Nakto Folding OX

Images from manufacturer's website

22 mi

RANGE

20 mph

TOP SPEED

4 hrs

CHARGE TIME

66 lbs

WEIGHT

Rear Hub

MOTOR TYPE

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Nakto Folding OX Review: Takeaway

A quality electric folding electric bike for the price, the Nakto Folding OX can be used for a variety of things from finding a quiet fishing spot to commuting from your apartment. A little on the heavy and less-compact side (when folded in half), it’s not the best-in-class folding e-bike by any means — but it’ll get the job done.

Ideal for...

Rving

Apartment Living

Visiting Friends

Shopping

Cafe Hopping

Family Rides

Boating

E-Bike Overview

The Nakto Folding OX is a step-through folding electric bike that’s useful for a range of scenarios, from RVing (where you can explore the wilderness) to boating and even small-space city living.

Its 4” fat tires on small, 20” wheels allow for some off-roading, though don’t treat it like an eMTB, as it won’t forgive you. You can explore the woods or hills with the RV as a base, as it folds down neatly in two when stored. This storage potential can allow it to be used as a primary transport mode from an apartment or other compact living arrangement, too.

The 500W rear hub motor offers a comfortable, 52 Nm of torque that’ll leave few inclines a challenge, especially with the 7-speed transmission. For speed control, Shimano mechanical disc brakes will stop you quickly even on a steep slope in wet conditions.

You have the choice of the full-twist throttle or pedal assist to get you about, and the speed is limited to 20 mph — legal in most states.

Full fenders and a rack allow the Folding OX to carry your shopping, perhaps victuals for the boat at the seaport or marina. A sprung suspension fork with 60 mm of travel and a comfortable, padded seat rounds it off.

Reasons to Buy

Though not the lightest or most compact in its price class, the Nakto Folding OX has many advantages that should put it on a shortlist. Its fat tires will handle reasonably tough off-roading, and the upright seating position will be comfortable compared to many of its rivals. With 52 Nm of torque, the rear hub motor is punchy and will handle your leisure (or business) adventures well.

Things to Consider

The components used in this electric bike are toward the bottom end of the quality spectrum. Though they won’t stop working the day after the warranty expires, you get what you pay for when it comes to e-bikes. You may find issues with cable stretch on the mechanical disc brakes for example, and the sprung suspension fork won’t stand being left outside in the rain for a season. For boating use, keep it well away from the salt air between passages.

Specs & Components

Brand

Nakto

Motor

500W rear hub 52 Nm

Battery

480 Wh

Display

LCD

Power Delivery

PAS/full-twist throttle

Transmission

Shimano Tourney 7-speed

Brakes

Shimano front and rear mechanical disc

Fork

Spring suspension 60mm travel

Accessories

Front LED light, full fenders, rear rack

The specs above come from the manufacturer and may vary from what you’ve experienced. Notice something that needs correcting? Let us know.

Ratings

Power

 4/5

Sitting comfortably within Class 2 regulations for e-bikes, the Folding OX will do 20 mph on throttle alone. The 52 Nm of torque offered by the motor is enough to handle all but the steepest of inclines, and the five levels of pedal assist let you control how much juice you use. The 20″ tires will offer a fair rolling resistance, and you won’t get to top speed in a hurry as a result.

Range

 3/5

Nakto claims a 22-mile range. Given the battery size and motor power, we would suggest quite a bit lower in real-world riding. An average 200 lb rider on average terrain might get 10 miles at a squeeze. Given most rides are less than six miles, you might get two rides out of it on a good day.

Terrain, payload weight, and weather conditions can impact range, too. If you’re cycling up a steep hill to the supermarket from the marina, you’ll get fewer miles than if you’re cycling along the flatter waterfront.

Comfort

 4/5

The fat tires and sprung suspension fork with 60mm travel, combined with the padded saddle with two damping springs, will make this a comfortable e-bike as folding electric bikes go. The chief drawback is the suspension fork, which might be of better quality. However, the hi-rise cruiser bar will keep you sitting upright, which should keep your back happier.

Durability

 3/5

The lower quality components including the sprung suspension fork and mechanical disc brakes suggest that this electric bike won’t last you for years and years.

You’ll need to oil the chain regularly, and the disc brake pads will wear out after around 500-1,000 miles.

Style

 4/5

Though not a winner on looks, it has a funky, off-road style where the small but fat wheels give it a faint beach buggy-type look. It’s just the sort of e-bike you could see yourself riding along the lakeshore or to a beach barbecue (with supplies on the rack). Color schemes of silver or black both look a bit odd with the brown seat, but may it’s unique enough to suit your needs.

Our Research Methodology

We personally research and test every e-bike featured in our reviews and guides to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn how we review.

About Our Editorial Team

Written by Richard Shrubb

Contributing Author

Richard is a well-established journalist and copywriter with years of experience in the EV and e-bike world. He has worked with international sailing magazines, e-bike publications, and national newspapers.

Edited by Kristy Snyder

Professional Editor

Kristy Snyder is a professional writer and editor living in Pittsburgh with over 10 years of content creation experience. When she's not contributing to eBikes.org, Kristy enjoys reading, practicing yoga, drinking beer, and hitting up rail trails.

Meet Our Editorial Team