Brompton C Line Electric

81/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Charge Time
4 Hours
Maximum Range
45 Miles
Top Speed
15.5 mph
Watts
250 W
Torque
40 Nm
Volts and Amp Hours
36V 8.55Ah
Class
Drive
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
4, 12
Weight
36.5, 38.1 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Brompton C Line Electric. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

12 reasons to buy

  • The Brompton C Line Electric comes in two builds: 12-speed or 4-speed. The 4-speed can be bought with a rear roller rack (22lb capacity).
  • The C Line Electric is extremely compact when folded at just 25.3" x 23'' x 10.6''.
  • Testers and owners praise Brompton's quick, easy three-fold design and high-quality folding mechanisms.
  • Buyers can choose between mid (40”) and high (42.2”) handlebar heights. Extended or telescoping seatposts are available for purchase (inseams greater than 33").
  • This bike comes with fenders, front and rear lights, and a frame-mounted pump. The battery's bag can also be used to carry extra items.
  • Experts enjoy the nimble handling, and one says the battery's weight up front helps reduce the twitchiness of the 16" wheels.
  • At 36.5lb or 38.14lb, the C Line Electric is easy to lift and carry.
  • A 6’1”, 150lb reviewer gets 20 miles of range using max assist.
  • Owners and testers find the 250W motor sufficient for riding flat pavement and mild hills around town.
  • When folded, this bike can be wheeled using the saddle as a handle.
  • Riding the lightweight C Line Electric is so easy that a reviewer says top speed is achievable on the flat without motor assistance.
  • Owners can register the C Line Electric to avail of a seven-year frame warranty and three-year warranty on electrical components.

6 reasons not to buy

  • Reviewers report a delay of a few seconds for pedal assist to kick in.
  • The C Line Electric doesn't have a display or handlebar controls for pedal assist. Brompton's phone app can be used for this purpose.
  • Some owners and reviewers find it difficult to reach over the handlebars to the battery to change PAS levels. Brompton suggests stopping to change PAS mode.
  • Buyers receive bikes with issues such as flat tires, defective drivetrains, a faulty battery, or damage from transit.
  • The battery cannot be locked to the bike and should be removed if locking the bike in public.
  • US-based testers bemoan the 15.5mph top speed, wishing for a Class 1 maximum of 20mph.

Bottom line

The C Line Electric is Brompton's most affordable electric option. It's available with 4 or 12 speeds. Testers appreciate its low weight, compact size, and overall portability. The handling is nimble, but the steering is less twitchy than non-electric Bromptons, thanks to the front-mounted battery. The lack of display and handlebar PAS controls frustrates testers, and US-based reviewers are disappointed by the 15.5mph max assisted speed. Additionally, multiple buyers receive bikes with defective parts, which is unacceptable at this price point. Overall, experts feel the C Line Electric is a great option for those who need an ultra-light and compact e-folder.

Expert Reviews

88/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
96
Electric Bike Report

Brompton Electric C Line Explore Review | Cool & Compact

Handlebar-mounted controls would be more user-friendly. Otherwise, if you’re looking for a lightweight, ultra compact, and extremely practical folding e-bike, and you don’t mind the premium cost, this is definitely the bike.

Visit full review
82
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
Ebike Escape

Brompton Electric C Line Review: The Best Folding, Lightweight, Compact E-Bike Today

It’s really the more regular riders, commuters, and those who need an e-bike that doesn’t take up much space who are going to be able to justify a purchase like this.

Visit full review
84

Brompton C Line Explore Electric Review: 12-Speed Innovation for the Classic Bike

This new bike gives us the best of everything: all the gears for various inclines and the convenience of the compact Brompton package: lightweight, portable, and folding.

Visit full review

User Ratings

68/100 based on 12 ratings
  • 5 star
    25%
  • 4 star
    42%
  • 3 star
    0%
  • 2 star
    17%
  • 1 star
    17%

Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#52 Best Folding
Bottom 50%
#204 Best Commuter
Bottom 50%
#7 Best Brompton Bike
Bottom 20%
#522 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 40%

Bike Comparison

Brompton C Line Electric in comparison to averages
Brompton C Line Electric
81