Updated: 2nd August 2025
Folding bikes have revolutionized urban mobility, offering unmatched convenience for commuters, travelers, and city dwellers alike. As the technology continues to advance, manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of how light these portable bikes can be while maintaining strength, durability, and ride quality.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve researched the latest innovations and tested the market’s offerings to bring you the definitive list of the world’s lightest folding bikes in 2025. From carbon fiber marvels to titanium masterpieces, these bikes represent the cutting edge of lightweight engineering.
Our updated list includes both established favorites and exciting newcomers, featuring bikes that weigh under 22 pounds (10kg) and deliver exceptional performance. Whether you’re looking for a single-speed minimalist machine or a multi-gear touring companion, we’ve got you covered with options to suit every budget and riding style.
What Makes a Folding Bike Light?
The pursuit of lightweight folding bikes involves careful material selection and innovative engineering. The lightest models typically feature:
Minimalist drivetrains – Single-speed or efficient multi-speed systems
Carbon fiber frames and components – Offering exceptional strength-to-weight ratios
Titanium construction – Naturally corrosion-resistant and incredibly strong yet light
Precision-engineered folding mechanisms – Reducing unnecessary hardware
Lightweight wheels and components – Every gram counts in ultra-light designs
The Top 10 Lightest Folding Bikes in 2025
1. Hummingbird Single-Speed Folding Bike
Weight: 6.9 kg / 15.21 lbs
The world’s lightest folding bike. Carbon tri-spoke wheels with 3K carbon fiber weave finish provide both performance and visual impact. The carbon fiber frame naturally dampens road vibrations while maintaining strength. Single-speed drivetrain eliminates maintenance complexity – no derailleurs, cables, or gear adjustments needed.
The gear ratio is optimized for urban riding on relatively flat terrain, providing quick acceleration from stops while maintaining comfortable cruising speeds. Multiple signature color choices with customization options available.
Key Features:
- Carbon tri-spoke wheels with 3K carbon fiber weave finish
- Ultra-smooth single-speed drivetrain with precision-engineered hub
- Multiple signature color choices with customization options
- Lightweight carbon fiber frame construction
- Minimal maintenance requirements
2. Brompton T Line One (Single-Speed)
Weight: 7.45 kg / 16.42 lbs
The lightest Brompton ever made, featuring over 150 specially developed weight-saving components. The titanium frame weighs 37% less than Brompton’s steel equivalent while supporting riders up to 110kg.
Each frame is TIG-welded in Brompton’s dedicated Sheffield facility built specifically for titanium work. The material requires different skills and processes than steel, with each welder developing their own signature style. Titanium provides natural corrosion resistance, maintaining its high shine indefinitely.
Super-responsive carbon components including cranks and cast titanium bottom bracket ensure immediate power transfer. The folding mechanism has been redesigned with new aluminum components that are both lighter and more ergonomic.
Key Features:
- Precision TIG-welded titanium frame from dedicated Sheffield facility
- Over 150 specially engineered weight-saving components
- Super-responsive carbon components including cranks and fork
- 37% lighter than equivalent steel frame
- Faster, easier folding mechanism with ergonomic aluminum components
- Natural corrosion resistance with permanent high-shine finish
- Compatible with riders up to 110kg
- Available in exclusive Ceratech ceramic coating
3. Brompton T Line 4-Speed
Weight: 7.95 kg / 17.53 lbs
Adds only 500 grams to the T Line One for a precision-engineered 4-speed drivetrain and integrated mudguards. The derailleur weighs just 60 grams while providing smooth, reliable shifting across four speeds optimized for urban riding.
Integrated mudguards provide all-weather protection while maintaining the bike’s clean aesthetic. Unlike aftermarket options, these are engineered to the same standards as other T Line components.
Brompton-designed quick-release pedals reduce the folded bike’s width by 15% compared to standard pedals. Equipped with Schwalbe One performance tires for optimal balance between rolling efficiency and grip.
Key Features:
- Ultra-lightweight 60g precision-engineered derailleur system
- Integrated mudguards for all-weather protection
- Four speeds optimized for urban performance
- Same premium titanium frame and carbon components as T Line One
- Quick-release pedals reduce folded width by 15%
- Schwalbe One performance tires
- Weather-sealed components
4. Dahon K3
Weight: 8.1 kg / 17.86 lbs
Ultra-compact folding bike with 14″ wheels that folds smaller than many bikes with 16″ wheels. The 3-speed Shimano derailleur system provides versatile gearing – low for starts and inclines, middle for cruising, high for flat stretches.
Aluminum construction provides durability and corrosion resistance at an accessible price point. The frame geometry has been refined over multiple generations for comfortable riding despite compact proportions.
The folding mechanism is intuitive and can be mastered quickly. When folded, the bike stays together well for rolling or carrying. Shimano components are serviceable worldwide with readily available parts.
Key Features:
- Reliable 3-speed Shimano derailleur system
- Ultra-compact fold despite 14″ wheels
- Proven aluminum construction
- Travel-friendly with worldwide service availability
- Intuitive folding mechanism
- Excellent value for premium portability
5. Austin Cycles ATTO
Weight: 8.2 kg / 18.08 lbs
Features an oil-free Gates Belt Drive system that requires no lubrication, cleaning, or regular replacement. The belt stays clean and quiet throughout its long life with no oil to stain clothes or grinding sounds.
High-grade Toray carbon fiber frame is engineered to provide responsive performance while damping road vibrations. Available in single-speed or with Alfine 11-speed internal hub that provides enormous gear range with even spacing.
The Alfine hub shifts smoothly even when stationary, useful in stop-and-go traffic. Internal components are protected from weather and damage. Integrated USE Exposure Lights are specifically designed for urban environments with beam patterns optimized for city riding.
Key Features:
- Oil-free Gates Belt Drive system for maintenance-free operation
- High-grade Toray carbon fiber frame
- Choice of single-speed or Alfine 11-speed internal hub
- Integrated USE Exposure Lights designed for urban environments
- Weather-sealed components
- Smooth, intuitive folding mechanism
6. Helix Folding Bike
Weight: 8.62 kg / 19 lbs
Revolutionary patented helical hinge design allows the most compact fold possible while using full-size 24″ wheels. The full titanium frame has no hinges in the main triangle, ensuring exceptional ride quality without creaks or flex.
The innovative design allows the bike to roll when folded. Multiple safety mechanisms in the patented locking system ensure security. Removable dropouts offer complete flexibility for different drivetrain configurations.
Key Features:
- Full titanium frame construction
- Patented helical hinge folding system
- 24″ wheels for superior ride quality
- Rolls when folded for easy transport
- Compatible with disc brakes and wide-range cassettes
- Removable dropouts for drivetrain flexibility
7. Brompton T Line 12-Speed
Weight: 8.8 kg / 19.4 lbs
Offers Brompton’s unique 12-speed system providing the lowest and highest gears ever available on a Brompton. Smooth steps between gears handle every riding situation from steep climbs to fast flats.
Uses the same titanium frame construction and carbon components as other T Line models. The complex gear system adds minimal weight while providing road bike-level versatility in the compact Brompton package.
Key Features:
- Unique 12-speed gear system
- Titanium frame with carbon components
- Maximum gear range for all terrains
- Touring and adventure ready
- Lightweight despite gear complexity
8. VELLO Speedster Titanium
Weight: 9.9 kg / 21.83 lbs
RedDot Design Award winner for “best of the best.” Racing-inspired folding bike with sleek titanium frame and 10-speed Shimano 105 groupset. Built for speed with narrow high-pressure tires and aerodynamic positioning.
Racing bike geometry and components appeal to performance-oriented riders who need portability. Ready-to-ride assembly with no compromises on speed or handling.
Key Features:
- Award-winning titanium frame design
- 10-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain
- Racing bike geometry and components
- High-pressure performance tires
- Ready-to-ride assembly
9. Brompton P Line
Weight: 9.7 kg / 21.4 lbs
Hybrid construction features titanium rear triangle and fork with steel main frame. Bridges the gap between standard steel Bromptons and ultra-light T Line models while remaining more accessible.
Advanced roller wheels and Continental Contact Urban tires. Refined geometry provides better ride feel than traditional Bromptons while offering significant weight savings over all-steel construction.
Key Features:
- Steel and titanium hybrid construction
- Advanced roller wheels
- Continental Contact Urban tires
- Refined geometry for better ride feel
- Lighter than traditional steel Bromptons
10. Tern Verge X11
Weight: 10.2 kg / 22.49 lbs
Focus on speed and performance with 451 wheels providing full-sized bike feel. T-Tuned geometry and wide-range 1x drivetrain deliver exceptional ride quality for a folding bike.
Hand-built Kinetix Pro X wheels, carbon fiber crankset, and 10-42 tooth cassette handle serious terrain. Folds in under 10 seconds despite performance-oriented components.
Key Features:
- 451 wheels for full-sized bike feel
- SRAM 1×11 drivetrain with wide range
- Hand-built performance wheels
- Carbon fiber crankset
- Sub-10-second folding time
Recent Innovations in Lightweight Folding Bikes
The folding bike industry has seen remarkable innovations in 2024-2025:
Advanced Materials:
- Ceramic coatings (like Brompton’s Ceratech finish) provide aerospace-grade protection
- Improved carbon fiber lay-ups for better strength-to-weight ratios
- Grade 9 titanium offering superior properties over standard titanium
Smart Integration:
- GPS tracking modules built into frames for theft protection
- Integrated lighting systems designed specifically for urban environments
- Quick-release pedals that reduce folded width significantly
Folding Mechanism Improvements:
- Faster folding times with some bikes now folding in under 10 seconds
- Rolling capability when folded eliminating the need to carry
- Self-standing folded bikes for convenience in storage
What to Consider When Choosing a Lightweight Folding Bike
Weight vs. Features
The lightest bikes often sacrifice features for weight savings. Consider whether you need:
- Multiple gears vs. single-speed simplicity
- Mudguards and racks vs. minimal setup
- Suspension vs. rigid efficiency
Intended Use
- Urban commuting: Single-speed or limited gears, lightweight, quick fold
- Touring/adventure: More gears, stronger construction, accessory mounting
- Travel: Ultra-compact fold, moderate weight, reliable construction
Budget Considerations
Ultra-light materials like titanium and carbon fiber command premium prices. The lightest bikes in our list range from $3,000 to $6,000+, while excellent lightweight options exist in the $1,500-2,500 range.
Maintenance Requirements
Some ultra-light bikes require specialized maintenance:
- Belt drives need specific tensioning tools
- Titanium frames require specialized repair knowledge
- Carbon components need careful handling and inspection
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lightest folding bike available? The Hummingbird Single-Speed Folding Bike at 6.9 kg (15.21 lbs) currently holds the title as the world’s lightest folding bike.
How much do the lightest folding bikes weigh? The lightest folding bikes weigh between 6.9 kg (15.21 lbs) and 10.2 kg (22.49 lbs). Most ultra-light models fall in the 7-9 kg range.
What is the lightest weight Brompton bike? The Brompton T Line One is the lightest Brompton ever made, weighing just 7.45 kg (16.42 lbs). The T Line 4-Speed weighs 7.95 kg (17.53 lbs).
How much does a typical folding bike weigh? Most standard folding bikes weigh between 11-15 kg (24-33 lbs). Premium lightweight models like the Zizzo Urbano at 26 pounds represent the lighter end of mainstream folding bikes, while ultra-premium models can weigh significantly less.
The Future of Ultra-Light Folding Bikes
The folding bike industry continues pushing boundaries with new materials and technologies:
- Nano-materials that could further reduce weight
- 3D printing for custom ultra-light components
- Smart materials that adapt to riding conditions
- Integrated electronics for navigation and security
The world of lightweight folding bikes offers unprecedented combinations of portability, performance, and style. From the record-breaking Hummingbird at under 16 pounds to the versatile Brompton T Line series, today’s ultra-light folders serve every need from urban commuting to adventure touring.
Whether you prioritize absolute minimum weight, need specific gearing for your terrain, or want the latest materials technology, there’s a lightweight folding bike that will transform your urban mobility. As cities embrace cycling infrastructure and sustainable transportation, these precision-engineered machines represent the perfect solution for modern urban life.
The investment in a quality lightweight folding bike pays dividends in convenience, health, and riding enjoyment. With proper care, these machines provide years of reliable service while making every journey efficient and enjoyable.
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