Originally Posted by
MEversbergII
Anyways now that I'm looking through and figuring out what I want, I've realized I haven't spotted a thread that highlights the DOWNSIDES to a folding bike. Or, more generally, why would one be compelled to choose a non-folder over a folder for "regular" (non competitive) cycling? My current non-folder is a general purpose bike - I commute with it, I shop with it, I go places with it. What advantages would my current 21 gear 26" wheel bike have over a "folder", to use that word in a vaccume?
Originally Posted by
MEversbergII
Some small flaws in my original post.
* The local bus system is only recently implementing a front-mount rack system - not all busses are equipped.
* If I can fold a bike, I believe I can store it downstairs, as I can get away with storing 2 for the space of about one.
* Weight is less a consideration for stair carry than bulk - and its not easy for me to guide a "loose" front wheel up steps that narrow.
Where I'm moving is rather close to where I work, so I think I might do alright with a less expensive model, if I can't find a nice one second hand. Does anyone know if the Shimano or Schwinn folders are worth a look?
Sorry if I missed this in the thread, but are you keeping the 26" non-folding bike? If so, then I'd recommend you look at something that complements it or fulfills a specific purpose you have in mind that the 26" bike fails to do.
With regards to carrying the bike, I'd think that a "bulky" fold that is tidy and well maintained while being carried would be better than a less bulky and less well maintained fold. But then again, I'm 8-9 inches taller. So size or some particular dimension might matter more to you. Based on what I read here, I would stick with something like a Dahon Mu that gives you some gears but can be relatively light since I think that weight does matter for folding bikes.
As for the negatives, I think most have been touched on earlier in the thread; All things equal, greater weight, complexity, and cost. Sometimes you'll find that folding bikes function less well with bike accessories or amenities. For instance ... (1) some older wireless cyclecomputers have an effective range that mates poorly with a small wheel, (2) bike racks tend to be designed for 26"+ sized wheels with a diamond frame and some designs mate poorly with a folding bike, (3) when at a stop a lot of people subconsciously use the top tube to help steady the bike but many folding bikes don't have that top tube, and I can go on. Nonetheless, I think that it's a net benefit for most people.