vehicles
This fascinating folding e-bike is lighter than Brompton’s lightest electric bike
British e-bike manufacturer FLIT has introduced the FLIT M2i, a new ultra-lightweight folding electric bike that undercuts the weight of Brompton’s lightest e-bike by nearly 2 kg.
Weighing just 13.3 kg (29.3 lb), the FLIT M2i is one of the lightest fully equipped folding e-bikes on the market, making it an appealing option for urban commuters—especially in densely packed Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, where space and portability are key.
A Lightweight Champion
The FLIT M2i’s featherweight design is achieved through a combination of carbon fiber forks, a magnesium alloy frame, and a compact 250W rear-hub motor. Despite its minimal weight, the bike still offers a range of up to 50 km on a single charge, thanks to its 252Wh battery—removable for easy charging indoors, a major plus for Canadian apartment dwellers.
For comparison, Brompton’s lightest electric model, the Brompton Electric C Line Explore, weighs 15.6 kg (34.4 lb). While Brompton remains a gold standard for folding bikes, FLIT’s latest model presents a compelling alternative for riders prioritizing weight savings.
Canadian Availability & Pricing
FLIT has not yet confirmed official Canadian pricing or availability, but based on its UK launch price of £2,995 (approx. $5,100 CAD), the M2i would likely land in the $5,000–$6,000 CAD range—competitive with premium folding e-bikes in Canada.
Given Canada’s growing e-bike market, particularly in cities with ebike rebate programs (such as British Columbia’s $1,000–$1,750 incentives), the FLIT M2i could attract commuters looking for a portable, high-quality electric bike that’s easy to carry on transit, store in a condo, or tuck into a car trunk.
Design & Practicality
The FLIT M2i folds in under 10 seconds, with a three-step process that makes it compact enough for tight spaces. It also features integrated front and rear lights, a built-in bell, and a customizable app for adjusting power modes—useful for Canadian riders navigating variable urban terrain.
One potential drawback for Canadian winters: the bike’s lightweight construction may not be as rugged as heavier models, and its 250W motor (legal in Canada under federal e-bike regulations) may struggle on steep hills or in strong headwinds. However, for flat-city commuting, its agility and portability could outweigh these concerns.
A New Contender in the Folding E-Bike Market
With the FLIT M2i, the company is positioning itself as a strong alternative to Brompton, especially for riders who value weight and ease of use over brand legacy. If FLIT expands distribution to Canada, this bike could carve out a niche among urban professionals, RV travelers, and multi-modal commuters who need a light, efficient, and foldable electric bike.
For now, Canadian e-bike enthusiasts will have to wait for official launch details—but if the FLIT M2i delivers on its promise, it could be a game-changer for the lightweight folding e-bike category north of the border.