In 1976, Andrew Ritchie from Britain designed an extremely compact model of folding bicycle, with the aim of storing it like a suitcase to take anywhere. Soon afterwards, in 1982 and having come up with various designs, David Hon presented his first prototype of the folding bicycle, which today represents one of the pioneering companies for this type of bicycle.
Ever since, folding bicycles have become increasingly more comfortable, compact and economical, and can be kept anywhere or combined with public transport, avoiding the use of the car. The evolution of these bicycles can be summed up in a single phrase: A folding bicycle ceases to be a bicycle when it is folded up.
ORBEA is not new to the world of folding bicycles, as ORBEA has offered them in its catalogue for some time. For this reason, and seeing that the meaning of the former “Yovana”, “Dolly”, “Furia” and other ORBEA folding bicycles could be regained, we have launched this new range, in response to the questions which may be raised when someone considers purchasing a folding bicycle.
With its new folding bicycles, ORBEA has taken a qualitative leap in the development of its wide range of bicycles. The ORBEA FOLDING range consists of the Randonée, Balade and Tournée. These three bicycles have been designed in response to the requirements of today’s folding bicycle market.
Randonée: light, aluminium and equipped with 20” wheels and 6 speeds. Our folding bicycle for those users looking for an inter-modal bicycle with high level features. Get about as fast as the wind on this bicycle. Design, quality and versatility on two wheels. You won’t want to get off the Randonée!
Balade: our first option in aluminium, equipped with 6 speeds. The folding bicycle for everyday use. Discover cities such as Paris, London, Barcelona, New York or Sydney on the Balade. It is the perfect balance between functionality and lightness. You will be surprised!
Tournée: the most enjoyable folding ORBEA. Perfect for enjoying a pleasant and relaxing ride wherever you go. You won’t regret your choice. Enjoy yourself on a bicycle like never before!
If the average folding time for folding bicycles on the market is between 1 and 2 minutes, with ORBEA FOLDING, you’ll be able to fold the bike in just 37 seconds. Furthermore, the three models of the ORBEA FOLDING range are available in 3 different colours, for all tastes and users. And what is even more important, the features of today’s models have nothing to envy the conventional models, as they include all of the components used on a normal Trekking bicycle, adapted to the size of the foldable bike. Get attached to the ORBEA FOLDING!