If we're doing this, it's worth doing right.
GG does custom tooling, so they can certainly source parts. I propose that I, on behalf of the group buy, ask GG to quote on 10 or more (I think we will be able to get 10 orders) bikes
integrated to our spec. To me, this means:
[List is work in progress]
BASE MODEL
130 mm OLD rear triangle with S-stays to gain needed OLD (and reduced copyright issues)
Shimano Red Band 8-speed hub (assumes the SRAM iM9 is not available)
best Taiwan ISO 349 rims
V-brakes
Teflon impregnated cable
best Taiwan cable housing
best Taiwan gruppo other than what the gear hub requires
adjustable, full alloy, quill/handlepost (Sunzone)
best, aluminum, Taiwanese folding pedals
upgraded BB and front hub
upgraded crankset if possible
longest alloy seatpost... at least 500 mm (suspension seatpost would compromise folded size)
upgraded spokes/wheelbuild
OPTIONS
lighting system (rear wheel friction generator, cables, and F/R lights)
I have emailed GG about the possible order. I will be in Taichung (nearest big city to GG) the first week of Nov. They have plenty of time. So... me hearties, continue the spec (Let's assume cheapo saddle or even no saddle, each buyer would mount his own)
Note that
http://www.mercbike.co.uk/ proclaims the advent of an 8-speed hub "upgrade".