Roller frame' version that includes space for pannier bags on the rear. There is very limited space in the battery bag and it would only be able to take very small items in the small, front zipped pocket. There is also a wide range of Brompton bags and luggage available for electric and non-electric.

How far can a Brompton e-bike go on one charge?

This would always depend on a number of factors such as how much elevation was covered, what assist mode used and rider weight. We normally quote about 10 miles per 100Wh of battery life so the Brompton electric would go approximately 30 miles on a full charge.

Can I easily remove a Brompton bike’s battery to charge it?

Absolutely. A Brompton battery is removed with the click of a button while lifting the battery off of the front carrier block.

Do Brompton e-bikes have different power modes?

Brompton electric bikes have three different assist modes that are comtrolled from a button on top of the battery.

What customisation options do Brompton e-bikes offer?

The customisation options for Brompton electric are a choice of the height of the handlebars and whether or not you want to add the optional roller frame for rear rack panniers.

As for aftermarket Brompton luggage options, there are a number of front bags that can carry the battery and also offer space to carry cargo on the front alongside the battery. These would be the Brompton electric basket bag that offers 23 litre capacity or the City Bag for Brompton electric that offers 20 Litres of storage and includes numerous pockets and a laptop sleeve.

Is it easy to fold and carry a Brompton e-bike?

It is incredibly simple to fold and carry a Brompton folding e bike and they are some of the best folding electric bikes for this purpose. You simply click and remove the front battery and then fold the Brompton electric bike as you would any other Brompton. This can be done in approximately 20 seconds.

What is the best folding electric bike?

This really depends on what is best suited for the type of riding you will be doing. If you are looking for the most compact and easiest fold then the Brompton would be a great choice. If you are planning on cycling further and up steeper hills then maybe a bike with a more powerful motor and a bigger battery would be the best folding e bike.

Author

Ross Howieson

Content Creator

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Best Electric folding bikes - Brompton

Brompton overview

Key Features

The Fold

Security

Options

Brompton Battery and Motor

Motor

Battery

Brompton C Line electric range

Brompton P Line electric range

Top C line electric bikes

Brompton Electric C Line Urban High Handlebar 2024 Folding Bike

Brompton Electric C Line Urban Mid Handlebar 2024 Folding Bike

Brompton Electric C Line Urban Mid Handlebar Pop Lilac 2024 Folding Bike

Top P line electric bikes

Brompton Electric P Line Urban High Handlebar Folding Bike

Brompton Electric C Line Explore Mid Handlebar 12-Speed 2024 Folding Bike

Brompton compared to other folding electric bikes

The Fold

Motor

Battery sizes

Frequently Asked Questions