Folding Bikes - Dahon Speed D7 or Downtube 8HN?

I am just getting into folding bikes and based on my price range (under $450), I'm looking at either a 2008 Dahon Speed D7 or Downtube 8HN. I'm looking for:

1) A good commuter bike - My commute is less than 3 miles to the train and less than 3 miles from the train to the office, with no hills.

2) Low maintenance/easy to repair - I am a newbie when it comes to this stuff and am looking for a bike that if maintained well will last a while and one where parts are easy to locate if ever they need to be replaced.

I don't really need a lot of bells and whistles, just something that is well built and fairly light (to carry up and down stairs). Also, do you know where is the most affordable place to purchase bikes of these types?

Any help would be appreciated,
Thanks

I'd go for the Downtube because of the hub gears. Have you considered the 8H as it has front suspension and a very smooth ride? I have one, great ride on or off-road.

I just bought a D7 last week and then noticed the closeout on the 8HN and ordered one. I should have it next week week. I think it is a great deal for the money and the closest Dahon is the Vitesse 7 spd hub and it is over $650.

The 8HN is also light at 24 pounds.

Are there fundamental differences between the Dahon and Downtube brands? (i.e. quality, ease of folding, ease of finding parts, long term durability, etc). My apologies for what probably is a simple question, like I said before, I'm pretty green when it comes to folding bikes.

From what I have read Downtubes are easier to modify with stock parts. Both are quality bikes. Long term is how you maintain it. Durability they both seem to be at par. I think my BF is harder to fold than either of them and that is why I am going to a simpler bike. I only ride around town and parks and the 8 speed is easier to maintain and I already have some parts that I want to use to hot rod the new 8HN.

Downtube 8HN hands down. The current deal at $299 is incredible. I've been recommending it to all my friends who are remotely considering a folding bike.

Downtube 8HN hands down. The current deal at $299 is incredible. I've been recommending it to all my friends who are remotely considering a folding bike.

+1, I have been spreading the word also.