Dr. Alexander Reynolds
Introducing FLIT, the latest addition to the world of ultra-compact folding electric bikes. While Brompton has long been the go-to choice in the UK for folding bikes, FLIT brings a fresh perspective to the table with its purpose-built design for electric drive.
Unlike Brompton, FLIT started its journey with electrification in mind, allowing for seamless integration of advanced e-bike components. The central frame tube of the FLIT bike accommodates a hidden 36V 6.4Ah battery, intelligently designed to be easily removed for charging. This ensures convenience for riders who are always on the go.
The FLIT bike takes a different approach when it comes to motor placement. By opting for a rear motor instead of a front motor like Brompton, FLIT achieves much more spirited acceleration. With its 250W motor boasting 35 Nm of torque, the power delivery is impressive and immediate. The inclusion of a torque sensor further enhances the riding experience, making each pedal stroke feel more potent.
Brompton’s front motor design, on the other hand, has its limitations. Traction is reduced, leading to tire slippage on loose terrain or inclines. To mitigate this, Brompton engineers had to compromise on power ramping, slowing down the application of torque. FLIT’s rear wheel drive eliminates these traction issues, ensuring maximum power transfer.
FLIT does acknowledge that folding bikes often require trade-offs. For instance, their optional fender set features a unique telescoping and folding rear mudguard. While it may seem unconventional, this design allows the folded bike to roll on its rear wheel, facilitating smoother maneuvering on uneven surfaces. Moreover, FLIT’s single-speed configuration eliminates the need for an internally geared hub, reducing weight and potential maintenance concerns.
At a weight of just 14 kg (30.8 lbs), FLIT’s aluminum bike strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The lightweight frame makes it easy to lift, while the rolling feature proves beneficial for longer pushes in urban environments.
With the FLIT M2 model priced at £1,999 (down from an MSRP of £2,499), commuters seeking a reliable and compact folding e-bike now have a compelling option. While it may not be the ideal choice for riders seeking higher power or fat tires, FLIT’s focus on electrification and thoughtful design makes it an attractive option for those who prioritize portability and convenience in their daily commute.
So, while Brompton remains a renowned player in the folding bike space, FLIT’s purpose-built approach demonstrates the possibilities that arise when a bike is designed with electrification at its core. In the world of e-bikes, diversity and choice reign supreme, allowing riders to find the perfect match for their unique needs and preferences.
The introduction of FLIT into the world of ultra-compact folding electric bikes brings a fresh perspective to the industry. Unlike traditional folding bikes like Brompton, FLIT was designed with electrification in mind from the beginning, allowing for seamless integration of advanced e-bike components.
One of the standout features of FLIT is its purpose-built design for electric drive. The central frame tube of the FLIT bike houses a hidden 36V 6.4Ah battery that can be easily removed for charging. This design ensures convenience for riders who are always on the go and need to quickly recharge their bike.
Another notable difference between FLIT and Brompton is the placement of the motor. FLIT opts for a rear motor, which results in spirited acceleration. With its powerful 250W motor boasting 35 Nm of torque and the inclusion of a torque sensor, FLIT provides impressive and immediate power delivery, making each pedal stroke feel more potent.
In comparison, Brompton’s front motor design has its limitations. Traction is reduced, leading to tire slippage on loose terrain or inclines. To address this, Brompton engineers had to compromise on power ramping, slowing down the application of torque. FLIT’s rear wheel drive eliminates these traction issues, ensuring maximum power transfer.
FLIT also acknowledges the trade-offs that come with folding bikes. For example, their optional fender set features a unique telescoping and folding rear mudguard, allowing the folded bike to roll on its rear wheel. This design facilitates smoother maneuvering on uneven surfaces and adds to the overall convenience of the bike.
Weighing just 14 kg (30.8 lbs), FLIT’s aluminum bike strikes a balance between portability and functionality. The lightweight frame makes it easy to lift, while the rolling feature proves beneficial for longer pushes in urban environments. This makes it a suitable choice for commuters who are looking for a reliable and compact folding e-bike.
In terms of market forecasts, the folding electric bike industry is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. As more people seek eco-friendly and convenient transportation options, the demand for compact folding e-bikes is likely to rise. Market research reports project that the global folding electric bike market will reach a value of over $2.8 billion by 2027.
However, the industry still faces a few challenges. One issue is the limited range of folding e-bikes compared to other electric bikes. The compact size and portability of folding e-bikes often come at the expense of battery capacity, resulting in a shorter range. Manufacturers like FLIT are continuously working on improving battery technology and efficiency to address this concern.
Overall, FLIT’s purpose-built approach and focus on electrification, combined with its thoughtful design features, make it an attractive option for commuters seeking a reliable and compact folding e-bike. While Brompton remains a renowned player in the folding bike space, FLIT demonstrates the possibilities that arise when a bike is designed with electrification at its core. In a diverse and choice-driven market like e-bikes, riders can find the perfect match for their unique needs and preferences.
For more information on FLIT and their range of folding electric bikes, you can visit their official website [FLIT](https://flit.bike).
