Dahon Speed D7 Folding Bike Review [year]: Why You Shouldn’t Buy It

Dahon has completely dominated the folding bike market for many years now, they have pumped out by far the largest proportion of bicycle models over the past few years.

One striking thing about this fact is that each of their models has done exceptionally well too, very few of their bikes could ever be regarded as a failure.

A perfect analogy would be that they are similar to Lamborghini or Ferrari; producing lots of different bikes that are each spectacular in their own individual way.

Dahon Speed D7 Folding Bike Review

“A well-built folding bike by Dahon, however, the Speed D7 is seemingly slightly below par when it comes to comparing it with other Dahon bikes!” 

Not only that, but they are also well regarded as being the best folding bike manufacturer in the business – anyone who knows anything about folding bikes will know that Dahon is by far the most successful company around.

The new Dahon Speed D7 elegantly combines sports bike-like performance with truly outstanding value. It persistently remains one of the most popular models around as a result of this.

The K-Series SuperLite 4130 lattice-hinged frame has been hand-welded by talented craftsmen and the bike incorporates 6 separate patented pieces of technology, each together combining to produce a well-refined and stiff frame.

The D7 comes with 7-gear speeds that provide adequate speed on both flats and hills, the Dahon Neos rapid-rise derailleur functions as anticipated – beautifully.

The bike easily moves between the gears and consequently is more than capable of traversing steep hills at a reasonable pace.

Folding Mechanism

The bike is unfortunately fairly heavy, it weighs in at over 30lbs and so is quite a pain to carry around with you, however, don’t let that put you off entirely.

This bike offers so much and for a truly respectable price too, it folds down rapidly (we clocked it at under 18 seconds) and to a fairly small size too.

Test Ride

As a result of this, the transitional period from carrying the bike on public transport, to riding quickly throughout the urban city sprawl is very minimal.

It is therefore perfect as a commuter bike so long as you don’t intend on carrying it for extended distances over the course of your day, if you do then I would recommend a more lightweight model.

Specifications

• Colors – Black, Orange & Blue
• Weight – 27.5lbs (12.4kg)
• Folded size – 11.8″ x 30.3″ x 25.2″ (29.8cm x 76.7cm x 64.9cm)
• Frame – K Series – 4130 lightweight steel
• Tires – 20″ x 1.50″ – slick
• Speeds – 7 – rapid shifting
• Handle – Radius Telescope w/ adjustable handle post
• Recommended rider height – 4′ 7″ to 6′ 5″ (139cm – 194cm)
• Maximum rider weight – 220 lbs (100kg)

Concluding Remarks

I personally would recommend some of the other Dahon models that can be found for a similar price to the Speed D7, however, if you choose to purchase the Speed D7 you will not be disappointed whatsoever.

There are various positives that can be found; however, these are predominantly centered upon the quality components utilized on this bike – as with all of Dahon’s outstanding models.