Dahon Speed 8 Folding Bicycle

The Top Dahon Folder

I stand by the design and quality of Downtube folding bicycles; but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some pretty good folding bicycles made by other companies. One of those companies, and perhaps the one I respect the most is Dahon. Their folding bikes have a higher price tag than does Downtube but their quality is right up there.

The Dahon Speed 8 is the best value in the Dahon lineup. It has an 8sp cassette (much better quality than the 7sp freewheels on other folding bikes). Additionally it uses a chromoly steel frame. Why is chromoly steel a good feature? Chromoly, also known as Chrome Molybdenum steel, is a hi-tech version of Carbon steel. It is a lighter, more flexible steel and great for bikes that take a pounding. It isn’t as light as aluminum, titanium, or carbon fiber, but it keeps the price of the folding bike within reach of more people.
 
The main purpose of a folding bike is convenience: the ability to store the bike almost anywhere, and the opportunity to carry it easily either by itself or in a carry bag. So, having a light folding bike is essential. The Dahon Speed 8 matches that purpose.

Below I’ve outlined the features of the Dahon Speed 8 and included a chart of specifications that you will find helpful.