Thanks for the replies. I am not concerned about the overall general size of the 20" fold (I consciously chose not to get a 16" wheel for now), but the width being 17-18" folded versus the web site's 12" width claim for the NS model; I was wondering if I was doing something wrong with the handlebar/stem.
I actually thought the bike seemed HUGE in the carrying bag, it is much better outside the bag.
My primary criteria is whether Amtrak will give me any problems with the bike on the short 25 minute segment I will use as my commute. I'll report back in a couple weeks.
If Yan wants to comment on whether the 12" width listed on the Downtube site is with the stem fully removed, or the "general" width of the main frame+wheel and doesn't count the stem portion, it would help clear things up! I just want to make sure I am not mis-folding the bike.