LexRides

Octopod · Posted: Wed Jul 08, 2009 1:16 pm Post subject: Actual cool folding bikes....

I've always wanted a folding bike but coudn't get past the tiny wheels and goofy looks. I think whichever company below gets their act together and delivers to market first will dominate the folding bike scene. Both these are sweet!

The Cannondale ON:

But the Cube Urban Street is even sweeter, imo:

Read about both here:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/02/thats_folding_c.php

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/03/cannondale_on_m.php
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elzie5000 · cutter Joined: 25 Oct 2007 Posts: 1177

I hate concept bike vaporware.

jkizzle · cutter Joined: 29 Oct 2007 Posts: 519 Location: I.L.L.

I like the disc brakes. With single speed ratios, do you really need that much stopping power?

brokebike · cutter Joined: 21 Oct 2007 Posts: 2434 Location: local

doesn't seem like it would be all that compact when folded... esp with full-size wheels. I doubt I'd want to get into a crowded subway car or elevator while schlepping one of those around. Current folders like Dahon, Bike Fridays and Bromptons are actually pretty portable when folded.
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jdbaum3 · hipster Joined: 24 Oct 2007 Posts: 132

At least on the Cannondale if I remember correctly the disc brakes alloy for a monostay in the rear and a single legged fork up front, meaning less material and taking up less space when folded. Also, I think it is an internally geared hub so you wouldn't be limited to a single gear ratio.

elzie5000 · cutter Joined: 25 Oct 2007 Posts: 1177

Aren't monostay/single leg fork designs usually heavier than traditional designs? Heavier isn't good for something you'll be folding and carrying.

sailorjames · cutter Joined: 15 Nov 2007 Posts: 329

I'm curious about the quality of Cannondale as a whole now that they're owned by Pacific Cycles, and recently shut down all US production.

jdbaum3 · hipster Joined: 24 Oct 2007 Posts: 132

The 2010 stuff looks good. So far the stuff that has been made overseas for C'dale over the past few years looks up to snuff quality control wise. It's sad that they are going completely overseas, but so far quality hasn't seemed to take a hit.

mattypichu · hipster Joined: 27 Oct 2008 Posts: 52 Location: bike shop

Actually, Cannondale has one more year of U.S. construction, and they were bought by a company called Dorel, that ALSO owns Pacific. It does suck that they are moving production over seas, at the same time the bikes are not suffering, this years line is one of the best looking and well thought out that I've seen.
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