We’ve been developing a lightweight carbon folding e-bike — would love some honest feedback

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tinsiltits@reddit

Get this AI crap out of here. If you can’t type a response don’t make the post

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In order to answer your question. You need a lot of people testing it. Folding bikes just behave differently. For taller people that might be an issue. How does it corner, on dry and wet roads how does it behave when one needs to do an emergency stop (and in combination with cornering).

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That’s a really good point — folding bikes do behave quite differently, especially with geometry and rider height.

We’ve been doing testing on braking and handling (both dry and wet), and so far the braking performance has been solid using hydraulic disc brakes, but we’re still refining overall stability, especially in more demanding situations like emergency stops and cornering.

Definitely agree this is something that needs real-world testing beyond just specs.

From your experience, what tends to matter more — braking feel, or overall stability during sudden maneuvers?

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Hungry_Freaks_Daddy@reddit

It's bizarre to me that any company would just straight up use AI to respond to real people esp on reddit where its so easy to spot. Nobody likes that shit, you're actively damaging whatever brand name you're building by doing this

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Maybe it's AI, maybe it's not.

I've been falsely accused multiple times of posting AI on this forum by people convinced just like you.

In the business world there's a manner of speaking and way to methodically address points that AI tries to replicate.

People on this forum falsely assume any structured response with vocabulary beyond the 5th grade must be AI. Some of us "dont like that [presumptuous] shit" either.

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tinsiltits@reddit

It definitely AI. You need to be able to recognize this faster. Look at all of the responses and tell me they’re human

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TheFunkyMunky427@reddit

I doubt a human will repeatedly type the em dash. Its chatgpt

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

You could be right -- i dont know.

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wrybreadsf@reddit

Case in point: humans don't even know how to make that mdash that the AI bots. Note how yours is different.

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nivaOne@reddit

What matters most. The fact that the height of the seat can match my inner leg length. There is nothing more ennoying then to ride any bike sitting too low. And some folding bikes limit the height of the seat tube for stability reasons which in that case is a no go for me.

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Down-InA-hole@reddit

All of your responses are very obviously AI and you're not responding to anyone calling that out which is weird, people want to interact with a human, not chatgpt. This whole thing seems weird and not real with how there isn't a single comment from you that wasn't created by AI

If this is even real I'll gladly test ride one of your bikes, biking is my main way of getting around. Kind of hard to judge a design purely based on photographs

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mayorlittlefinger@reddit

Using ChatGPT to respond to every question is embarrassing and makes you look like an unserious idiot. Try actually having a conversation here and use your own words

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Assuming every response that doesn't sound like an uneducated juvenile must be ChatGPT should be embarrassing.

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ElderSkeletonDave@reddit

Admission that the commenter might be onto something — restating what they just said in a simpler way.

Restating the original comment in a slightly longer way.

Reveal that the team has been thinking about how to solve this — and a short description of how they might do it.

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Worried_Document8668@reddit

complete catastrophe from an ergo, service and frame-integrity.

non-adjustable steerer/handlebar unit. You can't adjust the height but you also can't change the bar, so zero options to fit it to the user.
completely internal routing like this, through folding joints, means every single repair, on any of the lines becomes a horrendous timesink and probably more expensive than the bike is worth, when done at a workshop
carbon frames are best when unbroken und with as few screwholes as possible. Those flimsy chainstays with all the mounting points for the rack have a really high likelyhood of developing cracks when actually used under any load. Same goes of steerer and central.folsing joint

this is a prime example that you shouldn't do carbon just because you can. And also that sleek looks are pretty worthless on a bike that can't be fitted to the user and barely serviced

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Thanks for your detailed feedback! You’re absolutely right that ergonomics, serviceability, and frame integrity are critical considerations for folding e-bikes.

I’d like to point out that there are already several carbon fiber folding e-bikes on the market that have been successful and widely used. We’ve designed this model carefully to balance ergonomics and maintainability — for example, the handlebar height and folding geometry were chosen to be comfortable for most riders while still allowing easy maintenance.

We appreciate your perspective and will continue to refine the design to ensure both safety and usability.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Thanks for your detailed feedback! You’re absolutely right that ergonomics, serviceability, and frame integrity are critical considerations for folding e-bikes.

I’d like to point out that there are already several carbon fiber folding e-bikes on the market that have been successful and widely used. We’ve designed this model carefully to balance ergonomics and maintainability — for example, the handlebar height and folding geometry were chosen to be comfortable for most riders while still allowing easy maintenance.

We appreciate your perspective and will continue to refine the design to ensure both safety and usability.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Appreciate the detailed feedback — this is exactly the kind of input we’re looking for.

You’re absolutely right that ergonomics and serviceability are critical, especially on folding designs where everything gets more complex.

For the handlebar/stem setup, we’ve been exploring ways to improve adjustability without compromising folding rigidity — still something we’re refining.

On the internal routing, we’re trying to strike a balance between clean design and service access, but I agree it can become a pain point if not done properly.

And for the frame structure, especially around the folding joints, we’re putting a lot of focus on stress distribution and long-term durability — definitely one of the biggest challenges with carbon in this kind of design.

Curious from your perspective — what would you consider a good compromise between portability, serviceability, and structural strength?

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BeaverSorceress95@reddit

For brands like this the promise of LLMs and a more automated public facing internet is simple. They want bot likes and bot comments on real forums so they can sap off the accrued trust people have imbued into the forums they use. In rare cases one can’t quite call this incredibly deceptive marketing approach a “scam” because occasionally the companies have manufactured a product and not just dropshipping or doing a kickstarter. This seems not to be one of those rare cases.

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burgeoisartbros@reddit

For the internal routing, does each line have a constrained path or tube so that the cable can be routed without disassembly or is it free running?

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Good question — it’s something we’ve been paying a lot of attention to.

Right now we’re leaning towards guided routing (with defined paths/tubes) rather than fully free-running cables, mainly to make maintenance and replacement more manageable.

At the same time, we’re trying to keep access points reasonable so it doesn’t require a full teardown just to service a line.

Still refining the balance between clean integration and real-world serviceability.

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mayorlittlefinger@reddit

Do you know how to write like a human?

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Inevitable_Dark3225@reddit

"Good question, I am a human."

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Eclipsan@reddit

You got it wrong: "Good question — I am a human."

Man these people are so lazy they didn't even tell chat gpt "Do NOT use —, rephrase instead".

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Zuko-Red-Wolf@reddit

You can’t just have chat gpt reply to criticism. It makes your company seem unprofessional.

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Party_Care2901@reddit

for a bifold and something you're already manufacturing it might be worth it to have an optional rack on the back that allows you to wheel it folded. I couldn't get a bifold because it's too fiddly to manipulate folded with my disability and i'd guess that the a large portion of e-bike users, use e-bikes because of some physical limitation so would appreciate it as an option especially as it'd be a heavier e-bike, people might also be buying it because it's lighter to transport so expanding on that might be a benefit? I think currently available wheeling options for e-bikes are a seat post wheel like dahon markets as 'landing gear' or 'rapid transit rack' by tern.

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Neither-Jaguar-7368@reddit

Op is an ai bot

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GrandFalconer159@reddit

Just don't.

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cbelliott@reddit

May I ask a question of wondered for a long time related to this space exactly. Why are no folding electric bike manufacturers using a slightly larger tire at 22 in? The change in that would make the bike so much more stable and much more comfortable to go farther and longer for adult riders.

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

20" wheels and tires are presumably cheaper being produced in huge volumes.

But I'm with you in increasing folding wheel size to 22" or 24". Heybike Horizon uses 24" wheels.

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SeattleElectricBike@reddit

Not 22. Stop it.

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

24 then so it's a meaningful jump. People should have an alternative to tiny wheels. And fun fact, 24" wheels don't increase footprint as much as you might think because rest of frame sticks out more vertically.

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SeattleElectricBike@reddit

bigger wheels affect the fold and that's why we buy folding bikes, though.

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Many buy folding bikes because they are permitted on public transit...even if they have 24" wheels.

If a space is too small for a fixed frame but will fit either a 20" or 24" folder, the 24" folder offers a more stable ride.

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Odd_Eggplant8019@reddit

The honest feedback is that most ebike projects fail financially, it's a very tough market and there's tons of options. Are you prepared to join the massive graveyard of abandoned e-bike projects? Certainly there's a niche of city commuters who would be wiling to shell out the money for a lightweight carbon fiber folding bike, but will this niche be big enough to sustain? Ebike consumers have tons of choice at all price points.

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SocialMThrow@reddit

How much weight saving are we really taking about here compared to an equivalent steel bike?

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Maybe 3 to 4 pounds lighter than aluminum lol, so after you add the battery and motor it’s negligible just more expensive and less sturdy

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SocialMThrow@reddit

Exactly what I was thinking, a fruitless endeavour indeed.

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Think_Green2240@reddit

As an owner of the Urtopia Carbon Fold Step Thru (ST), your bike’s geometry as well as many of its features/feature placements are seemingly nearly the same. Have you and their founder swapped IP over a drink? When did your company went to market? What did you say inspired you to do a folding carbon step-through commuter e-bike? Are you perhaps manufacturing your product at the same factory? I’m a little bit perplexed because many of the Urtopia’s features and functionalities are novel, unique, and probably patented. You know what they say about the most sincere form of flattery…

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niffcreature@reddit

Compared to the Urtopia, this bike appears to have a steeper seat tube angle, which will make it less comfortable and adjustable for taller people, and non adjustable handlebars.

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Right, it’s worse than what’s already available in the same passive (feminine, at the sake of offending some) style

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niffcreature@reddit

Not really sure what you're trying to say about the style lol

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Appreciate both perspectives here — this is exactly the kind of discussion we were hoping for.

Geometry is definitely something we’re still refining, especially when it comes to balancing comfort for different rider heights with the constraints of a compact folding design.

There are some trade-offs involved between adjustability, rigidity, and folding structure, so we’re trying to find the right balance rather than optimizing just one aspect.

Really helpful to hear both viewpoints — curious what people would prioritize more: adjustability for fit, or overall structural stiffness?

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ample-d@reddit

I don't see it. This has a rear triangle and an integrated stem and handlebars. Way different design.

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Think_Green2240@reddit

Aside from the fact that Urtopia pioneered the idea of a lightweight, folding, step-thru, commuter carbon e-bike and now conveniently there is one of the same utility with a similar size and stature, the battery being the seat-post with power input plug under the seat is the same, the power connection module underneath the frame is the same (the curled wire that needs to be plugged into the battery through the open seat post well), the folding design is the same, the frame clasp is likely the same although not pictured, magnetic plates are likely the same design, rear under-seat reflector is the same with same hardware. It’s not everything but it adds to the hypothesis that this is a franken-bike. Maybe more ideas swiped from others I’d guess (but don’t know, of course). So yes, I see what you mean about the triangle - it’s not completely the same but there are glaring similarities. Maybe it’s also not a patented design, ah well. Fortunately the out-front computer is different. I don’t know how I feel about it being integrated into the handlebars. I also still don’t get how it’s priced, before fees, above the Carbon Fold ST. There seems to be more weight with less customizability and less power/range.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

I understand why it might look similar at first glance — there are only so many ways to design a compact folding commuter bike.

That said, there are quite a few structural and functional differences in our approach:

- The battery uses a triangular seatpost design rather than a straight post, which changes both the internal layout and weight distribution

- The frame tube shaping and reinforcement strategy are different, especially around the folding joint and stress paths

- We also integrated a carrying handle into the frame, which was something we found very important for real-world portability

Some solutions may look similar across the industry because they solve similar problems, but the engineering details underneath can be quite different.

That said, feedback like yours is valuable — we’re still refining the design and trying to improve where it really matters.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Thanks for the detailed comment.

I can understand the comparison, but from our perspective the bikes are not the same in appearance or in some of the functional details. For example, ours includes an integrated carry handle, which is a pretty important part of the design and intended everyday use.

Since folding carbon e-bikes are still a niche category, there may be some overlap in the general idea, but I think there are also clear differences if you look carefully at the structure and features.

Appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

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indolering@reddit

This whole thing feels like an AI social experiment.

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KenMcBreezy@reddit

Not one picture of it folded? Ok. Also, stop using ai.

Clear model set data

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PEWPEWDED@reddit

Honestly, I am not riding a V frame bicycle. They look like they are made for Little Red Riding Hood. I understand the need for them but I am not buying one.

I appreciate the companies that make a version of both - Lectric XP4 is an example. I own an XP4 and a Lite JW because of it.

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

They really are so homely, they only make sense if they are cheap once you start getting $3000 price range you can get something that actually looks nice and performs well. I can’t imagine spending three grand on a bike that looks like I borrowed it from my girlfriend and she paid 700 for it.

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PEWPEWDED@reddit

Ha!

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TBL34@reddit

The OP’s replies seem…….off to me. AI vibe.

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Right, thank you so much for tearing apart our design I really understand and value your viewpoint

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TBL34@reddit

Case in point…

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Scharfschutzen@reddit

Holy fuck, why are the seats so damn high?

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Circus vibes

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Significant-Pen-6049@reddit

Bad timing with everyone going bankrupt

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Right, what a crazy time to release a generic looking E bike unless you are in China and you have the cheapest new model. Lightweight alone isn’t shit when you have a battery and motor. What’s the difference between lifting 35 pounds versus 38 pounds etc. This sounds like a marketing failure waiting to happen.

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forxs@reddit

I wouldn't buy a carbon fibre folding bike, it's just far too fragile. Compared to an alloy frame there just can't be that much weight difference in a frame that size.

I'm sure there is a market for it, but it isn't me.

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Exactly at least aluminum will just bend or dent carbon will shatter

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Queasy_Dimension_507@reddit

Personally, I think the design is very generic looking visually. With the saturated E bike market if you don’t stand out visually, unless you are beating everybody by price, I think banking on the carbon aspect is gonna be a rough path. Carbon folders is one of the more saturated markets of the cheap Chinese manufacturers right now. I would hate to be aboard that company tbh.

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chrispark70@reddit

I absolutely hate non-round tubes.

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JuJuMcJu@reddit

I know it's tiny but honestly, blinkers. I had them on an e bike and loved the heck out of them. Love the look of the folder without the cable mess. I'd love to see it in person cause that bike looks so clean! Don't tempt me! I have too little money as it is right now :)

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Alkanna@reddit

Prayers for the mechanics having to work on this if this ever goes to market.

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SeattleElectricBike@reddit

Thank you!

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00gauge@reddit

That looks very similar to Urtopia Fold 1.

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HoneyBadgerBlunt@reddit

Whats the price?

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louis_scar@reddit

Antitheft features is important; make it difficult for people to quickly steal things like batteries and the bike itself.

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Why not a belt drive? At over $3000 USD, this is clearly targeted at the premium market. I would guess the primary use case is business commuters using multimodal transportation.

Terrain is likely to be flat so a single speed should work just fine. The simplicity, reduced maintenance, and cleanliness of a belt are net positives. No one wants chain grease on their hands or business attire on the way to work.

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elghoto@reddit

How does it look folded?

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knight4honor@reddit

Needs bigger wheels…

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yangbanger@reddit

how much does the final product weigh? folding bikes are convenient because they are lightweight and easy to transport -- when you add a motor and battery to a folding bike, the additional dimensions and weight of the electronic components essentially defeats the purpose and simplicity of the folding bike.

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vw195@reddit

I think it is great! Don’t change a thing.

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indolering@reddit

I really don't understand why "lightweight" or specific materials are chosen as design constraints. I'm a human factors engineer and I've been toying with the idea of an Urbanist bike design brief centered around the needs of new or casual urban biker. It emphasizes anticipating and solving problems based on the needs of the user.

So instead of a nebulous goal of being "lightweight" one tries to define what is light enough. I land on ~35lbs – the lifting weight of what most businesses require of female employees.

Now that you aren't trying to be as lightweight as possible, you are free to use a mix of materials for the frame. I think Gocycle got this right after initially going all in on magnesium.

DM me if you would like to talk more about the rest of the Urbanist design brief.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Really appreciate this perspective — especially coming from a human factors angle.

I agree that “lightweight” on its own can be too vague. We’ve been trying to think more in terms of real-world usability — like what weight actually makes a difference for everyday handling, carrying, and storage, rather than just chasing a number.

The 35 lbs reference is interesting — that kind of benchmark is definitely helpful when trying to define what “light enough” really means in practice.

Also agree that material choice should follow function rather than the other way around. With folding bikes, we’ve found there are a lot of trade-offs between weight, stiffness, durability, and long-term serviceability.

Would be genuinely interested to hear more about your Urbanist design brief — sounds like a really thoughtful approach.

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indolering@reddit

Would be genuinely interested to hear more about your Urbanist design brief — sounds like a really thoughtful approach.

Feel free to DM me.

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start3ch@reddit

Is there a motor + battery on this yet?

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robotcoke@reddit

Looks good in the pics. Questions that would need to be answered before I could tell you how I feel about it.

1: How much does it weigh?
2: How much weight can it carry?
3: How fast can it go?
4: What is the range?
5: What are the dimensions, folded and unfolded?
6: What's the price?

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Great questions — these are exactly the kind of things we're still refining as we move closer to launch.

We’ve been testing weight and load capacity quite a bit, and so far it's been performing well around the \~120kg rider range.

Speed and range will depend a bit on configuration (especially for different regions), but we’re aiming for something practical for daily urban commuting rather than extreme performance.

Dimensions (especially folded size) are something we’re optimizing a lot right now, since portability is a big part of the design.

We’re putting together a more complete overview with specs here if you’re curious:

https://www.qikbike.com/pages/early-access

Would love to hear what matters most to you out of those — weight, range, or folded size?

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robotcoke@reddit

Is this going to be available in the US?

Hard to say which is most important without knowing the actual numbers. They're all important. The worse one gets the more important it becomes. Like if the bike goes super fast, and has really long range, and carries a ton of weight, folds up really small, but weighs 500 pounds, suddenly that weight is the most important thing.

If it only weighs 10 pounds but only has 1 mile of range, suddenly that range its the most important thing.

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FallenNomad25@reddit

Let me get one ill do a review 🤣

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makethingshappen371@reddit

How does assist mode work? I have a similar to your design u4 and assist mode isnt intuitive. Also range. If range is good it will win customers. How easy is it to remove battery to charge? Where is the key placed? Many units have key under frame which is inconvenient.

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Pixelplanet5@reddit

personally i would not buy a folding bike with a chain and regular gears.

belt drive and an internal gear hub are a must so there are no oils parts and nothing that needs maintenance.

And finally the most important part is missing, the price.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That makes a lot of sense — low maintenance is definitely a big priority for many riders.

We’re actually working on a belt drive + internal gear hub option for exactly that reason, especially for urban commuting where simplicity really matters.

On the chain setup, it’s mainly for cost and flexibility at this stage, but we’re still evaluating different configurations.

As for pricing, we’re still finalizing it, but trying to keep it competitive for what it offers.

Out of curiosity, would a belt + IGH version be a dealbreaker for you?

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elevenblade@reddit

I’m not the person you asked but yes, belt + IHG (or the lack thereof) would be a dealbreaker for me. A chain and cassette are going to get grease on everything when you carry it around.

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BoringBob84@reddit

A chain and cassette are going to get grease on everything when you carry it around.

That doesn't happen with molten wax. I would prefer a cheaper, lighter model with a chain and cassette.

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Pixelplanet5@reddit

yes, im never buying a bike without belt drive and IGH ever again, especially not for my regular commute.

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busart@reddit

That is so true! Plus: why use carbon when you add a battery and an engine? Looks nice - but that’s all. Keep the overall design of the frame and change everything else please.

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BoringBob84@reddit

why use carbon when you add a battery and an engine?

You cannot always roll it. Sometimes you have to carry it (e.g., when getting on the bus or going up stairs).

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BoringBob84@reddit

belt drive and an internal gear hub are a must

They also drive up cost and weight. And an IGH prevents a hub-drive motor - driving up costs even more. A chain with molten wax for lubrication is clean and it requires minimal maintenance.

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NewsreelWatcher@reddit

I’ve always liked the little roller wheels on some brands that let you push the folded package as you walk. This makes getting through train stations much easier. Carbon fibre is a really good idea as lifting the bike up stairs can be difficult if you are older or not that athletic.

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17mph18a@reddit

I commute on an Urtopia Carbon Fold 1 and the biggest design flaws include the weak magnets that do not keep the wheels together to roll when folded. Please copy the cup and ball joint design used on the Pedego Latch that works to keep the wheels from unfolding. Also the folding frame latch on the Urtopia can pop open when riding over bumps, don’t use that latch design either.

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conanlikes@reddit

Make sure it passes ISO 4210-10

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Admirable_Writer4381@reddit

Drop the BB height as much as you can. A common problem I see with folding ebikes is high BB height requiring a very high seat hight for pedalling efficiency thereby sacrificing ability to touch the ground with the toes comfortably

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That’s a really good point — BB height is something that has a big impact on real-world usability, especially on folding bikes.

We’ve definitely noticed the same trade-off between pedaling efficiency and being able to comfortably put a foot down, particularly for shorter riders or stop-and-go urban riding.

It’s something we’re still tuning, trying to find a balance that feels stable and efficient without making everyday use awkward.

Curious from your experience — where do you feel that balance works best? Closer to a standard bike feel, or prioritizing easier footing at stops?

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Admirable_Writer4381@reddit

Right now the bb heights of most folding ebikes is closer to a downhill bike, it needs to be more in the range of gravel/road bikes. Folding bikes are commuter bikes, people start and stop at traffic lights, bb height needs to drop so people can efficiently pedal while still being able to put the foot down at stops.

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CaterpillarKey6288@reddit

May be ok in Europe but would not sell well in the US. For the us it needs a larger motor and larger battery.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That’s a fair point — preferences do seem quite different between regions.

In Europe there’s more focus on lighter weight and staying within regulations, while in the US it feels like people often prioritize power and range more.

We’ve been thinking about how to approach that — possibly with different configurations depending on the market.

Out of curiosity, what would you consider a “must-have” spec for the US? More motor power, bigger battery, or both?

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CaterpillarKey6288@reddit

The light weight is great for people living in up stairs apartments, even if you added 3 kg for a larger motor and battery it would still be lighter than any foldable bike available. The one I have now is great to ride but if I lived upstairs it would not be possible to carry it weighs 80 lbs.

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HamishGray@reddit

Handlebars should we swept. They look rather uncomfortable

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w2best@reddit

Assuming the price would be around a Brompton or higher, there's nothing that appeals to me about this design & offer. If not a Brompton the kind of design I would be interested in is either a tern eclipse or a vello gravel. This bike looks very generic and there are some very cheap folding bikes with a similar design. Curious to see how ops chat gpt will reply to this comment.

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darth_kedar@reddit

I own one of the very earlier versions of this topology. Rode hundreds of miles. A few main thoughts: (1) The wheel size [mine was 18”] really made it a bumpy ride. (2) The rear rack impeded the folding of the eBike. (3) Once folded, the bike was heavy & cumbersome to load onto a trunk/boot of a vehicle. Reach out if you want pics & other testing info.

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owl157@reddit

Looks like the carbo ebike. What is the range and max speed?

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

We’re still finalizing the exact specs, but generally it’s aimed at practical urban use rather than high-speed performance.

Speed will depend on the region (for example EU vs US setups), and range varies quite a bit depending on riding style, assist level, and battery configuration.

We’re trying to keep it efficient and usable for daily commuting rather than pushing extreme numbers.

Out of curiosity, what kind of range would you expect for your typical rides?

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owl157@reddit

I sold my carbo because it only got up to 20 mph and had about a 30 mile range if that. Need something that goes at least 25 mph with a 50 mile range

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mrjoepete@reddit

Making parts user replaceable and not proprietary would be an excellent addition. It would be nice to have the option to have the bike roll while folded so you could transport it easily

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That's a great point — user-replaceable parts is definitely something we're trying to improve.

We're also looking into ways to make it easier to move when folded, like adding rolling functionality so it doesn’t need to be carried all the time.

Out of curiosity, would you prefer something like small integrated wheels, or more of a trolley-style setup?

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mrjoepete@reddit

I don't think it matters to me, but doing something like how brompton has their wheels on the rack that are for when its folded is a nice integration.

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burgeoisartbros@reddit

I’d prefer to use the bike’s wheels. Less moving parts, less to replace and maintain.

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BWWFC@reddit

what luxurious gentle life is this folder in...?

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Verybumpy@reddit

Ha, indeed. Average user, this bike is not for IMO. I see this bike being fleet positioned at only high end European or tropical spa resorts for their guest to use gratis.

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Analonlypls@reddit

I can personally say from someone who maintains older e-bikes and keeps them rolling. Please if you can do not route through the chain stay or the battery well. Reserve that for the folding section of the bike. Those lines will need to be replaced eventually.

Something that may never happen but I would like to see is documentation on how to repair sections of carbon fiber that’s signed off by an engineer. I’ve repaired a rear end made of carbon fiber, and while it’s held for a thousand miles of city riding, I’m basically just going by aircraft repair guidelines. If I make a section stronger than initially planned, I want to know if that will weaken other sections, and by how much.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Really appreciate this perspective — especially from someone with hands-on repair experience.

Good point on routing — we're trying to avoid areas like the chain stay and battery path where wear and long-term servicing become issues, but it's definitely something we're still refining.

On the carbon repair side, that's a very interesting point. We’ve been discussing internally how to approach long-term serviceability and what kind of documentation or guidelines would actually be useful in real-world repairs.

Out of curiosity, from your experience, what kind of repair guidance would be most practical? More like general reinforcement principles, or step-by-step repair procedures?

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Analonlypls@reddit

It would be nice to know how large a patch can be and still keep its performance and durability. Most firms error on the side of caution with carbon fiber and say any crack is a total loss, but if that’s the case mine would have probably had failed by now. Getting a customer back on the road with an 80$ repair instead of a 1000$ replacement can be the difference between the customer riding or not so imo it matters

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lucaiuli@reddit

Rear drive motor is a no go for me. I’ll go mid-drive and adjustable handle-bar. I don’t care much about how it looks when folded.

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who_dis@reddit

Why does it feel like every response is coming from an AI agent… I assume because it probably is.

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Necessary-Break5978@reddit

That's good to know you are focusing on prevention to reduce any areas experience stress especially in stress area's where folding ebikes need attentionto to design and reinforcement to reduce risk of cracks from fatigue, durability is critical long term for folding ebikes

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elevenblade@reddit

If it can’t be adjusted to be comfortably ridden by someone >190 cm then I simply wouldn’t buy it. I realize I may not be in your target demographic but there are a fair number of us in Northern Europe.

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Kind_Sell5954@reddit

Exactly what I have been looking for. A light weight, foldable, carbon fiber e bike….Please have an option for a more powerful motor. I’d like to see a 750 watt or more. Quality brakes. A option for battery sizes. Great work! Looks good. When will it come to market for sale?

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whywhywhyguy@reddit

I’ve had a few folding bikes. Brompton is the best.

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Odd_Introduction_280@reddit

Use your ebike in hard conditions plus 2k km usage result.. for example 1 for lightweight comkuter guy one for delivery guy one for fat guy

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Necessary-Break5978@reddit

Folding ebikes have to many weak points, I thought carbon fibre frame is light weight also once there is any cracks in the frame you can't do welding to fix the frame like steel or aluminium, I am not sure if you can weld carbon fibre frame once there is cracks I thought you would have to throw away the frame

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That’s a very valid concern — carbon behaves very differently compared to aluminum or steel.

You’re right that it can’t be “welded” in the traditional sense. However, carbon frames can be repaired using composite repair techniques (similar to what’s done in aerospace or high-end bike repair), depending on the damage.

For us, the key focus is prevention — especially around the folding joints and stress areas. We’re putting a lot of attention into layup design, reinforcement, and fatigue testing to reduce the risk of cracks in the first place.

But I completely agree — durability and long-term reliability are critical for folding bikes, and it’s something we’re taking very seriously.

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niffcreature@reddit

Man wtf did handlebar stems ever do to you? The integrated stem and bar design is terrible. There are so many reasons they're designed to be separate. Don't do it.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Haha fair enough — I get where you’re coming from.

Integrated setups definitely come with trade-offs, especially around adjustability and serviceability, which are real concerns.

For us it was mainly about trying to keep things compact and structurally clean for a folding design, but it’s something we’re still debating internally.

Out of curiosity, would you consider it a dealbreaker, or something that could work if adjustability was handled in other ways?

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burgeoisartbros@reddit

Headset routed cables are already unpopular, taking out the possibility of removing the handlebar will be a hard sell for many. I regret the headset routing on mine.

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ERTHLNG@reddit

The problem is the way it looks. Like a weird poor-handling Chinese machine of broken sadness.

They make them look like trash and they are so no one wants to buy the bad bicycle.

What you need a bike that looks like a reliable tank. The buffalo bike or the old ones.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Appreciate the honest take — even if it’s a bit harsh 🙂

Looks are always subjective, and we’re still refining the design language.

For us it’s a balance between compact folding, structural stiffness, and everyday usability, so some choices may look different from more traditional “tank-like” bikes.

If you had to point to one or two specific things that make it look less “reliable” to you — what would they be? Frame proportions, handlebar setup, or something else?

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

You mean the Q.ik Venetus that's already for sale? Is this somehow different?

https://www.qikbike.com/collections/folding-e-bikes/products/q-ik-brema-t

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Yeah, it’s related — we’ve been working on this project for a while and are still refining a lot of the details.

This post was mainly to get some honest feedback from the community while things are still being improved, rather than presenting a finished product.

Really helpful to see how people are reacting and what concerns come up.

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speakernoodlefan@reddit

Q.ik logo is on the bike in the photos. I think this might be the owner...

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Noojgnod@reddit

Maybe a carrying handle for those who have to carry it upstairs? Or a place to attach a carabiner for the same reason.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Good point — there is actually an integrated carry handle in the design, although it may not be very obvious from the photos.

Making it easier to carry upstairs was definitely part of the idea.

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mdreed3939@reddit

I have a carbon fiber folding bike now. I like your design as a step through. I'm older, it is getting harder to lift my legs up over the cross bar. In order for me to buy yours I would not want a derailer and would want a belt VS a chain. That is what I have now. Also it would need to be class 1 assist only no throttle. A model like that I would seriously consider. I

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That makes a lot of sense — especially the step-through design as mobility changes over time.

A belt drive setup is definitely something we’ve been exploring as well, mainly for the lower maintenance and cleaner ride.

Also agree on keeping things simple — fewer components and assist-only can make a big difference for everyday usability.

Out of curiosity, what matters most to you — low maintenance, ease of mounting, or overall ride comfort?

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Difficultsleeper@reddit

I would have speced Microshift Advent short cage with the 11-38 cassette.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

That's a solid suggestion — we're definitely considering different drivetrain options like that.

Trying to find the right balance between range, usability, and cost depending on how people actually ride.

Out of curiosity, would you prioritize wider gearing for climbing, or tighter spacing for smoother cadence?

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veloread@reddit

For things I'd improve...I don't love the handlebar. Otherwise I think the design is very nice.

With this material, I think you should be very thorough in testing what kind of abuse it can take and very forthright about weight limits. I say this as a clydesdale rider who is often disappointed by the low limit of many folders.

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Fragrant-Assistant82@reddit (OP)

Thanks for the feedback — especially on the handlebar, that’s something we’re still refining.

And totally agree on the durability side. We’ve been doing load and stress testing, and so far it's been holding up well around the 120kg range, but we're continuing to test to make sure it performs reliably over time, not just in static conditions.

Really appreciate you bringing that up — weight limits and real-world durability are definitely things we’re taking seriously.

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ample-d@reddit

Screen in the handlebar stem isn't a great idea.

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Cichciem@reddit

Looks good. A little bit old. I like the polo shirt.

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ApplewoodPotato@reddit

No cease and desist from Lectric? Interesting

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Other than being a folding bike, how does this remotely resemble a Lectric?

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ApplewoodPotato@reddit

Remotely? Just take one look, let alone the dimensions and features. You people in this sub are insufferable.

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Inciteful_Analysis@reddit

Oh you're right. It has two wheels, a seat post, a handlebar, a crank, pedals, a derailleur, a cassette/freewheel, a chain, fenders, rack, grips, brakes, rotors, calipers, lights.

Corporate espionage for sure!

Never mind it's a carbon fiber frame which Lectric doesn't use. Or that the battery is in the seat tube, not the down tube. Or that the display is integrated into the handlebar. Or that there are over a dozen of other folding bikes it more closely resembles than a Lectric.

Insufferable indeed.

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