Originally Posted by
makeinu
I have to disagree with this one. The public roads are generally well traveled by vehicles which weigh a couple tons and have wheels around 16"-20" in diameter. As a result imperfections 16"-20" in diameter are very common. I subsequently believe that there is a bit a cusp at around 16"-20" in the ability of wheels to smooth the usual pothole jolts (with wheels around 16"-20" in diameter being disproportionately more jarring than their larger counterparts).
I just checked my 2002 Honda Accord (25" dia) and the Chevy Pick up next door (30" dia). It looks to me as though full size bike tire ODs fall right in the same range as the typical road vehicle OD around here.
I think that you might have to go down to a Smart Car to find a car with a tire OD in the same range as folding bikes.
David