Dahon Speed Pro vs KHS F20Rs

[OldiesONfoldies]

I'm looking for a fast folder and have sort of narrowed to 2 bikes. Just wondering if anyone here owns the F20R. It is 30% cheaper than Speed Pro and seems to represent good value. Or should I plum for the Speed Pro, which some have claimed to be the "fastest folder" now. Would love to hear from owners. TU :)

http://www.khsbicycles.com/10_F20r_06.htm

http://www.dahon.com/us/speedprott.htm

[invisiblehand]

Is the KHS folder really 30% less than a Dahon Speed Pro? I do not remember ever seeing a MSRP on the bike.

[gumball3510]

I have a KHS F20A looks a little similar to the F20 F. Very quick folding. Fold up one pedal; unfold and do the spring loaded connector; pull up handlebars and turn securing device. The F20 A is a 7 speed; I have taken it on gravel trails and paved paths, up 35 mile long rides. I also have an older KHW westwood I use on more rough trails, it has double suspension, but is heavy. It is built like a tank.

[pm124]

Where do you find one?

[Bacciagalupe]

I'm looking for a fast folder and have sort of narrowed to 2 bikes....
Just out of curiosity: are you able to test-ride either of the bikes? IMO this is critical when spending this kind of money, especially since as far as I can tell there's very little adjustment for the handlebar height on either of these bikes. Depending on your height, you could end up with an upright ride that slows you down by several mph. With a Swift or Bike Friday, for example, you can set the handlebars several inches below the saddle if you wanted an aggressive posture.

Other things to consider is that the KHS may be a little bit easier to upgrade and repair than the Speed, which uses the SRAM Dual Drive.

However, it looks like the Speed TT uses higher grade components. The KHS looks like it's mostly Tiagra (which is good), and the Speed TT mixes Ultegra and 105's (which are better). I also suspect the TT is designed more for raw speed than the KHS.

So I'd do a test ride, and if the handlebars are too high to really hammer, consider a Swift or a Bike Friday Pocket Rocket.

[gumball3510]

I am not sure either of these are still made. The Westwood dates back to 2001. F20A to last June (2005). I would check the KHS website for their dealers; write or email them. They may have bikes around or know where they can get them. The dealer I emailed (wonderlake IL) ordered one for me to try. Tried it and bought it. F20A was $299.