America Pulls Off "The World's First Full-Size Performance Folding E-Bike" and It's Worthy

Folks, back in 1987, a student of MIT named David Montague started a company by the name of Montague Corporation. What is the name of the game here? The timeless bicycle. Well, these days, they're still at it, and one of the most attractive machines on their list is the M-E1. Why?

Well, in the three to four years that I've been covering bikes and e-bikes, I've never seen a full-size folding e-bike, and that's precisely what the E1 is. Even Montague calls this e-bike "The world's first full-size performance folding e-bike." Sure, it's a bold statement, but if we consider the experience this manufacturer has in building foldable bikes, I can believe it.

So, what is the E1 exactly? That's what we're here to find out, and all of this magic starts off with nothing more than a frame. Overall, the E1 is crafted with a custom-drawn 6061 aluminum frame and a proprietary and patented folding mechanism that allows this bike to be reduced to the size of a large backpack with handles. Folded, the E1 occupies a space of 38x38x13 in; while unfolded, it can accommodate riders ranging from 5 ft 4 in to 6 ft 4 in, made possible by several adjustable components such as the stem and seat post.

Another aspect that we need to explore is this bike's step-through design. Since the top tube is technically missing, a feature often seen on cruisers or European bicycles, mounting and dismounting is easier and safer. Speaking of comfort, the front of this bugger is also equipped with an SR Suntour suspension fork. It may not be MTB-worthy travel, but it's more than enough to take care of any urban landscapes and even some light trail riding.

Now, this is an e-bike we're talking about, so we need to see what it can do for that $4,000 (€3,650 at current exchange rates) price tag. Yup, it'll burn a $4K hole in your pocket. Well, one aspect that I enjoyed about the E1 is the fact that it sports a mid-mounted motor. No hub motors here, and that's a big plus. Aside from having the spunk to assist you around whatever nook of town you find, mid-mounted motors are also more dependable as they're less exposed to vibrational damage. In short, it's a more dependable setup.

Overall, Shimano is the manufacturer behind the electric magic on the E1 supplying future owners with a Steps E6100 motor. Overall, this thing is running under 250 W, and once coupled with a 418 Wh battery, you should still be able to squeeze out at least 50-60 mi (80-96 km) on a single charge, depending on road conditions. Any cargo you're carrying will also affect this number.

Speaking of cargo, it's important to take note of the fact that the M-E1 can be fitted with a cargo rack. Why is this so important? Well, the average Joe typically uses a bicycle to move around town or cruise during sunrises or sunsets, along the way, grabbing some groceries and possibly carrying a backpack to work.

As for the rest of the drivetrain, Shimano continues its domination and drops a 10-speed Deore setup to help give you some range. Although, once you've gotten past an 18 mph (29 kph) top speed, the motor will cut out, and it's all you from there. Hydraulic Deore brakes are also part of the magic found here. Once mudguards, pedals, and everything else are thrown on, we're looking at a 54 lb (24.5 kg) EV, which is decent, if you ask me.

But what does all this mean for folks like you and me? Well, first off, this baby seems to be ready to handle a bit more than just the urban landscape. For example, you'll be rocking 700x47c tires and those worthy of some rather solid trail riding. This means that, yes, you'll use the E1 as a bike to get to work during the week, but come the weekend, it's out on some light trails with you! That cargo rack is sure to come in handy too. If you need to ride far, the battery is a removable one, so if you grab another, you can double your range.

As for why a folding frame is so dang essential for some, it has to do with versatility. For example, you can ride to work, and instead of locking your bike up outside, fold it, take it in an elevator, and place it in the corner of your office. If you often need to take other means of transportation, a folding frame wins the race yet again. After all, it's hard to squeeze a non-folding e-bike onto a bus or subway.

All that's left to do now is find one of these puppies and take it out for a test ride. Or order one directly from Montague, and if you don't like it, you've got 30 days to return it. Win-win.