Folding Bikes - My First Folder is........

a 2006 Downtube VIII FS Orange. Thanks a lot to the guys here, a couple local friends and the excellent service, patience, responsiveness and knowledge of Downtube Yan. I considered Brompton's, then Swift's but then I settled for the more affordable Downtube and I couldn't be more proud and pleased of the decision. Anyway here are a couple pics. I have some new wheels and a Hope 160 mono mini front disc kit to put in and then I'll be happy with her for a little while. Ohhhhh what fun to ride and sing A biking song tonight...I feel like a kid again with a more agile dirt bike.

Thanks Yan!

A little bike clip, man this thing is sweet.

http://www.centrosus.com/rollin/images/mov00595.mpg

Downtube Site:

http://www.downtube.com/catalog/

Some pics:

Excellent pics! Congrats!

a 2006 VIII FS Orange. Thanks a lot to the guys here, a couple local friends and the excellent service, patience, responsiveness and knowledge of Downtube Yan. I considered Brompton's, then Swift's but then I settled for the more affordable Downtube and I couldn't be more proud and pleased of the decision. Anyway here are a couple pics. I have some new wheels and a Hope 160 mono mini front disc kit to put in and then I'll be happy with her for a little while. Ohhhhh what fun to ride and sing A biking song tonight...I feel like a kid again with a more agile dirt bike.

Thanks Yan!

A little bike clip, man this thing is sweet.

http://www.centrosus.com/rollin/images/mov00595.mpg



Thanks Seed for the little movie.. I bought the White and the Orange... gave the Orange to my gf.... looking at your pics, I may have made a mistake...haha... is that the stock handlebar stem for the 06 model or did you install it?... looks great!

Bruce

Is that a 2005 or 2006?

Is that a 2005 or 2006?
It is a 2006.

To address Bruce's question the adjustable angle stem with removable faceplate is stock.

Thanks,
Yan

Nice bike and correct decision seed.

Congrats, seed. Out of curiousity, how tall are you, and would the handlebars/seat go higher if you needed them to?

For that matter, would seed or anyone else (especially if they're 6' or taller) mind posting side-view photos or video of them pedalling on a Downtube? Not standing up, just seated and pedalling. Maybe it's bias because I've only ridden larger bikes before, but I'm a bit nervous about how they fit. Also, I tried out an acquaintence's Dahon Classic III a week ago, and it felt like riding a clown bike. I *think* though, that the model was just extra-small; I've seen other Dahon models chained up on bike racks which didn't look anywhere near as tiny.

do you have a dealer nearby? if not, why not make a trip to a big dealer and ride a number of bikes. you're essentially picking a piece of clothing. you can always pick a better fit by trying on the bikes.

Hey Bookishboy,

I am 6'2" and it fits well. The riding position of both seat and handlebar aren't fully extended in the full side profile pic and it is comfortable for me.

-Seed

That looks like a great value. I'm waiting for the 16". I wonder about how much they will cost? Thanks for posting.