Dahon Jack 2008 Folding Bike Review

We like:

Good stability, speed, positioning; range of sizes to suit more riders

We don't like:

Carrying it folded; restricted range of gears; limited manufacturing information

SmartPlanet judgement:

The 26-inch full-sized wheels and matching frame give the Jack certain advantages over its smaller-wheeled rivals -- stability, speed, out-of-the-saddle riding for sprints and hills and a more efficient riding position. And the range of frame sizes and adjustable stem means it's also more adjustable than some other folders. But the catch with a big-wheeled, big-frame bike is that when folded, it's still big and not an easy one to carry or keep folded, either.

Dahon produces a wide range of folding bikes -- from traditional, small-wheeled direct rivals to the Brompton and Mezzo to full-suspension folding bikes and full-size road racing bikes that fold. The Jack is a 26-inch wheeled (mountain-bike-sized) bicycle, designed for urban commuting duties and which also happens to fold. Continue reading...