WIRED has reviewed the Brompton Electric T-Line e-Motiq, a folding electric bicycle made from aerospace-grade titanium that prioritizes portability. The bike weighs 31 pounds with its 345-Wh battery and folds to 25.4 by 23.6 by 12.6 inches. While praised for its light weight and smooth ride, it is limited to 15.5 mph in the US and carries a high price tag.
The Brompton Electric T-Line e-Motiq features a 250-watt rear-hub motor delivering up to 30 Nm of torque and a 345-Wh battery offering up to 45 miles of range. Weighing 31 pounds fully equipped or 24.6 pounds without the battery, it is lighter than the previous steel model at 32.4 pounds plus a separate 6.4-pound battery. The frame, produced in Sheffield and assembled in London, uses titanium with carbon forks and handlebars for minimal weight— the non-electric T-Line version is just 17.64 pounds. Folded dimensions of 25.4 x 23.6 x 12.6 inches allow it to fit under a desk or in a hallway, though the battery must be carried separately, ideally in a compatible backpack or bag made from UHMWPE fabric that holds a lock and lunch. The e-Motiq system provides three power-assist levels plus Push Assist and Electric Push Assist at 3-4 mph walking speed, adapting to the rider's style over the first 62 miles. A handlebar controller manages modes without a touchscreen. Charging takes four hours fully or two hours for half capacity using a proprietary charger. Built-in LED lights ensure safer urban riding, and fenders come standard, with optional rear racks for $250. The reviewer notes a smooth, natural ride on 16-inch wheels, effective hill assistance, and ease of carrying up stairs or on public transport. However, the 15.5 mph US speed limit disappoints compared to 20 mph Class 1 options, and single-speed suffices in traffic but four-speed variants exist. At around $7,850, it targets affluent urban commuters with storage constraints, outperforming the pricier HPS Domestique or cheaper Fiido Air in portability but not value for most.
