Adversity builds character, but it also shows it to the world without pretense or disguise. So, when e-bike company Fiido was faced with what can only be described as an OEM's worst nightmare, they took the lemons and made lemonade, creating X, arguably the most famous folding e-bike in the world.
X debuted on crowdfunding in 2021 and wrote history by becoming the first e-bike to cross the $1.5 million threshold with help from backers.
The first units to ship to backers, nearly 3,000 of them, ended up being recalled after reports of the frame snapping in two. The improved version, which we also tested shortly after launch, debuted in early 2022, and its beautiful design and irreproachable performance helped cement the X's reputation as one of the world's most famous e-bikes.
X still holds on to that crown but is now even better. Fiido launched the X 2025 version in September this year as an upgrade to the now-old X: a much more comfortable, responsive, and easy-to-use city e-bike.
To be sure, the original X was a pretty neat option for the daily city commute or leisure rides, so the fact that X 2025 is even better is an outstanding achievement on its own. Throw affordable pricing and other goodies like accessories, free shipping, and extended warranty, and you get the kind of bike that almost seems too good to be true.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
It's not: X 2025, the improved version of the 2021 X that was also an improved version of the D11 from Fiido, is the latest evolution of what this particular OEM considers the ultimate city e-bike. It's zappy and nimble, reliable and surprisingly comfortable, foldable and smart, and it's a pleasure to ride even without the heavy backstory from above. At the very least, it warrants due attention.
Design Evaluation
From afar, the X 2025 seems identical to predecessor X, except for the riser handlebars that add more comfort to everyday rides. But that alone wouldn't have required releasing a new product: X 2025 brings a handful of other improvements that work together to create a smoother, more responsive, and more fun two-wheel machine.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
The bike ships 90% assembled, wrapped neatly in protective cardboard and plastics. The box includes fenders and the kickstand, as well as the standard user manual and a small toolkit that will do just fine for assembly. Pedals and a very small bell have to be added after unwrapping.
Assembly is easy, both because there isn't much of it to begin with and because Fiido offers all the assistance possible. In addition to the manual, you can access unboxing and assembly tutorials online and thus get step-by-step instructions. Putting the fenders on the bike is perhaps the most challenging part, as it's the kind of work best suited for very slender fingers.
The folding frame is die-cast magnesium alloy, offered in the same gorgeous turquoise color – and turquoise only, you don't get any other color options. It still rides on 10-inch wheels and is suitable for riders between 5'1" (155 cm) and 6'5" (195 cm) thanks to the adjustable seatpost that holds the upgraded 417.6 Wh battery.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
The rear hub motor is now a 250W one for all territories, but it's a more powerful version than the 250-W one you'd get on the older model in EU countries. Assistance is delivered instantly thanks to the Mivice torque sensor, and you have 3 levels of PAS (pedal assist) and 7 speeds on the Shimano gearshift to further adjust your ride to your riding style or exact requirements at any given moment.
Top speed is 25 kph (15.5 mph) on pedal assist and whatever you can get it up to by leg power only. In Eco mode, which is the lowest of all PAS levels, range is estimated at 130 km (81 miles) on a single charge, and almost 90 km (56 miles) if you ride consistently in Turbo mode.
The X 2025 comes with hydraulic brakes, a new waterproof color display that puts all your stats at your fingertips, app connectivity for even more configuration options and detailed info, and a new Velo saddle. The bike still weighs 19.8 kg (43.6 lbs) and folds in two parts but now comes with powerful magnets to hold it in place once it's folded, so you can move it easily without dreading it might come apart.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
The old locking mechanism, aka the anti-theft safety feature, has been "internalized" on the X 2025: instead of the keypad over the taillight, which allowed you to unlock the bike via a pin, you can now do so directly on the display or in the app. The battery is removable for charging, but Fiido doesn't recommend making a habit out of this.
Real World Application
All the things I said about the 2022 X after the review at the time still hold true for the X 2025: it's elegant, it's zappy, and it's a nice alternative for the daily commute in the city. But this one is even better because it's far more comfortable, more responsive, and easier to use.
The original X was ideal for cities with very good cycling infrastructure, which isn't the case where I live. As such, a sore butt and gnashing teeth became the norm during those rides, as pleasant as they were in every other respect.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
That's the very first improvement I noticed about the 2025 X: rides are much smoother and more comfortable. The fact that there is no suspension on the bike means you still have to be careful about where you ride, but at least you won't find yourself regretting life decisions if you choose to go down a road with block paving.
The bike is completely noiseless in operation, with excellent braking and even better responsiveness. Motor assistance is immediate, without the smallest delay, so you can ride as effortlessly as you want, regardless of whether you're in an area with heavy pedestrian traffic or in actual traffic. This might be a small and very pretty bike, but it feels and is very reliable in whatever scenarios you might come across in everyday riding.
Folding and unfolding the bike takes a few seconds, and it's an easy and fast process that has no learning curve. The addition of magnets, a pair for the wheels, and another pair for the handlebar, is admirable. The fact that the magnets are strong enough to actually do the job is brilliant.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
e-Bikes with carbon belt drives are easier to maintain and will allow you to ride without having to worry about getting your clothes caught in the chain. But a single-speed bike will struggle uphill on steeper inclines, even with maximum motor assistance. The X 2025 is a 7-speed e-bike, so it breezes uphill with as much or as little effort as you feel like putting in.
Speaking of the amount of effort you'll be putting in, the per-charge range will diminish if you ride in the higher PAS. It's wise to remember that the range estimate is just that, an estimate, and that it depends on your weight, your riding style, and riding conditions.
Fiido says you could go 130 km (81 miles) on a single charge, if you weigh some 75 kg (165 lbs) and ride on flat terrain in the summer, as they did on their tests. My tests showed you can get as much as nearly 100 km (62 miles) in various PAS levels but mostly Eco, in varying temperatures, including on 5°C/41°F foggy autumn days.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
Conclusion
Its complicated and intriguing backstory aside, the X 2025 is a great option to have. Most city commuters willing to switch to cycling don't have storage space for a larger bike, or maybe they also have to ride on public transport, and probably need to carry their bike up the stairs to their apartment.
X 2025 comes to address all these issues while adding an extra layer of comfort, reliability, and convenience. It's a beautiful e-bike with a folding frame that stands out for quality work and subtle finishes, with smart features that offer that something extra many commuters might be looking for. Personally, I find the companion app a nice bonus but not necessarily a must in order to enjoy the ride.
Photo: Elena Gorgan for autoevolution
Devil might be in the details, but the same details also hold the key to a company's commitment to their customer base. The X 2025 is a good example of Fiido's determination to deliver quality solutions for urban mobility, from the patented frame and more powerful motor to comfort upgrades and small, apparently trivial stuff like adding magnets or that absolutely delicious retro bell.
X 2025 retails for €1,999 but is now on offer for the discounted price of €1,499. Solid quality, upgraded comfort and reliability, good looks, and affordable pricing – that is quite the package!
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News