Thread Killer
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Posts: 12,435
Bikes: 15 Kinesis Racelight 4S, 76 Motebecane Gran Jubilée, 17 Dedacciai Gladiatore2, 12 Breezer Venturi, 09 Dahon Mariner, 12 Mercier Nano, 95 DeKerf Team SL, 19 Tern Rally, 21 Breezer Doppler Cafe+, 19 T-Lab X3, 91 Serotta CII, 23 3T Strada
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I can't offer any comparisons, but I do own a Mariner D7 and can say that I think it's a great bike. It's the only modern folder that I've ridden, but it rides really well, very much like a "real" bike; brakes work well, shifters are precise, and the styling is sharp. It was also the first, modern, small wheeled bike I've ridden, and it's still a huge pleasure to ride for the easy pedaling nature and comfy, upright position. These little things spin up quickly, and just feel fun.
The Mariner also comes with rack and fenders, so it's pretty ready for all kinds of regular use, just add a trunk bag and you'll be ready for comfy cruises all over the place. Gearing is sufficiently low to handle moderate hill climbs easily.
The one thing I really dislike are the pedals. They're folding pedals, and just can't take my 200lb weight without flexing. Thor sells some MKS removable pedals I intend to buy as replacements.
I recommend the Mariner for sure!