Dahon Cadenza Solo
 

While looking for a present for my sister, I stumbled across the Cadenza Solo. She's off at college, doesn't have much mechanical know-how, and doesn't have much space in her dorm (or adequate places to lock a bike overnight), so I figured a folding single speed/fixed would be appropriate.

Is there anything important I should think about when considering my purchase?

If you must go Dahon......why not the Cadenza 8 instead? It has gears available for her (if she needs it) and its almost maintenance free as far as the gears go.

The only downside I can think of, is that the 26" wheeled foldies don't fold as compact as the 20" versions. If fold size is a concern then I'll recommend the DownTube Mini.
Do a search and find out what actual owners says about the DT Mini. I'm almost sure you won't be disappointed with the Mini.

The thing is that she specifically asked for a bike that doesn't look goofy, and pointed out the small folding bikes as an example.

The Cadenza 8 is a bit more expensive, and she said she was interested in learning how to ride fixed. Plus she's going to school in the great and freezing midwest, and I figured the Solo set to fixed would be better for the snow.

oh, okay... I guess the Solo is "it" then, as I can't think of any other folder on the market like it.
The Solo is so new and I don't think its even out yet, so, reviews are not available here in BF.
Good luck with whichever you buy. :)

we do have 18 inch ( medium ) sized framed Cadenza Solos in stock
its a very cool bike if you like singlespeed ( one side is fixed the other side is freewheel)

thor

About the sizing: She's probably around 5'6", what's a good size for her?

That is a sweet looking ride I didnt know that they had a 18" version.

I think it's a cool looking bike. I'm intrigued by SS/FG bikes, should work well for a relatively flat area.

Just converted my very first Dahon to SS turned out pretty neat.

She is on the borderline between small and medium. I myself would choose the smaller frame, lighter, and if you need to customize the fit, it's easier to make a smaller bike feel bigger than to make a bigger bike feel smaller. IMO

I agree Loch ... but in this case its more like you do not have a choice.
Its a medium frame or nothing. ( due to most dealers not ordering small frame sized Dahons, they ar enot getting imported.... :-( )

I agree Loch ... but in this case its more like you do not have a choice.
Its a medium frame or nothing. ( due to most dealers not ordering small frame sized Dahons, they ar enot getting imported.... :-( )