Dahon Espresso

Price Paid:  $250.00 at Spokes Etc.

Favorite Ride:
Local roads

Bike Setup:
Everything is stock on this bike except for the handlebars, seat post, seat, and tires. The original tires were OK, but I didn't like the "buzz" they made on pavement and I wanted more efficient, smooth tires.

Summary:
I got the Dahon Espresso folding bike so I could keep it in the trunk of my car, where it fits nicely ('91 Toyota Camry). The $250 price included a $50 shipping fee. The bike sets up & takes down within a minute, without removing any components. Once mastered, the process is easy. The best thing about the bike is the convienence; I don't have to put a bike rack on my car. The downside is that because this is an inexpensive bike, it is heavy (around 35 lbs), and gear shifts are "iffy." The bike came with a kick-stand, which I have removed to save weight. Because I am 5'11", I had to buy a longer seat post than the one that came with the bike. (The new models come in different frame sizes). I also replaced the handlebar with a carbon one, and I replaced the uncomfortable hand grips as well. The seat soon began to come apart where it staples to the saddle forming material. I replaced it with a Terry Liberator saddle. Another change I made was to replace the treaded 26x1.75 tires with 26x1.5 ones with a smooth tread. I ride mostly on paved surfaces. The ride is a little bouncy with either set of tires. The brakes are dangerously effective; apply them gently or you will wreck. The front wheel was not true when the bike was delivered. Because the bike was so inexpensive, I did not expect much, so it has exceeded my expectations despite the faults I have cited, and I am happy to have it; it has saved me from some long walks.

Strengths:
Low price. Sturdy frame. Quick set-up and take-down; no parts need to be removed. Fits easily in the trunk of my car. Effective brakes. Good flotation off the road. Surprisingly fast.

Weaknesses:
Heavy. Cheap, unreliable shifting system that is prone to skip gears, or to shift when you don't expect it. Seat post not long enough for tall people. Poor stability (Do NOT try to ride this bike with "no hands").

Similar Products Used:
I did not try any other folding bikes; the stores near me do not carry them. I had to buy mine from a catalog. The other folding contenders either look like circus bikes with tiny wheels, or you need to pull wheels off them to make them compact.