Almost bought a Brompton in 2009. Got a Dahon instead, to save money. After ten years, the frame cracked almost all the way through. I got a Brompton as a replacement and am glad I did. I commute with it, taking it on and off transit multiple times a day. Sometimes even a Brompton can be ungainly in the narrow bus aisles, but it's so much better than a Dahon or similar.
I do like that the Brompton has a 7 year warranty on the bike. But the cost! You got 10 years out of your Dahon and how much money did you spend on it? It might have been a good deal?
We asked Tim from Bikes@Vienna. His response is interesting. ' The Moulton is not a true folding bike. Rather, it is a “take apart” bike that you can break down fairly easily and pack. The original design in the 60s was seen as revolutionary and went a long way toward legitimizing small wheels in the bike world. We were a dealer for a few years ago, but found demand was pretty much zero, so we stopped. Great bikes, just a really tiny market.'
I agree with your last comments. While I've always admired the Bromptons, their prices have always been more than I've been willing to spend. I bought a barely used Dahon Mariner D7 last year for $350 that looks and rides brand-new, and I think I got a great deal seeing how the Mariner D8's price tag is up near $900 to $1,000 now. I'm easy on my bikes so I anticipate it being around for a very long time.
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts, it's great to hear about your bike find! It sounds like you got a "mariner" deal with your Dahon! Ride on!
I bought a Dahon Mariner D8 in 2022, and it was alot cheaper than that in Australia. Not sure now. The bike is fantastic. Extremely happy with it. I do like the Brompton, but the price with the accessories to make it equal, would of been 5 times the price of the Dahon. And there are with the Brompton that I do not like.
@@zeniktorres4320& @RideandShineBicycling: Update. I always keep my eyes open for deals on used Bromptons and recently found one. The bike is in brand-new condition and I plan to ride the 633km Four Rivers Ride in So. Korea in fall 2025 with it. Here's a snippet of that ride by Pam of 2Bikes4Adventure channel who offers a lot of very helpful info on folding bikes and touring: th-cam.com/video/C9ZUwmaU0rM/w-d-xo.html
@@zeniktorres4320 Update: I managed to acquire essentially a brand-new Brompton Explore M6R in racing green for $1,200 (via negotiation) that came with the front luggage block, large Brompton bag, and several pairs of alternative rear rack wheels -- basically I saved 50% on this bike and equipment. The original owner planned to do some touring abroad, but when he and his wife had a baby, those tour plans went out the window. I plan to take the Brompton with me to So. Korea in 2025 to ride their Cross Country Ride (633km from Seoul to Busan). If you're unfamiliar with this ride, TH-camrs have posted plenty of videos of it. Here's just one of many: th-cam.com/video/BxCqqIVx88A/w-d-xo.html
I have both. I prefer the Brompton for trains and buses (I don't fly) but the Dahon for general rides. You can get an adaptor for the Dahon to take Brompton bags.
Thanks for the video and commentary. I love both bike makes and respect the wicked engineering of the Brompton and the robust decency of the Dahon. Let's compare them to the Apple and Samsung markets. I'll chip in here for Dahon, thinking of the "Speed 8" which I own and love. It goes like stink, handles well on Schwalbe apple tyres and soaks up the bumps. One day when I grow up I'll buy that carbon framed Brompton I saw in the Covent garden shop😊
Ah, the eternal bike debate! It’s great to hear you appreciate the engineering of both Brompton and Dahon bikes. They each have their unique qualities that make them special. Maybe one day they will release a foldable bike with a touchscreen display? Keep pedaling towards your dream and thanks for your comment!
Wow! Tim and Beth. Bikes@Vienna is my LBS. I love these folks. Thanks for this video. This was very informative. Planning a trip to France and desperately want to have a bicycle with me. This might help me decide.
Thank you! We have worked with them for some time now. They will be pleased to hear this comment. Bicycling in France...oooo...luck you. Good luck and Bon Voyage.
15 years ago I bought a used Dahon for 100 euros. I always thought Brompton were cool but couldn’t afford it. The little used Dahon I got was amazing. I used in from Brooklyn to Manhattan 5 years . I gave it away when I moved. I m sure Bromtons are all the rage but I m glad I didn’t spend 1000 bucks on one, I still made it to work and bike just fine
It's great to hear how much you enjoyed your Dahon! Sometimes, the best rides come from bikes that don't break the bank. Thanks for sharing your experience.
love my dahon D8 launch...with jaw connection and tension rod ... so rigid and vital on rough road...analytically and engineering wise find it more ok than any other dahon model .....I live in tropical country...Asia.
Me too. Had mine for two years and love it. The ride is superb, and its fully adjustable, and comes with all the fruit out of the box. The only thing I bought is a Dahon Landing Gear to wheel it easier while it's folded. I recommend this if you don't have one.
Have a Bike Friday New World Tourist set up with drop bars (more like a pocket rocket but for touring) that I ordered thru Tim. Great bike, tours well. Not a fast or small fold (it folds under and doesn’t have a frame break). But it is more of a disassemble for packing for flight into a large suitcase. Technically not airline legal but I’ve never been challenged on it. Also got a 700c bike with s&s couplers but haven’t had it apart yet.
My Dahon P-5 Archer (Asian market model) lasted well over ten years. The clamping mechanism for the folding neck broke and being as old as it was and not warrantied in the North American market it was my incentive for a new folding bike. Got the D-10 and now a happy camper. Improved mechanics. Nice. Yeah, I am a Dahon loyalist. I wish they had some luscious color options for our market though instead of just silver, white, black and an occasional muted red or blue. Maybe I will have disposable income for a good powder coating in a fun color. How about Biria? Their one non-electric folding bike seems to hit the mark although I haven’t researched people’s take on its quality/longevity.
Congrats on your new wheels! Keep us posted on your biking adventures with the D-10, and maybe the Biria will be your next folding bike conquest! We haven't reviewed the Biria yet. Maybe sometime down the line. You can bring some luxurious colors to your bike. We have never used this but have heard other bicyclists have used Markal® B® Paintstik® - Economical "Paint Crayon" Permanent marks resist water, fading, and UV rays. Writes on metal, plastic, glass, rubber - wet or dry. Maybe we should do a video on this? Thanks for the comment and for sharing your experience.
Fantastic comparison between the two bikes, they're pros, cons, and best uses. In terms or riding quality, both are great but I would give the edge to Dahon because of the adjustable handlebar positioning & stem height. It is a very comfortable bike to ride. You get used to the 2 hand shifting on a 6 speed Brompton evantually, but the 7 speed Dahon I own feels much more natural. The 20 inch wheels do require less effort to mobilse to the Brompton 16 inch wheels, but I would say the difference is minimal. For mixed use with transit and flying, the Brompton is an amazing tool. It isn't even a bike it's an extention of yourself I've found. Shopping cart mode is a gamechanger and brings immense justification to the price and your quality of life even. The Dahon feels more like a "normal bike". I prefer how you sit on it, especially for a long distance or hilly ride. In a flat, congested city, just invest the money in the Brompton. Very glad they mentioned the gear range was actually greater on a 6 speed Brompton to an 8 speed Mariner too!
I love my black Dahon Mariner D8. Best bike I've ever had. The Dahon rides nice like a full size, handles very well, it is smooth. The Dahon also comes with fenders, rack, strap, The only accessory I bought was the Dahon Landing Gear to wheel the bike around while folded. And, the seat height, brake angle, handlebar stem height can all be adjusted. However it's not as convenient as the Brompton when folded, as its bigger and doesn't wheel around as easy.
Dahon K3 for me. Yes I've had a few issues, all resolved and yes little wheels. 18 months later over 1500 kms. Still a great little bike. One of the lightest bikes and a 1/4 of the price of a Brompton.
I use a Dahon my with Sram Dual Drive (24 gears) and this is far above a 6-gear Brompton. On normal roads It runs as fast as a big, normal sized bike. The difference between lowest and highest gear is phenomenal!
Your bike is like the superhero of the cycling world with its 24 gears, ready to conquer any road! I would love more gears on my Brompton. Thanks for sharing your experience with your bike setup, it sounds really impressive!
I own both along with Tern, Bike Friday, Strida...with so many Brompton clones out there; I would not buy another Brompton. Parts are too expensive and difficult to replace, touring with it is a pain, the gearing is terrible.
That is quite interesting. You have tried them all. I have only ridden the Tern, the Birch, and the Dahon. I still like my Brompton and I like the 7-year warranty on it. Thanks for sharing.
never drove a Dahon but had a Brompton about 15 years ago. Quality and fold was top notch but for me the ride was too unstable. I never felt safe in urban areas.
It's interesting to hear your perspective on the Brompton. We haven't heard that one. Yes, safety in urban areas is definitely a priority, and finding the right bike for your comfort is crucial. Thanks for sharing.
Brommies are twtichier, use my Dahon if roads are rougher, and I have to go farther Tires, not just wheels can be bigger, Brommie in the trunk , for portability, convenience, less than 5miles , further if smooth I did a 3x9 rear hub on the Dahon, but I have old guy legs and the closer gears help. esp with trailers
We have the Dahon Qix D8 that folds vertically not sideways. It is significantly faster at folding than the Brompton. The best and easiest way to fold.
That is quite interesting. I am super slow at folding both bikes, but I did find the Dahon having more steps to complete the task. Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It's always great to hear from fellow bike enthusiasts who appreciate the Dahon.
I own both a 2017 Brompton 6 speed and a 2001 Dahon Lightspeed. I definitely prefer the Brompton, but use the Dahon more for fear of theft. When you travel with a Brompton you pretty much need to bring it inside with you because they are theft magnets. Bringing the Brompton inside is OK for office commutes, visiting friends, shopping with a big shopping cart, and maybe the health club. However, forget about trips to the park, dentist, restaurants etc since they’re not very happy about you storing the Brompton in the corner or under the table. Note that I live in a downtown area in a small EU city so there is no parking for cars 99% of the time, so it’s only by « BMW » (bike, metro or walk)
Ah, the classic Brompton dilemma: too cool to leave outside, but too fancy for a corner table! It’s like trying to sneak a celebrity into a restaurant without causing a scene. Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s always helpful to hear how others manage their rides, especially in urban settings.
Two questions ... does the Dahon roll when folded, or must you carry it? ... If it rolls, would it be as easy to bring into places like coffee shops and stores as the Brompton (I don't want to have to lock the bike outside).
I would call the Dahon style more luggable. Rolling can be achieved. Never had anyplace I couldn't bring my folded Brommie into. All foldies make compromises for a good fit to the tasks they are asked to perform.
Just to add, if you're tall and want fully upright then the Dahon is better. I'm 5'9 and have to lean slightly on the Brompton rather than dutch style upright.
I can see if you are a taller person that might be a slight disadvantage. I am 5'5 and I feel that I am fully upright on my Brompton. Thanks for the comments.
You are right on the brake lever. The brake lever for Brampton need to face downwards which is not ergonomic. I personally had hurt my wrist riding with bike lever facing down.
I have seen people with "Horns" on a Brompton, to both sides of the wheel. I suppose that correcting the brake levers to a more "flat position" is possible also? At least try and see how much is possible, before hitting anything?
Bromptons aren’t rated to handle my 280 lbs mass. lol. The only Dahon that is rated for a person of my weight is the Hit. I ended up buying a Change Bike 809. It is a full sized hybrid bike with 27.5 wheels on a mountain bike frame. And yes it still folds. (But not nearly as small as the others)
I totally understand your dilemma. Bromptons are like VIPS, too precious to be left alone. It's always tough to balance convenience with keeping your bike safe.
It depends on the individual models, but it’s pretty similar to the Brompton, somewhere around 40-42”. They don’t give those details on their website, and I don’t have one to measure here. Hope this helps. 😄
yup, the bike in the window, is a 64, Raleigh RSW dahon clone is a raleigh evo clone :) raleigh are now on to the evo 2 and e v 2 350 pounds and the ev electric 1200 pounds. also raleigh was liquidated in uk last year and bought out,
It is a little like comparing potatoes with apples? They have their different uses. A Bromptons small wheels, and its hard ride, is part of it primary function: To be portable as "Super Folded" to a one wheel size!!! If in need of a larger wheel, ½ folder, try an American "Montague", which is a former Army Bike, based folder!! It is an ordinary, multi gear MTB type bike, also for rides in terrain, as the Army sometimes need to do that also. Finn. Denmark
Are these worth any money? Just found one that picked up during my scrap metal runs. The Stainless is pretty mint. Some surface rust on other parts but clean overall. It looks really old that why I’m trying to look up some more info on it. It has 16” wheels & 3 speed, tag says Dagon Carson, California.
@@RideandShineBicycling That’s what I’m trying to do. It’s an 87’ seat might not be original but fairing are & chain guard too. The tires might be original but super dry rotted. Just ordered a set of white ones with tubes. I have to wash some videos on how to wash it because I don’t want cause any more damage.
Brompton hands down the easiest folding bike to take to travel. They really embody what a folding bike is. You should be able to take it anywhere and travel anywhere because of the compact form. I haven't seen anyone who travels with 20 inches that don't have to break apart their folding bike. Which defeats the purpose of buying a folding bike. You buy a folding bike because you can bring it with you, and no need to break it down. Just folded it, and put it in the bag. open it and ride. If I have to break down my bike, I might as well bring my road bike. Also, there are a lot of options for Brompton bags. Hardcase and softballg.
Who needs a magic carpet when you have a Brompton folding bike? It's like having your own portable ride that fits in a bag. No need to break it down, just fold it up and let the adventures begin! Great addition...Thanks
Look at the Dahon Qix D8. It's a vertical folding bike like the Brompton but its significantly faster and easier at folding than the Brompton. It weighs 26 pounds and my wife and I bring them to every major city we visit.
This channel makes disparaging comments about Dahon and Tern vs Brompton like “…not as much engineering…”, “…cheaper components..” , “…based in China…” which all seems to infer ‘cheap and nasty’. I have owned Dahons and Terns since 2006, commuting at least 3500 miles / year every year. My old Dahon Jetstream P8 cracked through the frame after 7 years but I had abused it. My Tern Link p24 has been flawless since 2013. To say the components are cheaper is an erroneous generalisation. You can buy some very very high end non-electrified Dahons and Terns off the shelf, much higher specced than any Brompton…which Tern and Dahon can do because Brompton has only one frame design, which is tweaked slightly occasionally, and therefore what is capable of being done with that frame is limited. Tern and Dahon innovate all the time. The politest thing I can say about Brompton engineering is that it’s lazy. Tern and Dahon have loads of models and unique patents. You called that English geezer a genius but glossed over the fact that Dr David Hon was formerly a researcher and designer at the cutting edge of solid state lasers, initially in energy weapons for Hughes Aircraft Corporation in the late 1970s, but subsequently for nuclear fission generation (the holy grail of zero emission energy) but decided to focus on non emission commuting by designing folding bikes, committing to making zero emissions his life’s work. David Hon is an ACTUAL genius, not a bloke who manages to sell a lot of overpriced bikes (Goodness knows why). My partner has a Brompton which she loves. I have ridden it and don’t see any reason to choose it over my Tern.
Tim of Bikes@vienna is an expert on Dahon, Tern, and Brompton bikes. He has been selling these bikes for over 8 years. This information is from a reputable source.@@the_black_douglas9041
I've owned a Dahon Mariner, a Bike Friday Diamond Llama, and a Brompton H3. I ride the H3 about 10 to 20 miles daily and cancelled the insurance on my Toyota. The Brompton is far and away the superior bike. I rarely lock it up. I just take it into stores and other locations, folded, partially folded, or not folded at all. I don't think the engineering is lazy. The design works and there are numerous accessories available due to the bike's popularity. My age? 76. BTW I also own a short wheel base recumbent - the Dutch-made Optima Orca with a Schmidt Nabendynamo. It's the ideal bike for around the world trekking but I still (mostly) prefer my Brompton.
Have I been saying it wrong? We all have our little mispronunciations-I couldn't tell you which pronunciation is correct. We would have to ask Mr. Dahon...It's part of the fun!
I honestly dont know what is the right pronunciation. A simple Google search shows me both pronunciations are correct and acceptable 😊 its just that I wasnt expecting such a strong stress on "day" part of dahon. We all have our accents, im not even a native speaker.. i respect and thanks for the video.
never found the brompton atractive, to me it just looks hideous, the frame looks odd, the handlebar looks childish and uncomfortable the way the ends go up. obviously it's a preference, but i would choose a dahon or tern every time.
People have smirked at me while I am on my Brompton bike. Yes, I might look like a weirdo on my clown bike, but I still love it. The Tern and the Dahon do look more like a regular bike. Beauty is in the eye of the bike holder!
Brompton's probably not worth the price unless you really need to travel with it by air regularly. Dahons have TERRIBLE customer service. Very hard to get the specialized parts for the folding hardware. Eventually ordered right from the aliexpress. I would have bought factory, but they didn't respond to emails.
We really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts! Your feedback on Brompton and Dahons is invaluable for anyone considering a purchase. Getting parts shouldn't be like a treasure hunt. Sounds like Dahon needs to step up its customer service game.
BROMPTON ELECTRIC. "THE WORLDS MOST UNRELIABLE BIKE?”.. Both of my Electric Brompton"s continuously keep braking down. The poor quality bearings & electronics keep failing. Brompton knows about this. But just keeps replacing them with same the parts. Buy yourself several Chines copies for the same price. Or better still a Honda CBR 125cc motorcycle for the same price. Feel less disappointed & save yourself a fortune.
Thank you for sharing your experience with the Brompton Electric bikes. Potential buyers need to be aware of both the positive and negative aspects of a product. This particular video is not about Brompton Electric. We do have another video about that specifically.
Neither are best. The Tern Verge X11 is the greatest folding bike ever made. These bikes are like toys in comparison. The Brompton will kill you to climb even a 12% grade hill.
Almost bought a Brompton in 2009. Got a Dahon instead, to save money. After ten years, the frame cracked almost all the way through. I got a Brompton as a replacement and am glad I did. I commute with it, taking it on and off transit multiple times a day. Sometimes even a Brompton can be ungainly in the narrow bus aisles, but it's so much better than a Dahon or similar.
I do like that the Brompton has a 7 year warranty on the bike. But the cost! You got 10 years out of your Dahon and how much money did you spend on it? It might have been a good deal?
@@RideandShineBicycling What do you think about the ride of the Moulton in comparison to that of the Brompton? Do you sell Moultons?
We are not that familiar with the Moulton. @@geriannroth449
@@RideandShineBicycling ok that's one of the best designed & manufactured bike in the UK quite expensive too. You should check them out.
We asked Tim from Bikes@Vienna. His response is interesting. ' The Moulton is not a true folding bike. Rather, it is a “take apart” bike that you can break down fairly easily and pack. The original design in the 60s was seen as revolutionary and went a long way toward legitimizing small wheels in the bike world. We were a dealer for a few years ago, but found demand was pretty much zero, so we stopped. Great bikes, just a really tiny market.'
I agree with your last comments. While I've always admired the Bromptons, their prices have always been more than I've been willing to spend. I bought a barely used Dahon Mariner D7 last year for $350 that looks and rides brand-new, and I think I got a great deal seeing how the Mariner D8's price tag is up near $900 to $1,000 now. I'm easy on my bikes so I anticipate it being around for a very long time.
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts, it's great to hear about your bike find! It sounds like you got a "mariner" deal with your Dahon! Ride on!
I bought a Dahon Mariner D8 in 2022, and it was alot cheaper than that in Australia. Not sure now. The bike is fantastic. Extremely happy with it. I do like the Brompton, but the price with the accessories to make it equal, would of been 5 times the price of the Dahon. And there are with the Brompton that I do not like.
@@zeniktorres4320& @RideandShineBicycling: Update. I always keep my eyes open for deals on used Bromptons and recently found one. The bike is in brand-new condition and I plan to ride the 633km Four Rivers Ride in So. Korea in fall 2025 with it. Here's a snippet of that ride by Pam of 2Bikes4Adventure channel who offers a lot of very helpful info on folding bikes and touring: th-cam.com/video/C9ZUwmaU0rM/w-d-xo.html
@@zeniktorres4320 Update: I managed to acquire essentially a brand-new Brompton Explore M6R in racing green for $1,200 (via negotiation) that came with the front luggage block, large Brompton bag, and several pairs of alternative rear rack wheels -- basically I saved 50% on this bike and equipment. The original owner planned to do some touring abroad, but when he and his wife had a baby, those tour plans went out the window.
I plan to take the Brompton with me to So. Korea in 2025 to ride their Cross Country Ride (633km from Seoul to Busan). If you're unfamiliar with this ride, TH-camrs have posted plenty of videos of it. Here's just one of many: th-cam.com/video/BxCqqIVx88A/w-d-xo.html
I have both. I prefer the Brompton for trains and buses (I don't fly) but the Dahon for general rides. You can get an adaptor for the Dahon to take Brompton bags.
That is interesting. I didn't know about the adaptor.
agreed
Thanks for the video and commentary. I love both bike makes and respect the wicked engineering of the Brompton and the robust decency of the Dahon. Let's compare them to the Apple and Samsung markets. I'll chip in here for Dahon, thinking of the "Speed 8" which I own and love. It goes like stink, handles well on Schwalbe apple tyres and soaks up the bumps. One day when I grow up I'll buy that carbon framed Brompton I saw in the Covent garden shop😊
Ah, the eternal bike debate! It’s great to hear you appreciate the engineering of both Brompton and Dahon bikes. They each have their unique qualities that make them special. Maybe one day they will release a foldable bike with a touchscreen display? Keep pedaling towards your dream and thanks for your comment!
Wow! Tim and Beth. Bikes@Vienna is my LBS. I love these folks. Thanks for this video. This was very informative. Planning a trip to France and desperately want to have a bicycle with me. This might help me decide.
Thank you! We have worked with them for some time now. They will be pleased to hear this comment. Bicycling in France...oooo...luck you. Good luck and Bon Voyage.
15 years ago I bought a used Dahon for 100 euros. I always thought Brompton were cool but couldn’t afford it. The little used Dahon I got was amazing. I used in from Brooklyn to Manhattan 5 years . I gave it away when I moved. I m sure Bromtons are all the rage but I m glad I didn’t spend 1000 bucks on one, I still made it to work and bike just fine
It's great to hear how much you enjoyed your Dahon! Sometimes, the best rides come from bikes that don't break the bank. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Love my Dahon D8 Mariner. Has a factory set of panniers and the 20" wheels are confidence inspiring
Thank you for sharing your positive experience with the Dahon D8 Mariner. It's always great to hear happy customers!
love my dahon D8 launch...with jaw connection and tension rod ... so rigid and vital on rough road...analytically and engineering wise find it more ok than any other dahon model .....I live in tropical country...Asia.
Looks like your Dahon D8 is the superhero of bikes, ready to conquer any rough road! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.
Me too. Had mine for two years and love it. The ride is superb, and its fully adjustable, and comes with all the fruit out of the box. The only thing I bought is a Dahon Landing Gear to wheel it easier while it's folded. I recommend this if you don't have one.
Have a Bike Friday New World Tourist set up with drop bars (more like a pocket rocket but for touring) that I ordered thru Tim. Great bike, tours well. Not a fast or small fold (it folds under and doesn’t have a frame break). But it is more of a disassemble for packing for flight into a large suitcase. Technically not airline legal but I’ve never been challenged on it. Also got a 700c bike with s&s couplers but haven’t had it apart yet.
That sounds like a versatile setup for your touring needs! Thanks for sharing.
Great video
Thanks to all who contributed in the interview.
Awesome, thanks for tuning in and showing your support!
My Dahon P-5 Archer (Asian market model) lasted well over ten years. The clamping mechanism for the folding neck broke and being as old as it was and not warrantied in the North American market it was my incentive for a new folding bike. Got the D-10 and now a happy camper. Improved mechanics. Nice. Yeah, I am a Dahon loyalist. I wish they had some luscious color options for our market though instead of just silver, white, black and an occasional muted red or blue. Maybe I will have disposable income for a good powder coating in a fun color.
How about Biria? Their one non-electric folding bike seems to hit the mark although I haven’t researched people’s take on its quality/longevity.
Congrats on your new wheels! Keep us posted on your biking adventures with the D-10, and maybe the Biria will be your next folding bike conquest! We haven't reviewed the Biria yet. Maybe sometime down the line. You can bring some luxurious colors to your bike. We have never used this but have heard other bicyclists have used Markal® B® Paintstik® - Economical "Paint Crayon" Permanent marks resist water, fading, and UV rays. Writes on metal, plastic, glass, rubber - wet or dry. Maybe we should do a video on this? Thanks for the comment and for sharing your experience.
Fantastic comparison between the two bikes, they're pros, cons, and best uses. In terms or riding quality, both are great but I would give the edge to Dahon because of the adjustable handlebar positioning & stem height. It is a very comfortable bike to ride. You get used to the 2 hand shifting on a 6 speed Brompton evantually, but the 7 speed Dahon I own feels much more natural. The 20 inch wheels do require less effort to mobilse to the Brompton 16 inch wheels, but I would say the difference is minimal. For mixed use with transit and flying, the Brompton is an amazing tool. It isn't even a bike it's an extention of yourself I've found. Shopping cart mode is a gamechanger and brings immense justification to the price and your quality of life even. The Dahon feels more like a "normal bike". I prefer how you sit on it, especially for a long distance or hilly ride. In a flat, congested city, just invest the money in the Brompton. Very glad they mentioned the gear range was actually greater on a 6 speed Brompton to an 8 speed Mariner too!
I love my black Dahon Mariner D8. Best bike I've ever had. The Dahon rides nice like a full size, handles very well, it is smooth. The Dahon also comes with fenders, rack, strap, The only accessory I bought was the Dahon Landing Gear to wheel the bike around while folded. And, the seat height, brake angle, handlebar stem height can all be adjusted. However it's not as convenient as the Brompton when folded, as its bigger and doesn't wheel around as easy.
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s always awesome to hear from fellow Dahon fans. Enjoy every ride on your Mariner D8!
Dahon K3 for me. Yes I've had a few issues, all resolved and yes little wheels. 18 months later over 1500 kms. Still a great little bike. One of the lightest bikes and a 1/4 of the price of a Brompton.
1500 km and counting! Looks like the Dahon K3 is giving the Brompton a run for its money-one little wheel at a time!
I use a Dahon my with Sram Dual Drive (24 gears) and this is far above a 6-gear Brompton. On normal roads It runs as fast as a big, normal sized bike. The difference between lowest and highest gear is phenomenal!
Your bike is like the superhero of the cycling world with its 24 gears, ready to conquer any road! I would love more gears on my Brompton. Thanks for sharing your experience with your bike setup, it sounds really impressive!
I own both along with Tern, Bike Friday, Strida...with so many Brompton clones out there; I would not buy another Brompton. Parts are too expensive and difficult to replace, touring with it is a pain, the gearing is terrible.
That is quite interesting. You have tried them all. I have only ridden the Tern, the Birch, and the Dahon. I still like my Brompton and I like the 7-year warranty on it. Thanks for sharing.
Brommies do specific things very well, like the Strida.
Shifting does feel like doing the macarena, but the trade off is ruggedness and foldability
I picked up two barely used Retrospecs (7 speed) for $200 total and could not be happier. They are a legit bike. They are light, fast and comfortable.
Awesome find! Great price! Enjoy!
never drove a Dahon but had a Brompton about 15 years ago. Quality and fold was top notch but for me the ride was too unstable. I never felt safe in urban areas.
It's interesting to hear your perspective on the Brompton. We haven't heard that one. Yes, safety in urban areas is definitely a priority, and finding the right bike for your comfort is crucial. Thanks for sharing.
Brommies are twtichier, use my Dahon if roads are rougher, and I have to go farther
Tires, not just wheels can be bigger,
Brommie in the trunk , for portability, convenience, less than 5miles , further if smooth
I did a 3x9 rear hub on the Dahon, but I have old guy legs and the closer gears help. esp with trailers
Thanks for sharing your experience and tips, it's always helpful to hear from seasoned riders like yourself!
We have the Dahon Qix D8 that folds vertically not sideways. It is significantly faster at folding than the Brompton. The best and easiest way to fold.
That is quite interesting. I am super slow at folding both bikes, but I did find the Dahon having more steps to complete the task. Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It's always great to hear from fellow bike enthusiasts who appreciate the Dahon.
I own both a 2017 Brompton 6 speed and a 2001 Dahon Lightspeed. I definitely prefer the Brompton, but use the Dahon more for fear of theft. When you travel with a Brompton you pretty much need to bring it inside with you because they are theft magnets. Bringing the Brompton inside is OK for office commutes, visiting friends, shopping with a big shopping cart, and maybe the health club. However, forget about trips to the park, dentist, restaurants etc since they’re not very happy about you storing the Brompton in the corner or under the table. Note that I live in a downtown area in a small EU city so there is no parking for cars 99% of the time, so it’s only by « BMW » (bike, metro or walk)
Ah, the classic Brompton dilemma: too cool to leave outside, but too fancy for a corner table! It’s like trying to sneak a celebrity into a restaurant without causing a scene. Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s always helpful to hear how others manage their rides, especially in urban settings.
Two questions ... does the Dahon roll when folded, or must you carry it? ... If it rolls, would it be as easy to bring into places like coffee shops and stores as the Brompton (I don't want to have to lock the bike outside).
Great question! I think you have to buy an alternative wheel ( landing gear) to put on your Dahon and then yes it can roll.
Dahons tend to roll in one direction only, but at least no one need to care about teeny brompton rack wheels breaking on poor pavement.
it def doesnt roll like a brommie, youll have to carry it, but on the other hand you can just park it like any other bike, instead of bringing it in
I would call the Dahon style more luggable. Rolling can be achieved.
Never had anyplace I couldn't bring my folded Brommie into.
All foldies make compromises for a good fit to the tasks they are asked to perform.
I bought a Dahon Landing gear to Wheel it around much easier. I love the bike.
Just to add, if you're tall and want fully upright then the Dahon is better. I'm 5'9 and have to lean slightly on the Brompton rather than dutch style upright.
I can see if you are a taller person that might be a slight disadvantage. I am 5'5 and I feel that I am fully upright on my Brompton. Thanks for the comments.
Are you using the H bar?
@@napilopez yup
Yes, you have a good eye. @@napilopez
yes im 6 4 and dahon has a normal upright position
The fair comparation would be the Dahon curl i8 vs Brompton as they are similar in shape, size, technology and fold the same way.
Thanks for pointing out the similarities between the Dahon Curl i8 and the Brompton! Let the folding games begin!
You are right on the brake lever. The brake lever for Brampton need to face downwards which is not ergonomic. I personally had hurt my wrist riding with bike lever facing down.
I have seen people with "Horns" on a Brompton, to both sides of the wheel. I suppose that correcting the brake levers to a more "flat position" is possible also? At least try and see how much is possible, before hitting anything?
Yes, but over time you get use to it. Thanks for the comment
Bromptons aren’t rated to handle my 280 lbs mass. lol. The only Dahon that is rated for a person of my weight is the Hit. I ended up buying a Change Bike 809. It is a full sized hybrid bike with 27.5 wheels on a mountain bike frame. And yes it still folds. (But not nearly as small as the others)
Glad you found a bike that works for you.
Would love to ride a brompton but it is to precious to lock up anywhere and I dont want to lug it around all the time.
I totally understand your dilemma. Bromptons are like VIPS, too precious to be left alone. It's always tough to balance convenience with keeping your bike safe.
Hi what's the wheelbase of these two bicycles
It depends on the individual models, but it’s pretty similar to the Brompton, somewhere around 40-42”. They don’t give those details on their website, and I don’t have one to measure here. Hope this helps. 😄
I'm heavy so Bromton is most likely for me.Nice video Thankyou
Hey, thanks for your support and for checking out the video! Brompton bikes are sturdy enough to handle riders 110 kg or 242 lbs. Happy cycling!
Can see spending money if you’re using it everyday, but, just for weekends, I’ll save some money.
Yes, it's easier to justify spending all that $ when you use it daily
yup, the bike in the window, is a 64, Raleigh RSW dahon clone is a raleigh evo clone :) raleigh are now on to the evo 2 and e v 2 350 pounds and the ev electric 1200 pounds. also raleigh was liquidated in uk last year and bought out,
Thanks for sharing the info about the Raleigh bikes! Impressive knowledge!
I've had both. I prefer my Brompton.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It's always interesting to hear about the perspective of someone who owned both bikes.
It is a little like comparing potatoes with apples? They have their different uses. A Bromptons small wheels, and its hard ride, is part of it primary function: To be portable as "Super Folded" to a one wheel size!!!
If in need of a larger wheel, ½ folder, try an American "Montague", which is a former Army Bike, based folder!! It is an ordinary, multi gear MTB type bike, also for rides in terrain, as the Army sometimes need to do that also. Finn. Denmark
I have never heard of a Montague. I will check it out. Thanks for the comment.
So pretty and fun looking.
They are like candy...at least for me.🤩
Are these worth any money? Just found one that picked up during my scrap metal runs. The Stainless is pretty mint. Some surface rust on other parts but clean overall. It looks really old that why I’m trying to look up some more info on it. It has 16” wheels & 3 speed, tag says Dagon Carson, California.
It's always exciting to stumble upon hidden treasures! Researching more about it will give you a better idea of its value.
@@RideandShineBicycling That’s what I’m trying to do. It’s an 87’ seat might not be original but fairing are & chain guard too. The tires might be original but super dry rotted. Just ordered a set of white ones with tubes. I have to wash some videos on how to wash it because I don’t want cause any more damage.
That sounds like a great project! Best of luck with restoring your bike.
Brompton every time no question quality counts
Brompton hands down the easiest folding bike to take to travel. They really embody what a folding bike is. You should be able to take it anywhere and travel anywhere because of the compact form. I haven't seen anyone who travels with 20 inches that don't have to break apart their folding bike. Which defeats the purpose of buying a folding bike. You buy a folding bike because you can bring it with you, and no need to break it down. Just folded it, and put it in the bag. open it and ride. If I have to break down my bike, I might as well bring my road bike. Also, there are a lot of options for Brompton bags. Hardcase and softballg.
Who needs a magic carpet when you have a Brompton folding bike? It's like having your own portable ride that fits in a bag. No need to break it down, just fold it up and let the adventures begin! Great addition...Thanks
And Citizen bikes are the best budget folding bikes!
Cheers for the Citizen bikes shoutout! I don't know much about the Citizen bikes, but I have seen them on the paths.
No big deals all bike is bike as long is serve as healthy mechanical
Absolutely! As long as a bike gets you moving and keeps you healthy, that's what really matters.
dahon: cheaper, better for bigger guys, HAS A KICKSTAND !!!
brom: smaller, easier to fold
Nice quick comparison! Thank you.
Brommie folk just fold the rear wheel under if the need it to stand up by itself.
Sidestands (kickstands to some) are to be had
Look at the Dahon Qix D8. It's a vertical folding bike like the Brompton but its significantly faster and easier at folding than the Brompton. It weighs 26 pounds and my wife and I bring them to every major city we visit.
This channel makes disparaging comments about Dahon and Tern vs Brompton like “…not as much engineering…”, “…cheaper components..” , “…based in China…” which all seems to infer ‘cheap and nasty’. I have owned Dahons and Terns since 2006, commuting at least 3500 miles / year every year. My old Dahon Jetstream P8 cracked through the frame after 7 years but I had abused it. My Tern Link p24 has been flawless since 2013. To say the components are cheaper is an erroneous generalisation. You can buy some very very high end non-electrified Dahons and Terns off the shelf, much higher specced than any Brompton…which Tern and Dahon can do because Brompton has only one frame design, which is tweaked slightly occasionally, and therefore what is capable of being done with that frame is limited. Tern and Dahon innovate all the time. The politest thing I can say about Brompton engineering is that it’s lazy. Tern and Dahon have loads of models and unique patents. You called that English geezer a genius but glossed over the fact that Dr David Hon was formerly a researcher and designer at the cutting edge of solid state lasers, initially in energy weapons for Hughes Aircraft Corporation in the late 1970s, but subsequently for nuclear fission generation (the holy grail of zero emission energy) but decided to focus on non emission commuting by designing folding bikes, committing to making zero emissions his life’s work. David Hon is an ACTUAL genius, not a bloke who manages to sell a lot of overpriced bikes (Goodness knows why). My partner has a Brompton which she loves. I have ridden it and don’t see any reason to choose it over my Tern.
Sorry, you feel that way. We always try to be neutral and present the information to help the buyer. Thank you for your information.🙂
@@RideandShineBicycling No need to apologise. Just consider not misinforming buyers.
Tim of Bikes@vienna is an expert on Dahon, Tern, and Brompton bikes. He has been selling these bikes for over 8 years. This information is from a reputable source.@@the_black_douglas9041
I've owned a Dahon Mariner, a Bike Friday Diamond Llama, and a Brompton H3. I ride the H3 about 10 to 20 miles daily and cancelled the insurance on my Toyota. The Brompton is far and away the superior bike. I rarely lock it up. I just take it into stores and other locations, folded, partially folded, or not folded at all. I don't think the engineering is lazy. The design works and there are numerous accessories available due to the bike's popularity. My age? 76. BTW I also own a short wheel base recumbent - the Dutch-made Optima Orca with a Schmidt Nabendynamo. It's the ideal bike for around the world trekking but I still (mostly) prefer my Brompton.
I didn't know it was pronounced as dei-hon. I just read it as it is, da- hon.
Have I been saying it wrong? We all have our little mispronunciations-I couldn't tell you which pronunciation is correct. We would have to ask Mr. Dahon...It's part of the fun!
I honestly dont know what is the right pronunciation. A simple Google search shows me both pronunciations are correct and acceptable 😊 its just that I wasnt expecting such a strong stress on "day" part of dahon. We all have our accents, im not even a native speaker.. i respect and thanks for the video.
never found the brompton atractive, to me it just looks hideous, the frame looks odd, the handlebar looks childish and uncomfortable the way the ends go up. obviously it's a preference, but i would choose a dahon or tern every time.
People have smirked at me while I am on my Brompton bike. Yes, I might look like a weirdo on my clown bike, but I still love it. The Tern and the Dahon do look more like a regular bike. Beauty is in the eye of the bike holder!
Have you ridden a Brompton ?
@oe59 I haven't. Why would I, if i don't like how it looks ... we all have preferences
Brompton's probably not worth the price unless you really need to travel with it by air regularly. Dahons have TERRIBLE customer service. Very hard to get the specialized parts for the folding hardware. Eventually ordered right from the aliexpress. I would have bought factory, but they didn't respond to emails.
We really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts! Your feedback on Brompton and Dahons is invaluable for anyone considering a purchase. Getting parts shouldn't be like a treasure hunt. Sounds like Dahon needs to step up its customer service game.
zizzo folding bikes here. 23 pounds and Withstand the family abuse no problem.
Thank you for highlighting the durability of the Zizzo folding bikes!
Stick with the Brompton. Better for travelling
Love to travel with my Brompton.
i ride a bike for riding, not travelling, the transportation benefits are just that, benefits
the brompton is expensive and stupid and it pisses me off that I want one so bad!
Haha! I am with you. I feel ya! It’s like, why does something so cool have to cost so much? It’s a love-hate relationship for sure!
BROMPTON ELECTRIC. "THE WORLDS MOST UNRELIABLE BIKE?”.. Both of my Electric Brompton"s continuously keep braking down. The poor quality bearings & electronics keep failing. Brompton knows about this. But just keeps replacing them with same the parts. Buy yourself several Chines copies for the same price. Or better still a Honda CBR 125cc motorcycle for the same price. Feel less disappointed & save yourself a fortune.
Thank you for sharing your experience with the Brompton Electric bikes. Potential buyers need to be aware of both the positive and negative aspects of a product. This particular video is not about Brompton Electric. We do have another video about that specifically.
Neither are best. The Tern Verge X11 is the greatest folding bike ever made. These bikes are like toys in comparison. The Brompton will kill you to climb even a 12% grade hill.
We appreciate the comment. The Tern is a good bike.
what doesnt kill you makes you stronger
All foldies make compromises.
You get the tool that fits the job.
Absolutely, every bike has its pros and cons!
The bias is real!
Thank you for pointing that out!
Not even comparable. Dahon fold sucks
Ah, the age-old debate about folding bikes!