Perhaps I'm speaking out of turn here but I think the recommendation for the speed 8 is that it it the cheapest 20" with Dahon's strongest steel frame - same as on the speed tr and speed pro.

And I think the idea on going to a 16-inch wheel is that it's smaller and more compact when folded.

Just curious - why do you expect to be disappointed with the Dahon? Have you ridden one or just going on reputation that BF is the best? Don't take this wrong but people tend to get what they expect. So if you expect the Dahon to be inferior to the BF, you should seriously consider whether it's a mistake and a waste of money to get one.

Just my opinion ...