hunt for a folding bike – part 1
September 1st, 2008
I am helping a friend to decide on the purchase of a bike. I figured that I would document the decision making process so that someone might find it useful.
Obviously, it is important to start from the specific need so that it is possible to filter though the various options available. There is always the lure of what could potentially be done with the bike and it would be nice to have a bike that can double up for other uses. Of course there is the budget aspect to be considered and finally, the specifics of the bikes in question.
- Need: It is very important to start with a realistic and practical set of needs. This is specific to the user / use in hand. I would think that the needs should drive the choice of bike by about 70%. In the current case, the needs are as follows:
- A bike to commute short to medium distances. May be used to ride about 25km once a week
- A folding bike. This is to increase opportunity for commuting / using the bike.
- The bike would be used primarily for commuting and recreation. Some aerobic activity may be exercised.
- Stable / Easy to maneuver.
- Ability to carry a bag / basket.
- Easily serviceable.
- Wants: It would be nice to have a bike that does everything but in the absence, it would be a good idea to figure out the stretched usage of the bike so that it covers another 5% of the bikes usage.
- Comfortable to do day or overnight trips an occasional romp to Malaysia / Indonesia.
- Preferably standard components that can be fixed easily.
- Budget: Budget is crucial as you should not chew more that you can swallow. But given that the bike would pay for itself in the long run, a good quality well designed bike that sees a lot of use is worth more than a bike that does not get used. Applying this principle, one should not go by linear price differences but by the cost of bike ownership in the long run. My advice would be to stretch the dollar as much as possible and also not to skimp on a great utility bike just because of cost. A bike that falls within a budget range should be carefully considered. I would give it 10% towards choosing a bike.
- For this project, there is a budget of 1000-2000 SGD. A wide range of course but given the choices, a wide range keeps options open.
- Design issues: the remaining 15% goes to aesthetics and design. Thoughtful design and aesthetics are important but it should never overrun function. The perfect bike is the one that marries form and function. May be we will be able to find the right compromise. Issues like following should be considered.
- How easy is it to fold / unfold. Is it easy to remember in a hurry?
- Are there too many strong latches?
- Will things get stuck in the joints?
- How compact is it when folded?
- Will it stand on its own?
- Is it easy to transport when folded? Will you be transporting if folded for long distance? why?
- can you transport with both left and right hand?
- Can you fit racks / fenders?
A lot more questions to ask I suppose. But lets go through the process and pick a winner.
Related posts:
September 2nd, 2008 10:33
Appreciate the detailed checklist! Basically, they have covered my needs and wants. Now who will be the winner? Guess the answer will be revealed only after a test drive..
September 2nd, 2008 11:43
I suppose an active involvement in this procss might help you to clarify your needs and wants. Feel free to add your thoughts in the comments.
September 6th, 2008 00:43
Hi Nat
A good beginner’s guide! May I add my 2 cents’ worth of some other things to consider:
1) whether replacement or spare parts on the bike would still available in two or three years’ time – for eg, for folding bikes that churn out models year after year, replacement parts of one particular model may not be available once the model is phased out and the new model is rolled out.
2) when you test ride the bike, feel if the folding bike has joints in its frame that makes it feel not so sturdy or strong when riding fast. This is probably because of the flex caused by joints in the frame and therefore a less than sturdy or rigid ride.
3) is rollability a factor in your consideration, ie, are you are ok with carrying your folded bike from Pts A to B or would you prefer to be able to roll your folded bike? Many good folding bike brands have wheels that allow the owner to roll the bike when folded instead of having to lug around by hand. Worse still when it is put onto a trolley cart to be rolled instead!
4) Is portability or performance more important to you?
If portability is more important, then a single speed folding bike that is lighter and smaller would be ideal. If performance is vital, then expect the folding bike to weigh more and probably be bigger in terms of size of bike and its wheels.
September 6th, 2008 10:56
Appreciate your comments, Vivian. I am tending to think it is very important to really have a good feel of what one needs. A friend of mine has a folding bike and she never folds it because it is complex to fold and not possible to roll. It is a pity because at the end of the day, it does not meet the needs.
I think one would have been better off getting a regular bike (and the added robustness). I am getting to think the cost of good folders are high due to the effort and thought that goes into the design and quality of build.
I hope I can get others thinking about appropriate needs before investing else we would just have more frustrated non-cyclists
March 1st, 2009 10:09
I really like your blog template, is makes it simple to navigate.
March 1st, 2009 13:50
Thanks. I use the theme from here. I made some minor modifications here and there but kept the color scheme and all. I prefer to keep the site simple and easy to read and guess the theme does a good job.
Glad you find looking for info easy