I never understand the appeal of Tern and Dahon bikes, forums are full of frame failure issues, there has been recalls and a recent post I saw about a Dahon bike showed the tolerance between the seat post and frame was poor causing frequent movement of the saddle in use. Do not represent the expected quality for their price point.

Also it seems they are just buying frames of their design from other manufacturers, they create a lot of their own patents and design but actual production quality seems unremarkable to say the least. I realise it may be that these are performance bikes and perhaps some of the issues are in the pursuit of lightness but as many cycle for health a few extra pounds here and there isn't the end of the world. I'd rather cycle a heavy bike I can depend on than something I'm unsure about. The issue with Dahon is different because the max.com bikes made in Bulgaria may be different quality to the Chinese made bikes, I don't know who is better at making Dahons. Dahon just seems like one of those bike brands that invest heavily in marketing and are set at a premium price point but you wonder if they really warrant these prices. Certainly the frames don't look any better made than budget bikes.

Not trying to offend any Dahon or Tern fans but I don't think these brands represents the sweet spot between quality and value. I honestly think some of the one step up models of direct sellers of folding bikes who import directly from the Chinese factories and sell direct to the public offer the best value. The bikes that have good quality aluminium frames, gearing above tourney quality and a cassette based rear wheel not freewheel. Just my opinion. I have no vested interest in saying that and have no connection with such direct sellers and understand if you have no ability to service a bike yourself then buying from a local bike shop at a higher price is recommended for all the additional support they can offer.