Looking for a decent inexpensive folding bike to ride under $400. Any help will be appreciated.

You might want to ask this on the Clydesdale forum. They may have more info for you.

Moved this from General Cycling. I chose this forum (Folding Bikes) because it seems like half of the regulars are involved in the industry somehow- dealers/distributors/factory reps- and hopefully will be able to help you out.

Used heavy duty bike friday?

That's a tuff one.... Bike Friday maybe, but not nearly for that price. Maybe a mini bike where its easy to take wheels out for smaller storage ? but again if not used there is nothing close to 400 ...( used Origin 8 ? non folder ?)

I am 205lbs and I carried both my kids ( 65lbs each ) from the school bus to our home on a 9 silver. After about 3 months the rear wheel needed to be trued. The documented weight capacity on the site is 245lbs, but it can handle your size/weight. Please understand the rear wheel would be the weakest point and may need to be replaced, and I can not cover that as a warranty, everything else would be warrantied.

Thanks,
Yan

Can the Downtube mini handle a 230lb rider? Or would the 8H be the only option. I just had a nightmare experience with a shady eBay seller for a Dahon Curve, so the Downtube Mini is the next best (better actually) choice for my 3 mile commute.

I never recommend a small aluminum framed bike to a big guy...I think suspension is a requirement for bigger riders. I like to recommend the mini to smaller women. It would handle your weight, however I would encourage you to consider a suspended model.

Thanks,
Yan

I understand. I'm only interested in the smaller bike for its ability to be easily brought with me on my 59 mile daily Long Island Rail Road commute. If the 8H is a better option I'd go with it instead, but it's size is definitely a negative.

You tons of options, BF, Dahon, and a few of ours. The mini will ride like the Curve, not too comfy for a big guy...hence my recommendation.

Thanks,
Yan

I rode the Curve (after repairing/adjusting it for an hour and a half), and the bike was actually a perfect fit. It was easy to handle, quick, light, and it fit me nicely. That's why I'm asking about the Mini. It's a step up from the Curve. If it can handle my weight I'm in! And yes, I'd be responsible for my own rims. I destroy bike rims.

I don't think the mini has a smooth ride....it feels like a Curve to me. It will handle your weight.

Thanks
Yan

Thank you. I'm awaiting the refund from eBay , and I'm ordering a Mini when the funds are received by my bank.

At $400 you will probably be going thru several over time .. thats the Dahon clone price range..

One last question. Are the Downtube Mini and 8H disc brake compatible?

The 8H has a disc hub, but you need to order the suspension model to get disc tabs on the fork. The mini is not setup for disc brakes.

Thanks
Yan

Thanks. I guess an 8H it will be then.