Earlier, we released our shortlist of folding bikes which satisfied our requirements for the perfect city bike - that it should be 1) versatile and 2) light. While this review is of no particular order, today's post will be our second bike - the DAHON Eco C7.
 |
| Dahon Eco C7 (from Dahon) |
 |
| Dahon Eco C7 - Folded (from Dahon Bicycles) |
DAHON Eco C7 (USD499) - released by the father of all folding bikes, the entry level Dahon Eco C7 shared strikingly similar specs with the Tern Link C7 (or is it the other way around?). It features 7005 alloy frame which, as mentioned in previous post, is perceived to be heavier compared with the 6061 of the Tern Link C7. Surprisingly, it's not the case with the Dahon Eco C7 which is lighter at 26.7 lbs (Req.#2 - Check). I think Dahon was able to make the Eco C7 frame lighter compared with the Link C7 because of the absence of chain stays where Dahon opted for the "C" design and integrate it in the seat stays. This is advantageous if you intend upgrading to an internal hub and belt drives. In this sense, this open architecture is more versatile compared to the close triangle of Link C7. However, some would argue that the close triangle design is more stronger and reliable than the "C" design though this argument is still open for debate. The bike also boasts Shimano Tourney (FT-30 derailleur) and cassette but with Microshift 7-speed shifter (Req.#1 - Check). As with all Dahon folding bikes, it's well built and supplied with premium parts. At $49 more than the Tern Link C7, maybe that's what you pay for the Dahon badge. Clearly both bikes are twins and either way you've got a winner, which is a problem you'll be happy to have. And did I say it folds in 15 seconds?
Next post is the MELON Slice, will it whet our appetite?
Next post is the MELON Slice, will it whet our appetite?
No comments:
Post a Comment