In today’s fast-paced world, folding electric bikes are transforming urban mobility. Whether you're commuting, adventuring, or looking for a compact e-bike for RV or apartment living, choosing the right model is crucial.
Two top contenders dominate the foldable e-bike market in 2025: the Velotric Fold 1 Plus and the Rad Power Bikes RadExpand 5 Plus. While both are feature-rich and built by reputable brands, one clearly rises above the rest. Let’s dive into this expert comparison and reveal why the Velotric Fold 1 Plus is the best folding Ebike to buy right now.
Contents
- Side-by-Side Comparison: Velotric Fold 1 PLUS vs. RadExpand 5 Plus
- Design & Portability
- Motor, Speed & Battery Performance
- Safety & Braking
- Display & Smart Features
- Rider Comfort & Fit
- Price & Value
- Why Velotric Fold 1 PLUS is the Best Folding Electric Bike in 2025
- FAQs: Folding E-Bikes for Beginners
Side-by-Side Comparison: Velotric Fold 1 PLUS vs. RadExpand 5 Plus
To help you visualize the key differences at a glance, here’s a detailed comparison of the Velotric Fold 1 PLUS and the RadExpand 5 Plus across essential specs like performance, portability, safety, and smart features.
| Brand | Velotric Fold 1 Plus | RadExpand 5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Folding Ebike | ||
| Price | $1,499 | $1,899 |
| Rider Height Range | 4'9" ~ 6'5" | 4'10" – 5'10" |
| Motor | 48V, 750W, 75Nm Torque | 48V, 750W, 64Nm Torque |
| Sensor | Torque and Cadence Sensor | Torque Sensor |
| SensorSwap | Yes | No |
| Charger | 48V, 2.0A | 48V, 2.0A |
| Range | 68 Miles | 60 Miles |
| Top Speed | 28 mph | 20 mph |
| Display | 3.5" Full Color, High Brightness, Bluetooth, Adjustable Angle | Rad Custom Color Display |
| Front Light |
12V/5W 130Lux high-output integrated LED Adjustable angle |
~50 lumens LED headlight with built-in reflector |
| Taillight | Rear Rack Taillight with Brake Highlight and Turn Signals | Integrated Taillight with Brake Light |
| Throttle | Yes | Half-Twist Throttle |
| Smart Features | Apple Find My™ built-in | Phone Charging Port |
| Turn Signal | Yes (with Turn Signal Sound) | Yes |
| Assist Modes | 3 Modes × 5 PAS | 5 PAS, Plus Zero Assist Option |
| Brake System | Power-Cut Hydraulic Disc Brakes, 180mm Rotors | Hydraulic Disc |
| Freewheel | 7-speed, 11-28T | 7-speed, 14-32T |
| Front Fork | 60mm Hydraulic Suspension with Lock-out | Exsho STRONG-C Hydraulic Suspension Fork, 50mm Travel, Bolt-on Axle |
| Tires | 20" × 3.0" eBike Puncture-Resistant Tires | CST BFT 20" × 4.0" |
| Weight | 63 lbs | 72.5 lbs |
| Max Load | 450 lbs | 315 lbs |
| Folded Dimensions | 33.5" H × 9.7" W × 37.8" L | 29" H × 25" W × 41" L |
| Standover Height | 15.75" (40 cm) | 16.5" (41.9 cm) |
Design & Portability
| Brand | Velotric Fold 1 Plus | RadExpand 5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Ebike | ||
| Folded Dimensions | 33.5" H × 9.7" W × 37.8" L | 29" H × 25" W × 41" L |
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Velotric Fold 1 PLUS: Weighs 63 lbs and folds down to just 33.5" H × 9.7" W × 37.8" L, making it incredibly compact and easy to carry or store.
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RadExpand 5 Plus: Comes in heavier at 72.5 lbs with a bulkier fold size of 29" H × 25" W × 41" L, which can be a challenge in tighter spaces.
Verdict: Velotric wins for portability and space-saving design.
Motor, Speed & Battery Performance
| Brand | Velotric Fold 1 Plus | RadExpand 5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 750W, 1100W peak, 75Nm torque | 750W, 64Nm torque |
| Top Speed | Up to 28 mph (Class 3 capable) | Capped at 20 mph (Class 2) |
| Battery | 48V, 13Ah (624Wh) | 48V, 15Ah (720Wh) |
| Range | Up to 68 miles | Around 60 miles |
While RadExpand edges out slightly in battery capacity, the Velotric’s more efficient design and higher torque motor result in better real-world performance and speed.
Verdict: Velotric delivers superior torque and top-end speed — ideal for riders needing both power and pace.
Safety & Braking
| Brand | Velotric Fold 1 Plus | RadExpand 5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | Torque and Cadence Sensor | Torque Sensor |
| SensorSwap | Yes | No |
| Brake System | Power-Cut Hydraulic Disc Brakes, 180mm Rotors | Hydraulic Disc |
| Front Light | 500 Lumens / 130 Lux | ~50 Lumens LED Headlight with Built-in Reflector |
| Turn Signal | Yes (with Turn Signal Sound) | Yes |
| Assist Modes | 3 Modes × 5 PAS | 5 PAS |
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Velotric Fold 1 PLUS: Features Power-Cut Hydraulic Disc Brakes with 180mm rotors for premium stopping power. Also includes turn signals, a bright 500-lumen headlight, and SensorSwap to switch between torque or cadence modes for ride precision.
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RadExpand 5 Plus: Comes with hydraulic disc brakes and a basic ~50-lumen headlight with built-in reflector, but lacks advanced lighting or signal systems.
Verdict: Velotric’s enhanced visibility, turn signals, and premium braking system make it the safer choice.
Display & Smart Features
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Velotric: Equipped with a 3.5” full-color, Bluetooth-enabled adjustable display and integrates with Apple Find My for bike tracking.
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RadExpand: Offers a basic Rad custom display, and a USB charging port, but lacks full-color visuals or advanced connectivity.
Verdict: Velotric provides better smart integration and screen clarity for modern riders.
Rider Comfort & Fit
| Brand | Velotric Fold 1 Plus | RadExpand 5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry | ||
| Rider Height Range | 4'9" ~ 6'5" | 4'10" – 5'10" |
| Standover Height | 15.75" (40 cm) | 16.5" (41.9 cm) |
| Tires | 20" × 3.0" eBike Puncture-Resistant Tires | CST BFT 20" × 4.0" |
| Freewheel | 7-speed, 11-28T | 7-speed freewheel, 14-32T |
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Velotric: Suitable for a wide range of heights from 4'9" to 6'5", thanks to its flexible frame and adjustability.
-
RadExpand: Designed for riders between 4'10" and 5'10", limiting accessibility for taller users.
Verdict: Velotric is more inclusive and ergonomically versatile.
Price & Value
What Do You Get for Your Money?
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Velotric Fold 1 PLUS: Priced at $1,499, it delivers high-end specs, smart features, premium safety tech, and Class 3 performance — all at a competitive price point.
-
RadExpand 5 Plus: At $1,899, it offers decent quality and brand recognition, but fewer features for a significantly higher cost.
Verdict: Velotric wins on value, performance, and future-ready features.
Why Velotric Fold 1 PLUS is the Best Folding Electric Bike in 2025
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Faster (28 mph vs 20 mph)
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More powerful motor (75Nm torque)
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Lightweight and more compact when folded
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Turn signals, full-color display, Apple Find My
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Better price-to-performance ratio
-
More inclusive sizing for a wider range of riders
If you’re serious about getting a reliable, fast, feature-rich folding e bike in 2025, the Velotric Fold 1 PLUS should be at the top of your list.
FAQs: Folding E-Bikes for Beginners
Q1. Is the Velotric Fold 1 PLUS suitable for daily commuting?
Yes, it’s ideal for city commuting thanks to its light weight, compact fold, and long range.
Q2. Can Velotric reach Class 3 speeds legally?
Yes, it can be unlocked for up to 28 mph, but always check local e-bike laws.
Q3. Which e-bike is better for hills?
The Velotric’s 75Nm torque motor outperforms RadExpand’s 64Nm, making hill climbs smoother.
Q4. What’s the difference between torque and cadence sensors?
Torque sensors offer more natural pedal assistance; cadence sensors feel less precise. Velotric includes both via SensorSwap.
Q5. How long does the battery last on a full charge?
The Velotric offers up to 68 miles on pedal assist, depending on terrain, speed, and rider weight.
