E-Bike Overview
Made by the world’s leading folding bike company, the Brompton Electric P Line bulldozes into the U.S. market with one of the best folding e-bikes ever made.
Why do we say this? Both models are extremely lightweight, comfortable, and ideal for multimodal commuting. Though a bit slow by U.S. standards (limited to 15.5 mph) and lacking a throttle, the P Line range is ideal for small space living or commuting with a bus/train as part of the journey.
Folding down to a very small 25.3” x 23” x 10.6”, the e-bike weighs just 34.7 lbs with the battery. Part of the weight saving is the rear frame being made of titanium — one of the strongest, lightest metals available.
The main difference between the two models differ is that the more expensive version has trolley-style wheels on the rack. When folded down, you can push/pull the bike using the extended saddle as a handle. This makes it a little heavier, at 35.6 lbs.
The small wheels make the e-bike very nimble and agile, while the punchy front-hub motor gives a great boost when you pedal off. Comfort comes from a suspension system linking the front and rear frame, and this adds to the rideability with both wheels on the ground most of the time.
Reasons to Buy
You may be a commuter who takes the train to the city and needs some wheels for the final mile to your workplace — perhaps in Washington, D.C., or New York. Or, you may be someone living in an apartment with very little space to store an e-bike. Thanks to the compact size when folded, the Brompton Electric P Line is ideal for both of these. It folds in less than 20 seconds, meaning getting it packed up won’t slow you down on a busy day.
Another selling point? It charges in just four hours. You can reduce that to two hours if you splurge on the Brompton SuperFast Charger.
Things to Consider
Two British problems with this e-bike: firstly, the UK limits its e-bike speeds to 15.5 mph, which is 4.5 mph slower than e-bikes in the U.S. Brompton is selling its UK machines here with no allowances for our slightly less stringent speed regulations.
Being pedal assist only, it lacks a throttle, and with many e-bike users largely only riding around using a throttle, this may be off-putting to some.
