mark 03,

The Swift is a nice bike. Someone in Seattle should let you test-ride their bike.
Perhaps start that request as a topic?
Folding: It doesn't get as small nor as quickly as other folders such as the Brompton.
As for build quality a Bike Friday is nicer that the aluminum Chinese made Xootr and it is made in the USA, pnw.
I think Peter still makes some Swift steel frames in Bklyn ( I should really know this ! )
Swift is one of the best designed/ looking folder out there imo.
I think its just a cleaner better looking design than most others, and you can hang any parts on it you desire.