Originally Posted by
Tourist in MSN
If it was me, I would try to get a package that does not exceed the airline size criteria of 62 inch. That means either take apart frame or if I stay with folder it means smaller wheels.
If airline travel is in the mix I definitely agree that meeting the sub 62" criteria would be a big plus.
My experience with folders is limited to 20" wheeled ones and the flexing of the tall masts was terrible on every one I tried. The frame was pretty hard to dial in to something I was happy with. The Bike Friday apparently better geometry wise, but still has the tall masts.
The 26" wheeled folders look interesting, but depending on the space you need to fit it in it may or may not pack better. I know that on my sailboat a regular bike with the front wheel removed fit in the deck lockers much more easily than my folded Dahon Helios. The Dahon folded to a nice short package, but the width was problematic with the fairly narrow deck locker opening.
Coupled bikes look great for those who fly to and from the same city, but dealing with a case or special sized box is a hassle for those doing point to point tours with air travel on each end. Also they may be not ideal for quickly throwing on a bus.
The 26" folder may work well for the OP, but just taking off the wheels will allow a normal bike to pack quite small, so I wouldn't rule out a more conventional bike.