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05/02/2008: "A foldable bike, fits in the closet!"

I haven't lived in an apartment for some fifteen years, and I'm new to the process of downsizing. I really didn't want a bicycle in the hallway or living room, so I decided to trade the regular bike for the foldable kind. If you haven't seen these, basically the frame folds in half so it can be stored in a closet. I had thought of this before as a fumbled with a bike rack. I was always afraid of having a bike fall off a car rack. This one would fit in the trunk.

Some models have small wheels, but this one has a full-size frame and wheels. It's made by Dahon and so far I am pleased with it. It's not heavy to carry and I didn't have any trouble taking it on the Long Island Railroad or subway (although the LIRR requires you have a bike permit-$5 available on the train, and requires you travel off-peak).

The Dahon is about the economy if fitting into small spaces, but its also about design. The design seems so good I am suprised I have not seen these around before, although maybe I have just not folded! The pedals fold, the frame folds, the front wheel is removable and when you remove the seat there's a built-in tire pump.

I'm not that much of a cyclist, I prefer walking, but with Prospect Park so close, a bike seemed to be a great idea. Check out Dahon bikes here

Eric Miller, on 05.02.08 @ 12:15PST