As a person who lives in a small rural town, located in the albeit not so large (but still rather hilly) New Hampshire west central mountains, where the nearest traffic light and fast food chain, are more than 15 miles in the distance, and nearest big-box retail store is more than 30 miles away, it is interesting to read about urban living, transportation, etc., and your passionate opinions on folding and E bikes.

I own a folding bike for one reason: It will fit in a suitcase and I can take it with me on vacation. Fortunately I happened to stumble upon mine, a relatively modest Dahon Speed 7 (which typically sells for $400-$450 USD retail) for a very nice $99 brand new (and we don't have sales or VAT tax here in NH). If it had been a whole lot more $$$ I probably would have passed. Now, I must admit, taking into account the value of the spares I've had on hand, and purchases made to upgrade it to a drop bar folder with more and better gearing, over the course of the 6 or so years, I've gradually spent another $400-500 USD.

The point I'd like to communicate, is that there is a huge segment of the world's population that would find a Brompton, or a future Helix (whatever the final retail price might be), a Bike Friday, or many other folding bikes, MTBs, road bikes, E-Bikes, E Scooters, etc., way too expensive. I'm not interested because of the cost verses the use. Others can't afford it, even the Kicksarter price. I say that--- even when I possess what I feel is significant disposable discretionary income and financial reserves.

I could easily offer a Kicksarter backer of a Helix 5X, even 10X, his/her investment--- or more. I can afford to purchase the best Brompton, or Bike Friday, or commission Frank the Welder (local to me) to build me one-off custom folder--- but 99.9999% of the world's population can't afford or have no need for a $$$$+ Folding, E, MTB, Road, Cargo, etc., bicycle.

So keep this in mind as you debate and argue, become frustrated, miffed, and increase your BPs. You have a very, very, very tiny audience (just look at how many are viewing this forum at any given moment--- possibly 5-10 BFers and 20-30 non members). Is all the vitriol and one ups-man-ship really worth the effort? Does it contribute positively to the well being--- of even the bicycling world--- let alone the tiny handful of people here in BF-Folding Bikes?