Folding Bikes & Wheel Size Compromise

[solecollector]

We have two Dahon Uno and it is the way to go. Chain has a full cover so salt and junk stay off it - for the most part. A single gear so less problems to fix later. The back pedal brake takes some getting used to but like others have said - you won't be racing where you are going.... In fm fact - the slower you go the safer you are.


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[ShaktisBoy]

Before making a decision on a folder with large wheels check out the Downtube 9FS. We have two of them and ride them daily. They have 16 inch wheels a full suspension and ride like a full size bike. I am 6' tall 215 lbs and drag a trailer behind mine for quick trips from the marina to grocery store.The bikes feature aluminum frames are relatively light weight at 26 pounds or so. To my mind this is one of the only bikes with smaller wheels that doesn't look like a clown bike when I am on it and it's good looking to all by itself IMHO, as a matter of fact we get a ton of compliments on the bikes from the locals. The only downside is I have had to replace a couple of the machine screws because rust was forming on the OEM screws.




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[Lodesman]

Speaking of Downtube, I'd have a good look at this one: Downtube 8H Shimano Nexus - Downtube
Nexus hub, belt drive, fenders and on-frame rack. What's not to like?

[leftbrainstuff]

Originally Posted by rgesner

Like anything else, bicycles on cruising boat are a compromise.

Obviously, a compact folder with small wheels is going to fit better aboard and in the dinghy, but how much do small wheels impeded performance ashore, particular in unimproved locations. From your actual experience in foreign ports, what do you think is the wheel size best compromise between performance and on-board practicality?

Thanks - Rusty

Bromptons are the only folding bikes that fold up small enough on a yacht. We've tried most other options.

Some people hate any wheel size smaller than mountain bike size. We don't notice any comfort difference. Riding slow is key.

We have topeak bags and a trailer for the really heavy stuff.

For us its a brompton in a carry bag.



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[ShaktisBoy]

Originally Posted by leftbrainstuff

Bromptons are the only folding bikes that fold up small enough on a yacht. We've tried most other options.

Some people hate any wheel size smaller than mountain bike size. We don't notice any comfort difference. Riding slow is key.

We have topeak bags and a trailer for the really heavy stuff.

For us its a brompton in a carry bag.



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We carry two downtube folding bikes plus a trailer in the port forward berth in addition we store 2 boogie boards spare cockpit cushions extra life vest and fishing gear. I think the above statement may be a bit misleading. All of that gear fits in an area 3 feet high 3 feet wide and 6 feet long that tapers forward down to 18 inches. There is still some room left. As far as how the bike rides, it rides like a full size bike and the suspension smooths out rough surfaces nicely.

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