Folding bikes

	Yongkang Ovinem offers model FB-02, which has an aluminun frame and 12-inch alloy wheels.

Featuring better portability, the latest designs come in low-density alloy and carbon fiber, and collapse in as quick as 10 seconds.

China makers of folding bikes are coming out with upscale models that provide greater convenience to urban commuters. This step is being taken as companies target the US and the EU, where demand for bicycles has been growing amid soaring gas prices and environmental concerns.

Efforts focus primarily on enhancing portability by using lightweight materials and easy-to-fold constructions. The latest releases feature frames in aluminum, magnesium and titanium alloys, and carbon fiber, all of which have lower densities than conventional steel.

Aluminum and magnesium alloys are only about one-third and one-fourth as dense as steel, respectively. Magnesium alloy is becoming more popular as it is nearly 35 percent lighter than the former.

Frames in titanium alloys and carbon fiber are found primarily in high-end products since they cost 5 to 10 percent more than aluminum alloy versions.

The newest folding bikes are collapsible within 10 seconds. They typically have four joints at the handlebars, pedals, saddles and frames. Aside from portability, manufacturers are improving the safety features and environmental friendliness of their folding bikes.

To provide smooth navigation and better shock absorption, products are equipped with one or a combination of front fork, rear, seatpost, saddle and hub suspension systems. Depending on the bicycle type, suppliers use spring-coil or hydraulic variations. Some models even combine both types in a single unit.

For folding electric bikes, more makers are adopting disc brakes instead of drum brakes. The rotors of the former are fully exposed to air to reduce the tendency of overheating and fading.

Some companies are developing models that use silicon batteries, which are cheaper than lithium versions. The former is also an environment-friendly alternative to lead-acid batteries.

Folding bikes currently account for about 10 percent of China’s bicycles output. The line, which consists of collapsible city, electric, BMX and mountain versions, has experienced export growth of 10 to 20 percent in each of the past three years. The first two categories together account for more than 70 percent of shipments.

The country offers folding bikes at all price points, with differentiation based on the number of joints, frame material and types of components.

Going for between $40 and $100 each, low-end models usually have one folding joint near the pedal. They adopt steel frames, locally sourced butyl rubber tires and cantilever brakes, and basic pedals.

Some versions are equipped with derailleurs, pushing prices up by 10 percent. The component includes the bicycle’s gear-shifting mechanism for controlling the speed.

Midrange designs at $100 to $200 have foldable handlebars and pedals, and cantilever or disc brakes. They come in aluminum or magnesium alloy frames fitted with locally or Taiwan-made butyl rubber tires, some of which bear the E-Mark.

Typically, high-end products have folding handlebars, pedals and frame joints, allowing for compact storage. They are equipped with aluminum, magnesium and titanium alloy, or carbon fiber frames, and imported disc brakes.

Priced at more than $200 each, models come with imported components. The tires used are under Taiwan brands such as Kenda and Cheng Shin. These are more durable than local types but are 30 to 40 percent more expensive.

Derailleurs are usually from Japan-based Shimano. The components can be sourced from the supplier’s factory in Tianjin, but some companies prefer to import these from the home plant in Japan. Shimano derailleurs cost $10 more than local brands.

Most releases for the high end are electric types. They are fitted with 24 or 26V batteries, generate 150 to 280W of power, and can cover 20 to 25km on a full charge.

Aluminum alloy models that run on NiMH or Li-ion batteries can be priced up to $200 higher than lead-acid units.