Folding bicycles have been around in their most rudimentary form since the 1700s, although the speed models have been developed only recently. The 1980s saw the development of major speed folding bicycle brands, Bromptons and Dahons, which exist to this day and have been offering new and improved models to bike lovers around the world. According to Folding Cyclist, there are more than 100 folding bicycle manufacturers across the world with more than 60 percent of the market share with Dahons.
Pricing
The Folding Cyclist provides a robust list of popular folding bicycles listed according to their features and pricing. Typically, prices start at $500 and go up to $3,000, depending on the weight, speed settings and manufacturer. For example, the Downtube 2008 8H is a $429 speed folding bicycle with eight speed settings, front suspension and a Sturmey-Archer hub.
Features
The foremost feature of a speed folding bicycle must be its ability to fold seamlessly and also offer multiple speed settings, depending on your requirements. If you want a bike purely for riding pleasure, then five to six speed setting can suffice. Serious or professional bikers could be looking for additions, such as front or back suspension, front disc brakes, flat handle bars, fenders and chainless drive.
Brands
Dahon is one of the most reputable brands in the folding bicycle industry. Other well-known brands include Pacific, Strida, Brompton, Bike Friday, Airanimal, Downtube, Montague and Bazooka.
Buying Guide
The Folding Bicycle Society of the United Kingdom provides a detailed buying guide. According to this buying guide, you must look at the following features before buying:
1. The bike should be easy to fold without putting it in a gear setting.
2. The speed at which the bike folds must not be high. Manufactures usually list the time on the bike carrying bag.
3. The weight and volume of the bike when folded must not make it cumbersome to carry and move around.
4. The bike should have enough space to allow you to carry bike tools and a bag or backpack.
5. The bike must also come with additional warranty, especially if you are purchasing a high-end model.
Where to Buy
Speed folding bicycles can be difficult to purchase since most cycle shops stock only one or two makes. Instead, you can visit manufacturer websites and purchase them online, if the option exists or search for a neighborhood folding bicycle society, which can guide you better.
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