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Buying a folding bike is not as simple as buying a regular one, as there are a lot more variables to consider than just the frame and wheel size as compared to regular bikes.
The main benefit of a folding bike is not only does it saves on storage space, but it's also adjustable to cater to the need of people with different heights.
There are a multitude of reasons to use folding bikes, which is why they tend to be more expensive and heavier than their counterparts.
In this post, we will be reviewing two models of such a foldable bike manufactured by Schwinn Bicycle Company, originally from Germany and which is now a sub-brand of Pacific Cycle. Pacific Cycle is an American brand known well for its unique, high-quality and innnovative products.
The two models we'll look at are the Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bike and the Schwinn 14 hinge folding bike. By keeping height and body ratios of males and females in mind, these are especially designed to be unisex and have proven to be great utilitarian bikes.
Having a versatile design, both these bikes have their own perks and benefits to offer, but before discussing them in detail, let’s look at an overview of requirements to look for in a folding bike.
The folding bike is ideal to use for:
These are the features you should look for:
If you're in the market for a high-quality bike, you will want to focus on the following aspects:
The Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bike (previously known as the Schwinn Loop 7-Speed Folding Bike) is a sturdy model that allows for convenient packing and a pleasing overall riding experience.
It's fitted with a pretty basic bike seat that's positioned well, i.e. not too close to the handle bars, which reduces back pain. The height can also be easily adjusted.
This bike is perfect for pretty much anyone above the age of 15. It's designed with both men and women in mind. It can be used by people who are always on the go and who like to carry their bikes around for local exploration with its compact folding design.
It's perfect for those living in busy cities, residing in tiny apartments. It's also a great option for those who have to commute to and from work in more than one form of transportation, as its small size and easy folding allow you to freely hop on a train or a ferry if your commute requires you to do so.
It's good for the city streets and roads, but can also perform pretty well on a jagged terrain if you are into hiking and bike trailing. Even for those who don’t use it much, it's a great option that doesn't take up space, thanks to its compact folding design.
Left: Schwinn Folding Handlebar Bag; Right: Schwinn Quick Release Wire Basket; courtesy of Amazon
This is a pretty useful bike for almost anyone and everyone regardless of where they live as it has a robust and sturdy construction suitable for any kind of terrain.
We love the modern design, which allows for an amazing overall riding experience, and the advantage of convenient storage and easy carrying with its unique foldable design.
The extra weight and hefty price might seem like a drawback, but that is the norm with any foldable bike.
This bike is manufactured with 20-inch wheels made of alloy and has a foldable design that makes it ideal for convenient storage.
The alloy wheels allow for great riding through the streets at a leisurely pace and make any commute a pleasant experience.
It's designed to withstand the effects of weather and is ideal for a quick grocery run.
This bike, like all other models from this maker, is designed for optimum comfort and performance.
It's fitted with a comfortable, plush seat with a radius telescope, and the tires are designed to hold up on slippery and wet surfaces. They're designed to be adjustable in terms of height, stem length, saddle fore, and aft position in order to make the ride more comfortable.
This bike is perfect for almost anyone, be it a leisurely ride or the necessity of a daily commute, and it's great for those living in tiny apartments due to its compact foldable design.
It's also perfect for those who have to commute through various modes of transport, for example, a short ride to one bus, or train station to the next, and then another short ride to your destination.
This is a great bike with various safety features and a sturdy construction of metal alloy. It's a little heavy and pricey, but with all the pros and its adaptability to different terrains, it's most definitely worth it.
All in all, this bike is a good option for those in the market for a foldable bike.
It's safe for use in different kinds of weathers and terrains with fenders and tire treads. It's great for both genders, with adjustable features, and offers great storage to carry your belongings on the carrier.
The spare parts for this bike are also easy to find. If you fancy a quick milk run or want to go trekking with your friends, this model is a great choice.
The Schwinn 20-Inch Loop Folding Bike and Schwinn 14 Hinge Folding Bike are both great options. Both weigh in a little more than standard bikes, they are safe for use by people over 15, and they are both designed with both genders and the rider’s safety in mind.
However, what sets the second model apart from the first one is that it comes inclusive with a durable neon bag, whilst you would have to buy your own for the first model. The same can be said for the carrier in both models.
READ ALSO: Best Commuter Bike under $500
In terms of saving on storage space and having convenience in carrying an easily foldable bike, both of these are very similar. They both feature 7 different linear gears, but the second one has a low stand-over frame, an ATB rigid fork, and a durable alloy front.
The first model can easily have a baby carrier attached to it, so that your child can ride with you. Both are good choices for a foldable bike with different functionalities, so choose carefully with your requirements in mind.
Image credit: Sancho McCann
