Doraku

I am feeling a little overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information and variety of fold-up bikes.

I am 5'10 and I think I am around 175ibs but I think I might have gained a weight while at university. People don't notice it immediately, though.

I have almost finished university and I have always found mobility to be an issue at my parents' house. We live in the countryside and I think I will start using my old bike again until I buy a fold-up bike.

The nearest bus station is 3.4 miles and the train nearer 10 miles. I would sometimes walk to the bus station but I think this would be more efficient. I have friends that want to travel in the future but I am not sure if a requirement for touring would be that important.

I'd also like it pretty light, although I am used to carrying my laptop around all day I don't think this equates to a bike. Being able to carry a small amount of luggage would also be useful.

I think I am looking to spend around £350-400. Is that too little?

Cheers!

HGR3inOK

Where are you located? (England, I would assume.) You probably don't want to spend a lot of time discussing/evaluating bikes that are not available in your area.

-HANK RYAN-
Norman, Oklahoma USA

Casbah

For that price range you might want to check out some of the more affordable Tern or Dahon folders.

Dynocoaster 

Used Brompton.

Doraku

I do live in England.

Thanks. I thought this forum was an international forum, rather than American.

Cheers. I will look at those bikes now!

HGR3inOK

Definitely international. That's why I think it helps to put your location in your profile. Since you live in England, a used Brompton might be on your list of candidates. If you lived in the state of Oklahoma in the U.S.A., you probably could not find a use Brompton locally (but you could get new Brompton or Dahon or Tern ).

-HANK RYAN-
Norman, Oklahoma USA

fietsbob

I'm 5'9" 200#, M3L is a good fit.. I second the: buy a used Brompton suggestion.

they have remained backwards compatible so even the 90's Mk 2 can be maintained
with fresh replacement parts , If needed.

I have bought 2 , used , here, from private sellers in other states .

Folding-Bikes

Used Brompton if you live in a flat area, look for a Dahon if you need more gears.

Juan

brakemeister

ooohh you can buy a folder on a schtick aroeund the corner for 100 dlr .... or the better doubleSchtick down at the harbour from one of those friendly .....

or I can sell you a demo bike for 300 dlr ......

OH now I see that you are from the UK I assume .... sorry those double schtick are available in Vietnam .... and my Demo bike is 350 dlr freight ....

surely this is an International forum and we all like eachother very much and trying to be helpfull and and and .... but a location when asking for a buying suggestion goes a very long way.

Having said that.... A Brommy is good for the distances you describe..... a USED Dahon or maybe A Tern ( if you can find one) may represent an even better bang for the buck

Ridefreemc

Mezzo too since they are from the UK (a bit more $$ than you suggested though).

BicycleGuy

Dear "Overwhelmed",
Having information, I suppose sales and/or product data is a good thing. The more informed & educated you become, the better decisions you can make. However, as Hank accurately points out (since the price range you quote is in UK-pounds) it is more realistic to focus on bicycles available in your residential area. Unquestionably Brompton in the UK is a "premier" brand. Also (if available) Tern. I personally have very positive experiences with bicycle dealers (bicycle stockists in UK vernacular) although there seems to be a recent trend towards purchasing bicycles online. (A bicycle is not a cell phone or a I-pad!) If possible, you should establish a good relationship as soon as possible with a local bicycle stockist. Either purchase from him or consult with him regarding your purchase. Spend money there....wear a helmet,cycling gloves,light(s),chain or cable & lock.....the list of what you need could be finite or infinite. The important point is that you want that bicycle professional to recognize you and value your relationship. You might need him someday........

Cheers!

bhkyte

New Mezzo D9 or i4 can be picked up for £400 ish if one shops around. You might even pick up a nearly new or display D10 for £500.

Mezzo or Brompton, compact Dahons all work very well on trains.
All with in your price bracket, but a Brommie will have to be used at this price.
Also consider a paffic reach in the sales.