We had 2005 Boardwalk D7s for two years - 20-25 miles was about the limit on that bike for me. Just not enough gear range, and they were spaced too far apart. I have not ridden a Speed P8, but have heard lots of good comments from owners on here and the Dahon Forum.

One other factor, I am 6'3", weigh 200 lbs. and have very long arms. Since Dahon 20" folders come in one frame size, the solution for me was a custom Bike Friday NWT. However, their stock bikes come in three frame sizes (S, M, & L) [mines a bit bigger than a large]. The entrance level bike for 2009 a 24-speed touring model: http://www.bikefriday.com/2009 for $895.

Might be worth a look - and...it's made in the U.S.A. (Eugene, OR).

Bottom Line: 20-mile rides are easy on our Bike Fridays and we are in our mid-60's. It's also been easy for me to tweak the riding position and the gearing. On the other hand, the Dahons fold a bit easier and faster.

Have fun spending that refund.