Folding Bikes West

Which Folder to Pick?

In addition to the obvious criteria for selecting any type of bicycle here are a few specific to folders:

Foldability

How 'easily' and 'quickly' a particular model folds (and unfolds) involves some subjectivity. A few among us may be a bit hesitant at first attempt but find that after folding the bike a few times it gets amazingly easy and as quick as 5-20 seconds.

Compactness

Here the numbers speak for themselves (see Folded Dimensions Table).

Wheel size

For most riding conditions and for most of our customers it may be hard to suggest any significant real-world difference between a large wheeled and a well designed small wheeled bicycle. An overwhelming majority of riders of large wheeled bikes enthusiastically take to our folders. Some riders will discern a difference between riding a 16 and a 20" wheel folder.

Comfort and performance

This is clearly another area where individual preference rules. However, we'd venture to suggest that the latest generation folders we sell all ride and handle amazingly well. In fact a fair percentage of our customers rarely fold their folders—they simply prefer them to larger wheeled bikes.

The number of gears may be less important than how low the lowest and/or how high the highest gear is—please check 'gear inches'. We offer bikes from 3 to 24 gears. Some come with derailleur shifting, others with internal hubs or a combination.

Accessories

All of our brands offer (as standard or option) an wide range of accessories such as rear or front luggage options, fenders, lights, bags etc.

Weight

Our folders weigh between 23 and 29 lbs.

Copyright © 2008 Folding Bikes West

Eric Sundin

June 2008