Originally Posted by Jerrys88

Well, I just got back from the New York City where I stopped in at NYCEWheels to check out the Dahons again, and this time the Swift as well. My partner couldn't make it, but I thought I'd go anyway just to do a preliminary check.

They didn't have the Speed 7 or 8, but I rode tested the Swift, Dahon Mu-P8, Dahon Curve SL, and just out of curiosity (out of price range), the Tikit.

I can only talk about the Swift and Mu-P8 because the Curve SL's seat was way too low for me at its highest (What was that all about? Do they make an extended one? The store owner was out and I got the impression that the employee helping me didn't necessarily have all the facts), as was the Tikit's (apparently adjustable with an allen wrench, but the employee was reluctant to adjust it for me for whatever reason).

Anyway, once again the Dahon's ride (Mu-P8) won me over instantly. The Swift felt and rode just fine, but when I got on the Mu-P8, it just felt so SMOOTH and enjoyable - a bike I felt really comfortable riding. Again, I love the range of gears on it, too.

After all the comments about somewhat tempermental hinges but reassuring comments about mid to higher range models, I took a close look at the hinges on all the models. I'm quite confused now, because it appears they use the same hinges on all the models I saw from the lower end Curve up through the Mu-SL (that really confuses me because the photos on their website show a different, vertical-looking frame hinge on the Mu-P8 and P24 - maybe they got changed somewhere along the line?) The handlebar hinges all look identical too. As far as the employee knew, they are all the same on all models.

So, other than some lingering second thoughts based on hinge/clamp design and ensuing need to keep from pulling on handlebars, I am leaning toward recommending the Mu-P8. While I use my Brompton several days a week for partial commuting, my partner will only be using his folder occasionally for pleasure riding, so I'm thinking these very likely will not be issues for him.

I do have questions, though. Someone here said they would only consider buying a bike with a steel frame, not aluminum. Both the Swift and the Mu-P8 have aluminum frames. What's the difference, and should it matter to us? Also, what's the difference between the Mu-P8 and the Speed 8?

Oh, while I was checking out the Dahons and Swift, I managed to sell a Brompton to a customer who showed up looking for a folder - didn't need best rider, just good enough for city commute without hills, but small and portable enough to cart to and stow in office. NYCEWheels - you owe me a commission!

Incidentally - on the weekends they close Central Park roads to traffic, turning them over entirely to stollers, runners, roller bladers, pedi-cabs, runners and bikers. Is there anything more fabulous than riding through Central Park? With the mix of people from all walks of life, the unbeatable New York energy, the beauty of Central Park, all kinds of music surprising you at every turn, mesmerizing disco roller-blading rink to watch, etc., etc., I just wanted to stay all day. If you live anywhere near Manhattan I highly recommend it! My Brommie performed flawlessly taking me across the GW Bridge (from NJ), then to midtown on the A train (figured out how carry it unfolded with the seat resting on my shoulder while going up and down steps) and back. Folders rock!