To declare which of the three is best overall, we must consider the following categories for comparison:
Specs: The Portola edged out the competition in this category—but just barely. We liked the XP3’s high-capacity cargo rack, the Fold 1’s larger battery and payload capacity, and both bikes’ full UL Certification. Portola’s upgraded drivetrain and fewer downsides overall made it the better choice by a small margin.
Motor: By another slim margin, the Portola proved best; it blends the best characteristics of the other two bikes. It is similar to the XP 3.0 in that it shares current-based pedal assist programming and around 1000W of peak power. Like the Fold 1, it has an excellent balance of speed/power levels, making it approachable to a wide range of riders.
Hill Climbing Ability: The XP 3.0 and Portola tied in this category. While the Fold 1 fell behind by a significant margin in our throttle test, the Lectric and the Ride1Up shared similar peak motor power and faster, extremely close Hill Test results in both portions of the test.
Range: Velotric and Lectric share a win in this category for different reasons. The XP 3.0 proved better able to cover large distances at higher power levels and speeds, while the Fold 1 greatly exceeded the capabilities of the other bikes at low speeds. The upgraded XP would likely do even better.
Ride Quality: All three bikes are tied in this category, again for different reasons. We liked the XP’s full-size central display, the Portola’s crisp shifting, and the more natural-feeling current-based programming of both bikes. The Fold 1 had comfortable geometry, an enjoyable riding position, and user-friendly control over its throttle speed.
Value for the Money: As the lower-priced options, the XP 3.0 and the Portola are tied. Due to its drivetrain and motor, the base model of the Portola offers the best entry-level value. With a higher battery capacity and (currently) free comfort accessories, including a larger saddle and suspension seatpost, the upgraded XP 3.0 wins at the highest price point.
The Ride1Up Portola earned top marks in five categories (Specs, Motor, Hill Climbing, Ride Quality, and Value) versus three wins for the Lectric XP 3.0 and two for the Velotric Fold 1. Based on this data, it earns our recommendation as the best affordable folding e-bike option between these three contenders.
We liked its approachable yet powerful motor, relatively natural-feeling pedal experience, comfortable ride, overall value, and clean design. It’s likely to be the best option for you if you’re seeking the best buy at the lowest price, if you’re shorter-to-average in height, or if you prefer a wide range of power levels.
The XP 3.0 might be a better option for average-to-large riders who prefer an overall punchier feel, but it should also suit those who prefer a familiar brand or riders looking for the best value at the upgraded price point. We liked its power, its user interface, and its included freebies.
We think the Fold 1 would be best for riders who want the longest-range option as long as they’re comfortable riding slower. It’s likely suited to those who want precise control over their speeds, those who might not want to pedal actively, or larger riders who need a high payload capacity. We liked its looks, its throttle control, and its overall comfort level.
At least for now, Ride1UP has won the battle, but the affordable folding e-bike war is far from over! We expect that Lectric and Velotric will continue to improve their models in an effort to usurp the new tenant of the throne.
Stay tuned for our next comparison between these bikes and plenty of other reviews and head-to-head battles between highly popular e-bikes!
