What To Look For
According to Bloomberg Business Week, Dahon offers several quality cycles with the best rating in multiple categories. The Dahon Speed D7 outsells all other models and represents the best value Dahon offers, states Bloomberg. The Dahon Speed TT, at a lightweight 25 pounds, offers the fastest folding ride over similar offerings from Brompton, Birdy and Xootr, other folding brands.
Common Pitfalls
Many cyclists believe folding bikes perform worse than traditional cycles due to smaller wheels and what appear as awkward designs. Folding bicycle companies invest millions to ensure folding bicycles perform similarly to traditional bicycles. Small frames and wheels actually assist cyclists in traffic maneuverability. Gear options differ on folding bicycles to ensure speeds match those of traditional cycles. Even so, few folders can use high-end components similar to road racing bicycles. Purchase folders for commuting needs. Folding bike races rarely happen in the U.S.
Where To Buy
Many local bicycle shops and online bicycle retailers stock and sell folding bicycles. Dahon distributes bicycles to authorized dealers only; however, Dahon sells direct to consumers from its website. Bloomberg Business Week reports that Dr. Phil Fleming, an obstetrician, owns only folding bicycles and enjoyed folders so much he opened his own store recently in Sante Fe, New Mexico. Many such small locally-owned folding bike businesses offer several folding brands, allow test rides and ensure riders achieve proper fit and comfort.
Cost
Dahon offers speedier road style bicycles, including the Speed TT bikes, from the $900 Vitesse P18 to the $2,500 Tournado. Dahon sells one style of folding mountain bicycle, the Flo, for $3,000. Dahon offers speedy urban performance bikes, from the singlespeed $580 Mu Uno to the deluxe $1,200 Mu XL Sport. Dahon utility bikes, including the best selling $480 Speed D7, range from the $380 Eco 3 to the $600 Briza D3. Purchasing a bicycle direct or online often requires professional bicycle mechanic assembly--typically costing under $80-- to retain the Dahon manufacturer's warranty.
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