Mark Manley
Raleigh Fan
I went to look at a Raleigh Compact in a local bike shop today and tried to explain the difference between those two to the chap working there, he looked at me like I was a complete idiot.
Folders! Foldable bicycles, minivelos and demontables
- Thread starter grantoury
- Start date
I went to look at a Raleigh Compact in a local bike shop today and tried to explain the difference between those two to the chap working there, he looked at me like I was a complete idiot.
Was trawling local bikes and this popped up for £50.
I nearly got a folder last year through the cyce2work scheme but chickened out. I fancy something a bit different to play with, so I'm off to collect it tomorrow.
Would love to hear anything anyone knows about it - year, specs, things to look out for, do's and don'ts, resto tricks and tips etc.
Edit - Looks like a 97-98 model.
Not sure what my plans are yet, but I like the idea of retro-pimping it, upgrading what I can with period correct parts, getting the ride quality as nice as possible.
Fun summer project.
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bikeworkshop
Old School Grand Master
I've seen a few of these.
Prone to breaking around the short headtube, surprise surprise.
Curiously sometimes branded "bickerton" as if one wasn't enough!
Prone to breaking around the short headtube, surprise surprise.
Curiously sometimes branded "bickerton" as if one wasn't enough!
Appreciate that, I pulled out of buying. But the folder/minivelo itch persists.
What makes and models would you recommend I look out for? I like the idea of 20'' wheels and compatibility with 'normal' bike componentry. Are there any models that spring to mind suitable for a first go?
Scott-S
Kona Fan
I bought a Dahon D7 speed last month as like you I had the itch, it's a cracking wee bike and so much so I suspect after today my daughter has taken it from me
Oh well, I guess I just need to buy another
@Woz & @Guinessisgoodforyou will be along soon with plenty riding experience folders and those 2 are the reason I bought a Dahon
grantoury
Kona Fan
Mini Velos are compatible with normal components the most and are less of a compromise to ride. There are affordable framesets on Ali and more and more manufacturers are offering them. Folders often have narrower front hubs, other than that mostly normal stuff. Dahon make good and affordable folders, that old one is an early model, still in steel, nowadays all are aluminium. I wouldn't mind an old model like that. With the igh I don't think there is a lot of upgrading possible.
Guinessisgoodforyou
rBotM Winner
Jo has a D7 and it's great, I've got a scabby D something in steel that cost £35 and it's a great bike up to about 15 miles for me. Then comfort drops off.
Guinessisgoodforyou
rBotM Winner
20" wheels are much nicer than 16" but affects folded size.
