folding bike

I never actually used one, but when we had consultants in
at work from Europe, they all had Trek's fold up bikes. I
can't remember what model or anything, but they were nice.
That's how they got around from the hotel to whereever they
had to go.

"v-man" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Anyone have any good experiences with folding bikes? I've
never ridden one but may need one for commuting. Looking
for a cheap one too. I'm 6ft 200 lbs so i need one that is
relatively sturdy. Any suggestions?

[email hidden] (v-man) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Anyone have any good experiences with folding bikes? I've
never ridden one but may need one for commuting. Looking
for a cheap one too. I'm 6ft 200 lbs so i need one that is
relatively sturdy. Any suggestions?

I'm looking at the Dahon Boardwalk D6. Around $250, not too
fancy, cromo. Seems like a pretty good deal. Wouldn't
recommend it for the trail, but if you pass me on one you'll
have my respect. Only problem seems to be production.
They're way backordered. None of the shops in NYC have them.

/s

v-man said:

Anyone have any good experiences with folding bikes? I've
never ridden one but may need one for commuting. Looking
for a cheap one too. I'm 6ft 200 lbs so i need one that is
relatively sturdy. Any suggestions?

I have put together quite a few folders. I find the name
brand built ones, of which one LBS has most of them, to be a
real compromise. My latest bike is off eBay for a good size
alloy frame and 20" wheels. Then a lot of test rides and
switching out many of the components. Main area is to be
sure there is enough ground clearance, and then replace the
nasty short cranks with 170 mm. Replace saddle, seatpost,
chain rings, chucked the folding pedals, handlebars,
kickstand etc with better and lighter units as needed. This
is not all that costly to get what feels very good. The all
up cost is much less than what some of the hyped bikes are
selling for. If you bought a more upmarket bike you may have
to chuck these parts anyway. I have also fitted a 2 speed
fder. It may be the only folder in the world with that? This
bike is as good a ride as any other in the stable, and has
very little compromised.

Rob