Originally Posted by
Plainsman
Thanks. Yeah, you are right that $350 isn’t exactly a spectacular deal, but I do like this model the more I look at it. Honestly, at first I’ll probably just mod the seatpost and leave everything else as is to start (well, except the saddle). I expect to lower the bars, not raise them, so no worries there.
If it comes with a telescoping handlepost, you should be able to lower it to your desire, it goes as short as it does for folding, and also to fit folks 4'8" tall (if same range as Dahon). Can't lower beyond that by cutting off the top of the lower section, it's tapered and the clamp is there. Shorter posts may be available aftermarket, but I can't see you needing one, unless you want a 1-piece handlepost, as long as it fits when folded.
Someone on here got a new Liberte for I think $299 on sale at target in NOV or DEC.
Also, the Libertes I have seen have the hollow-spindle crankset (not square tapers), and that's a big plus in my opinion, not just for weight but ease of bearing adjustment and durability.