Originally Posted by
gbcb
I've been thinking about what my perfect folder would be. I'm assuming that the following doesn't exist as a stock bike, so what bike would be the best to start from?
- 20" wheels
- Long enough wheelbase to avoid squirreliness. I feel much more confident on my Boardwalk than the Speed D7 and Archer, which I think have shorter wheelbases. The non-adjustable handlebars on the Speed I rode were also too high, leading to the next point:
- Handlebars at/slightly below seat. Probably flat bars.
- Small fold -- Ideally no bigger than a standard suitcase
- Quick fold -- I'll need to fold/unfold at least once daily.
- Can be wheeled around while folded
- Non-flexy ride (although I don't really need racing bike stiffness)
- Generator hub with front/rear LEDs
- Internal hub (Nexus or equivalent)
- Disc brakes (not really necessary, but we're talking about my dream folder)
- Rear rack, panniers, particularly ones that are easy to remove when folding
- Non-flashy paint job
- Durable joints/hinges/foldy bits
- Not too heavy for carrying up stairs etc (wouldn't want it heavier than my Boardwalk)
What do people think?
EDIT: Forgot to add I want full fenders, too...
When you say no bigger than a standard suitcase do you mean that you want it to fit
inside a standard suitcase or that the bike should be no bigger than the
outside of a standard suitcase?
If the latter then I think you should be able to get a version of the
Dahon Mu to meet all your requirements.