Went to 4 bike shops yesterday looking for a new geared folder (good thing I was on my trike-no gas wasted and plenty of exercise). Found a 7-speed 20" wheel Dahon Speed D7 at REI for $499. Since all bikes are now 15% off, the final price before tax was $424. That was just too good of a deal to pass up, even though it is a 7-speed with nutted axles instead of the 8-speed with quick-release axles (that model is normally $699 retail). After purchasing a rack trunk, bar ends, bottle cage ($2.99-what a steal!), tire liners, new pedals, toe clips, and a spare tube, total cost after tax was still only $585.

A folder on a folder. I am car-lite. Here's proof


Worksman Port-O-Trike carrying Dahon Speed D7 by kittyz202, on Flickr


Worksman Port-O-Trike carrying Dahon Speed D7 by kittyz202, on Flickr

You can see my backpack in the shopping cart stuffed with the accessories (and my sweatshirt). I put it on my back and rode home with no problems. The ride home was almost all MUP, so that was even better.

The bike after I did my usual tweaks and got it set up the way I wanted. The background shows what kind of terrain I tested it on, of course That's what passes for hills around here.


Dahon Speed D7 by kittyz202, on Flickr


Dahon Speed D7 by kittyz202, on Flickr

It climbs great! I look forward to climbing Kingsbury Grade with it someday