Folding bikes for boats: Your perfect on-board bike for the locker

When you're out on your boat, there's nothing better than getting ashore and exploring on two wheels. But a traditional bike takes up a lot of space - especially on a boat where every corner counts.

Von Vincent Augustin | 5 minutes read time

Klappfahrräder für Boote: Dein perfektes Bordfahrrad für die Backskiste

About the author Vincent Augustin

Vincent founded MYVELO together with Fabian. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: June 24, 2024

The solution? A folding bike that is specially designed for use on board. Let's discover the perfect on-board bike for your locker: The MYVELO Zurich.

Why a folding bike for boats?

Folding bikes, also called on-board bikes, are compact and easy to store. They fit into the locker, which is often the storage space for smaller items on board. A good on-board bike is characterized by a small pack size so that it takes up hardly any space. They are also robust enough to withstand the rough conditions at sea.

Space-saving advantages

On a boat, the space available is limited. Every extra piece of equipment needs to be carefully planned and stored. A folding bike can be easily folded and stored, be it in a locker, below deck or even in special storage areas. This leaves more room for other essentials such as provisions, tools or recreational equipment.

robustness and reliability

An on-board bike must be durable and reliable to withstand the conditions at sea and on land. Salt water, moisture and changing temperatures place high demands on the material and construction. A high-quality folding bike like the MYVELO Zurich is specially designed to withstand these challenges.

possible uses on land

With a folding bike, you can explore the area around your anchorage flexibly and independently. Whether you just want to quickly ride to the nearest port, do some shopping or take an extended tour inland - a folding bike offers you the mobility you need.

The MYVELO Zurich as an on-board bike

The MYVELO Zurich is an outstanding example of an on-board bike that is specifically tailored to the needs of boaters. Here are the key features that make the MYVELO Zurich an ideal companion:

High-quality, stable aluminum frame and aluminum fork

The aluminum frame makes for a sturdy yet lightweight construction. This is especially important on board, where weight is a consideration but stability cannot be neglected. Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, which means it will not rust even in wet conditions and near salt water.

Secure folding mechanism

The folding mechanism of the MYVELO Zurich is easy to use and safe. The strong magnets and double locks ensure that the bike is held firmly together during travel and when stored. This prevents accidental opening and provides additional safety during transport and use.

Foldable pedals

The foldable pedals ensure an even smaller pack size, which means that the bike fits into even the smallest storage space. This is particularly practical when space on board is limited. Despite being foldable, the pedals are robust and offer a firm grip while riding.

Powerful 250 Watt Bafang rear hub motor with 35 Nm

The powerful and maintenance-free motor takes you to your destination reliably and effortlessly. With 250 watts and 35 Nm of torque, you can easily master even steep climbs. The rear hub motor ensures even power transmission and a pleasant driving experience.

Removable battery built into the seat post (36 V Li-Ion, 504 Wh, 14 Ah)

The battery is not only powerful, but also cleverly integrated into the frame. With a capacity of 504 Wh, it gives you ranges that will take you on longer trips across land at speeds of up to 25 km/h. The battery is easy to remove and can be conveniently charged on board or on land.

Corrosion-resistant stainless steel screws

The latest version of the MYVELO Zurich uses stainless steel bolts. This is a crucial detail as it prevents rusting and extends the life of the bike in the harsh conditions at sea. Stainless steel bolts offer excellent resistance to corrosion and contribute to the longevity of the entire bike.

on-board bicycle boat e-folding bike

The perfect boat trip with the MYVELO Zurich

A successful boat trip starts with the right preparation. Make sure that your boat is in perfect condition and that all the necessary supplies are on board. You should stow the MYVELO Zurich safely so that it is well protected during the trip. Check the charge level of the battery beforehand and pack the charger if necessary. Tip: The bike can also be stowed in a bag.

Anchoring and getting the folding bike ready

Once you have found the perfect anchorage, it is time to get the MYVELO Zurich ready to go. Thanks to the simple folding mechanism, the on-board bike is ready for use in no time. Fold out the pedals, fix the fasteners and you are ready to go.

exploring the surrounding area

Now the exciting part of your trip begins: exploring the surrounding area. With the MYVELO Zurich you can quickly and comfortably travel from the anchorage to the next village or town. Use the electric support of the motor to cover longer distances effortlessly. The small pack size of the bike means you can also take it with you on public transport if you want to visit places further away.

Here are some ideas for activities during your shore leave

Sightseeing : Visit local attractions and cultural highlights. Historic towns, picturesque villages and impressive buildings are waiting to be discovered.
Shopping : Visit local markets or shops and buy fresh food or souvenirs. With the MYVELO Zurich you can easily transport your purchases.
Culinary discoveries : Try regional specialties in restaurants or cafés. Enjoy the local cuisine and let yourself be pampered with culinary delights.
Nature experiences : Explore nearby parks, beaches or nature reserves. By bike you are flexible and can easily reach even remote natural paradises.

Practical tips for use on land

Safety first : Always wear a helmet and pay attention to traffic. Make sure your bike lights are working, especially when riding at dusk or in the dark.
Use charging stations : Find out about public charging stations if the MYVELO Zurich battery needs to be charged. Many cities now offer charging stations for e-bikes that you can use. A conventional 220V socket is sufficient.
Route planning : Use apps or maps to find the best and safest routes. Bike-friendly routes are often quieter and offer better views.
Plan your return journey : Keep an eye on the time so that you can return to the boat on time. Allow enough time for the return journey, especially if you plan to travel long distances.

Conclusion

The MYVELO Zurich is the perfect companion for your boat trip. With its compact size, robust construction and powerful electric drive, it offers all the advantages of a conventional bicycle without taking up much space. Whether you are planning a short exploration tour or an extended shore leave, the MYVELO Zurich will make your trip comfortable and unforgettable.

The ability to stow the bike quickly and safely without taking up valuable space on board is an invaluable advantage. In addition, the electric support ensures that even longer distances and hilly terrain can be mastered effortlessly. Thanks to the robust construction and the corrosion-resistant stainless steel screws, the MYVELO Zurich is ideally equipped for the challenges at sea and on land.

Prepare your locker and get ready for new adventures on land with your MYVELO Zurich. This on-board bike offers you the freedom and flexibility you need as a boat owner to fully explore your surroundings. Whether sightseeing, shopping or just enjoying nature - with the MYVELO Zurich you are well equipped for every shore excursion.

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Further information and frequently asked questions zu Folding bikes for boats: Your perfect on-board bike for the locker

Get advice from cycling enthusiasts

What makes a good on-board bike?

A good folding bike for use on board must meet various criteria to meet the specific requirements and challenges that life on a boat brings. Here are the most important features that should characterize an on-board bike:

1. Compact pack size

The most important feature of a folding boat bike is its compact size. It should fold up easily and small so that it fits easily in the locker or other storage space of the boat. A compact size makes it easier to store and allows more space for other important equipment.

2. Light weight

A lightweight bike is easier to handle and transport, especially on a boat where access to storage space can sometimes be tight. Aluminum frames are ideal as they are lightweight yet sturdy and corrosion-resistant.

3. Robustness and durability

A good onboard bike must be resistant to the harsh conditions at sea. Salt water, moisture and changing weather conditions place high demands on the materials. Corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum and stainless steel screws are essential to prevent rust and extend the life of the bike.

4. Reliable folding mechanism

The folding mechanism should be robust and easy to use. Strong magnets and double-locked fasteners ensure that the bike is held firmly together during travel and when stored. This prevents accidental opening and provides additional safety.

5. Powerful drive

A powerful and maintenance-free electric motor is a great advantage, especially if you want to cover longer distances or hilly terrain. A rear hub motor like the 250 watt Bafang motor on the MYVELO Zurich ensures smooth power transmission and a pleasant ride.

6. Sufficient battery capacity

The battery capacity should be sufficient to provide you with reliable support on your trips. A powerful lithium-ion battery that is easy to remove and charge, such as the 504 Wh battery of the MYVELO Zurich, enables longer trips and ensures that you don't suddenly find yourself without support.

7. Foldable pedals

Foldable pedals also contribute to the bike's compactness and make it easier to store. They ensure that the bike fits into tighter storage spaces without sacrificing functionality.

8. Good driving characteristics

Despite its compact size and lightness, an on-board bike should offer good riding characteristics. Stability, a comfortable seat and good suspension are important in order to be able to ride comfortably and safely even on uneven paths.

9. Ease of maintenance

Maintenance-friendly components such as a maintenance-free engine and high-quality materials that require little care are particularly practical. On board a boat, it is often not easy to carry out complex repairs, so it is important that the bike requires as little maintenance as possible.

10. Versatility

A good on-board bike should be versatile. It should be suitable for both short trips in the city and longer tours in the surrounding area. The option of taking the bike on public transport increases flexibility even more.

11. Security features

Safety features such as reliable brakes, lights and reflectors are essential for being safe on the road. A good on-board bike should offer all the necessary safety features to ensure you are well protected at all times.

How much does an e-bike charge cost?

The cost of charging an e-bike depends on several factors, including the electricity tariff, the capacity of the battery and the efficiency of the charger. Here is a rough estimate of how to calculate the cost:

battery capacity: Most e-bike batteries have a capacity of around 400 to 700 watt-hours (Wh). Let's take an average 500 Wh battery as an example.
electricity tariff: The electricity tariff varies depending on the region and provider. In Germany, the average electricity price in 2024 will be around 30 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh).
calculation of costs:

Therefore, a full charge of an average e-bike battery costs about 15 cents.

This is a rough estimate and actual costs may vary depending on specific circumstances, including exact electricity tariff and charger efficiency.