A Close Look at the Fastest Folding Electric Bike: A Review

By Sam Hartman

Group 278

Electric folding bikes are cropping up everywhere in urban environments, and for good reason – they’re environmentally friendly, compact, and a quick way to get around.

But if you need to get somewhere now, what is the fastest folding ebike out there?

Get ready for the lowdown on the speediest folding ebike in our full Go Ride Bikes review, plus a peek at some cool runner-ups. We’ve even sprinkled in some expert tips to help you navigate the world of folding electric bikes and make a savvy choice. Dive in and let’s explore together! And don’t forget to check out our ebike range calculator!

The Wallke H6 MAX Folding Electric Bike

Folding electric bikes are typically compact and light, prioritizing a smaller size and portability over performance and speed.

That was until the Wallke H6 MAX came along.

This electric folding bike raised the bar for foldable ebikes, weighing 90 lbs and reaching top speeds of 33 mph. No matter your expectations, you have to admit that’s pretty fast – in fact, it is the fastest ebike on the market today.

The H6 MAX may be large, but it packs an attitude that matches its size. The 20-inch wheels and 4-inch fat tires don’t shy away from uneven terrain or bumpy roads.

It is a Class 2 bike with a throttle to give you that much-needed boost as you cycle uphill or when you want to cruise without breaking a sweat.

The original selling price for this fast folding ebike was $2,499 but at the time of writing it was on offer for $1,899, making it a worthwhile investment.

The Wallke H6 MAX is compatible with the Find My app. If you lose track of your bike, simply log into the app to locate it. You can also record your rides and navigate your routes using this app.

Key Specifications Related To Speed

Let’s investigate what exactly makes the H6 MAX the fastest folding ebike out there.

Motor and Performance

The H6 MAX has a 1,000 W rear hub motor with a peak of 1,600 W. Now, that’s a real power output.

This isn’t a moped and you still have to pedal, but the powerful motor will give you a bit of “oomph” when you need it.

Coupled with an 8-speed Shimano derailleur system and thumb shifter, the gear shifts are smooth. The easy downshift feature will help you to shift back to a lower gear when coming to a stop.

Whether you only want to use the motor or have it support you as you pedal, the H6 MAX has you covered. The motor is quiet and accelerates quickly; exactly what you would expect from a speedy electric bike.

Battery and Range

The H6 MAX promises a range of 120 miles only using the motor, and 170 miles with pedal assist. There are 5 levels of assist, including a Sport Mode and ECO Mode.

This range is because of the removable 48 V 40 Ah (1,920 Wh) lithium-ion batteries that drive the motor.

This incredible range on a single charge depends on the level of assist you choose, with ECO Mode saving battery life and extending your range to the max.

The ebike comes with a 5 A fast charger which can fully recharge the battery in 6 to 7 hours.

Frame and Build

The Wallke H6 MAX is not as compact as other foldable electric bikes. Its folded size measures 40″ L x 21″ W x 30″ H, weighing a whopping 90 lbs.

The ebike has a thickened 6061 aluminum alloy frame – a strong but lightweight material. It comes complete with fenders and a rear rack for a passenger. There is also the option of attaching a cart for your grocery runs or if your boss sends you home with a lot of paperwork.

Despite its larger size, the H6 MAX has the ability to fold up in seconds, adding to its convenience.

Suspension System

The H6 MAX has a flexible hydraulic front fork that takes the worst sting out of bumps, even when taking the bike off-road. You can adjust the stiffness, depending on how much you weigh and your riding style. We loved this customizable feature as it always ensured a comfortable ride.

It also comes with double rear shocks which are designed for urban and rural environments, ensuring a stable ride no matter where you go.

Display and Controls

The H6 MAX has a Smart OLED display that is sharp, bright, and colorful. On sunny days, you will clearly be able to view the screen. During the night, the screen automatically dims.

The display is programmable, allowing you to customize your power, ride, and the top limits of the bike’s performance.

The display comes with a USB charging port, so your phone will never be left without power.

The bike is compatible with Apple’s Find My app, which includes theft alerts and GPS tracking.

Design and Aesthetics

When it comes to the basic structure of the H6 MAX, it is similar to many other rear hub-drive folding electric bikes. But the similarities stop there.

The bike has 20-inch wheels and 4-inch fat tires which makes it seem a bit stocky.

The handlebars and seat are adjustable for different heights, although Wallke recommends a rider height of 5’4″ to 6’4″.

This ebike is probably not about to win beauty pageants with its aesthetics, but behind the chunky look is a well-designed ebike, with a strong frame, and smooth welded connections.

Overall Performance

We believe the H6 MAX is one of the best folding electric bikes on the market. This is thanks to its longer range, faster speed, and adjustable suspension.

The above features combined result in an incredibly powerful, yet smooth ride, as well as a versatile ebike. Whether you want to dodge traffic in the city or go off-roading on the mountain trails, the H6 MAX is the perfect choice.

Riding Experience

Riding the Wallke H6 MAX is an absolute pleasure. It is without a doubt the best folding electric bike if you want to go fast while being comfortable.

The full suspension and large tires absorb a lot of impact, and the seat is comfortable enough for long rides.

The pedal assist feature is ideal if you have a long commute or a gnarly hill ahead of you. By the time you finish your ride, you won’t feel drained and will be ready to tackle the day.

Whether you are facing tough terrain or a very quick ride to the shops, the H6 MAX is one of the best folding electric bikes there is.

Drawbacks

We’ve hyped up the H6 MAX, but are there any drawbacks and is it worth the price tag?

The biggest drawback to this fast ebike is the size. Due to its weight and folded size, it lacks portability compared to some of the other bikes discussed below.

That said, the ride more than makes up for it, as you’ll be zipping around without a problem.

For the price of $2,499, you get a lot of bike. It has four-piston hydraulic brakes, a 7-speed rear shift system, full suspension, a clear OLED display, a rear rack, and 5 levels of pedal assist.

It might be excessive for your standard office worker, but if you want one of the best folding electric bikes, with fast speeds and plenty of power, the Wallke H6 MAX is definitely worth it.

Our Runner Ups (Ranked according to speed)

1. Aventon Sinch Step-Thru

This step-through foldable electric bike is quick, lagging behind the H6 MAX by only a few miles per hour.

Aventon’s Sinch Step-Thru (ST) has a 500 W motor that gives you enough power to get up steep hills, even without pedaling. The wide 4-inch tires mean you can also take this ebike off-road. Because of its weight of 68 lbs, it’s not the most portable foldable e bike on our list.

The Sinch ST is perfect for those looking for a folding electric bike that they can store in their apartment – not for those looking to carry the bike with them wherever they go.

  • Top Speed: 28 mph
  • Power: 500 W
  • Range: 40 miles
  • Weight: 68 lb
  • Folded Size: 46" x 28" x 30"
  • Price: $1,799
Lectric XP 3 1

2. Lectric XP 3.0 Foldable E-Bike

The Lectric XP 3.0 doesn’t mess about when it comes to speed, either. The integrated battery powers a 500 W rear hub motor (1,000 W peak) that provides up to 55 Nm of torque.

The real surprise element with this bike is its price. Lectric claims that the XP 3.0 is the “first ebike under $1,000 with hydraulic disc brakes”. Now, that really is affordable.

The throttle allows you to ride around without pedaling, which is very convenient for longer commutes

  • Top Speed: 28 mph
  • Power: 500 W
  • Range: 45 miles
  • Weight: 64 lb
  • Folded Size: 37" x 18" x 28"
  • Price: $999

3. MOD City+ 24

The MOD City+ 24 is the perfect folding electric bike for city dwellers, as the name suggests. You’ll find yourself beating traffic, saving on gas, reducing your carbon footprint, and enjoying freedom like never before. What’s not to like?

This ebike is very comfortable, with a front suspension fork and suspension seat with a gel saddle. You can ride for miles with this bike without cramping or struggling with sore legs.

  • Top Speed: 24 mph
  • Power: 500 W (750 W peak)
  • Range: 45 miles
  • Weight: 63 lb
  • Folded Size: 42" x 15" x 26.5"
  • Price: $2,190
Mask group (23)

4. Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5

The RadExpand 5 is described by Rad Power Bikes as a “rugged space-saver”. This bike is not only designed for fun but also to fold up, making it very portable. Out of our list, only the Blix Vika+ Flex, discussed below, is lighter. You can easily pop the RadExpand 5 in your car’s trunk or stash it at the office.

The ebike has four levels of pedal assistance and a seven-speed drivetrain. This combines into a fun-to-ride and practical ebike.

  • Top Speed: 20 mph
  • Power: 750 W
  • Range: 45+ miles
  • Weight: 62.5 lb
  • Folded Size: 29" x 25" x 41"
  • Price: $1,649

5. Blix Vika+ Flex

The Blix Vika+ Flex is not the fastest ebike on our list, but it is the most portable. At 20 mph, it still has a decent speed, and the folding mechanism means that not only does it ride fast, it’s quick to pack and store away.

Blix constructed the Vika+ Flex with attention to detail, combining high-performance components that are suitable for almost any riding conditions. It is also a visual feast for the eyes, with a lovely step-through frame and a variety of color choices.

  • Top Speed: 20 mph
  • Power: 500 W
  • Range: 45 miles
  • Weight: 49.8 lb
  • Folded Size: 36" x 21" x 28.5"
  • Price: $1,799

Crucial Considerations When Choosing A Folding Electric Bike

1. Purpose and Intended Use

The very first thing to consider is how you want to use the bike. Is it for occasional trips to the store, some low-impact exercise around the local park, your sole method of transport, or off-road riding?

These factors will come into play when you’re looking at the battery range and motor power. For short commutes or casual riding, a bike with lower power and a shorter range will be the best option (and more affordable).

But if you plan on longer rides or are looking for off-road capabilities, you’ll want something with a higher power output and different pedal assist levels.

2. Folding Mechanism and Portability

The second most important factor to consider for a folding ebike is exactly how foldable it is.

For those of us planning to put our ebikes in the car’s trunk or take it along on buses or trains, you don’t want to lug a heavy and bulky folded ebike with you. If you plan on using it from home or have storage space at the office, then the folded size matters less.

Some folding mechanisms are simply easier and quicker than others because of the ebike’s design and size.

The best way to determine the portability of the bike would be to look at it in person. That way you can check how quickly it folds and how compact it really is.

3. Weight and Build Quality

The weight of the ebike goes hand in hand with its portability. Electric bikes with stronger frames tend to be more stable and durable, but also heavier. The weight of your ebike may be the dealbreaker here. If you can’t lift it into the trunk or lug it up a flight of stairs, it might not be the right ebike for you.

4. Battery Performance

The battery is typically the most expensive part of any folding bike and also contributes a lot to its weight.

Bigger, stronger batteries will be able to provide more power and a longer range but will also take longer to recharge.

To decide on the right battery performance for you, calculate the distance of your typical commute and decide on a range based on your calculations.

5. Motor Type and Power

How much power do you want? Do you want to cruise along with no effort, or get a mild cardio workout while pedaling? Consider this before you look at the power output of the motor.

There are three different motor locations on folding ebikes

  • Front hub: These motors are on the front wheel and are the cheapest options. They are found on throttle-assisted bikes.
  • Mid-hub: A mid-hub motor is common with pedal-assisted ebikes and the motor is located near the pedals. Being in the middle helps with stability, rideability, and weight distribution.
  • Rear hub: These bikes drive from the back wheel. It has good performance but is more expensive than front hub motors.

6. Riding Comfort and Ergonomics

A comfy ride is key, no matter the folding bike you choose. Bike paths can be bumpy, commutes can drag on, or you might have unexpected delays on your journey.

For that reason, you want a bike with not only a comfortable seat but also adjustable suspension that will absorb the impact of uneven terrain or when going up a curb.

FAQs

What is the top speed of the fastest folding ebike?

The Wallke H6 MAX can reach a top speed of 33 mph, outcompeting its closest competitors, who can only achieve 28 mph at the time of writing.

How does the speed of a folding electric bike compare to traditional electric bikes?

Traditional ebikes can reach much higher top speeds than folding bikes. The current top speed for an ebike is the limited edition Revolution XX, which clocks in at 74 mph.

What factors contribute to the speed of a folding electric bike?

In the US, electric bikes are limited to either 20 mph or 28 mph, depending on the class. While the fastest electric bike may be capable of more speed, you’ll have to take it off-road to stay legal.

Are there safety concerns associated with the fastest electric bikes?

There will always be safety concerns with an electric folding bike. When going at high speeds, you can lose stability or strike unaware pedestrians. It is best to always wear safety gear when riding your folding bike.

Do faster speeds impact the battery life?

Yes, the faster you go, and the higher your level of pedal assist, the sooner your battery will drain.

Final Thoughts

The Wallke H6 MAX is the fastest folding ebike on the market, clocking in at 33 mph. Although it is heavier and bulkier than many of its competitors, it is a high-end ebike that will get you where you need to go

There are other, slightly slower, options available, too. Which one you choose will ultimately come down to your preferences.

One thing to bear in mind: do your research before buying your next folding bike, taking your intended use and budget into consideration. Remember, there are plenty of fast electric bikes out there that don’t fold, so consider these too if you are looking for a faster ebike.