I'm looking to buy my first folder and would like any advice available. I'd like a 20" for less than 400 (500 max). Any suggestions?

I personally think Dahon's Boardwalk D7 at $299 is the best overall value.

I vote for Dahons Boardwalk D7 as well.

My friend bought a KHS folder for $329 - it is is 6 or 7 speed and is very sturdy. She likes it.

Ditto on Dahon. They're pretty much the go-to guys these days for a decent bike for not a lot of money.

The Boardwalk would certainly do the job, or for a few bucks more, the Mariner (same frame, plus a rear rack and some different hardware in spots). If you really can go up closer to $500, consider the Speed P8. That's what I have. A pretty good compromise between price and componentry.

A Breezer or Dahon would do.

Koffee

Brompton, Birdy and Bike Friday are out of the question with a budget of $400.00 dollars. I wouldn't go for the Breezer unless it's the 20' inch model because the 16' inch one looks very cheap.

Don't get a folder because it looks cool. Get one because.

1. No room to store the bike.
2. Used in conjunction with travel
3. Used in multi-mode transport

If you don't have any reason to buy a folder, get a full size bike.

...unless you happen to already have a full-sized bike. Then you can get a folder just because they look cool!

I concur. I wanted a simple folding bike at around $300 and I chose the Boardwalk model. I have never been happier.