missed the Blaupunkt news when it launched the three standard-tire e-bikes in the US last year, so before we get to my ride, let’s catch up with the basics.and throttle assist the Blaupunkt 20-inch e-folding bike is at the highest level,” the company says. “Durable, single die cast foldable magnesium frame, makes for a sleek design. No ugly soldering joints here! Ultra-portable weighing only 21 kg and a range up to 70 km range [depending on conditions].
So, I was a bit doubtful. To pass the time, I unfolded the bike. It did not want to unfold at first, but that was only because a magnetic catch keeps it from unfolding when you want to keep it folded up. That’s a clever touch, which eliminates the need to fuss with a bungee cord or belt. A little knee pressure released the magnet.
When I finally got around to the assembly stage, I realized that the hex key was only needed to attach the handlebars. I’ve struggled with this step on other bikes, because it can be difficult to keep the handlebars in position while tightening the clamp. Not so with the Blaupunkt e-bike. The space for the clamp was clearly marked with hashes, which also helped prevent the clamp from slipping while the hex key went to work. I got it done on the first try.
Another nice touch is the mini-wheel that sticks out when the bike is folded up. That makes it easy to roll the bike around instead of carrying it.