Dahon Matrix

Folding Mountain Bike Review

Summary:

-Dahon is one of longest serving producers of folding bikes and it shows with this impressive contribution to the hybrid category. Before purchasing this bike think carefully about the two Ps, priorities and purpose. If you’re looking for a folding mountain bike that doubles as a city bike quite admirably it may be for you.

However, if you consistently negotiate busy rush hour traffic and are looking for something ultra slick, quick and stylish then test ride it first before you splash out your hard earned bucks. Before moving on to the rest of this review remember that vantage point is everything and your opinion depends on your perspective. Have you decided upon the most important factor for picking up this folder? Do you know what you will use it for and why? If the answer is yes on both counts you may move on to strengths/weaknesses, if not ponder it over then pass go, collect your $500 and proceed confidently…

Strengths:

Although this is a folding mountain bike by nature it is adaptable to city riding;

I know people who use it under both conditions and are more than satisfied.

- This folder has a mountain bike platform and gear system that is open to urban modification with some creativity. The shock forks, thickish 1.5 tires, mountain bike flip shifters/gearing, and handlebar positioning really have the look and feel of a rugged, powerful climber and off-roader rather than its asphalt hugging cousin. For a folding bicycle in this price range and category the rural performance is tough to beat.

- The disc brakes really are top of the line which makes riding in both wet and dry conditions worry free and you’re encouraged to take advantage of the speed, grip and bounce that the sturdy composition and fun-filled forks supply.

- The frame is simple and easy to fold so as long as you don’t mind removing the front seat it’s convenient for day trips out of the city.

- Also the total foldability means the bicycle in its entirety as well as all your possessions are completely self-contained, secure and safe.

Weaknesses:

- If you work part time as a downtown bike courier you may be expecting a little too much from this folding bike.

- For city riding purposes the bike is relatively clunky and noisy when side by side with true metropolitan folders; it’s fast and durable yet there are lighter, nimbler urban models on the market that have true folding capacity if that’s what you’re looking for.

- The disc brakes are outstanding and provide even more peace of mind to a bike that already offers impressive traction, however, keep in mind they are not industry standard so some people might find them difficult to replace.

Recommended: Absolutely. Modify this bike with your choice of specialized parts and you’ve got the best of both city and country riding experiences. All it took was a quick upgrade to the shocks, a few teaks and the Dahon Matrix became my new favorite folding mountain bike.

Snappy Folding & Happy Riding!