Originally Posted by smallwheeler

there's nothing wrong with a dahon vitesse.

there are no studded tire options for 16" 349 wheels, so that would exclude the brompton.

before dropping big dollars, i would consider a used bike like this helios:

http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/bik/3593330343.html

i've owned two of these. they are one of dahons better designs. in fact they have just released a new single speed version of it. its light and fast and very upgradeable. if and when you have developed a good feel for what its like to live with a folding bike, then you will have no problem getting the 250 back on resale to apply to a fancier, newer bike that suits your taste in folding bikes.