Folding Bikes - Hello

Hello, my name is keke and I'm a noob!

Just started riding, taught by a friend in a couple of hours about 3 weeks ago. Never been on 2 wheels ever before!

Since then, I've researched and bought a folding bike (tutor recommended one and I totally agreed as the fear of falling off those very large wheels on full sized bikes...)

I bought used, in case it was a passing fancy but I think I'm in it for life. Ridden in the underground carpark and ventured to the park with it in my boot.

My wrists hurt a bit but I assume upgrading handlebars would reduce foldability.

Still can't figure out how to stop :lol: or what to do when going downhill :eek:, seem frozen and paralysed!

Think I can make goodish turns but cannot ride uphill. The gears? I forget them when riding, can't do too many things at once.....

Still, a lot of fun!

Pics of the folder, Pinnacle Journey 1.0, taken on Saturday in the park...

Went for another spin this afternoon. Slowly learning the ropes. Didn't crash into anyone or anything! Already I suspect that my long limbs maybe a tad unsuitable. Keep bashing the mudguard/rack as I cycle. Will have a play with the seatpost, seems very adjustable.

220305 220304

Welcome to the fold. Ergon grips may help with the wrists. A longer seat post may help with the long legs. An aber hallo may also help with the wrists if the handle bars needs to go out further. http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/technical/aberhallo.htm

cool ....
welcome

Welcome to the fold. Ergon grips may help with the wrists. A longer seat post may help with the long legs. An aber hallo may also help with the wrists if the handle bars needs to go out further. http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/technical/aberhallo.htm

Thank you so much Dynocoaster and Thor! The Aber Hallo looks excellent, is it available in the UK? Will have to look. Been to Thor's site before but didna know these extra bits were there. Brilliant! Might pick them up during my next trip to the States if they're not available here or international shipping is prohibitive.

I wonder if the parts would fit my Pinnacle bike . It seems like a Dahon clone. That's why I bought it - adjustable handlebar height, nice profile and secure folding clamps which are all labelled Oyama which I've heard is a highly rated clone! Overall it's similar to the Dahon.

Looking forward to modding when I'm confident on the the 2 wheels.

Pinnacle is Evans Cycles in house brand isn't it ?

Don't think it has any Dahon in its DNA, but it may be made by one of their companies, most folders seem to be.

Snafu21 on here knows all about Oyama - the bike for the young person about town.

If you are in London you may like to have a look at the Hyde Park Folding bike thread, gentle pootling for the young at heart on the first Sunday in the month.

Pinnacle is Evans Cycles in house brand isn't it ?

Don't think it has any Dahon in its DNA, but it may be made by one of their companies, most folders seem to be.

Snafu21 on here knows all about Oyama - the bike for the young person about town.

If you are in London you may like to have a look at the Hyde Park Folding bike thread, gentle pootling for the young at heart on the first Sunday in the month.

Yeah, Pinnacle is Evans' in-house brand. I wonder why they quit the folder market, maybe too tough? I guess Oyama have copied Dahon in some fashion. I'll try to PM snafu for info. I'll need to know dimensions and stuff.

Hello, my name is keke and I'm a noob!

Just started riding, taught by a friend in a couple of hours about 3 weeks ago. Never been on 2 wheels ever before!



Wonderful! I hope the pootling interest sticks with you.

When braking to a stop, make sure your bum is off the saddle before you come to a complete stop.

Today, I went for a ride with a friend in Dalgety Bay - beautiful BTW, it was a lovely ride. My first proper ride!

Fell off once, scraped but happy! Happened when I came off the curb/kerb/sidewalk onto the road and lost balance. Hoping that would improve with experience and not a function of the folding bike.

Why is it so hard to ride uphill? It was tougher to keep my balance as I tilted to the side as I tried to pedal hard. I pedalled hard in a bid to keep my legs cycling as I realised that momentum, once lost, was very hard to regain. Going downhill is indeed exhilarating, I controlled the speed by coasting+braking and selecting a higher gear. Still struggling to change gear intuitively, need to look at the shifter and end up losing balance.

Big question though, my bike has a Nexus 3 speed hub, sometimes it seems as if I'm taking up slack when I'm pedalling. Strange feeling and I've found it a bit dangerous as I miss my rhythm and get me feet tangled and hitting against the frame. HELP!

Hello Keke, And welcome to the Folder Forum. I'm a noob to folding bikes too, though I've been cycling since '68, it's always been on larger wheel bikes.

I have the Nexus hub-shift on my bike too, though it's an 8 speed and I haven't suffered any of the "taking up slack" bit that you have. Check to make sure your shift cable is reasonably tight, i.e. no slack in it. As long as that's good, then there shouldn't be any slack . . . unless your chain is not reasonably tight (should be a little slack in it too - chainrings and cogs are not perfectly round after all -, but again, not a lot).

I find riding uphill is much more difficult than on my road or mountain bikes when on the folder, but I've been writing that off to my different (maybe not as efficient) position on the folder. Plus mine has 16" wheels, so that may be a factor too.

Regardless, good to hear you had a brilliant ride to Dalgety Bay. No idea where that is, but nowhere near Seal Beach California, which as been my long distance trip on my folder so far (30 miles round trip).

Rick / OCRR

Big question though, my bike has a Nexus 3 speed hub, sometimes it seems as if I'm taking up slack when I'm pedalling. Strange feeling and I've found it a bit dangerous as I miss my rhythm and get me feet tangled and hitting against the frame. HELP!

sounds like the cable may need adjusting, here's a video which shows how to do it

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx0I-4JdQ2k

Thanks guys. I assumed it was a chain issue as it's the pedalling that's affected i.e. seeming to 'freewheel' while pedalling forward. i don't know how much better to put it.

Will check out the Youtube vid.

Yes that what you describe is almost certainly the shifting cable which needs adjustment.

Welcome to the fold. Ergon grips may help with the wrists. A longer seat post may help with the long legs. An aber hallo may also help with the wrists if the handle bars needs to go out further. http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/technical/aberhallo.htm



I wonder if the parts would fit my Pinnacle bike . It seems like a Dahon clone. That's why I bought it - adjustable handlebar height, nice profile and secure folding clamps which are all labelled Oyama which I've heard is a highly rated clone! Overall it's similar to the Dahon.

Looking forward to modding when I'm confident on the the 2 wheels.

Checked the handlebars....

220767

:cry:

Looks like that's that. A one-piece stem and handlebar system, no way to modify it. So much for the Aber Hallo or any stem adjustment for that matter.... :(

Help!

No problem. Just saw the handlebars off very short, to accommodate the aberhallo stem. That is, same width as the aberhallo stem.

If you want to go this way, just measure the diameter of the handlebars near the middle with a pair of vernier calipers and take up a dialog with Thor.

This may also fit into the stem go half way down the page, http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/accessories/handlebar.htm

This may also fit into the stem go half way down the page, http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/accessories/handlebar.htm

Do you mean the Dahon revolve stem? Just taken a closer look and realise it has a groove according to Thor's site! If it's the right diameter, YIPEE! I can still keep my Pinnacle stem + handlebar for resale!

Yes that is the one. Call Thor and get the measurement to make sure.

sounds like the cable may need adjusting, here's a video which shows how to do it

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx0I-4JdQ2k

Thanks. Adjusted my cable as in the video, easy peasy! Tested out this evening, seems I'm still getting a "taking up slack" feeling in 1st gear but second gear is fine, engages nicely.

In 1st gear, is it normal to get this feeling when you're pedaling really fast? Like needing to switch up a gear in a car. Seems as if my pedaling is of no effect, the pedals just "coasting".

Rode around my wee estate today, enjoyed it. I think this bike is a start for me, might move on to something else. My arms ached after a while, will try a new handlebar position after some mods to see if it's the position. Don't want to waste money on mods if a bigger/better bike is what I need. decisions, decisions..

Tried to see how fast I could go, rode really hard in 3rd gear and I just seemed to lose control, my pedals spun crazily and my feet disengaged. Kept my balance and slowed down before getting my feet on the pedals again! Means I've improved already, saved myself from a swim in the River Clyde (can't swim, LOL!).

So much to learn...

Ordered a Dahon 25.4mm handlepost upper (aka Dahon Revolve Stem with Quick Release Top on thor's website).

Arrived today and, boohoo! It doesn't fit! I was sure it would but after tightening the clasp it just falls through! Other size available to me is the 28.6mm which I don't think will fit.

Original:
222002

Dahon replacement:
222001

What do I do? I pinned my hopes on this stem/upper.

Is cutting the handlebar my only option now? Help!

I would think a shim would work. But get a second opinion. A shim like the ones used on a seat post.

I would think a shim would work. But get a second opinion. A shim like the ones used on a seat post.

Thanks dyno, have made enquiries. It's an Oyama part that sadly isn't compatible with the Dahon. Regarding a shim, I asked someone and they advised against.

Spoken to a few pple and Oyama parts are like Dahon parts used to be, RARE as hen's teeth! :lol:

It'll be the hacksaw next, lop off the handlebar and fit THIS (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=59568) or ONE OF THESE. (http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Cycling-/7294/i.html?rt=nc&Component%2520Type=Handlebars%2520%2526%2520Stems&_nkw=adjustable%20stem&_catref=1&_dmpt=UK_sportsleisure_cycling_bikeparts_SR&_fln=1&_ssov=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m282)

I don't own a hacksaw...:(

It'll be the hacksaw next,
I don't own a hacksaw...:(

I'd be wary of taking a hacksaw to it, once you cut it you will almost certainly reduce the value of your bike considerably. First check that a replacement Pinnacle part is available just in case it all goes wrong, then think about getting a bike shop to check that the Dahon stem will fit the cut down - safely, and if you haven't got a hacksaw, get them to do it. The last thing you want is to be bombing along admiring the view across Dalgety Bay and have your bars and stem come away in your hands, its not good for the elbows, knees and front teeth.

Hi Diode, thanks for your advice. Evans (Pinnacle brand owners) don't seem to make folding bicycles anymore. I will probably give them a ring though I'm not sure they actually make what I have in mind, I need more reach.

WHat I thought to do was cut off the handlebar where it meets the stem, keeping the entire lower and upper bit intact. Then, clamp on the FSA stem and pass the handlebar through that.

Seems clear in my mind but I guess I might have missed something.

Silly, silly, silly me.

Ordered a stem (THIS (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=59568))

Arrived and I realised that my steerer tube is 1" and the stem is for 1 1/8" steerers! Doesn't fit at all.

How many newbie errors can one person make?

Need advice, do I go hunting for a shim (MPart shim (http://www.totalcycling.com/index.php/product/parts_accessories/stem_spares/ahead_stem_adapter_shim.html)) or this ITM stem (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=47961) which I'm told fits 1" steerers....

Feel very silly.

darn ..sorry bout that ... just mail the piece back and I will at least refund the money for the stem
can you get an upper piece just like its on your bike ? I would be much happier if you cut the handlebar off when u have the orifginla laying around for back up .... after that the aber hallo should work ...

sorry ...... that we get u all fired up and than it doesnt fit
thor

Silly, silly, silly me.

Ordered a stem (THIS (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=59568))

Arrived and I realised that my steerer tube is 1" and the stem is for 1 1/8" steerers! Doesn't fit at all.

How many newbie errors can one person make?

Need advice, do I go hunting for a shim (MPart shim (http://www.totalcycling.com/index.php/product/parts_accessories/stem_spares/ahead_stem_adapter_shim.html)) or this ITM stem (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=47961) which I'm told fits 1" steerers....

Feel very silly.

Before continuing along the upgrade path, do serious research before making parts purchases. Lots of boobytraps. Sheldon Brown's page is a good start, http://www.sheldonbrown.com/home.html. Also keep asking here, many knowledgeable people willing to help. See if there's a good bike shop in your area that has the patience to help you along. Might have to try several, but when you do find a keeper make sure to throw a few bux in the till now and again.

One thing you'll run into is that there are many different "standards" and proprietary hardware sizes that are incompatible with each other, even within the same manufacturer. Folders throw even more variables in the mix. An experienced mechanic can often come up with work arounds, but it's always better to get the right part for the job.

I've been building bikes since I was about eight, and after a long hiatus have started again with folders. Seems I spend more time checking that what I'm looking for will work than actually working on the bike, and still get caught out. Most bike nuts have bins of bits that proved to be less than ideal for the intended purpose, but get used on something else later. The manufacturers seem to keep piling on more proprietary standards on top of the existing mountain. Even something as simple as wheels and tires can be a headache.

darn ..sorry bout that ... just mail the piece back and I will at least refund the money for the stem
can you get an upper piece just like its on your bike ? I would be much happier if you cut the handlebar off when u have the orifginla laying around for back up .... after that the aber hallo should work ...

sorry ...... that we get u all fired up and than it doesnt fit
thor

Thanks Thor, the bike shop refunded my payment (mostly) for the Dahon handlepost, when I'm stateside I'll definitely think of you first for parts!

You're right, I'll ring up the bike makers and ask if they have any parts lying around before I do any cutting.

Might be too much hassle returning the ill fitting stem, leaning toward a shim. I guess it's part of the process.

Before continuing along the upgrade path, do serious research before making parts purchases. Lots of boobytraps. Sheldon Brown's page is a good start, http://www.sheldonbrown.com/home.html. Also keep asking here, many knowledgeable people willing to help. See if there's a good bike shop in your area that has the patience to help you along. Might have to try several, but when you do find a keeper make sure to throw a few bux in the till now and again.

One thing you'll run into is that there are many different "standards" and proprietary hardware sizes that are incompatible with each other, even within the same manufacturer. Folders throw even more variables in the mix. An experienced mechanic can often come up with work arounds, but it's always better to get the right part for the job.

I've been building bikes since I was about eight, and after a long hiatus have started again with folders. Seems I spend more time checking that what I'm looking for will work than actually working on the bike, and still get caught out. Most bike nuts have bins of bits that proved to be less than ideal for the intended purpose, but get used on something else later. The manufacturers seem to keep piling on more proprietary standards on top of the existing mountain. Even something as simple as wheels and tires can be a headache.

Thanks a bunch. Before taking the plunge I read quite a bit, was the fun part of the process.

Might just use this bike to discover what I want/need in a cycle and avoid all this malarkey!

Funny now that I've calmed down, the disappointment is slowly fading away....

the good part is that eventually you will find the perfect solution and than the achievement is even greater ...
dont give up
its tuff but very rewarding

thor

Thanks a bunch. Before taking the plunge I read quite a bit, was the fun part of the process.

Might just use this bike to discover what I want/need in a cycle and avoid all this malarkey!

Funny now that I've calmed down, the disappointment is slowly fading away....

I just picked up my 6th folder as a project, each one was a learning experience. Some were fairly easy to upgrade, some not so much(like the new one). But it's the difficult ones that make you use your little grey cells. And then there's the satisfaction of successfully completing the task.

Of course like cars and motorbikes, some are never finished.

Deciding to put everything on hold and just ride.

Called the bike manufacturer and they don't have any parts and are unlikely to do so. This means, like was pointed out earlier, I will not be able to return it to its previous state if it goes pear shaped. I'm too inexperienced to be messing about anyhow; crawl-stand-walk-run and all that...

Just going to enjoy riding and over the winter, get to know what I really want in a bike. The convenience of folders suits me so will stick with them.

Lost some money already in this upgrade fever, LOL! Will keep my most recent stem purchase, not worth returning. Amazing how cycling can be expensive even if you buy relatively inexpensive items! :eek:

Going out for a ride...

Deciding to put everything on hold and just ride.

Just going to enjoy riding and over the winter, get to know what I really want in a bike. The convenience of folders suits me so will stick with them.

Lost some money already in this upgrade fever, LOL! Will keep my most recent stem purchase, not worth returning. Amazing how cycling can be expensive even if you buy relatively inexpensive items! :eek:

Going out for a ride...

Wise decision, a few more months of riding and you will have a better idea of what suits you and what you like.

You could try putting the parts on ebay, I'm sure there is someone out there thinking if only I could get hold of a .................!

Thanks Diode.
Just back from my ride, it was exhilarating. Managed to negotiate bends and a steep incline (for me) safely. So pleased with myself.
Did make friends with boarding by the side of the cycle path on my way out, ripped my new Regatta jacket slightly and made contact with my helmet/visor - glad it was not my head. Nothing major but just reminds me I'm not yet ready for the open road. Glad the cars were separated from me by railings!

Didn't realise I'd done approx 2-3miles roundtrip till I just checked. Need to get myself a bike GPS!

DOwnside: my wrists and arms ache!!! I think it's the handlebar position, not enough reach methinks. Will have to be patient.

Thanks Diod
DOwnside: my wrists and arms ache!!! I think it's the handlebar position, not enough reach methinks. Will have to be patient.

One thing you might try is replacing the handlebar with a carbon fiber one. I found that wrist and arm problems pretty much went away when I replaced the bar on my Birdy. I think the carbon fiber soaks up road harmonics, much like magnesium. I also went with Ergon Biokork grips. Have had no wrist tingling or arm/shoulder problems since. As I had installed a low riser CF bar, that may have had a effect on the position as well.

CF bars are available in a variety of shapes, and perhaps you could address the cockpit situation by going with a different type of bar. CF isn't cheap, but it would also be easy to move the bar to a new bike in the future.

Have fun with your new skills.