I just got two of these for 100 a piece. I swear they look like there brand new. What did they reproduce these or do you think I jut found some really clean ones?
These bikes are easy to find in New condition because they are not a practical bike to use. The 20 inch dahons were, but these 16 inch ones are not. They're only good rides for very short distances. Such as if your riding less than a mile. I took my 16 inch dahon for a 5 mile ride and I was like forget this. I got a 20 inch one instead. Therefore, these 16 inch dahons from the 1980's through 90's never got a lot of usage out of them.
I disagree with people who say you can only ride a 16" wheel for up to 5 miles, I have a single speed version of this bike in yellow and it rides very nicely indeed and it easily covers 15 to 20 miles of a hilly route, actually I prefer these first models with the diagonal steering support, I think they provide a more secure feeling than the later ones. I have owned quite a number of folding bikes including a much more recent Dahon Speedpro with 21 gears and 20" wheels but there was always some play in the steering. Also the 16" tyres are a little dumpy and provide good comfort even on rough surfaces. The reason you find them in good condition is they were usually bought for taking in camper Vans or caravans and we're often in pairs for his and hers. Mine is built in Taiwan and is very good quality, they were built in various countries so some may not be so good. I'm 6ft and not far short of 15 stone, however I can't claim mine has lots of use as I have about 9 bikes to choose from.
