Denago Folding Model 1 E-Bike Review, 2024

To evaluate the Denago Folding 1’s range capabilities and motor/battery efficiency we performed a real-world range test. Our methods are explained above, but after performing our Circuit Test, we felt that the best settings for this trial were PAS 2 and PAS 5.

The Folding Model 1 is an unusual case for a couple of reasons. First, Denago does not currently advertise an estimated range for the bike – at least not in an obvious location. Again, we reached out to the company with questions, and our contact suggested that most riders should achieve at least 40 miles.

Second, the actual range that we measured was unusual. With the bike’s 500W rear hub motor and 48V, 672 watt-hour (Wh) battery, the Folding 1 traveled nearly 42 miles in its maximum PAS setting, and nearly 50 in PAS 2.

It’s relatively uncommon for an e-bike to have such similar results; a difference of between 15 or 20 miles is more typical. However, we were pleased to see that the Folding Model 1 both met and exceeded Denago’s estimate even in PAS 5. The figures we arrived at in our testing are completely respectable given the bike’s motor wattage and battery watt-hour ratings. We discuss more about that relationship in our guide to e-bike batteries.

I noticed during my rides that, especially in the bike’s max-assist setting, I found myself often reaching for the shifter to access an additional gear that wasn’t there. This isn’t uncommon when it comes to Class 3 e-bikes, but the Folding Model 1 can feel “ghost-pedaley” in PAS 5 despite the 48-tooth chainring and gearing range of 12-32T on its cassette. Personally, I wouldn’t be opposed to an additional 8th gear, but as it is, the bike’s current configuration allows its rider to relax and rely on the motor in its highest PAS setting if they don’t wish to pedal at 3000 RPMs.

Regardless, the Folding Model 1’s range of 40 to 50 miles looks great when compared to that of similar e-bikes we have tested; it is currently at or near the top of the list for single-battery folding bikes. This distance is likely to cover at least a half-day of solid saddle time, and if that amount of mileage is spread out over shorter, more casual rides, it is fair to expect a few days before needing to recharge (like me, after a gallon of coffee!).

Our methods for testing the Denago Folding Model 1’s hill climbing ability are described in the graphic above. It should be noted that our test hill was chosen specifically for its extreme nature; most riders wouldn’t relish pedaling up the path without motor assistance, and most motors have at least some level of difficulty reaching the top when doing all of the work.

Previously in this Denago Folding Model 1 review, I mentioned the bike’s capabilities on the short hill included in our Circuit Test – but Hell Hole was the true test of its power.

With throttle-only power, the bike steadily climbed over 1 minute and 22 seconds to reach the summit, with an average speed of 13.2 mph. This puts the bike near the top of the list when compared to similarly-specced folding e-bikes, but its PAS 5 results truly push it above and beyond.

With maximum pedal assistance in PAS 5, we flew uphill at an average of 16 mph and conquered the climb in just 1 minute and 8 seconds. How’s that for a rush?!

The Denago Folding Model 1 uses JAK mechanical disc brakes paired with 180 mm rotors on both wheels, which also have a motor cutoff feature. With this system, the bike achieved an average stopping distance result of 19’-6”, which is barely beyond our (current) running average for folding e-bikes of 19’-0”.

We typically prefer to see hydraulic disc brakes on e-bikes capable of Class 3 speeds, but despite our unfamiliarity with the brand, we’re satisfied with the performance of the JAK mechanical setup included on the Folding Model 1.

Brakes are just one safety feature that we consider; aside from standard reflectors, the Folding Model 1 also includes a headlight and taillight with brake lights. Or, should include, rather; our test bike was a pre-production model that included the tail/brake lights, but did not come with the headlight module. As such, we cannot speak to its effectiveness or ease of use, but Denago is sending us a unit to try out. We will update this review once we can install the unit.

In my experience, folding e-bikes are often a mixed bag when it comes to comfort and handling, and I believe that phrase accurately applies to the Denago Folding Model 1. Its pedals are standard fare on a folding bike – small, folding pedals that work fine but feel their size. I personally found the bike’s stock saddle to be too far on the firm side for my personal tastes, but it might be fine for others (and easy to replace if not). The ergonomic rubber grips, however, were a nice and comfortable addition.

As I mentioned earlier in this Denago Folding Model 1 review, the bike’s reach felt somewhat on the long side, which likely contributed to the twitchy handling caused by its extended plastic folding stem. To be clear, this feeling is not likely to be pronounced or easily distinguishable to newer riders; I imagine that it stood out to me because I have the luxury of comparing similar e-bikes back-to-back. That said, I found that the Folding Model 1 didn’t seem as stable as I’d like it to be when cornering at higher speed, but taking curves a little slower than usual made a big difference.

The small 20”x3” tires are appropriate and expected on a folding bike. These allow it to have quick and responsive maneuvering, but also don’t absorb bumps as much as larger wheels do. These days, it’s becoming less and less common to see a folding e-bike without at least some sort of suspension, so I think the Folding Model 1 would only benefit from the inclusion of a suspension fork in the future.

The bike’s cockpit layout is simple; it uses a black-and-white display that prioritizes the most relevant and important ride data. Aside from brake levers, the right bar hosts the bike’s control panel and thumb throttle and the left bar includes a Microshift thumb-operated trigger shifter. Personally, I found the throttle lever to be one of the more difficult-to-operate units I’ve tried, but the shifter to be one of the best. In particular, I liked that the same motion worked to both up- and down-shift. Finally, while it’s a simple and small inclusion, I liked the trigger-style bell included on the front brake lever. So often, I find large, hard-to-reach bells placed far away from the grips, and I liked that this one was easy to use – and it’s loud for its size!

While the Folding Model 1 ships as a Class 3 e-bike, we appreciated how easy it was to adjust the bike’s top speed. Riders who want to take the bike on more restricted paths or trails can reduce its maximum speed through its settings menu by hitting the “+” and “-” buttons on its control panel simultaneously. The bike has plenty of flexibility too, so if 25 mph is too fast for your tastes, you can quickly bring that down to 18 or 22 (or any of the other steps in-between).

On the less exciting side, we would love to see a more responsive cadence sensor on the next iteration of the bike, so that the current power and initial engagement of its motor can be enjoyed throughout the rest of its riding experience. And while we appreciate the fairly broad range of riders the Folding Model 1 can accommodate, we’d also prefer to see a shorter (or otherwise more rigid) stem to provide smoother handling.

As we expected for a Denago offering, the bike delivered exciting speed and thrilling kicks between PAS settings. Unexpectedly, it also proved itself to be a biathlon champion with the endurance to sprint for hours and the brawn to climb hills with grace!

As such, we think the Folding Model 1 will appeal to intrepid travelers who want power and speed just as much as new or casual riders who might be looking for flexibility. Either way, the Folding Model 1 is a solid blend of functionality and performance in a reasonably-priced package. We’re happy to see all of that from a brand that continues to assert its competence in the e-bike market!

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions down in our comments section or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Denago Folding Model 1.