If you are a daily commuter on one of the best folding e-bikes (opens in new tab), you know how much heavier they can be than a conventional folding bike. While they’re great tools for getting the sweat out of cycling, you might end up breaking your sweat after dragging it to trains and climbing stairs.
new from brompton electric P line (opens in new tab) announced this week that it is billed as a lightweight e-bike perfect for commuting. Not only can you get to work looking daisy-fresh after the engine takes the effort out of cycling, but at 12.7kg without the removable battery and 15.6kg with it, it’s incredibly easy to transport around town.
The Electric P-Line has the same four-speed single-level gearing system seen previously on Brompton’s analog T-Line and P-Line models, and Brompton’s typical advanced suspension block. However, what’s new is the “refined geometry” frame design that helps reduce weight and the smart torque sensor in the bottom bracket.
The bike is said to fold in 20 seconds and the detachable battery pack can be charged from any conventional plug. The 250 kWh hub motor delivers speeds of 25 km per hour, and this removable battery pack offers a range of up to 70 km on a single charge.
If you’re low on power, you can just go to work, remove the battery, and plug it into a nearby outlet. You will then be able to return home with a full charge.
The only drawback? Prices start at £3,695 in Brompton’s native UK (opens in new tab), in the most expensive end for an e-bike. The bike could soon be pre-ordered in the US, though pricing has yet to be announced.
Review: Brompton’s beautiful bikes
The Electric P-Line doesn’t reinvent the wheel for Brompton: it’s a continuation of the company’s design philosophy in a slightly lighter package. When the battery is charged at only about two pounds lighter than the electric C line (opens in new tab)with the same maximum speed.
However, the lighter, more efficient bike frame adds around 30km to your range, which makes a huge difference and nearly doubles the time needed between charges. That in itself would be a good selling point, but it’s barely mentioned in the press material we could find. We had to compare the tracks with Brompton’s existing models to find out – no wonder you’re paying more for less bike.
However, it’s all wrapped up in Brompton’s eye-catching signature package. Brompton makes adorable, high-quality bikes that look and feel, and Electric P-Line isn’t the only one breaking the mold. We’re looking forward to a test drive – remember to insure your e-bike before taking it out on the road.