Bram’s Bike Spam - Compact, electric, and theft-proof: 4 bikes for city dwellers short on space

In cities like Brussels, bike theft remains a persistent problem, and one of the biggest barriers to sustainable commuting. 💔

And that’s a shame, because cycling is still the fastest, healthiest, and most affordable way to get around the city. Yet many people leave their bikes at home, afraid they’ll disappear the moment they’re out of sight, or because they don’t have a safe place to store them.

That’s why compact and folding e-bikes are gaining popularity fast. They’re smart, stylish, and above all: incredibly practical. You simply take them inside with you. 🤷🏻 No garage needed, no worries about locks or bike racks full of abandoned wheels.

Preventing bike theft: small effort, big impact

An active prevention strategy is anything but a luxury. These basics already put you one step ahead:

• Invest in a high-quality bike lock (at least ART-2 certified).
• Use a frame or wheel lock to secure the rear wheel.
• Always lock the frame - even for short stops - preferably to a fixed anchor point, so thieves can’t just pick up your bike and walk away.

💡 Want to know more? Check out our blog “Protect your bike from theft with these 5 tips.”

Still, even the best lock can’t beat one solution: bringing your bike indoors with you. Below, we share our favorite compact e-bikes for anyone who wants to tackle bike theft and limited space in one smart move. 👇

1. The folding city legend: Brompton Electric

The classic of all foldable bikes: compact, classy, and ready for any urban ride.

The Brompton Electric is the gold standard for folding bikes. In just 20 seconds, it folds into a tidy little package that fits under your desk, next to your sofa, or on the train. Perfect if you live in an apartment or don’t want to leave your bike outside.

With its smart 250W motor and range up to 70 km, it glides effortlessly through the city, even uphill (the e-version goes up to 25 km/h). Ideal for commuters who value style, space, and peace of mind.

💶 Price: from €3,190, depending on battery and setup.

⚡ Ultra-compact, elegant, and fast-folding. Perfect for city riders without bike storage.

💡 Pro tip: Just take it inside with you on the train, at the office, or even in the elevator. No hassle, no lock needed.

2. The smart balance of comfort and compact: QiO EINS+

Small, but far from simple.

The QiO EINS+ strikes the perfect balance between a city bike and a folding bike. With its low step-through frame, 20-inch wheels, and a strong motor, it glides smoothly over tram tracks, cobblestones, and hills, all with the feel of a full-sized e-bike.

And the best part? Both the pedals and handlebar fold. In just 30 seconds, you can slide it into your hallway or storage nook. Easy.

💬 Our colleague Lauren rides one herself:

“The wide tires fly over tram tracks, and with the foldable handlebar, I can park anywhere. And best of all? I spot my bright blue bike instantly in the parking lot!” 🩵

💶 Price: from €3,399

⚡ Comfortable, stylish, and surprisingly compact. The perfect daily city companion.

💡 Pro tip: Storing your bike in your hallway? Fold down the handlebar and pedals for a smoother pass-through (and fewer bruised shins 🫠).

3. The family all-rounder: Tern Vektron

Need more space on your bike but don’t want to haul around a tank?

The Tern Vektron combines the power of a longtail e-bike with the practicality of a folding bike. It folds in under a minute and fits anywhere, from your elevator to your car trunk.

With room for a child seat or bags, a powerful Bosch motor, and a sturdy build, this is the ultimate city bike for families or anyone carrying a bit extra.

💶 Price: from €3,999

⚡ The practical family bike that blends power, comfort, and compactness.

💡 Pro tip: The Tern even fits in the trunk of a small city car. Weekend trip? Check.

4. The Brussels-made beauty: Ahooga A-Max

Built in Brussels, designed for city life. 🇧🇪

The Ahooga A-Max is an electric folding bike that pairs Belgian design with smart mobility. Weighing just 18.5 kg, it folds in seconds and fits easily in your hallway, elevator, or even under your desk.

What makes it stand out? The blend of strength and style. With a 250W motor, 7 gears, and up to 75 km of range, it keeps you cruising smoothly through traffic, no sweat, no stress, and no theft worries.

The A-Max’s sleek aluminum frame hides clever details like built-in lights and a relaxed upright position. A perfect match for urban riders who want elegance without compromise.

💶 Price: from €2,190

⚡ Light, elegant, and electric, the ideal city bike that moves as easily as you do.

💡 Pro tip: Born in Brussels, made for Brussels. Take it inside with you, your bike deserves better than a night on the street. 🥲

Smart cycling in small spaces

No storage? No problem. With compact and foldable bikes, you can enjoy all the perks of bike leasing without stressing over space or security.

Whether you live in an apartment in Brussels, Liège, or Namur, there’s always a bike that fits your lifestyle: small, smart, and surprisingly powerful. Bring it inside, and with Joule’s maintenance and insurance package, it’ll stay in top shape.

Waiting for your new bike to arrive, or still deciding whether now’s the right time to lease one? In the meantime, you can already go through our bike theft prevention tips — they’ll get you a long way.

💡 Read our blog here: “Protect your bike from theft with these 5 tips.”

💡 Did you know? You can lease a folding or compact bike just like any other e-bike or speed pedelec through your employer.

👉 Discover all compact models via Joule Mobile or at your local Joule dealer.

👉 Want to compare a few more models? Check out our blog: Compact bikes: perfect for city life, commuting, and tight spaces.

Or get in touch, we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect fit. 👇🏻