Don't forget that tire choice can make a HUGE difference in ride quality. Add a Thudbuster and you have quite a smooth ride (better than my big wheeled bikes on high pressure tires). Since I bought a bunch of folders this last year I've maybe put 40 miles on my big wheeled bikes. I toured a lot in Europe on my small wheeled bikes with no issues other than to have low enough gears for the moutains. Get a Thudbuster and decent tires and you will be amazed!