Originally Posted by
snafu21
First up, Ekdog has a serial beef with Dahon ownership and his useless Spanish non-Dahon mechanic which six million others don't.
He now operates as the President of the European Anti-Dahon Front and takes every chance to diss Dahons to newbies. He can become aggressive when challenged.
Bear this in mind when you read his posts.
Second, frame-hinge parts, screws, pivots and latch parts are easily available in Europe from CH White at
www.dahonspares.co.uk and have been for at least five years. They usually ship stuff next day. If they don't and anyone in Europe wants a part from them, mail me. (I'm not a dealer)
Thirdly, Dahon frame pivots and latches need regular lubrication, whether they are stored in dry room or not.
It's a point emphasized in the owners manual. Tolerances are close, and precise. Lubricate or weep.
Fourthly, Dahon had a production issue with frame pivot tolerances on some bikes in 2007, notably some, not all- Matrix and Jack frames which were stiff to operate. They were rectified by 2008 and have not reappeared. Dealers are aware.
After laughing a lot thanks to your post, and very relieved for the diagnosis of my bike, I have to confess: I didn't read the manual nor did any kind of mainteinance to the bike except my first ride - first flat - first tire change.
And I can almost listen the voice of my brother telling me the secret of the universe some years ago: If it has to move, WD40, if it has to be fixed, Duck tape.
I panicked when such a strong bike like mine (it feels like a tractor) couldn't be folded.
I will keep with my Speed TR because is the only folding bike that allows me to climb Madrid and the steep hills in my town and because it's strong enogh to carry at least one child without any trouble, and last but not least, it fits ok thanks to the adaptable stem (I bike like a grandma delivering eggs or a proudy upright lady).
Thanks for the link, I'll keep it and also your nickname in case I cannot find a spare part, thank you very much.