Folding Bikes
Folding bikers on the Hutt River trail
Folding bicycles have been growing in popularity throughout the world for many years. They solve problems associated with limited space in peak commuter trains, buses, small cars, apartments and offices. For those wanting to integrate cycling with other modes of transport, they provide a level of reliability that cannot be matched by full-size cycles.
Folding bikes can be carried on all Tranz Metro trains and Metlink bus services provided they are no larger than 82cm long x 69cm high x 39cm wide. The wheel rims must be no more than 51cm in diameter (about a 20 inch wheel). If wet, we advise carrying your bike in the bag provided.
Folding bikes usually take about 30 seconds to fold or unfold. This video demonstrates a Dahon being unfolded.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CD36VWWFIw&feature=related
The small wheels of folding bikes have a number of pros and cons. They tend to have quicker acceleration and handling that normal size wheels, but can be slightly less efficient on uneven road surfaces. A technical assessment of small bicycle wheels can be seen here:
http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~hadland/page15.html
Folding bikes with gears can be ridden at speed when necessary and climb hills, as demonstrated in these two videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sEY7V24AxM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6T5shLB3VU&feature=related
