Originally Posted by MichaelW

Folders can make good commuter bike. The tour-oriented takedown bikes are better at longer distances. Transit style compact folders are better at short distances, but in the right hands are quite cabable. I just went on a ride with 2 Brompton riders , taking in 15 miles of potholed roads, trails, steep hils.

The alternative for commuting is not a road race bike. You should be looking at a touring-style bike. The lighter ones are quite racy but have practical features (lower gears, tyre clearance, rack and fender fittings).