Originally Posted by
mlau
Dude! You have great taste. The Helix was on my short list.
The Strida was a fast accelerating, large umbrella folding, very unforgivable crotch whacker. The sheer pain of braking caused me to sell the Strida.
As for the Xootr Swift, I loved the ride and adaptability. I got the Brompton for the fold and the luggage system. The Origami Swift solved the only issue that I had with the Xootr (lack of a good rack and luggage).
If you have a couple Helix bikes, I'd designate one as a beater.
The cheapest bike is the one that you have already.
TBH, it's on my short list....folds fairly small. Rides quite nice (never had one, but heard it's comparable to a Swift).
Ha! Sounds like the Strida provided you with a memorable riding experience. I've always been curious to try both the Strida and Swift. I'll have to take a closer look at the recent Origami Swift. I did own a Brompton for short period and it was hard to beat for the luggage system and delightfully small fold. That's one of the few bikes I've regretted selling.