Velotric Fold 1 Plus: The electric bike landscape witnessed a significant transformation in April 2025 when Velotric launched the Fold 1 Plus, an enhanced version of their popular folding e-bike that brings cutting-edge technology to the compact mobility segment. With its revolutionary SensorSwap technology, Apple Find My integration, and impressive 68-mile range, this $1,499 folding e-bike is challenging traditional notions about what’s possible in a compact, foldable package.
Revolutionary SensorSwap Technology Sets New Standards
Dual Sensor Flexibility for Every Riding Style
The standout feature that truly sets the Fold 1 Plus apart from its competition is Velotric’s innovative SensorSwap technology, which allows riders to switch between cadence and torque sensors while riding. This breakthrough feature addresses a long-standing limitation in the e-bike industry where riders were forced to choose one sensor type at purchase.
The cadence sensor provides effortless power for zipping up hills or cruising with minimal pedaling, while the torque sensor delivers a natural, responsive ride that feels like a regular bike. Riders can switch between these modes on the fly by holding the menu button for a few seconds or adjusting settings through the vibrant display or mobile app.
Advanced Display and Control System
The Fold 1 Plus features Velotric’s vibrant 3.5-inch color LCD screen positioned centrally, paired with a separate 7-button control pad that includes a USB-C port for phone charging. This represents a significant upgrade from the original Fold 1’s small, left-mounted black-and-white display. The screen is packed with information including ride stats, CO2 saved, motor and controller temperature, and features an integrated light sensor for automated screen brightness and lighting in low-light conditions.
Power and Performance That Defies Expectations
Robust Motor Specifications
The Fold 1 Plus is powered by a 750W rear hub motor that peaks at 1,100 watts and delivers 75 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful folding e-bikes currently available. This represents a notable improvement over the original Fold 1’s 70 Nm torque output. The enhanced power delivery enables the bike to tackle steep inclines with confidence, with testers reporting the ability to motor up steeper hills in San Francisco at 18 mph, performance rarely seen in the folding e-bike category.
Exceptional Range and Battery Performance
The Fold 1 Plus leads Velotric’s folding lineup with an impressive estimated range of 68 miles on a single charge, using a 48V, 13Ah battery with IPX7 waterproof rating. Real-world testing has validated these claims, with one comprehensive range test covering nearly 70 miles in Trail mode using PAS level 1. The battery is removable for convenient charging, though riders can also charge it while mounted on the bike.
Unprecedented Load Capacity
One of the most impressive aspects of the Fold 1 Plus is its massive 450-pound total payload capacity, with the welded rear rack capable of supporting up to 120 pounds. This capability is extraordinary for a folding e-bike and opens possibilities for passenger transport or serious cargo hauling that competitors simply cannot match.
Safety and Durability Excellence
Industry-Leading Certifications
Safety remains paramount in the Fold 1 Plus design. The bike is UL2271 and UL2849 certified, meeting safety standards for both battery systems and electrical components, including fire safety certification. These certifications, developed by Underwriters Laboratory, ensure that the bike meets rigorous safety standards that not all e-bikes possess.
Weather Resistance and Durability
The battery carries an IPX7 waterproof rating while the entire bike is IPX6 rated, meaning the Fold 1 Plus can handle harsh weather and moisture exposure without risking damage to electrical components. This level of protection allows riders to use pressure washers for cleaning and provides confidence in various weather conditions.
Smart Features and Modern Connectivity
Apple Find My Integration
The Fold 1 Plus incorporates Apple’s Find My technology, providing enhanced security and peace of mind for owners. This integration represents a forward-thinking approach to e-bike security that few competitors have adopted.
Comprehensive App Integration
The bike pairs via Bluetooth to the Velotric app, which includes ride mapping, uploads to Apple Health for iPhone and Apple Watch users, and allows for comprehensive bike customization. The app provides over-the-air updates to ensure the bike stays current with the latest improvements and bug fixes.
Comfort and Practical Design
User-Centric Ergonomics
The step-through frame features a standover height of just 15.5 inches, nearly half an inch lower than the original Fold 1, making it exceptionally accessible for riders of varying heights and mobility needs. The bike accommodates riders from 4’9″ to 6’5″ with telescoping handlebars that allow quick adjustments between different riders.
Efficient Folding Mechanism
When folded, the Fold 1 Plus measures just 37.8″ L x 19.7″ W x 33.5″ H, making it only 2/5 the size of an average foldable e-bike. The three-step folding process is enhanced by practical touches like an included retention strap that prevents the bike from unfolding during transport.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Competitive Pricing Strategy
At $1,499, the Fold 1 Plus represents just a $300 premium over the original Fold 1, making the advanced features remarkably accessible. When compared to competitors like the Ride1Up Portola, which costs $500 less, the Fold 1 Plus justifies the price difference with unique features like SensorSwap technology and Apple Find My integration.
Real-World User Experiences
Early adopters have praised the bike’s performance across diverse applications. Users report that it doesn’t feel like a small folding bike, delivering more range, power, and features than expected in the compact format. Military personnel have found the bikes faster than cars for base transportation, while others appreciate its versatility for everything from grocery runs to mountain biking adventures.
The Future of Folding E-Bikes
The Velotric Fold 1 Plus represents a significant evolution in folding e-bike design, proving that compact doesn’t have to mean compromised. As we approach the midpoint of 2025, it stands as a strong contender for best folding e-bikes, delivering more power and capability than nearly any other folding e-bike on the market.
Engineered for both city streets and weekend adventures, the Fold 1 Plus offers the power, range, and comfort of a full-sized e-bike in a space-saving design that fits effortlessly into apartments, car trunks, and tight storage spaces. This combination of advanced technology, practical design, and competitive pricing positions it as a game-changer in the rapidly evolving e-bike landscape.
The Fold 1 Plus demonstrates that the future of urban mobility lies not just in electrification, but in smart, adaptable solutions that can seamlessly integrate into diverse lifestyles while delivering uncompromising performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the SensorSwap technology work in practice? A: You can switch between cadence and torque sensors by holding the menu button for a few seconds or through the display/app settings. The cadence sensor provides effortless power for hills, while the torque sensor delivers a natural riding feel.
Q: What’s the real-world range of the Fold 1 Plus? A: Real-world testing achieved nearly 70 miles in Trail mode with PAS level 1, closely matching Velotric’s 68-mile claim under ideal conditions.
Q: Can the Fold 1 Plus really carry a passenger? A: Yes, with a 450-pound total payload and 120-pound rear rack capacity, plus a welded rack design, it can safely carry an adult passenger with proper positioning.
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