Folding Mechanism Adjustment Guide
Last updated November 5, 2026
This guide explains how to properly tighten and adjust the folding mechanism on your scooter.
Use these steps if you notice any play in the joint, if the mechanism feels loose when locked, or if it pops out too easily when folding. Also adjust it if folding the scooter takes too much effort, or if the mechanism does not snap firmly into place.
Tools Required
- 6 mm Allen key
- 3 mm Allen key
1. Prepare the Folding Mechanism
Ensure the folding mechanism is unlocked and not under tension before beginning any adjustments. This prevents damage to the hardware and ensures accurate tightening.
2. Loosen the Side Bolts (3 mm)
Locate the two side screws on the folding mechanism. Using the 3 mm Allen key, loosen both screws. These screws secure the clamp hook in place and must be loosened before adjusting the main bolt.
3. Tighten the Center Bolt (6 mm)
With the side screws loosened, locate the visible center bolt on the inner side of the folding component.
Using the 6 mm Allen key, tighten this center bolt gradually. After each adjustment, check how firmly the folding mechanism locks in place. Continue tightening until the mechanism locks securely with no unwanted play.
If the mechanism becomes too hard to fold, back the main bolt off slightly. Do not overtighten the main bolt, or the folding action may become too stiff.
4. Re-secure the Side Bolts
Once the center bolt is adjusted to the desired tightness, re-tighten the two side screws using the 3 mm Allen key. This will lock the adjustment in place and ensure long-term stability.
5. Final Check
Lock and unlock the folding mechanism a few times to confirm smooth operation and a firm, stable connection.
Standard Folding Mechanism Replacement
For scooters that use the standard folding mechanism design, you need two 5 mm Allen keys and a punch.
Remove the security strap, if your scooter has one.
Fold the stem down.
Use two 5 mm Allen keys, one on each side of the screw, and hold one side steady while turning the other counterclockwise.
Remove the screw.
Use a punch to gently push out the barrel nut.
Hold the area with your hand as you remove it, since the spring can come out suddenly.
Separate the parts: folding mechanism, barrel nut, and spring.
Install the new mechanism in reverse order.
Make sure the shorter end of the spring sits against the stem, and the other end sits against the screw in the folding mechanism.
Use a tool if needed to compress the spring into place.
Slide the barrel nut back through, reinstall the screw, and tighten it with two 5 mm Allen keys.
Test the mechanism by raising the stem and confirming it snaps firmly into place with no wobble.
Video Guide
A full video walkthrough is available and applies to all Apollo Go, Air, City, and 2.0 series models, including the Explore 2.0 and Phantom 2.0.
Newest video using a Phantom 2.0 for reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttDKKqTcUWo
Oldest video using a City 2023 for reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlRwS-2QsMk
Replacement and upgrade videos: