Folding Bikes - 12" or 16" folding ZPort please

I'm not looking to go long distance. Just something to throw in my car and ride for fun wherever for a few blocks. maybe even riding to the metro with it.

I was looking at this 12" Zport for $129
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330002369123&ssPageName=MERC_VI_ReBay_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT

then there's a 16" Zport for $149
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330002370276&ssPageName=MERC_VI_ReBay_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT


the 12" is ONE speed vs. 3-speed for the 16".

my car is small and a convertible, so no trunk space. i had 20" folding bike (Dahon clone) in the back seat and i didn't like how big and bulky it was (sold it). taking this on the metro or bus is probably out of the question....once or twice maybe but during Wash DC rush hour everyday, forget it.

for daily commuting to the metro, i think something that would fit in a rolling case/cheap suitcase would be the solution right? 12 incher then?

BTW, these Zport 12" were on clearance at www.heartlandamerica.com about a year ago for $69. wish i bought one back then.

You would be better off with a 16 inch dahon or downtube.If it is any relation to a z bike it will have a too short seatpost and too low gearing. 3 speed gearing will be derailluer and if it is a 12 inch gearing will be especially pitiful.By the way I owned a Z bike. I ended up selling it cheap to someone for their childs use.Get something you will like not something you will grow to despise.Do not buy just because the price is right that is false economy.

Same bike, isn't it? (look at the model number)

http://qileduo.en.alibaba.com/product/50161434/50100069/12_Folding_Bicycle/12__Folding_Bicycle.html

and with a better price:
http://www.showsmart.com/zport

same company, but even lower price:
http://www.alibaba.com/catalog/11068557/Zport_Folding_Bicycle.html

Oh and here is a review:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F9Q12W/103-1625753-0734221?v=glance&n=3375251

I bought a TST1403A (14" wheels, 3-speed) last December and wound up giving it to my neighbor's six year old son. The gearing on the three-speed I bought was ridiculously low even in the highest gear, and the seat post was far too low for me. The six year old loves it.

Here's the thread with my review (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=157041&highlight=Zport).

thanks for all the info. helped me out a lot.