ADO Air 20S blue at Fatbikeskopen.nl

The blue ADO Air 20S is the low-step version, while the gray model has a higher frame. That is a bigger difference than the color suggests: with a folding bike that you regularly lift in and out of a car or train, easy mounting makes a difference every time. Otherwise, this is the same bike: eighteen kilos, 20-inch wheels, a carbon belt, a torque sensor, and hydraulic disc brakes. The question that comes up most often concerns the difference from the Pro.

Difference between the Air 20S and the Air 20 Pro

They both fold up and share the same compact frame with carbon belt drive. The difference is the drivetrain: the 20S has a single fixed gear, while the Pro and Ultra offer more motor power and an automatic hub. For short rides on flat terrain, that technology adds little, and you mainly pay for convenience you do not use. If you ride longer distances into the wind or your route includes a bridge, the difference is noticeable.

Low step-through and folding

This version has a low step-through, so you step through the frame. Combined with a folding bike, that is a logical choice, because you get on and off this type of bike more often than a regular city bike. Folding takes place at the middle of the frame and at the handlebars. Eighteen kilos is still a weight you lift with both hands, but it is light enough for a trunk, a staircase, or a train compartment without having to look ahead anxiously.

Range of the blue ADO Air 20S

The stated range is up to 100 kilometers with a 36V, 9.6Ah Samsung battery. That is optimistic for this capacity: the figure applies to a light rider using the lowest assist level on flat terrain. In everyday use, you can expect around forty to fifty kilometers, which is more than enough for a week of commuting. Charging takes four to six hours. The maximum total weight is 120 kilos, so heavy luggage or a passenger is beyond what this bike is designed for. Charging works from a regular power outlet without any special equipment.

Carbon belt and torque sensor

You don't lubricate a carbon belt, it doesn't rust, and your clothes stay clean. On a bike that often comes indoors, that is worth more than on a bike that always stays outside. The torque sensor measures how much force you apply to the pedals and adjusts the motor accordingly, making the ride feel smooth rather than the assistance kicking in in bursts. The hydraulic disc brakes bring you to a stop with little hand pressure, even in the rain.

Who is the blue ADO Air 20S for?

For commuters who combine cycling with the train or car, people without storage downstairs, and anyone who would rather keep moving than swing a leg over a frame. The frame suits riders approximately 1.50 to 1.95 metres tall. Note two things: there is no suspension and only one gear. On poor road surfaces and in strong headwinds, you therefore sacrifice some comfort. If you always ride the same flat route without having to carry the bike, an ordinary city bike is more relaxed. For anyone who regularly needs to carry the bike, its low weight is exactly the point.

Ordering from Fatbikeskopen.nl

Folding and mounting are both things you have to do only once to know whether they suit you, so come and try it. You can do so at ten showrooms, where the different versions are displayed side by side. For maintenance, you can visit more than 450 locations in the Netherlands. If you order online, the bike will be delivered to your home ready to ride. Insurance can be arranged when you place your order. Three-year warranty on the frame, one year on components and battery.

See also: ADO folding bikes | ADO e-bikes | folding bikes | foldable electric bikes