Updated Post:
Great, thanks for all of this helpful feedback. After reading all your post it seems as if i'll lean towards the D7... I figure its worth the additional investmant. I have taken the advice of many and started digging through this forum and now have run into the Downtube IX 2008. It appears to be $300 or so and seems to have better specs than the D7. I did find that there were some problems with the gears in the 2007 model. So here is the new question: Which bike would you recommend/prefer - Dahon Speed D7 or Downtube 2008 9 (front suspension folding bike)? Does anyone know if the Downtube 2008 9 FS is subject to the same issues as the 2007 model?
And this last questions is only because I am a constant bargain Hunter (my constant addiction to
www.slickdeals.net is proof enough), Do you know where I can find the cheapest model for a D7? And do you know of any coupon codes for downtube (other than SALE)? Thanks everyone!
Old Post:
Greeings Everyone,
As you can tell I am looking into buying my first folding bicycle. I initially wanted to buy one to help me with my commute. I will be riding a total of about 3-4 miles a day (1.5 to 2 miles each way). Now that I am doing some research on folding bikes it sounds like it is actually fun riding them and may consider doing an occasional 5 - 10 mile ride (maybe about 1 every 2-3 months). I was initially looking into buying the Dahon Boardwalk single because of the attractive price, $195 total, but ran into the Dahon Speed D7 and seems like a really good bike. So now I am in this rut of having to choose which one to buy. I realize that the D7 will run me about $340, but if it is a huge upgrade between it and the boardwalk then I would seriously consider buying the D7. So my question to the community is which would do you recommend for me? What experiences have you had with the bikes mentioned above? Are there any other bikes you recommend in the $200 - $350 price range? These responses will greatly factor into the decision I make, so thanks to everyone in advance. I appreciate your repsonse/opinions.
Happy Holidays
