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07-14-08, 08:53 PM
I just purchased a Dahon Speed D7. I purchased it locally off of craigslist from a lady that bought it last year but had only ridden it once. I feel I got a pretty good deal ($250) since the bike really is new and shows no signs of use.
I'm not sure whether it is a 2006 or 2007. How can I tell?
I took it for its first "real" ride today down to the LBS to pick up a bike lock and some other goodies. The round trip was about 5 miles which I rode both on the street and sidewalk. I must say I'm quite pleased with the ride and funtionality of the bike as a whole. I've been riding a road bike (see sig.) for the last four years and this is my first folder. I must say it is pretty nice to simply jump on the bike, flip-flops and all, and just ride without having to change clothes, shoes, etc.
The bike shifts well and I find the gears adequate for the hills in this area. I live at the top of a hill about a 1/3 of a mile long with a 15% gradiant. I found the bike pretty stable, I always felt in control even on the steep descent from my house to the main road. I was able to use the rack and bungee cord that came with the bike on the way home and it was excellent, tightly securing the bag of goodies I picked up. The bike folds quite easily. I like the magnet that keeps the wheels together when folded. It is pretty easy for my to carry and I'd guess the weight is around 25-30 lbs, no weight weenie but definately managable.
The old lady saddle that came with the bike will be the second thing to go, as I already removed the "dork" disc. Next I'll ditch the kick stand and reflectors to save a few grams. ;) I plan to install a flashing LED to make myself a bit more visible.
All in all a great bike and I'm well pleased. P.S. these folders definately get a lot of looks and coment. The guys/gals at the LBS thought it was great!:thumb:
I'm not sure whether it is a 2006 or 2007. How can I tell?
I took it for its first "real" ride today down to the LBS to pick up a bike lock and some other goodies. The round trip was about 5 miles which I rode both on the street and sidewalk. I must say I'm quite pleased with the ride and funtionality of the bike as a whole. I've been riding a road bike (see sig.) for the last four years and this is my first folder. I must say it is pretty nice to simply jump on the bike, flip-flops and all, and just ride without having to change clothes, shoes, etc.
The bike shifts well and I find the gears adequate for the hills in this area. I live at the top of a hill about a 1/3 of a mile long with a 15% gradiant. I found the bike pretty stable, I always felt in control even on the steep descent from my house to the main road. I was able to use the rack and bungee cord that came with the bike on the way home and it was excellent, tightly securing the bag of goodies I picked up. The bike folds quite easily. I like the magnet that keeps the wheels together when folded. It is pretty easy for my to carry and I'd guess the weight is around 25-30 lbs, no weight weenie but definately managable.
The old lady saddle that came with the bike will be the second thing to go, as I already removed the "dork" disc. Next I'll ditch the kick stand and reflectors to save a few grams. ;) I plan to install a flashing LED to make myself a bit more visible.
All in all a great bike and I'm well pleased. P.S. these folders definately get a lot of looks and coment. The guys/gals at the LBS thought it was great!:thumb: