Judd Folding Bike vs Dahon Mariner D8 II Folding Bike

Buy the Dahon Mariner D8 II if you ride hills, longer commutes or coastal and humid places; its 8-speed Shimano gearing, Tektro brakes and corrosion-coated parts do far more than the Judd's single gear and coaster brake. Buy the Judd if you want the simplest, lightest-feeling folder for flat city rides and apartment storage, and you accept standing up on climbs. Both use aluminum frames and 20-inch wheels and fold small; the Judd is the more stripped-down, low-maintenance machine, while the Dahon is the more versatile one. Owners of the Judd praise its quick fold and simple drivetrain but wish for fenders and more gear range on hills.

• Choose the Judd if you ride mostly flat pavement, want no cables or shifters to maintain, and need the simplest possible fold for a train or a walk-up.
• Choose the Dahon Mariner D8 II if your routes include hills, you want hand brakes and eight gears, or you ride in humid or salty air.