Decathlon Btwin Fold Light 1: We Tested the New Folding Bicycle

Hyperactive in the world of cycling after cargo and connected bikes, Decathlon launches its new high-end folding bike Fold Light 1.

Even within a manufacturer, it’s hard to keep up with new products. In just a few months, Decathlon has launched two major innovations: the R500 cargo bike and the Elops 920E Connect connected electric bike. But the French company is not resting, revealing yet another new type of bike.

An upscale folding bike

This time, at an Parisian garage serving as an event space, Decathlon invited us to discover this new product. The Btwin Fold Light was patiently waiting for us, in a preview, ready to ride. First impression: a serious presentation with a glossy gray paint reminiscent of a Brompton, the UK specialist in folding bikes.

But this model retains the spirit of other Decathlon bikes, while sharing no parts. Starting from scratch, this bike focuses on lightness (hence the “Light” in the name) with its curved frame with integrated lighting, generalized aluminum, and plastic components instead of metal. Overall, this Btwin weighs down to 12 kg, compared to 11.5 kg for the Brompton A-line.

After the Quechua 1-second tent, the Btwin 1-second bike!

More than the weight, it’s the folding and handling system that Decathlon redesigned. Even faster than Brompton, it allows folding in 10 to 15 seconds, and more impressively, unfolding with a single movement. Automatic locking hinges make this quick deployment possible. The Quechua 1 second of bikes in itself!

Carrying this bike is easy, not only because of its light weight (relatively), but also thanks to the handle. It’s located under the saddle, improving transport in folded mode, but also in partial folding by rolling it with the saddle raised. Another feature is that the seat post lowers to serve as a central kickstand, stabilizing the folded bike, and even allowing you to sit on it.

At the handlebars, the lightness does not threaten bike stability or handling. The feeling is close to a Brompton’s, which is very reassuring, and you can gain speed easily. The 16-inch Schwalbe Racer tires are comfortable, and the mono-arm suspension at the front—necessary to keep everything compact when folded—has no negative effects. The 9-speed Shimano Sora crankset offers great versatility, with quick gear changes.

The Decathlon Btwin Fold Light 1, a Brompton at a bargain price?

As for the price of this folding bike, there are two perspectives. Knowing the basic price of €229 for a Fold 100 makes this new one even more attractive. But compared to the English specialist Brompton, which doesn’t go below €1,099, it’s a fantastic deal! The Decathlon Btwin Fold Light 1 is launched at a launch price of €849. A high price for a non-electric folding bike, but justified by the advancements and very promising initial impressions on the handlebars.

Also read: Brompton T Line: the lightest folding bike