Originally Posted by
Pe1ter
Hi I’ve just purchased the mariner not collected it yet but I’m looking on the website where I bought it the picture shows it has a Dahon rear mech but on the spec list it states it has the shimano Altus rear mech this may sound picky but this could be a deal breaker if it comes with the Dahon branded mech has anyone any idea why on some bikes it comes with shimano and on others Dahon thanks Pete
The brand of derailleur matters less, than the *style*. Older Dahon 20" folders used a "compact" derailleur that mounts forward of the rear axle. It does not shift well, at least with cheaper cassettes without true hyperglide ramps on the largest cog (original Dahon), and shifting is reversed in direction and spring force ("Rapid Rise"). Those older bikes had no conventional rear derailleur hanger, however I have replaced with a conventional derailleur with a "claw mount" that goes under the axle nut. Newer 20" Dahons have a proper mount and use a conventional derailleur mounted just behind the rear axle; That's the one you want. Either brand should work well, and is easily replaced for about $15 new part, if not.