Originally Posted by
TTON
thanks for the info guys. I think I'm sold on the 20" wheels as I don't really need the portability of the 16" size. It sounds like that would be the main consideration.
I suggest that you don't limit yourself to 20" but be prepared to also test ride bikes with other size wheels if they are available.
What is best for different surfaces and needs depends upon a lot more than just wheel diameter.
If comfort on rough pavement or cobbles is a high priority, the tires will be a major factor and if tires are similar the most comfortable folding bike I have found is Birdy.
Although tire diameter is significant and the Birdy's tires are only 355's (not much larger than a Brompton's), its road tuned suspension on both wheels provides greater comfort on rough roads than any 20" folder or any road bike that I have ridden. Even hard-tail (front suspension only) 26" tire mountain bikes in my experience need tires that are much wider or tubeless to achieve equivalent comfort.