26infolder

Hi,

I'd appreciate some advice regarding the Downtube FS.

I am considering buying it, and have followed much of the discussion on the main DT thread, but couldn't get answers to the following questions. My usage would be a few times a week, 8-10 miles, urban setting, slight hills, occassionally longer rides.

1. Is using the quick release wheels function on a regular basis a practical option? i.e. would folding the bike down into two separate parts: frame and wheels (or at least one wheel) and bagging the wheels be an option on public transport?

2. For a non-tinkerer, aside of the recommended professional tuning (and lights), are there
any investments that can't be done without?

3. Is being a non-tinkerer something to factor in while choosing ebay or storefront
(i.e. longer warranty versus slightly higher price)

4. Is the superior ride of the FS vs. the front suspension model reason enough to warrant
the extras (seatrack, some sort of kickstand) I'd like to have ? I wouldn't be willing to go in for seat upgrades.

Thanks!

14R 

1- The quick release for the front wheel is very easy to use and can be done is 10 seconds or less with practice (specially with the brake cable, that can take a while to get used to release, to allow you to remove the wheel). The rear wheel, because of the chain and derailleur is a little more complicated, but can be done under 2 minutes with proper training, maybe less;

2-The bike is pretty much good to go out of the box (assuming professional tuning, air pressure on tires, etc. take place). I would recommend staying with it WITHOUT any upgrades for at least 3 months and then address what you may (or may not) need; You may end up not spending a dime on it for years to come.

3-I would go with the cheaper price. I haven't heard of any Downtube user complaining of lack of customer service or warranty issues.

4- The riding quality of teh FS model is significantly superior if you are coming from a conventional 26" wheeled bike. Some sort of kickstand and some sort of rack, if not currently already available from 3rd parties, will be available from Downtube (I remember Yan mentioning Rear Racks for the FS model, if you take a close look at the frame you will see the holes for the adaptors).

Good luck on your final choice. If super compact fold is not necessary for you, Downtube is one of the best choices in my opinion since it's not expensive and is fully upgradable.

14R.

invisiblehand

But do you really think that taking off the front wheel will be acceptable during a commute? My first reaction is that it will be unacceptable in the long run.

I am generally an anti-suspension guy since wide tires more than compensate in my opinion. But I have not ridden the full assortment of 20" downtubes. Without a doubt others will chime in.

-G

Fat Boy

I just bought one of these. In a week or so, I'm going to write up a bunch of stuff. If you hold on, I can give you a little bit to think about.

migjet

I have the 2006 front suspension model. I can't say I am a modder as much as everyone else on the forum, but the bike is good to go right out of the box - as 14R mentions.

The removal of the QR tires is questionable if you factor in the number of times per commute you plan to do this. I commute to work when I can. If the weather gets really bad I hop on a bus or subway with a simple fold (maybe fold the stem, if it gets crowded). The rack has always been a plus for me.

geo8rge

Removing the wheels is a pretty dirty operation, which involves dealing with the chain too. All the most disgusting parts of the bike.

"I wouldn't be willing to go in for seat upgrades." You will if the saddle is the problem. The Pedals are probably the first part on the bike that will stop functioning after repeated use. If you actually ride the bike allot to the point it needs to have it's hubs overhauled it might be easier to just buy a better set of wheels that do not need maintnance as frequently.

26infolder

I appreciate all the comments. I realize relying on the QR wheels isn't a regular fold option. Though I guess if pressed, or in a more crowded bus or subway, two smaller packages might go where a single large one wouldn't. Thanks again.

bikinbob

1. Is using the quick release wheels function on a regular basis a practical option? i.e. would folding the bike down into two separate parts: frame and wheels (or at least one wheel) and bagging the wheels be an option on public transport?

ANSWER
I've put my VIII FS on public transportation MANY times. Never taken off a wheel.

####

2. For a non-tinkerer, aside of the recommended professional tuning (and lights), are there
any investments that can't be done without?

ANSWER
For me mods are a requirement, for others maybe no. That idea about not doing much too much BIG drastic stuff right off the bat seems like a nice idea.

That said...

Flashing/blinking reflectors - front and back. That $20 may save your hide some day. That's a first week deal for me.

Maybe some form of headlight, unless you can guarantee you won't be caught at dusk, dawn, or darker than hell. (See flashers above.)

Water bottle cage. Since the braze-ons are already there, that's a real simple add on (that doesn't interfere with folding). Additional bottle cage(s) (like the Two Fish velcro mount). I use one for a big battery for early am commutes with a 20watt halogen, or just a second bottle of water. Can be mounted on seat post or handlebar shaft.

Tape the bar-ends maybe? Longer (taped) bar ends are a definite for me.

Two sided pedals? Platform on one side, clips on the other. Shimano M324 a good example. This is good example of something that isn't an immediate need for some people.

Your favorite saddle? Nothing wrong with what comes with it, but I prefer hornless models (like the Hobson Pro - discontinued). Now there is a Hobson Pro II. NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH EZ-SEAT.

I use a topeak quick release rack w/pannier sides and the matching (trunk) bag. The bag rail mounts, with a quick clip. Comes off in about 3 seconds. Can even carry laptop, change of clothes, and all the bike tool goodies a person could carry.

And when freedom of adventure calls, a Garman eTrex Vista color GPS and handlebar mount. It is a bit of a budget blower, but it adds a tremendous dimension / freedom to the -- "I'm just taking off in any direction" factor. It allows me serendipity I never imagined.

###

3. Is being a non-tinkerer something to factor in while choosing ebay or storefront
(i.e. longer warranty versus slightly higher price)

ANSWER
I ebayed from Yan. He made absolutely sure the transaction was wonderful.

###

4. Is the superior ride of the FS vs. the front suspension model reason enough to warrant
the extras (seatrack, some sort of kickstand) I'd like to have ? I wouldn't be willing to go in for seat upgrades.

ANSWER

This one gets tricky for me. I love the FS concept. It's a really different ride. I do like to get out of the saddle often enough, and standing/pedaling on a full suspension is a little different. I've tightened up the spring (in part because I'm heavier than the average rider). And I like a very secure feeling out of the saddle.

A hard tail frame and suspended seatpost (like a thudbuster) could be considered. And maybe some Schwalbe Big Apple tires, which with a thudbuster give you quite a dampening. I run Big Apples on my Raleigh comfort bike.

And the damn Downtube FS bikes look really cool. (what value is that?)

###

SUMMARY
I've had a long and happy relationship with my Downtube VIII FS. Oh, did I mention that I've got TWO OF THEM? One for the house in the city, and one that stays at the lake house. But to put full disclosure out there, I'm thinking about buying a Swift and selling one of the Downtubes.

pm124

You can get on the NYC subway even with a full size bike. A 20" Downtube will be a tough on the bus. You might opt for the Mini, if it fits you, as a better option.