I'm Considering Buying Another Dahon

Dahon Archer.

I continue to love my Dahon Boardwalk, but I wanted to experiment with a different model, seeking another riding experience. Astute readers know I picked up an Eco 3 not too long ago, but I rehomed it because it wasn't vastly different from the Boardwalk. Most bike lovers continually search for something else - it must be wired into our brains - and while I've searched online locally for years, I broadened to our son's Colorado community (I'm visiting in May), scoring on a couple fronts.

I liked the double chainring Dahon Archer, not sold in the US. The owner brought it back from Asia a few years ago. At a steal of a price, I hoped our son could investigate, but the bike sold fast. 

Dahons are good value  - ultimately I'd like a Bike Friday at some point, but I'm not ready for a big investment. I hope to find a used Dahon with features like a broader gear range, and the ability to swap handlebars, possibly in a lighter-weight package. Our bike mechanic son could likely update anything I find.

Dahon Briza

Then I came across a Dahon Briza. I like the 24" wheels and curved frame. This bike strikes a balance between a small wheeled folder and a full-sized bike yet weighs 32lbs. - about the same as my steel Dahon! Folded dimensions are 34"x17"x32", a bit larger of course due to 24" wheels, but should still fall under Amtrak's radar, guaranteeing hassle-free boarding. Disguised in a bag, the folded bike shouldn't be larger than any of the roller suitcases travelers tote on board. While the Briza is available to purchase new, I'll continue looking for a used model.

The fold-and-go, fold-and-stow lifestyle appeals to me as a solitary traveler. Whether pedaling directly to/from an Amtrak station or storing the bicycle inside accommodations, it all adds up to freedom and security. Freedom to hop on a train with a bike without reserving a bicycle slot (folding bikes are treated like luggage); freedom to leave the car at home; freedom to visit a new area - this is the kind of mindset fueling my small wheel adventures.