ADO Air 20 vs Fiido D11 – Comparison

Choosing the perfect e-bike for my daily commute is a daunting task. Having tested the ADO A20, I was thoroughly impressed by its performance, making the decision even tougher. The Fiido D11, on the other hand, is smaller and lighter, which adds to its appeal. With ADO’s release of the Air 20, which shares many similarities with the Fiido D11, it’s time to dive into a detailed comparison of these two 20″ folding e-bikes.

Both ADO and Fiido offer enhanced versions of their e-bikes: the ADO Air 20 Pro and the Fiido D21, along with the Fiido X. While this comparison will focus on the entry-level models, I’ll also touch upon the specs and features of these upgraded versions to give you a comprehensive overview.

In this post we explore the key differences, performance metrics, and overall value of the ADO Air 20 and Fiido D11, helping you make an informed decision for your daily commute.

Why 20″ Folding E-Bikes?

For my daily commute, I needed a compact e-bike that was easy to store. A key feature for me was the removable battery, allowing for convenient charging. I believe 20″ wheels strike the ideal balance: they keep the bike small enough for easy storage while providing a smooth and comfortable ride, especially over longer distances. Compared to the smaller 16″ models, 20″ wheels offer a more stable and enjoyable experience.

My Fiido D11 is excellent for city rides on paved streets, but it struggles on gravel roads. The ADO A20 and the similar HIMO Z20 are better all-rounders. You can read my review of the Fiido D11 vs. HIMO Z20 or watch my video comparison of the HIMO Z20 vs. ADO A20 for more insights.
I hope I can do a video review of ADO Air 20 and Fiido D11 soon.

Fiido D11 vs ADO Air 20 – Specifications

What’s different – Versions

ADO Air 20 / Pro & Regional versions

CE Version (European Version) vs International Version
Due to legal restrictions the European features a 250W motor, offers a max. speed of 25 km/h and doesn’t feature a throttle. The bike only operates in pedal assist mode!
The international version can be ordered within the EU, however operations on street is not legal.
ADO Air 20 vs ADO Air 20 Pro
The Pro version of ADO Air 20 is equipped with a larger battery (10.4 Ah vs 9.6 Ah), features a Bafang brand motor and offers dual speed automatic transmission. The ride comfort is also improved with an adjustable front fork suspension.

Fiido D11 / D21 / Fiido X

Fiido D11 vs Fiido D21
Fiido D21 was an improved version of Fiido D11, offering a torque sensor, instead of a speed sensor and a different color option. Fiido D21 is discontinued in favor of Fiido X

Fiido D11 vs Fiido X
Fiido X is also available as 250W and 350W version to comply with European regulations. Compared to Fiido D11 a torque sensor is used and allows 32 km/h top speed (350W version). Same as ADO Air it offers hydraulic disc brakes. The frame is made of magnesium alloy.

What’s different?
ADO Air 20 (CE) & Fiido D11

Similarities and minor differences

The Fiido D11 and ADO Air 20 share several key similarities. Both e-bikes are equipped with a 250W motor, providing a top speed of 25 km/h, which is ideal for urban environments and meet the legal EU requirements. They also offer a similar range in pedal assist mode, roughly between 80 to 100 km, ensuring you a substantial distance on a single charge. Additionally, both models feature an adjustable seat pole, allowing riders of different heights to find a comfortable riding position. However, there are some minor differences to note. While neither bike includes suspension, which might affect comfort on rougher terrains, the adjustable steering rod of Ado Air allows for a more comfortable seating position.
When folded, they are roughly the same size, with the Fiido D11 being a bit smaller in width (2 cm) but 6 cm higher. 

Motor & Transmission

In the European version, both folding e-bikes offer a 250W motor and allow a top speed of 25 km/h. The ADO Air 20 features a torque sensor, providing a more responsive and smoother pedal assist experience by adjusting the motor power based on the rider’s pedaling force. In contrast, the Fiido D11 only offers a speed sensor, which can result in a more abrupt push when the motor kicks in. For a torque sensor within a Fiido bike, you would need to look at the D21 or Fiido X models.

While all Fiido bikes come with a 7-speed Shimano gear shift, the ADO Air 20 is equipped with a single-speed carbon belt drive. The Pro version of the ADO Air 20 offers a dual-speed automatic transmission.

Tires & Brakes

The ADO Air 20 features 20″ tires that are 1.95″ wide, while the Fiido D11 has 20″ tires that are only 1.75″ wide. The thinner tires on the D11 can feel less stable on bumpy roads, whereas the wider tires on the Air 20 provide better traction and a smoother ride. In terms of brakes, the Air 20 is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, which offer superior stopping power and better modulation, especially in wet conditions. The Fiido D11, on the other hand, comes with mechanical disc brakes. If you prefer hydraulic brakes on a Fiido bike, you would need to either upgrade them yourself or opt for the top model, the Fiido X.

Where to Buy?

Both manufacturers operate their own webstores:

• Official ADO Website: www.adoebike.com
  Here you have the benefit to buy directly from the manufacturer
  They offer 48h free shipping options across EU & UK

• official HIMO Website: www.himobikes.com
  This site offers both ADO & HIMO bikes and is their official store.
  Here they also sell-off older bikes and refurbished ones:

• official Fiido Website: www.fiido.com
  This is the official website of Fiido and their main distribution channel.
  You can benefit from buying directly from the manufacturer

• Amazon
  ADO operates their own Amazon Store “A Dece Oasis-Store“
  Fiido doesn’t have an Amazon store
  where you can find all their current products and having the Amazon Prime shipping benefits:

ADO A20 Air vs Fiido D11 Specs