Originally Posted by
msincredible
I agree with the recommendations. My full-size CF bike, which cost a bit over $1000, is lighter and much easier to carry up and down stairs than my folder.
Yeah, but that's not really a fair comparison because the available choices in folders are, on the whole, much more utilitarian all around.
Make no mistake,
smaller bikes are lighter, but the mere 20-30% size reduction sought by most folding bike purchasers isn't nearly enough to overcome utilitarian additions like wide tires, fenders, overbuilt wheels, suspension, etc. However, it's all a matter of degree; My 8" wheeled bike is under 18 pounds with racks, fenders, lights, overbuilt frame (enough to carry two people), etc and it's extremely easy to carry up and down stairs.
Originally Posted by
bettybl
I also don't want a 16 inch wheel because those look like baby wheels and just looks weird when I saw them on the streets. I"m also afraid it won't be that stable. I'm not very good on my bike, so I feel safer on something sturdier. Thanks for your help.
This is your problem right here. Since bicycles are so bare and without facade, you can't expect something to
be different unless it also
looks different. Your criteria is biased against the best choice and in favor of whatever is normal. I mean, think about it, if a wheel isn't small enough to look weird then how can you expect it to be extraordinary in weight?
Also, I assure you that
the smaller the wheels the sturdier they are. Larger wheels are fragile and unwieldy.
Hate to say it, but your expectations are unreasonable and irrational. If you restrict yourself to things that are normal then you can never have something that's better (by definition).