Folding Bikes - iXi Breakaway --anyone have one?

Just curious to see what they're like. A couple keep popping up on the NY CL, apparently people who bought these in conjunction with an AmEx promotion. Are they even on the folding radar?

iXi breakaway (http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/bik/99546166.html)

All that I know about the iXi Breakaway bike is what is given on the Web site - http://www.ixibike.com/home.htm - which is in fact quite detailed.
As the Breakaway name suggests, the bike separates into two parts for transport or storage rather than folds. It also has a belt drive (like the Strida) rather than a chain drive.

Gordon Petrie

If you are interested in an IXI bike check the 2006 Dahon range as well they have some similiar but better models in my opinion.Look at their minibikes.Unless of course you can get a super deal on a used IXI? They are pretty expensive new.

I'm trying to do a bit of CPR on this thread to keep it alive a bit longer.

I'm also interested in the iXi.

Are they sturdy? How well does the belt drive work?

What is the best dollar for dollar folding bike out there? (should be a new thread, but I'll keep it here).

What is the best dollar for dollar folding bike out there? (should be a new thread, but I'll keep it here).

It all depends on what exactly you are looking for. Some Bike Friday owners will claim there is no way to buy anything cheaper than a BF (which is on the top of the most expensive packable bikes, not really a folder), while others are very happy with the Downtube since it is the most "customazible" folder. You always have a nice product with a wide range of option if you go with any Dahon and (I couldn't avoid mentioning) Giant makes a nice city bike with cantilever/monoblade technology (so you can fix tires without removing the wheels) that is pricey, but makes a few members of this forum very happy (including myself).

Let us know more about what you want from a folder, som people here may be able to narrow down your options.

Rafael

Top Priority
I'm looking for a folder (preferred) that I can throw in a bag or backpack. I need splash guards, and the ability to add a decent sized basket and/or panniers. It would be mostly used on streets and bike trails (paved). I DO NOT want clip pedals.

Second Priority
I would like it to have a dynamo hub lighting set-up for front and rear lights. I utilize my gears a lot on my current bike, and don't know how well I'd do with a three speed as I've never riden one.

It sure would be nice...
A water cage would also be nice. It would be nice to be able to add a BionX electric assist system at a later time.

Price
And I want it for under $300. Ok, maybe I can fudge a bit on that. The iXi with some of the features I'm looking for is about $1,250. I like the Birdy, but that's getting into the $2000 range.

More Info
I'm in Kansas City right now, but am moving to D.C. the end of December or first of January. (Brett, if you're reading this, don't tell anyone at work yet). So I would like it to be able to be compact enough to take on the subway (at peak hours), take it on a train, and/or even carry it onto an airplane flight.

I don't own a car, and don't plan on buying one...although I do have a Zipcar account.

I don't want to have to buy a replacement in 5 years.

I weigh in around 180 lbs. and am 6 feet tall.

I'd say get a Dahon Boardwalk or Mariner. They're cheap ($350 or less), which is a big plus in a city with as much crime as DC. The frames are steel (iXi is aluminum) and come with fenders and a rack. You can get add-on water cages (e.g. TwoFish makes one), and it will be easier to repair than the iXi. If the handlebar is too low for you, move up to a Dahon with an adjustable handle post.

You could take it on a plane without getting charged, although you'd need a good suitcase ($150) and you'd have to break most of it down, kind of a messy process. I don't know of any decent usable folders that will break down to backpack-size without making you look like you escaped from the circus when you ride it.

The iXi is too small for panniers, the wheels are smaller (16" vs 20") and has fewer gears (4) on an internal hub. The iXi seems like half the bike of a Boardwalk for three or four times the price. If you were commuting in a safe area and liked the ride, I'd say go for it; otherwise, Dahon is a better bet.