Indicated as new on the Decathlon site, the BTWIN E Fold 500 and E Fold 100 reinforce the French manufacturer’s range of foldable electric bicycles (VAE). Both models belong to the entry level due to their modest price.
The electric bike has been an integral part of Decathlon’s development strategy for several years now. The year 2023 should be the scene of many new products, starting with the very first high-end VAE from the French brand, the famous Decathlon LD 920 E, which we were able to take in hand in preview.
And while spring is slowly but surely pointing the tip of its nose, the tricolor brand has decided to strengthen its range of folding electric bikes – as reported Clean Rider – with two new models indicated as new on the official website: the BTWIN E Fold 500 and E Fold 100, which are available alongside the Tilt 500.
strap system
Sold for 1099 euros, the BTWIN E Fold 500 is considered here as an entry-level model. It also and above all seeks to be practical thanks to its folding system which greatly reduces its dimensions once activated: 84 cm long, 74.5 cm high and 46 cm wide – against 145 x 113 x 64 cm when unfolded .
When folded on itself, the E Fold 500 benefits from a strap system to maintain its compactness. It is fixed at the level of the rear luggage rack, in order to clip onto the stem. Decathlon ensures that it is also possible to roll its model when it is folded. The pedals are folding.
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Source: Decathlon
Suitable for users measuring between 145 and 195 cm, the E Fold 500 has a height-adjustable stem. This allows you to adjust your driving position with a more or less inclined posture. Weighing 21.4 kg all the same – it’s heavy for a foldable, and immediately less practical for intermodal -, this two-wheeler supports a total load capacity of 110 kg.
The 250 Wh motor delivers 35 Nm of torque. minimum dynamics, especially for the coasts. Here, it leaves something to be desired.
A rotation sensor on the menu
This motor is associated with a rotation sensor, which Decathlon calls the pedaling frequency sensor. With, the assistance is transmitted when a rotation of the crankset is detected. This type of technology is found on affordable e-bikes, and tends to cause a little latency when starting up. The ride is less natural, less lively and less responsive. It’s not ideal.
The six-speed Shimano Tourney transmission will provide a minimum of amplitude in the effort provided, as will the assistance mode used: Eco, Normal or Boost, which respectively deliver a range of 50, 40 and 30 km. It is interesting to see Decathlon indicate the range of the most powerful mode.
The removable 252 Wh battery is integrated in the rear rack and lockable with a key. Its lifespan of 500 cycles gives you plenty of room, as does its 2-year warranty. You also have to rely on aluminum V-Brakes and 20-inch wheels with reflective strips to be better seen at night.
Kickstand, rack and mudguards come standard, which is always a good thing. On the other hand, the E Fold 500 is not compatible with a baby trailer or a child seat: it is therefore not suitable for families, but is intended above all for city dwellers looking for a folding and affordable VAE.
An even more affordable BTWIN E Fold 100
The BTWIN E Fold 100 pulls its price even lower: 899 euros. At this price, it has a range of 35 km thanks to its 252 Wh battery, a maximum power however lower (200 W in total) and a single-speed transmission that we hope is well calibrated. The torque remains 35 Nm.
Decathlon makes it clear “that with a single speed, starting on a steep climb remains more difficult“. If your travels take you up several elevations, then the E Fold 100 is probably not for you.
Non-adjustable stem, 20-inch wheels, steel V-brakes, battery-powered lights, 19.9 kg, compact dimensions when folded (84 x 73.5 x 46 cm), clip system for folding it, frame and fork in steel or bell, mudguards and stand as standard: here are the main other information to remember about it.
Even lower rates with premiums
The BTWIN E Fold 500 and 100 are respectively delivered between 7 and 8 days for the first, and 2 to 3 days for the second. They are above all an entry-level alternative for small budgets, but should be confined to a very basic and not very intoxicating driving experience, in particular because of their rotation sensor.
Note that national, regional and departmental purchase bonuses can considerably lower the price of an e-bike. In Île-de-France, for example, the aid amounts to 50% of the purchase price within the limit of 500 euros. The E Fold 500 would then cost 599 euros, against 450 euros for the E Fold 100. Either ultra-attractive prices.
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