TILT 100 vs 120 vs 500 vs 900: Which Decathlon Folding Bike is Best?

The Short Answer

Decathlon offers a range of folding bikes, including the BTWIN TILT series. The TILT 100 is the basic model, while the TILT 120, TILT 500, and TILT 900 offer more features. They provide affordable options for cyclists on a budget compared to Brompton’s higher-priced folding bikes.

Decathlon, with its extensive online store and 2000 physical stores across 56 countries, is known for being a great place to find entry-level bikes at very good prices.

If you’re looking to purchase a folding bike, but don’t have hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds to spend on a Brompton, then Decathlon might just be the perfect place to start.

Folding bikes can be very expensive, but there are plenty of cheaper alternatives on the market. In this guide, we’ll take you through the TILT folding bikes at Decathlon, which starting at just under £200, are a much more wallet-friendly alternative to even the cheapest Brompton folding bike – but still have all of the portability and functionality you need.

BTWIN Folding Bikes

Brompton vs Decathlon Folding Bikes

The major difference between Brompton and Decathlon folding bikes are their prices. Brompton’s models start at the A-Line, which is priced from £850, and goes all the way up to the T-Line which starts at £3,750.

Brompton is renowned for its excellent quality folding bikes and folding e-bikes, and is the market leader in the field. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a really solid folding bike from a brand like Decathlon, which caters to a lower price point.

Like Brompton, Decathlon stocks several different models of folding bike, and we’ll go into detail on each throughout this guide. The range starts with the BTWIN TILT 100, which is the basic model and costs just under £200, and goes up to the BTWIN TILT 900, coming in at just under £500.

Decathlon’s bikes come in heavier than Brompton’s, with the 100 model weighing 13.3kg, while the A-Line weighs just 11.6kg. Overall the bikes can be quite different to Brompton’s offerings, from components to materials, but fundamentally they’re practical folding bikes, which cater to a completely different part of the market to Brompton’s pricier alternatives.

The TILT models are stylish and sturdy, quick to unfold and easy to store, which make them a great folding bike brand option for cyclists working with a smaller budget.

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Decathlon Folding Bikes

1. BTWIN 100 Tilt Folding Bike [REVIEW]
2. BTWIN 120 Tilt Folding Bike [REVIEW]
3. BTWIN 500 Tilt Folding Bike [REVIEW]
4. BTWIN 900 Tilt Folding Bike [REVIEW]
5. BTWIN 500E Tilt Folding Electric Bike [REVIEW]

Decathlon has five different models of folding bike, as listed above.

The 100 model is at the low end, priced at £199.99, a simple model which is perfect for flat, urban terrain, while the next model up, the 120, jumps to £249.99 and is built to handle a wider variety of terrain.

The 500 is £349.99 and is designed for both weekday commutes and weekend adventures. It also comes as an e-bike, the 500E (£799.99).

Finally, the 900 is the top-end model, costing £499.99 and boasting nine speeds, a lightweight aluminium frame and rigid structure which will take you wherever you want to go.

Whether one of these models has already captured your attention, or you’re torn between several, this guide will help you find the perfect Decathlon folding bike for your needs.

As you read through this guide, do note that the bikes sometimes have different names in different regions — for example, the US market uses the name ‘Tilt’, while sometimes in the UK market the bikes are just called BTWIN.

1. BTWIN 100 Tilt Folding Bike

• £200
• $299
• €215

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 13.3 kg
• Wheel Size: 20″
• Folded Size: 78 x 66 x 41 cm
• Gears: 1-Speed

Single-speed folding bike

Designed for flat, urban terrain

The BTWIN 100 Tilt is the range’s entry-level folding bike. It’s at the low end of the price range, uses cheaper materials, and offers less functionality than some of the pricier models.

However, that doesn’t mean that this isn’t a great bike in itself. At £199.99, it certainly is a bargain, and could be a great choice for someone who wants to see if a folding bike is right for them and their lifestyle before committing to a more expensive model.

The BTWIN 100 Tilt is a single-speed folding bike designed for flat, urban terrain, and can be folded down in just 30 seconds for easy stowing in cars, on public transport, or at the office. It weighs 13.3kg, so is not the lightest folding bike on the market, but is still easy enough to carry and lift when needed.

It has a steel frame and fork, chosen for durability, and Decathlon offers a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem (excl. hinge), rigid fork, and handlebar. Its 20-inch wheels come with a wheel restraint system for easy carrying and storage, and the gumwall city tyres have been developed to provide the best compromise between performance and grip.

Overall, this is a decent, sturdy bike. It won’t blow your socks off, but could be a great place to start for folding bike newbies.

Pros

• Can be folded down in just 30 seconds
• Sturdy bike

Cons

• Basic functionality
• No fenders
• On the heavier side

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2. BTWIN 120 Tilt Folding Bike

• £250
• $349
• €299

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 14.5 kg
• Wheel Size: 20″
• Folded Size: 78 x 66 x 36 cm
• Gears: 6-Speed

Folds up for easy transport

Can be easily stored in the boot of a car.

Next up in the range is the BTWIN 120 Tilt, which is a decent upgrade from the entry-level model, and only slightly more expensive at £249.99.

This 6-speed bike comes with mudguards, and is designed for a wider range of adventures than the 100 model. However, it has the same steel frame, fork and V-brakes as its cheaper counterpart. Gears are changed with a grip shifter, and the steel-low rise handlebars can be adjusted to suit your body.

While the 100 model has non-folding pedals, the 120’s pedals can be folded flat so your bike can be stored against a wall and take up very little space at just 26cm wide when folded.

Again, there’s a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem (excl. hinge), rigid fork and handlebar, indicating that this is a reliable, sturdy folding bike.

The 120 Tilt, despite being just £50 more expensive than the entry-level model, packs a lot more punch than the 100, making this an even better option for new folding bike riders.

Pros

• Pedals can be folded flat so your bike can be stored against a wall

Cons

• Heavy for a folding bike (14.5kg)

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BTWIN Tilt 100 vs 120

Don’t be fooled by the mere £50 price difference — the BTWIN Tilt 120 is a substantially better bike than the 100.

They both have the same steel frame, fork and brakes, and the 120 is slightly heavier than the 100 at 14.5kg compared to 13.3kg. Both bikes can be folded in just 30 seconds.

However, the 100 is single-speed while the 120 has a six-speed gear system, making it more suitable for tackling different terrains. The 120’s pedals fold flat while the 100’s do not, so the 120 is a more compact model — something to bear in mind if you’re looking for a small folding bike.

Because of its versatility, more compact size, and despite its extra 1.2kg of weight, if you’ve got an extra £50 to spare, the BTWIN Tilt 120 is surely the better option for a folding bike with better functionality.

3. BTWIN 500 Tilt Folding Bike

• £350
• $449
• €400

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 12.9 kg
• Wheel Size: 20″
• Folded Size: 78 x 66 x 44 cm
• Gears: 7-Speed

Great for both weekday commutes and weekend rides.

Folds up for easy transport

With a price tag of £349.99, the 7-speed Tilt 500 is the next step up in terms of quality and functionality. It’s suitable for both weekday commutes and weekend leisure rides, and its compact design and light weight of just 12.9kg makes it easy to carry and store where necessary.

The Tilt 500 takes just 15 seconds to unfold, so it couldn’t be easier to switch from pedestrian to cyclist.

The frame is made of aluminium for the perfect combination of reliable sturdiness and light weight, while the steel fork offers durability. Like other models in the Tilt range, the folding bike has a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem (excl. hinge), rigid fork and handlebar.

Its 20-inch wheels have anti-puncture tyres, and the pedals fold up with the bike for reduced bulk. Plus, it’s equipped with a stand, mudguard with stays, and a double chainguard to prevent chain slipping and protect from dirt, so you can rely on the Tilt 500 whether you’re on urban roads or more rural paths.

Pros

• Takes just 15 seconds to unfold
• Double chainguard to prevent chain slipping
• Great vaue

Cons

• No standout cons considering the price tag!

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BTWIN Tilt 120 vs 500

The BTWIN Tilt 500 is a step up from the 120 model, with a lighter weight, aluminium frame as opposed to steel on the 120, a quicker folding/unfolding time and an extra speed to play with.

The 500 comes with a double chainguard and mudguard, so is well-protected from dirt, and has anti-puncture tyres. The 120, on the other hand, does not come equipped with any of these components.

The 500 comes in four colours compared to the 120’s two, though the design itself is almost identical.

Whether it’s worth an extra £100 for these extra features is up to you — both bikes are an excellent starting point for those curious about folding bikes.

4. BTWIN 900 Tilt Folding Bike

• £500
• $499
• €405

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 12.2 kg
• Wheel Size: 20″
• Folded Size: 78 x 66 x 44 cm
• Gears: 9-Speed

Easy to store

Lightweight aluminium frame and ergonomic handles

The BTWIN 900 sits at the top of the folding bike range, boasting nine speeds, a lightweight aluminium frame and fork, ergonomic handles, memory foam saddle and a mere 15 second unfolding time.

Again, there’s a lifetime warranty on the frame, stem (excl. hinge), rigid fork and handlebar, and the tyres have anti-puncture reinforcement and reflective strips for visibility on those dark winter commutes.

The Shimano Sora 9-speed drivetrain is reliable and precise, perfect for tackling a range of terrains, while the mudguard and double chainguard protect the bike from dirt. Plus, all colour variants of this model include a rear derailleur guard.

At 12.2kg, the Tilt 900 is the lightest model of the range, making the bike inherently portable and easy to store. It is currently only available in one colour, ochre, with stylish tan handlebars and memory foam saddle.

It’s certainly the most premium of the range, which you might expect given its £499.99 price tag, making it a worthy investment for those looking for a high-end folding bike, at a relatively low price compared to other brands on the market.

Pros

• 15 second unfolding time.
• Double chainguard protect the bike from dirt

Cons

• Currently available only in one colour.

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BTWIN Tilt 500 vs 900

Aside from a few key differences, the Tilt 500 and 900 are very similar folding bikes.

They both have an aluminium frame, but the 500 has steel forks while the 900’s are aluminium.

The 500 has seven speeds while the 900 boasts 9, and both come with a mudguard and chainguard. The 900, however, also has a rear derailleur guard, so might be a better choice if you regularly ride down dirty paths.

Both bikes also have anti-puncture tyres, fold-up pedals and seamless rain-proof saddles, but the 900’s saddle is made of memory foam while the 500’s is just regular foam.

Both have a 15-second unfolding time, and the 900 is slightly lighter at 12.2kg compared to the 500’s 12.9kg.

In terms of aesthetics, the 500 comes in four colours while the 900 is only available in ochre, which is something to consider if you’re particular about the look of your folding bike.

Tilt 100 vs 120 vs 500 vs 900

5. BTWIN 500E Tilt Folding Bike

• £700
• €800

Prices are approximate

• Weight: 18.6 kg
• Wheel Size: 20″
• Folded Size: 83 x 67 x 45 cm
• Gears: 6-Speed

Can be folded to fit in a car boot

Suited for both commuting and longer journeys.

For longer commutes, an electric folding bike can be invaluable. The BTWIN 500E can be folded in 15 seconds for easy transportation and storage, and its six speeds combined with electric assistance makes commuting simpler than ever.

As you might expect, this electric model is heavier than the regular folding bikes in the Tilt range at 18.6kg including battery and motor. It has a range of up to 35km and 26Nm of torque, so if you have a long commute with some tiring inclines, the e-bike could really help you out.

The 500E has an aluminium frame with built-in battery which can be charged directly through the frame or can be removed for charging at home or in the office.

The aluminium V-Brake callipers offer powerful braking, and the tyres come with anti-puncture reinforcement. The motor is built onto the rear wheel for improved steering control.

The e-bike comes in two colours, turquoise blue or black, so you can choose your ideal folding bike style.

At £799.99, the 500E is much more expensive than the regular folding bikes in the range, but compared to other folding e-bikes on the market it’s a much more wallet-friendly option.

Pros

• Can be folded in 15 seconds for easy transportation and storage.
• Comes with anti-puncture reinforcement.

Cons

• Considerably heavier than non-electric folding bikes

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Which Decathlon Folding Bike is Best?

Whatever your needs and budget, there’s a folding bike for you at Decathlon. The Tilt 100 is great for anyone on a tight budget and is one of the best cheap folding bikes around. For most people, the Tilt 500 will be the best Decathlon folding bike – it’s still very affordable and the difference between that and the top of the range Tilt 900 is mostly marginal gains (i.e. a bit lighter and a couple more gears).

For well under $/£500, the Tilt 500 will get you a 7-speed folding bike with a lightweight aluminium frame, quick and efficient folding and compact storage, a comfortable foam saddle, protection from a mudguard and chainguard and more, making it an excellent, versatile choice for both commuting and leisure riding.

Decathlon Folding Bikes Review [Summary]