HITWAY BK5S Folding Electric Bike 16 Inch 250W – Review and Comparison

The HITWAY BK5S is an urban folding e-bike designed for e-bike beginners, teenagers and adults seeking a practical, economical and reliable solution for their daily commutes. With its TÜV-certified frame, removable battery with anti-theft lock and comprehensive safety features, it offers excellent value for money in the urban folding segment.

Who is this bike for?

This model is particularly suited for:

• Urban commutes (5 to 20 km per day)
• Teenagers and adults new to e-bikes
• Multimodal transport (train, underground, car + bike)
• Users with limited storage space (flat, office)
• People between 155 and 180 cm tall
• Cyclists seeking an affordable folding bike

Performance and range

The HITWAY BK5S is equipped with a 250 W brushless rear hub motor, compliant with European regulations. Three pedal assistance levels (15, 20 or 25 km/h) allow you to adapt your riding to each situation, from leisurely commutes to full power urban riding.

• Claimed range: 35 to 90 km (depending on assistance mode)
• Real-world range: approximately 25 to 60 km depending on usage
• Maximum assisted speed: 25 km/h (EU standard)
• Hill climbing capacity: up to 25°

In real conditions, range depends on:

• Rider weight (maximum load 100 kg)
• Assistance mode selected
• Terrain (flat vs uphill)
• Weather conditions and tyre pressure

The removable 36 V 10.4 Ah lithium battery (374.4 Wh) is housed under the saddle and removes easily by folding the seat. A dedicated lock ensures optimal anti-theft protection, a valuable asset for peace of mind. Full charging takes 5 to 6 hours at home or in the office.

Design and comfort

The BK5S emphasises compactness and practicality. Its Q195 carbon-construction steel frame weighs 23.8 kg with battery included, and folds in a few simple steps to reach dimensions of 80 × 50 × 68 cm. The bike suits cyclists between 155 and 180 cm tall, making it a versatile choice for teenagers and adults.

Its 16×2.125 inch puncture-resistant pneumatic tyres offer excellent grip in urban settings, on wet roads and slightly rough paths. The single-speed transmission simplifies operation and reduces maintenance, ideal for beginners or users who don't want to worry about derailleurs.

For braking, mechanical disc brakes front and rear, combined with the motor's electronic cut-off system, guarantee instant and reliable braking, even in wet conditions. The intelligent LCD display shows speed, distance and battery level in real time.

For safety, the BK5S is fitted with STVZO-compliant front and rear LED lights and innovative reflective bands positioned either side of the rim, offering 360° visibility even in low light. The rear rack features an integrated seat for added versatility, ideal for carrying rucksacks, shopping or small items.

Strengths

✔ Excellent value for money in the urban folding segment
✔ TÜV-certified Q195 steel frame
✔ Removable battery with integrated anti-theft lock
✔ Compact folding format (80 × 50 × 68 cm)
✔ 16×2.125 puncture-resistant tyres
✔ Disc brakes + motor electronic cut-off
✔ STVZO LED lights + 360° reflective bands
✔ Rear rack with integrated versatile seat
✔ 3 pedal assistance levels

Weaknesses

❌ No suspension (rigid fork)
❌ Steel frame heavier than aluminium or magnesium
❌ Single-speed transmission unsuitable for steep hills
❌ Maximum load limited to 100 kg
❌ Cadence sensor (no torque sensor)
❌ 16 inch wheels less stable at high speed

Comparison and positioning

The HITWAY BK5S positions itself as the brand's most accessible folding e-bike, ideal for beginners and tight budgets. Compared to the HITWAY BK2 (22.7 kg, dual suspension, 280.8 Wh), the BK5S sacrifices suspension comfort for superior range and a lower price. Compared to the HITWAY BK35S (18 kg, aluminium alloy, 324 Wh), the BK5S is heavier but offers a more generous battery and integrated anti-theft lock.

It is ideal for cyclists who prioritise value for money, range and anti-theft security, without needing suspension comfort or premium lightweight frame construction.

This bike is for you if:

✔ you're seeking an affordable urban folder
✔ you're new to e-bikes
✔ you want good range (25 to 60 km real-world)
✔ you value anti-theft security
✔ you are between 155 and 180 cm tall
✔ you mainly ride flat urban terrain

This bike is NOT for you if:

❌ you want the lightest folding bike possible
❌ you regularly ride heavily damaged roads (no suspension)
❌ you weigh over 100 kg
❌ you tackle steep hills daily (single-speed)
❌ you prefer a modern aluminium frame
❌ you want multiple gears for long climbs