How strong are modern folders?
I'm looking to get a modern folder. I bought an old Dahon "Da Bike" off craigslist recently. I love the portability, but it is way too small (need the seatpost to be 6" longer) and really quite flexy.
My basic question is: Will a Vitesse stand up to out-of-the-saddle climbing? I'm on the larger side of average at 5'11" and 200 lbs. I like the looks of the Vitesse, though the Speed TR caught my eye just now as well.
I'm considering selling my "good" road bike to fund this purchase, so I'm looking for a replacement that can stand up to normal commutes or centuries with equal aplomb. Any other suggestions for strong sub $1000 folders will be appreciated. A buddy has a Downtube, but I've not gotten a chance to try it out yet (he's 500 miles away).
Somewhat related, can an internally geared bike be converted to belt drive? It seems like it would be pretty straightforward to me, but the pulleys would need to be available or fabricated.