itchin99

Hi All,

A couple of months back I was in the market for a folding bike; there wasn't much info on the Origami bike available online, and since I ended up purchasing one I thought I'd share my thoughts on it.

So why did I purchase one if there wasn't much info? First, I should say that I was in the market for an entry-level priced bike, something under $400. And I haven't owned a bike in years, let alone had any experience with folding bikes. All of this is to say that I can't speak to the expectations of more experienced, committed riders. I was looking at the Dahon line and several others. Paul, the owner of Origami, is active on these forums, which I felt was a good sign. I emailed him a question and he was prompt in his response (actually, my first email went un-answered-- spam folder?-- but the subsequent two he responded to quickly). There were a number of aspects of the Origami Crane that moved it to the top of the list as well:

First, it had disc brakes, which is impressive for its price point. Second, it indicated that the rider could be 6'1", and the dimensions of the bike supported that claim (I'm 6'1", so I was concerned about that). The specs also indicated that the rider could be 220 pounds, which was more than the Dahon and suggested that the bike would be sturdier. And it's a suspension frame, which is also a little unusual for the price point. And some items that were extra on the other bikes (mud guards, etc) were included on the Origami. Every now and then I like to support the underdog, and that's what Origami seemed to be compared to Dahon and others.

So what's it like? This is the truth that no on tells you: Man, you gotta pedal hard on these small wheeled folding bikes. Everyone says that "it's like riding a normal bike" and it ain't. I'm outta shape. So bear that in mind. It's true of all folding bikes with 20 inch wheels (or less). If you not in the mood to pedal, buy a regular bike. Or a moped.

But here's what's true about the Origami Cricket: The bike arrived in a very beaten up box but well packaged and unscathed. I checked it over and nothing needed tightening. As I wrote, I'm 6'1" and the seat height handles that easily-- it would be fine for someone 6'2" or three. It's a good looking bike, and it feels very sturdy. The mud guards and reflector are plastic and a little flimsy (I don't know if other folding bikes offer something more substantial) but that concern is more aesthetic than functional. Mine is the original version with 6 gears (the largest and smallest of these gears are the same size as the Cricket 7, so the difference is in the increment). Honestly, I could do with another gear or two for more torque, but I don't think I was going to find this on any of the other 7-speed bikes. The Cricket doesn't fold up as small as I expected (but I don't know if that's any different than the others); it does, however, allow you to roll it while in the folded position, if you're careful and attentive.

Overall, I'm very pleased with the quality of the bike, and I think it will last for years. It's handsome, sturdy, with a elegant design, and well made. I'd recommend it to others looking for a folding bike under $400, and probably under $500 as well.

landhere

I'm out of shape too and when I had to pedal hard, I thought it was just because of me. Now I can blame the wheel size! However, I won't because I'm a bigger man than that. I also love, love, love the disc brakes.

cplager

It's not so much the wheel size.

It is partially tire quality (which is an easy fix), partially being in an non-aerodynamic position (options to fix, too), and if you are spinning out in your highest gear, possibly because gearing is too low (again, one can fix). All that being said, keep at it, it'll get easier as you get back into shape.

itchin99

Thanks, I'll keep huffing and puffing til it gets easier....

landhere

You have no idea how many times I wished my huffing and puffing would just magically blow me uphill.

cplager

Of course that won't work. You're facing the wrong way when your puffing...

patrockT

It's the tootin' that might help!

Pinigis 

itchin99, thanks for feedback. Keep riding, you will be in shape in no time!

2_i 

Checking the Origami site, it appears that a disassembled Cricket can fit a standard suitcase. That can be a great advantage in air travel.

faroutttt

Well this is great timing, I just ordered the Cricket 7 this morning! I'm glad you like it. My story is almost exactly like yours. I have been lurking these forums for awhile and noticed how Paul was active also. I'm also 6'1" and was a little worried about that, but you put my mind at ease. Good luck with the new bike! I just started riding again and Im using an old steal mountain bike (Roadmaster Chromium) that I think is hard to pedal so I'm hoping the cricket seems normal to me. lol I plan to commute to the train station with the Cricket a few times a week so Im hoping it folds small enough to not be an inconvenience. I'm excited, now the wait for Fedex begins!

P.S.- Thank you to all the great members of these forums. I have learned so much about folders and bikes in general just reading through the site.

Pinigis 

The bike in the suitcase is our Crane model. I need to get a Cricket in a suitcase, but I just have not found the time.

faroutttt

The Cricket has been delivered! I'm excited, but working until 7pm so cant check it out yet....ugh. Ordered Friday and delivered Monday, that's some fast shipping Paul! Thumbs up.

cuzzinit

My exhaust gas idea didn't do so well either

sreten

Hi,

It is not true. My folder is not as fast as my road bike but it is no harder to pedal
at the slightly lower speeds its goes at all. Pump up your tyres hard. You might
be losing some pedaling effort because of the suspension, I can't judge that.

rgds, sreten.

Lower speed is due to less aero, more rolling resistance of the smaller wheels
and the more upright position (which is fine) is less amenable to pushing hard.
Aero dominates pushing hard and the road bike is a lot faster on the open road.
Round town there is hardly any (no) difference in how fast I go and the folder
is a much better and relaxing enjoyable practical town bike than my road bike.

My folder is also great on what the US calls MUPs. They are not for road bikes.

landhere

Just compared it to a full size mountain bike with slick tires. The full size seems to be harder to get going, but once you're going, you'll be able to keep going at a faster rate. The small wheels are nicer when you stop and go, it's considerably easier to accelerate from a full stop which is especially useful in the city when there's a stop sign or red light every other block or so.

faroutttt

I would assume it depends on the bikes, tires etc. I have an old Steel mountain bike with slick tires (not Knobbies) and the new Cricket seems to roll smoother and longer then the bigger bike.