The Story of Two Lightweight Folding Bikes

Jessie is a young professional who came from suburb America and now works in the big city. Since 1995, Jessie has lived in the New York City and works in the metropolitan area of the city. He has recently revisited his passion and enthusiasm for cycling, which he had as a little boy. In addition to his commute in the city, Jessie enjoys cycling along the Hudson River to relax after a long day at work. Jessie confesses that he has known about lightweight folding bikes for a while now, but refused to give up his full size bicycle until he decided to bike to work.

Jessie tried a couple different folding bicycles before settling for the lightweight. The first one he tried was the Downtube Shimano-8 speed and the second one was the Mini Shimano – 8 speed. Now Jessie wants you to hear the tale of these two folding bikes.

Downtube 8H Shimano Nexus – 8 speed (Gates Carbon Belt Drive)

The cycling distance from where Jessie lived to where he worked in the big city of New York was roughly 30 miles. He had access to multiple routes when driving by car. He also had the option to take the bus on 41st Street or take the bus and then the train or ferryboat. It would usually take about two hours for Jessie to get to work using these modes of transportation. With this Downtube folding bike, Jessie could cut the time by riding from Midtown to the Battery. In so doing Jessie had to take ride the bike and then fold it and take it onto the bus. After reaching the train, Jessie took one of these lightweight folding bikes onto the train to midtown Manhattan. He then rode to the office. This is the only bike allowed on Jessie’s train during rush hour – a folding bike. You can fold this bike in seconds once you get the hang of it. It only weighs 26.5 roughly and just a little more, if he carried lunch and the rack bag.

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Downtube Mini Simano Nexus – 8 Speed

Jessie purchased one of the Downtube Mini Simano Nexus – 8 Speed lightweight folding bikes recently. This one was fast and efficient and folds in only 15 seconds. There was no issue with improper shifting. It is extremely light and maintenance-free. The brakes are of the highest quality, coordinated with machined sidewalls rims. Lightweight aluminum frames and gates carbon belt and cogs contribute to its ease in carrying around.

Take a look at this video to learn more:


Conclusion

Both of these folding bikes are fun to ride for Jessie. Each of them has its own advantages. It all depends on your personal taste, biking needs and budget. Jessie reports that he feels safe driving both folding bikes, but prefers the lightweight one. He is so happy to be able to commute without the hassle of heavy traffic and obnoxious motorists. Like Jessie, other motorists have switched to lightweight folding bikes gladly because of its ultimate convenience.

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Commute in Style with a Quality Folding Bike for Sale

 

 

If you plan to take another look at a folding bike for sale, then you have made the right choice. These are one of the newest additions on the market today. Depending on what you are looking for in a bike, there may be one or more choices that you could consider. Some people view this kind of bike as ideal for commuting in a big city. When the bike is folded up, it is easier to use it on public transportation.  You can even take it inside any building, whether at work or a restaurant. Then, you don’t have to be looking outside every second to make sure that there are no bike thieves around.

Big City Commute

Let’s pretend that you are a New Yorker. Like other New Yorkers and residents living in big cities, it is not easy to get around the city in a vehicle, unless you want to deal with the heavy and monotonous traffic, let alone lack of parking. Your small apartment has refused to budge one more inch and the roadways have seen too many bike thefts. If you try to take a full-sized bike into a building or elevator, the concierge might look at you as if you are crazy. If you have to take the bus, the other commuters have to wait until you get your full-sized bike with its giant wheels maneuvered into the right place. On top of that, there are rush hour limitations or bans on bikes on certain public transit – so much for you to deal with!

The Solution

A folding bike for sale offers a viable option to fix this problem. Downtown folding bikes may be the solution that you are searching for. There are several models to choose from in order to fit your particular needs. However, all models can be carried on an elevator, in an apartment or even in your office at work. Here is a short description of some of the models and their features.

Downtube Mini Shimano Nexus – 8 speed

This small folding bike for sale has wheels that measure 16 inches and is compact enough for travel. Featuring 8 speed of Shimano Nexus interior hub, it carries no external shifter and no cogs or gears. Therefore, you don’t have to be concerned about any inappropriate shifting; neither do you have to clean the drive train nor worry much about additional maintenance. It is very lightweight, small and able to fit in a boat, RV or airplane during travel.

Downtube Shimano Nexus with Gates Carbon Belt Drive- 8 Speed
With no apparent external shifter, gears or chain, this baby is maintenance-free with no worries about in appropriate shifting or drive train cleaning. This folding bike for sale has wheels that measure 20 inches. If you have a boat or RV, you will really love this model. Additional features are included in this purchase such as:
•    Lightweight fenders
•    Kickstand
•    Durable rack
•    Sidewall rims
You will receive an upgraded frame quick release, integrated headset, folding pedal and stem. With the new high-rise handle bars, riders can make alterations to fit their preference without hindrance to the fold.

Downtube Folding Bike – 9-Speed Full Suspension

This folding bike for sale is one of the newest on the market. It is comfortable, preloaded with adjustable full suspension, both in the front and at the rear. Because the frames and wheels of most folding bikes are stiffer than full-sized bikes, more suspension is required. This bike has 9-speed full suspension, precisely what most riders require for more comfort. For upgrade and top performance, a premium drive train was put in as well as other high-end parts. If you want a bike that rocks, this one is the ideal pick.

Conclusion

With all of these options for picking a folding bike or sale, you stand the chance of having something unique that cannot be stolen and will provide the comfort you need as it relates to reliable transportation. No longer do you have to dread riding your bike to work and no longer do you have to park it on the dreaded streets of New York or other big cities. Get rid of the supposition and assumption that folding bicycles are not easy to fold, perform terribly, and need lots of pedaling. This is the furthest thing from the truth. Choose a Downtown folding bike for sale and you can’t go wrong!

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How I Travelled With Three Bikes in The Plain

Travelling by bike normally means a person takes one bike with them on a trip. I had a unique situation occur a little while ago I was going to the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show to introduce our folding bike lineup to the boating community. The Ft. Lauderdale show is the biggest powerboat show in the USA. So I booked my flight and hotel, sent bikes to the convention center location ( so I could unpack them upon arrival ). Everything seemed great however it was not going to be so simple. The day before the show I was told that I sent my bikes went to the wrong address and they were on their way back to me Philadelphia.

So I have a booth, I have promotional materials, I hired models in Ft Lauderdale but I don't have product ( no bikes ). I thought about cancelling the trip, instead I decided to try something unique. I decided to bring three bikes onto my flight. Normally airlines have surcharges to transport bikes, the normal rate is $80. I packed two bikes in a Downtube soft suitcase, and checked them in with no problem. I decided to try to bring a mini as carry-on luggage, went through security with no problem, got on the plane no problem. I was not sure if the bike would fit in the overhead bin, but I was in a gambling mood so I took my chances. It fit in the bin with no problem. However the overhead bin would not close....uh oh. I didn't plan for this, I don't exactly own an airplane so I had no idea for plan B.

That's when the stewardess mentioned it might fit in the wheelchair compartment....wheelchair compartment? She said that every airplane has a compartment to hold wheelchairs for disabled passengers. She said it should fit with no issues, and it did. I got to Ft. Lauderdale with 3 bikes and it costed me nothing extra.
The show worked out well, and I decided to press my luck on the way back and I got all three bikes back on the flight with no surcharges.

I have travelled by bike before, but I've never travelled by bikes....three bikes before.

Multi mode transportation with a bicycle

Cycling to work is a great way to get fit and save money on gas. Many people cycle while using their boat or RV to help with transportation and assist with personal fitness. Below we will discuss different to use your bike with other forms of transportation.

1. Car and bike: This is a great option for people travelling on unsafe routes, or individuals living very far away from their destination. Ideally one would drive close to their destination, and then use the bike to finish the trip. Driving can help make the ride manageable, while cycling is faster within major metropolises and minimizes parking delays. Cars can complement bikes, and vice versa. For this type of transport you can use any type of bicycle.

2. Bus and bike: Buses can be used with bikes just like cars. This is a great option for riders in big cities with dependable bus service. Some cities have a limited number of bike racks on the front of buses.

Standard bikes are a great option here, as long as there is space on the racks. Folding bikes are better because they are always allowed inside the bus, which is especially important when the bike racks are full.

3. Train and bike: This is an ideal option for cities with subways or regional railway. Logically they are like buses; however they are more comfortable and much faster. Standard size bikes are normally not allowed on trains, but most trains allow folding bikes. Bicycle bags are always a good idea to hide your bike on trains, to minimize the risk of problems.

4. Boat and bike: This is a method of transport if you travel by boat and anchor at a dock. Folding bikes are the standard choice for boaters since space is a major issue. Normally men get bigger 20” wheel folding bikes and women prefer the smaller 16” wheel folders. Normally boaters travel to restaurants and shopping via bicycle. For security they can fold their bike and place it in a shopping cart while in stores.

Boaters always prefer internal hub bikes with belt drives to minimize corrosion issues, and to keep the bike safe in rough seas. They also prefer having bicycle carry bags to protect the bikes from the elements.

5. RV’s and bike: Space is a limited resource in RV’s, hence most buy folding bikes. RV’ers prefer internal hub bikes, because they are simpler to operate and they are maintenance free. Everything moves around inside an RV’s when they are moving, hence bicycle carrybags are important for RV’ers to keep the bikes safe and secure.

6. Airplanes and bike: Space is extremely limited in small aircrafts, hence they always prefer folding bikes. Both 20” and 16” wheel folding bikes fit in the baggage compartment in small airplanes (such as Cessna).

Folding bikes can fly on commercial airlines with no issues. 16” wheel bikes can fit in regulation sized suitcases and 20” wheel models can fit with minor accommodations. There are some soft suitcases which collapse and can be carried on the bicycles once you reach your destination.

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Folding Bicycles for Sale on the Internet

The folding bike market is normally broken into segments by wheel size. We will examine each segment listing the positive features ( pro ) and negative features ( con ) of each.

A. Full Size Wheel Folding Bikes:
The main brands in this segment are Dahon and Montague. The Dahon Jack is one of the most popular choices due to its low cost and excellent component package.

Pro:   

1. They feel like a normal bike, mainly because they are a normal bike that happens to fold in half.
2. They are smaller than a standard bike so they are more portable.
3. They are relatively cost effective compared to some small wheel models.
4. They use standard parts so they are easy to upgrade or fix.

Con:

1. Although they are smaller than standard bikes, they are still big and bulky.
2. You need to select the proper frame size to fit your body. Hence purchasing online may not be a good option.
3. They are heavier than standard bikes due to their folding nature.
4. B. 20" Wheel Folding Bike:
5. The main brands are Dahon and Downtube. The best cost effective choice is probably the Downtube Nova at $299, while the Downtube 9FS with 9 speeds and full suspension is the best bang for your buck.

Pro:

1. They are small enough to pack for airplane,  boat , or RV use.
2. Prices are reasonable with a wide range of possibilities.
3. Lighter than normal bikes because they are smaller.
4. Smaller wheels are more efficient than bigger wheels under 16mph.  Hence this bike is faster on hills and flats.

Con:

1. Many low quality folders with 20" wheels can confuse buyers.
2. They are slower decending downhill.
3. Some models may need a little disassembly to place in regulation size luggage.
4. Some models use proprietary parts.

C. 16" and 18" Wheel Folding Bikes:

The main brands are Brompton and Downtube. The Brompton is a great choice; however at a $1200 price we feel the Downtube mini is better. It is lighter than the Brompton and has a better component package (and it costs less than half as much).

Pro

1. Most are super compact and can fit in regulation sized suitcases without disassembly. Some even fit in overhead bins on airplanes.
2. They are very light due to small size.
3. They are cool looking and you are guaranteed to make plenty of friends riding one.
4. These are little rockets on hills and flats due to higher efficiency of the smaller wheel.

Con:

1. These cost much more than 20" wheel folding bikes.
2. Parts are harder to replace because the size is not standard.
3. Proper gearing is very difficult to configure on small wheels.
4. Less possibility for upgrades due to lack of parts. Especially relevant is the lack of 16" wheel suspension forks.
5. The ride is stiffer than big wheel bikes due to smaller frames which absorb less shock and small wheels also absorb less shock. Hence the rider absorbs more of the road shock. Overall we have to say the Downtube 9FS full size folding bikes is a great choice. It’s comfortable, folds compactly, has a racing quality drive train and costs only $550.

   

Full Suspension Folding Bikes in the Market

I wanted to make a list of full suspension folding bikes in the market and list all the features. The biggest problem with folding bikes on the market is comfort, nowadays almost all bikes are made from aluminum which is a very stiff metal. Folding bikes have a smaller frame with smaller triangles, hence they are stiffer, and the wheels are smaller hence they absorb less shock. In short folding bikes have a comfort problem, once this problem is addressed the bikes can be utilized just as full size bikes with the additional super compact storage possibility.

Unfortunately there are not many quality full suspension folding bikes. There is a huge number of cheap poorly designed and manufactured Chinese made models, I will ignore those in the article. There are only four quality options for full suspension folding bikes and it may be going down to three, Go Bike is in financial trouble again. Regardless I will do a comparison of the below bikes with a #1 vs #2 and #3 and #4, them the winners meet up for the overall crown of.

1. Dahon Jetstream is a mature bike that has been in the market for nearly 10 years. It is lightweight, folds compactly, and has a quality 8sp derailleur drivetrain. It also has an interface on the head tube for a bag system. Disc brakes are standard and adjustable rear shock is included. Overall a nice bike and it retails for $1349

2. Birdy is manufactured by Pacific Cycle and was released into the market in 1995, hence it is a mature product. The suspension design is solid and comfortable. Drivetrains can be configured during purchase but the base model comes with Shimano 8sp derailleur based system and retails for about $1500. The Birdy is the smallest and lightest folding full suspension bike on the market

3. Go Bike was introduced into the market in the early 2000’s, hence it is a mature design that evolved for many years. It was very popular in Japan due to its style and comfort. They retailed for a little over $1000, however they are no longer available in the USA market, and it is unclear if they are still selling in Japan either.

4.Downtube 9FS was introduced ten years ago. It is the only 9sp full suspension bike that retails for under $1000, retail price is $549. It has matures over the last decade and now includes disc ready wheelset, bag & rear rack interfaces, and preload adjustable suspension in front and rear.

#1 Jetstream vs #2 Birdy

A. Price: Both bikes are in the same price range $1349 Jetstream vs $1500 Birdy.
B. Weight: The Birdy is much lighter at 25lbs vs 26.5lbs for the Jetstream.
C. Component quality: The stock drivetrains are very similar, however the Birdy is customizable, while the JetStream is not.  However the Jetstream comes stock with disc brakes.
D. Folded size: The Birdy is smaller than the Jetstream due to smaller 18” wheels and a super cool fold.
Winner of this round is the Birdy.

#3 GoBike vs #4 Downtube

A. Price: The Downtube retails for $549 while the GoBike is over $1000, which gives the Downtube a big edge.
B. Weight: The GoBike weights 28.5lbs while the Downtube is at 27lbs.
C. Component Quality: The Downtube has a better 9sp drivetrain vs 8sp, and comes with disc wheels and adjustable suspension.
D. Folded size: The folded size is very close, almost the same.
Winner of this round is Downtube.

Now for the final comparison #2 Birdy vs #4 Downtube

A. Price: The Downtube retails for $549 vs $1500 Birdy.
B. Weight: The Birdy is much lighter at 25lbs vs 27lbs for the Downtube.
C. Component quality: The Downtube has a nicer 9sp drivetrain, disc wheelset, adjustable suspension, and frame interfaces for bag systems, pumps, and racks. 
D. Folded size: The Birdy is smaller than the Downtube due to smaller 18” wheels and a super cool fold.
This round is a tie 2-2, however we will use price as the tiebreaker, hence theDowntube wins.