Electric bike: MiRider 2021 folding bike

Review in brief

The 2021 MiRider is a very small single-geared folder, but surprisingly capable and is around a kilo lighter than the previous model (including battery).

Great ride from such a small bike
Throttle control a big plus for nipping in and out of traffic
Small and easy to store even if not folded
Small battery a bit disappointing, but MiRider says there will be an option for a bigger capacity one
Single speed gearing

About MiRider

This UK-based firm, located in the heart of Lancashire, is family run by keen cyclists.

About the MiRider electric bike

The 2021 MiRider is a very compact folding bike, which has a lot to offer:

• Funky-looking and functional

The funky-looking magnesium frame features mid-frame elastomer suspension, plus adjustable height handlebars and seatpost. This all makes for a surprisingly comfortable ride despite the small 16in wheels. It should suit a wide range of heights, but taller riders should definitely try and get a test ride to check they are happy with the single frame size

• Capable single gear

Despite the single gear, the high torque rear hub motor means you can climb reasonably steep hills and hope for a reasonable range - I was impressed with its performance over an eight-mile route with nearly 1,000ft of climbing using a bit more than half the battery. Of course it will need more human input than some bigger, heavier e-bikes, but it’s still impressive

• 2021 improvements

The 2021 model features a number of improvements over the 2020 model and is preferable; you can recognise it most easily from the conventional spoked wheels in contrast to the one-piece ‘mag’ wheels of the 2020 version. Its also lighter by around a kilogram at 17.65kg including the removable battery

• Small but stable

With a small wheelbase, small wheels and keen cable-operated disc brakes, handling is lively, but that can be a boon if you want to weave through city traffic. This, plus pedelec and throttle controls, make it a great little city bike as well as being a handy holiday accessory. The frame folds in half (67cm by 66cm by 43cm) and houses a small 187Wh battery.