Hi,

I'm new to the forum and I'm sure this questions is asked a 1000 times. I just started researching, so please excuse me if I'm asking a dumb question.

I live in NYC and want to start using a bike to commute to/from work. The ride is about 2.5-3 miles each way. I am looking at a folding bike to save on storage space at home and also to bring the bike into my office building. My budget is anyway from $600-$1000. Some of the things that I would like to have in the bike:

1) Internal Gear Hub (most that I've seen in my budget range doesn't have this)
2) Fold doesn't have to be small, but it should be easy enough to carry up a flight of stairs and into an elevator
3) 20" wheels
4) Easy Maintenance

I've been looking at the Dahon Mu P8 and the Xootr Swift and figure I would upgrade either to an internal gear hub and maybe add disc brakes. How easy or how much would it cost to do the upgrades? I don't need the best parts.

I am not sure the Swift will be able to fold small enough and quickly enough for me to carry up a flight of stairs, but I like the look better. And from the reviews, it seems like the ride is better than the Dahon. I'm also attracted to its use of standard parts, since I like to fiddle with my toys after a while.

Which bike would you recommend? Should I look at other options?

Thanks