Hey BNB, its never great to hear bad news, but I do accept folders are a compromise. However, I'm not ready to give up on my Mu just yet. I know that I haven't torqued the latch. However I remember how tight it was to fasten when I got it, the LBS assured me they did check the various torques on set up.

The frame is guarenteed by Dahon for 5 years, and I'm still in year 1 - just.

I am sure that despite my initial anaylsis, the noise is from the front stem and definitely not the hinge. I'm not tempting fate of course.

I need 20" wheels for my commute and I need a decent spec of bike. That's firmly aluminium folding frame territory I'm afraid.

My original post was a bit of a vent, I am more relaxed about my ticking bike at the moment. All I need is a free evening to set about the headset!