Originally Posted by
kungfuguy
Hi there! I'm the original poster. This thread has gone off the rail a bit. All the technical discussion is sorta fun. But I'm not a technical rider or into modding a bike. My reason for a folder was for short day trips. I just wanted to put it into the trunk and go! I also want to experience the group ride as well. However, the club around my home are all roadies. There aren't any casual riding clubs.
The Dahon anniversary or the Terge Verge are the type I'd want. Off the self bikes. Although they are over-priced! A small wheeled folding recumbent is something I'm also into. Like the TW Bent Cobra. I've done a some research and sitting on the fence right now.
I guess 20 inch wheels isn't going to get me into many clubs.
Don't give up!
Most of the discussion here has been highly speculative, so I think you should get the bike you want, enjoy riding it, and keep looking around for the right club. Yes, you got some pushback from that one, but maybe there's another club that has a ride day specially designated for new riders or slower rides; mine does.
That kind of thing would be perfect, allowing you to see where your abilities and the bike's capabilities fit into the scheme of things. Who knows; in time you may find you're wanting to slap a bigger chainring on front, or maybe you'll be pleased with it just stock.
A recumbent can be more challenging to fit in, particularly if you live in a hilly area where climbs might leave you badly off-pace, but again, if it's what you want to ride, do it, and find the group later.
This may be your chance to form your own posse, too! There are regional forums here you can trawl for existing rides in your area, or to start one up yourself.
We're all small-wheel enthusiasts here, and despite the small disputes you saw in the replies, I'm sure we all agree they're a blast to ride and would delight to have another enthusiast in the fold!