Lightweight electric bikes are changing the way people commute, travel and explore the UK. Easier to carry than traditional e-bikes, simpler to store in a flat or car boot, and practical enough for everyday journeys, they offer many of the benefits of an electric bike without the bulk.
At ST3IKE, we stock a wide selection of lightweight electric bikes, including ultra-light carbon models, compact folding e-bikes and comfortable urban commuters. Whether you need a bike for train travel, city commuting or weekend rides, this guide highlights some of the best lightweight electric bikes available from ST3IKE.
There is no single weight limit that defines a lightweight e-bike. However, most riders begin to notice a significant difference once an electric bike weighs below approximately 20 kg, particularly when the battery can be removed.
When choosing a lightweight electric bike, consider:
Total weight, including the battery.
Whether the battery is removable.
Folded dimensions and ease of storage.
Motor power and torque.
Real-world riding range.
Frame material, such as aluminium or carbon fibre.
Braking system and tyre size.
Whether the bike is suitable for UK road use.
A lightweight frame should not mean compromising on reliability, comfort or safety. The best models balance portability with useful range, responsive assistance and dependable components.
Best for: Riders who want the lightest possible folding electric bike.
The ADO Air Carbon is one of the lightest electric folding bikes available from ST3IKE. Its carbon-fibre frame helps keep the total weight to just 12.5 kg, making it particularly easy to lift, carry and store. The bike can also be folded in approximately 15 seconds.
Despite its low weight, the ADO Air Carbon includes a 250W BAFANG motor, a torque sensor and hydraulic disc brakes. Its carbon belt drive is designed to reduce maintenance and eliminate the need for chain oil, while the claimed assisted range reaches up to 100 km, depending on riding conditions and assistance level.
Key features:
12.5 kg net weight.
Carbon-fibre frame.
250W BAFANG motor with 35 Nm torque.
Up to 100 km claimed assisted range.
Torque sensor.
Carbon belt drive.
Hydraulic disc brakes.
Three-section folding design.
Integrated anti-theft GPS.
120 kg maximum load.
For riders who prioritise portability above all else, the ADO Air Carbon is a standout choice. It is especially suitable for commuters who need to carry their e-bike upstairs, take it on public transport or store it in a small space.
Best for: Riders who want a lightweight bike with the feel of a conventional city bicycle.
The ENGWE MapFour N1 Air combines a carbon-fibre frame with a practical urban design. At 15.6 kg, it remains light enough to handle easily while offering full-size 700c wheels, mudguards and a Shimano seven-speed transmission.
Its 250W Mivice rear-hub motor delivers up to 42 Nm of torque, while the torque sensor adjusts assistance according to how strongly the rider pedals. The removable 36V 10Ah Samsung battery provides a claimed range of up to 100 km in the lowest assistance mode.
Key features:
15.6 kg total bike weight.
Carbon-fibre frame.
Step-through and step-over frame options.
250W motor with 42 Nm torque.
Torque sensor.
Shimano seven-speed gears.
700 × 38c tyres.
Removable Samsung battery.
Integrated lighting and anti-theft technology.
Up to 100 km claimed assisted range.
The MapFour N1 Air is a good option for anyone who wants an electric bike that looks and rides more like a traditional hybrid or city bike. Its larger wheels are well suited to paved roads, cycle paths and everyday commuting.
Best for: City riders who need a compact bike for commuting, storage and public transport.
The ENGWE ZIP is designed around portability. It weighs 16.9 kg without the battery and 19.4 kg with the battery installed. Its triple-folding frame reduces the bike to approximately 62.5 × 37.4 × 67.3 cm, allowing it to fit under a desk, in a cupboard or in many car boots.
The bike features a 250W rear-hub motor with 40 Nm of torque, a torque sensor and three pedal-assistance levels. Its 36V 10Ah LG-cell battery has a claimed range of up to 120 km in PAS 1, 85 km in PAS 2 and 60 km in PAS 3.
Key features:
16.9 kg without battery.
19.4 kg with battery.
Triple-folding frame.
250W motor with 40 Nm torque.
Torque sensor.
Up to 120 km claimed range in PAS 1.
Hydraulic disc brakes.
Shimano seven-speed transmission.
USB-C and PD 3.0 charging.
Bluetooth colour display.
The ENGWE ZIP is particularly practical for mixed-mode commuting. You can cycle to a station, fold the bike for transport, and then store it easily at work or at home.
Best for: Commuters who want a folding bike with a quiet carbon belt drive.
The ENGWE P20 is a compact folding e-bike with an aluminium frame and a net weight of 18.5 kg. It folds in three stages and is designed to be carried onto public transport or stored in a car boot.
A key feature is its carbon belt drive, which is quieter and generally requires less routine maintenance than a conventional chain. The P20 also includes a torque sensor, hydraulic disc brakes, integrated lighting and a claimed assisted range of up to 100 km.
Key features:
18.5 kg net weight.
250W motor with 42 Nm torque.
Carbon belt drive.
Torque sensor.
Hydraulic disc brakes.
Up to 100 km claimed assisted range.
20-inch wheels.
IPX6 water-resistance rating.
Integrated headlights and turn signals.
120 kg maximum load.
The ENGWE P20 is a strong all-rounder for daily urban use. It is lighter than many full-size electric bikes while still offering practical equipment for commuting throughout the year.
Best for: Riders who want folding convenience, suspension and automatic gear shifting.
The ADO Air 20 Pro Ultra weighs approximately 18 kg with its battery and folds in three stages. It combines a 250W BAFANG motor with a torque sensor, hydraulic disc brakes, front suspension and a carbon belt drive.
One of its main advantages is the integrated three-speed automatic gearbox. This allows the bike to adjust its gearing more smoothly across flat roads and inclines, reducing the need for manual gear changes. The bike offers a claimed assisted range of up to 100 km and supports riders up to 120 kg.
Key features:
Approximately 18 kg total weight.
250W BAFANG motor with 40 Nm torque.
Three-speed automatic gearbox.
Carbon belt drive.
Torque sensor.
Front suspension.
Hydraulic disc brakes.
Up to 100 km claimed assisted range.
20-inch wheels.
ADO smart app connectivity.
The ADO Air 20 Pro Ultra is a particularly attractive choice for riders who want more comfort on uneven roads without moving to a heavier full-size e-bike.
| Model | Weight | Folding | Motor | Claimed range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADO Air Carbon | 12.5 kg | Yes | 250W | Up to 100 km | Maximum portability |
| ENGWE MapFour N1 Air | 15.6 kg | No | 250W | Up to 100 km | Lightweight city riding |
| ENGWE ZIP | 19.4 kg with battery | Yes | 250W | Up to 120 km | Compact commuting |
| ENGWE P20 | 18.5 kg | Yes | 250W | Up to 100 km | Low-maintenance commuting |
| ADO Air 20 Pro Ultra | 18 kg | Yes | 250W | Up to 100 km | Comfort and automatic gears |
Claimed range depends on factors such as rider weight, assistance level, terrain, temperature, tyre pressure and weather. Always check the current product page for the latest specifications, availability and pricing.
The right model depends on how you plan to use your bike:
Choose the ADO Air Carbon if minimum weight and easy carrying are your priorities.
Choose the ENGWE MapFour N1 Air if you prefer full-size wheels and the riding position of a traditional city bike.
Choose the ENGWE ZIP if you need maximum folding convenience for trains, buses, offices or small homes.
Choose the ENGWE P20 if you want a practical folding commuter with a quiet carbon belt drive.
Choose the ADO Air 20 Pro Ultra if you want automatic gears, front suspension and a comfortable folding design.
Before buying, measure your storage space and consider whether you will regularly need to carry the bike up stairs. It is also worth comparing the weight with and without the battery, as the battery can often be removed before lifting the bike.
For use on public roads in the UK, an electric bike must meet the requirements for an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle, or EAPC. These include pedal assistance, a maximum rated motor output of 250W and assistance that cuts off at 15.5 mph. Riders must also be at least 14 years old.
The models featured in this guide are designed around the 250W and 15.5 mph limits. Always follow current UK regulations, use appropriate lights and ride responsibly.
ST3IKE offers a selection of folding, city, carbon-fibre and commuter electric bikes for UK riders. Depending on the model, customers can benefit from features such as free shipping, a one-year warranty, Cycle to Work support and integrated anti-theft technology.
A lightweight electric bike can make everyday cycling much more convenient. With the right model, you can combine electric assistance with easy storage, simple transport and a more flexible way to travel around the UK.
Explore the lightweight electric bikes at ST3IKE and find the model that suits your journey.
Lightweight electric bikes are changing the way people commute, travel and explore the UK. Easier to carry than traditional e-bikes, simpler to store in a flat or car boot, and practical enough for everyday journeys, they offer many of the benefits of an electric bike without the bulk.
Over the last few years, the UK e-bike market has changed dramatically. Competition between manufacturers has led to a new generation of affordable electric bikes that deliver excellent performance, reliable batteries and practical everyday usability for well under £1,000. While premium brands continue to dominate the high-end market, budget-friendly manufacturers have significantly improved build quality, motor efficiency and overall value, making electric cycling accessible to many more riders
Finding the best electric bike under £1500 has never been easier—or more confusing. The UK market now offers a wide range of affordable e-bikes that deliver excellent performance, impressive battery range, and premium features once reserved for much more expensive models.
