Before the Vilano Urbana was introduced, there’d been just a couple of single-speed folding bikes with coaster brake, like the Dahon Speed Uno or Retrospec Bicycles Speck. Now the Vilano Urbana becomes the cheapest and lightest bike of them all.

Specifications & Specs

  • Colors: Grey and White
  • Folded dimensions: 32″ x 25″ x 12″
  • Weight: 21.5 lbs
  • Wheels: 20″
  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Speeds: 1
  • Rear brake: coaster brake
  • Handlepost: adjustable

Image Gallery

Performance

Similar to the Dahon Speed Uno, the Vilano Urbana features a minimalist design with no shifters, no cables and no V-brakes. The two bikes share a lot of design elements but the Urbana doesn’t look like a premium product because of the cheaper materials. It uses an aluminum frame, so there might be some drawbacks as compared to 4130 chromoly. However, you will have a lighter bike instead. Specifically, the bike weighs just 21.5 lbs and folded size is as compact as the other single-speed folding bikes.

When I received the bike, the handlebar was very loose and I had to fasten the bolt tightly to prevent it from wobbling. As it is equipped with a coaster brake, you can stop the bike by backpedaling instead of pressing brake levers. You will get used to it in just a couple of days and I really love that the design makes the bike less bulky when carrying around.

In terms of performance, it delivers what you can expect from a single speed. There is no difference as compared to Speed Uno or Retrospec Speck SS. I find it quite comfortable riding on paved road in the city. However, this bike is not designed for climbing hills and you might need to get off the bike on some moderate slopes.

Conclusion

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Low price

Cons

  • Some cheap components

The Vilano Urbana is a good alternative when you can’t afford more expensive single-speed bikes. I recommend the bike.

Buy Vilano Urbana Folding Bike on Amazon

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REVIEW OVERVIEW
Design
7
Build Quality
7
Riding Experience
7
Portability
9
vilano-urbana-folding-bike-reviewA low-priced single-speed folding bike.

5 COMMENTS

  1. […] Expert testers appreciated the simple design of the bike, which helps prevent damage when folding it and carrying it or checking the folded bike on a plane or train. Experts and Amazon reviewers did note that a little mechanical skill is required to assemble the bike as it seems that many arrive from the factory with bolts that are not properly tightened.  […]

  2. I bought mine from Amazon. This is perfect to stow away in your car’s trunk. The components are basic but not cheap. I like the folding pedals. The seat is very good; it doesn’t leave me numb after a long ride. It’s got a coaster brake, so just one speed. It’s very light, easy to fold and maintain. The seatpost is 31.6 inches in diameter (It’s engraved on the seatpost). The only mod I did with this is add a shock-absorbing seatpost. The saddle is perfect.

  3. I am 6 foot 4 inches, 205 pounds. Am I too big for the bike? It will be used for short city cruises, no rough ground or hills (just fyi). Thanks!

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