Folding bikes have moved up a gear with the introduction of the brand new carbon fibre Nano from Lios which boasts all the bells and whistles: hydraulic disc brakes, deep carbon rims and internal cable routing being just a couple of the highlights.

Folding bikes are an ideal companion for commuters who want to combine a ride with a train journey – but ex-Royal Marines Major Steve McCulley has developed a folder that’s just as performance minded as it is concerned with convenience.

The developers had early advice from Andrew Ritchie – the man behind the market leaders Brompton. The bike far exceeds other offerings on the market in terms of spec and is available in two models – a singlespeed at £3,250 and a geared version powered by an 8 speed internal geared hub at £3,500.

Commuter Bike Guide: Folding Bikes

McCulley formed the company – LIOS – which offers full sizes road and time trial bikes as well as the new folder, after he was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device during battle in Afghanistan back in 2011.

After spending time in intensive care, and a full three years going through rehabilitation, he decided to turn the passion he had had for cycling before the accident into a business – saying: “I have always been a keen cyclist, including competing for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines at national level; however, it was clear my injuries were going to mean an end to my military and cycling career so I decided to turn my passion for cycling into a business.”

He explained: “During the breaks in my rehab and with significant support from Help For Heroes, the Royal Marines Trust and Heropreneurs, I created LIOS which is named after my children Lily and Oscar. The LIOS Nano is a new and totally different product and alongside my business partner Wayland Austin, we have created something special which we think is going to completely change people’s perceptions of a folding bike.”