After putting 250 miles on my new Dahon Vitesse, I've come upon an issue which I think affects the riders safety.

It has to do with the handlebar extension twisting. It seems as though the clamp used is not strong enough to withstand the counteracting moments between the handlebar and the front wheel.

In doing research on the net, I've discovered that this is a normal occurrance with this design. It's been reported happening on other models that use this Dahon extending handlebar assembly - called the "Radius Telescope Handlepost" that uses "X-twist technology". According to Dahon's website:

http://www.dahon.com/technology/component.htm

The method of using a groove and a screw on the backside of the quick release clamp prevents the handlebar from twisting. However, I've found that there is still enough play to cause a mis-alignment. There has been no reported injuries....yet on the internet. On my bike the handlebars go out of alignment gradually, but it goes out every time no matter how tight I make that quick release.

Since this Dahon Radius Telescope Handlepost has been out since 2005, has anyone found a fix? I really like my Dahon so far, except for what I think is a potential safety issue.

Here is the lastest thread on this very same issue on the Dahon Forums!

http://www.dahon.com/forum/index.php...t=0#entry38905