Just completed my first tour on a folding bike...on a DaHon Speed P8, to be precised.
Used to be a skeptic but finally I braved myself to try one after seeing Chris Hoy riding one during the closing of Beijing Olympics.
This bike is a proven touring bike...slower but better handling & a reliable workhorse! I'd call it a KICK-ASS bike!
It took me slightly more than a minute to prepare the bike by simply unfold & lock it with quick-release clip, hook on all the panniers, bar bags etc.. without using any tools. Voila!
Whereas others (road/mtb/recumbent/touring) took approx. 15~20mins to re-fix their tires, pedals, handlebars, saddles, adjusting brakes & derailleur etc.
Almost hit 70km/h on descent, easy negotiating sharp corner ala Valentino Rossi's, able to follow 30km/h++ on flat (have to work harder because of the smaller wheel) but limited of gearing (option- to use internal hub to have 16 speed), I use 39T chainrings x 14T~16T cassette most of the time. But not to worry because a 'normal' touring would not require me to ride that fast all the time.
Able to ride on bad roads and off roads with 20" x 2.0 schwalbe big apple tires.
Full touring accessories are available- front & rear rack/fenders. Contact your local authorised distributor for those stuff.
Up right position & adjustable handle post for better riding position.
Chromoly frame- heavier but allow for more comfortable ride. Able to take up 105 kg of load (including the rider)
And it only requires a small space for storage- in car, train or at home. In fact, it is quite easy to carry around using the bike bag.
Conclusion- nice, comfortable ride but look awkward and/or funny (to some non-cyclist) when a big man like me riding a small bike. but still love it!
I guess, it has reignited my passion for cycling and bike touring after 2 years on 'sabatical leave'. Thank you David Hon!