Folding Bikes - Finally ordered a Downtube

I have been checking them out for a while now. Because of the disgruntled service thread I kept checking them out again and while I have been impressed with the Mini but I would rather have 20" wheels and a multi speed internal hub. I looked at Dahon but expect to pay over $650 for the Vitesse 7. The 8HN with the 8 speed SA is a great deal and Yan has them at a clearance price. I just ordered mine this morning and am looking forward to modifying it already. Thanks to all who have imput on their folders and I enjoy the mods especially since I used to modify all my cars and now have found something cheaper to modify and stay active on besides.

congrats. i just got mine the other day and am getting it tuned up at my LBS. what mod's are you gonna get for it? i'm still deciding on what i need right now, and what i want to get later on.. i guess needs would be lights, rack, grips (mine came with foam ones which i'm not too excited about).. wants : tires (marathon plus/big apples), shifter, handle bar...? it could go on forever couldnt it?

I have a carbon fiber handle bar, marathon tires, saddle, pedals and grips for it. I will probably remove the fender.

That 8HN is very tempting. I'm a little concerned about it having no suspension though. Is it a real rough ride?

Nah. The ride harshness of 20" bikes is overrated. If you don't pump the tyres to 110psi then you won't notice much difference. Limit pressure to 50psi and you'll be more than fine.

I have several 20" bikes and I prefer a lighter bike.

Looks like the 8HN is sold out.

Received the 8HN today. Packed well but I did have a scratch on the fork and the shifter had some scratches on it. I did remove the rack, kickstand, stem, saddle and fender off right away. I am in the process of installing Primo Comets, New stem, saddle, my carbon fiber handlebars would not accept the new grips so I will try later. I took it for a ride and it shifts great. I find the cockpit rather tight and any suggestions are appreciated. My BF has a longer reach and I have gotten use to that. The paint is nice and the finish is also very nice. It is nice to have a folder that takes off the shelf items that can be easily installed compared to my Dahon.

What stem length did you install?

here is a pic of the stock one compared to the new.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/hotzilla_2006/PICT0821.jpg

Still need to install the rear tire.
http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j65/hotzilla_2006/PICT0823.jpg

I just got back from a ride and it was better this time, I think it will just take some time to get use to.

Looks great, Dynocoaster! Any chance you'll toss the stem and fender up on eBay?

I took off the rear rack, stem, kickstand, rear fender and handlebar ends. I would like to get rid of them as a package.

Hi Dyno, you do realize that the Mini has a multi-speed internal hub, right? (Your first post implies that it doesn't.)

Are you not planning on using your bike for commuting? I find the rear rack is essential for carrying stuff, and the kickstand is great for putting my bike to the side while I'm unlocking my apartment door or engaging in other two-handed tasks. The fender helps with puddle splashes.

It is a fair weather bike. I dont commute.