Our Recommendation for a Foldable, Electric Bike for RV Use 

Space is a precious commodity when traveling in an RV. My husband and I started carrying our bicycles on a bike holder on the back of our motorhome. Randy, my husband of many skills, created a bike rack by welding metal together that easily slipped hitch receiver. The convenience allowed us to access the bikes easily. When we parked after a long drive, going for a ride was a energizing way to get our blood pumping and stretch our stiff bones. 

However, when we purchased a mini-cooper and hitched it behind the RV the receptacle we used for the bike rack was no longer available so we started leaving the bikes behind. We missed them but just never found a replacement way to haul them along. 

Then when my brother sent us a picture of his new foldable, electric bikes from Costco, we knew they were just what we needed. At first we were a little apprehensive because they looked small and feared they would be uncomfortable. We wanted smaller bikes but are also at an age that we are not willing to give up comfort. 

With my brother's reassurance and positive comments about the bike, we sent him the money to purchase a couple since we were traveling and headed to visit. We were not disappointed when we picked up our new bikes. When we compared what other electric bikes cost, these provided a significant financial saving while meeting our needs. 

At a $300.00 price point this bike provided everything we wanted and needed. 

• LED headlight
• Built in carrying handle
• LCD display of batter life
• Speed of up to 15 mph
• Battery charge up to 17 miles with a rechargeable lithium-ion
• Lightweight, 34 lbs.
• Holds 250 lbs. 
• Cruise control
• Power on/off controller
• Batter charger

The bike comes in a box mostly assembled. Only a couple of items needed to be attached such as the pedal, seat and fender but these are easily placed. The shipping box even contained the tool needed to complete the assembly so the bike was ready to ride in a matter of minutes. The only thing we added was the basket to make it accessible to our dog, Dagney. We would never hear the end of it if we didn't take her along. 

The basket we chose has soft cloth sides for comfort, and we added a blanket to the bottom. The sides are reinforced with sturdy rods so they do not collapse if Dagney hangs over the front or sides. The basket is detachable, folds up easily and has a handle. There are many options available on Amazon but these are the features wanted. 

On this particular day, my husband had just been released from therapy on his angle. He had permission to ride a bike, but his foot was still sore. The electric bike made it possible for us to extend the ride beyond what would have been comfortable if peddling was required. We are both in our 60 and pretty healthy, but I find the extra boost helps me climb hills. Though I usually peddle for the exercise, the battery helps me navigate more difficult areas.

The throttle on the right handlebar is easy to turn to accelerate. Just as you would assume, it rolls back to increase speed and forward to decelerate. The hand brake is on the left side. The bike can be used either with or without the assistance of the electric motor. Either way it is comfortable and smooth. Because of the small tires, it took me a while to get used to it, but after a little practice, felt extremely stable. 

This video below was shared on YouTube. If readers are interested, it provides more details. 

We love that the bikes fit easily under our motorhome and can be transported in our mini-cooper. They easily fold down by removing the seats and bending the handlebars to the side. Recently, when we were parked at a resort for an extended stay, we loaded the bike up and drove to a greenbelt for a day's outing. It was a beautiful, healthy way to see the area. The battery life took us through the entire day because the 17 miles only applies to the time the battery is in use and not when peddling. The picture below shows how compact the are. 

Randy and I like our Jetson bikes so much we plan to sell our old, traditional bikes and use these at home and when we travel. They fit our lifestyle.

___________________________________________________

While he drives, I write. For more articles about our adventures visit or subscribe to our travel blog.

SUBSCRIBE