Cheap folders at ebay: Is there one worth considering?
 

Anyone has experience with brands like ZEN, Z-sport.....etc. I see them go for as low $150.
Is there one decent enough to consider amongst these brands?

I'm new on folder as well as this forum. I would have considered one of those brands you mentioned found on ebay but decided against those cheap unknown brands after reading some of the reviews on folders. So much is mentioned between Dahon and Downtube on this boards and I settled for a Dahon D7. Just reading the comments and comparisons on some of the threads about Dahon or downtube, you'll get an idea this two brands are favored for the price around $300.00. I'm happy with my D7 and it's performing beyond my expectations. I keep it in the car so I can ride anytime and anywhere there are bike trails. Next time, I come to visit Padre Island, I'll have the folder with me. Good hunting for a folder.

Thanks for the reply, wrafl.
I already have a DownTube, I just want a cheapo one to keep in my car at all times.

I used to live in Gurnee, Il. I moved here 2 years ago. How's you weather over there? ;)

My first folder was a Dahon Boardwalk costing only $200 dollars (at least that was before I modified it-adding to the original price). I do tend to stick with the basic no frills entry-level models. I can choose to upgrade or not as my whims guide me. The important thing is I like to have the support of a great bike shop, the proven reliable of a known brand, and the security of knowing that if it does fail, I might be able to have the warranty protect me that a good brand/bike shop offers. This is true whether or not you are new to folders or a seasoned owner.

[Thanks for the reply, I already have a DownTube, I just want a cheapo one to keep in my car at all times.

I used to live in Gurnee, Il. I moved here 2 years ago. how's you weather over there? ;)]

It is still cold in the 40's today despite the sun being out late this afternoon but I managed to put few miles on my D7. Hey you got it made down there buddy, it doesn't snow at all. I met a guy who owns a pizza joint and doing quite well from Elmhurst. His restaturant is on the island on SPID and corner of 361, good pizza Chicago style. I come down there 3-4 times a year with a friend who owns a condo on the island. I keep my sailboat up in Port Lavaca and is one reason I have to get a folder so I can get around the marina and towns without using the car. I hope your pleased with the downtube you have and it won't hurt to get another one. My other ride is a Trek 700, had this one now for 11 years and I needed a ride that I could keep in the trunk of my car always when the urge to ride hit me specially around the forest preserves and parks. The weather is getting better so I have more ride scheduled. BTW, there is another folder brand, Ctitizen and almost bought it but I couldnt get any reviews nor endorsement after going through the folding bike forums. something to look into with price starting at $179.00. Again good luck.

I'm new to folders and somewhat new to commuting. You're right, the fixability and warranty support is a big thing (how can I have forgotten that part :o ). I think I'll stick to DT's or Dahon.
Right now I'm eyeing the Dahon Cadenza as a main bike and the DT as the trunk bike.
I'll just have to wait a couple more months for a new toy, I guess.

i've tried the no-name brand cheap folder and wasn't happy with it..ended up selling it ...
got a used dahon boardwalk d6...
also got a used 26" dahon expresso and put a carbon fork and 700c frt wheel..26x1.5 smooth rear tire,,, now.. it's a hybrid road/mtn bike..

so start looking for pre-owned for a what it worth..good luck..

Dahon Jack...but if you want a smaller fold and/or smaller than 26 inch wheels, then you could check out the 20 inch Dahon 200 dollar boardwalk single speed. I would dish out the extra 150 for the jack if you are just going to be storing it in your car at all times(that is assuming that you have room in your hatch or trunk for the Jack). I test rode a single speed boardwalk the other day at my lbs, and although a fun ride, I probably would not get it only because I would want to add a bunch of upgrades to it that would end up costing me as much as a nicer folder that is stock. But if you want it primarily as a toy or novelty bike for short trips, then get the boardwalk, keep it in stock form and keep it in your trunk!

Like some of you guys, I have been tempted to buy one of these cheap folders, just to see if they are any good. There must be one that is half decent, the Citizen folder for a $149 looks pretty good.

fyi..you need to test ride one..before you buy it..
i've tried the off brand folders..one new..one used.. both heavy and not fun to ride..
had to sell it.. too much work to keep it running smooth..
plus the fold is not as compact..since they can't copy due to infringement..