Thanks for the input everyone. I looked at a P24 today, and it could be rolled (while folded) with a bungee cord holding it together (the magnet won't cut it), I think I could live with that bike, but based on your feedback, I definitely need to take a closer look at the P9 (hopefully the local shop has one in stock).
Originally Posted by
BassNotBass
I'll have to second that. We're not here to convert you, just to point out that folding bikes are as different from each other as are bikes with large wheels. If you dismiss the very good small wheeled bikes, you could be missing out on a bike that is easier to transport than a large wheeled folder yet is still efficient and a lot of fun.
The reason I'm skittish about the 20" is when test riding I went over some loose gravel and I did not feel stable or in control of the bike. I'm sure I'd learn to handle it in time, but being an extreme novice, I guess I'm more comfortable with standard size bikes (like what I grew up riding). I'm sure you're all probably right, and in a year or less I'll looking into a 16" or 20".
Originally Posted by
pacificcyclist
John, The Tern Eclipse P9 is ideal for you for what you need and the dealer is correct. The folding size isn't much bigger than my Dahon Mu SL which has 20" wheels. The ride quality is a step above the Dahon Mu SL (now Tern Verge X10/20 or Dahon Vector) or even the P24 and is pretty comfortable and it is fast even with 9 gears. 24" wheels is a good compromise for speed and comfort. Bigger wheels provide less rolling resistance. You can add a basket and fenders onto the Eclipse P9, white fenders even! A friend of mine has the Eclipse P9 and was a former Dahon Mu SL owner and he said, this Eclipse rides faster than the Mu SL. The gearing on the P9 is adequate for city use and the lower gears are good for not so steep hills. And it's got disc brakes so for the price, it ain't a bad deal.
Thanks for the input, I'll see if the local shop has it, and try to test it out before making a decision.
Originally Posted by
dynaryder
Yeah, I'll have to take the elevator, and I may get harassed a bit, but my home and my work are the last 2 stops on the line (Wiehle, Reston & Spring Hill, McLean) and trains come every 6 minutes, so I can't imagine the trains will be too packed. I could be wrong though.