failo

I was thinking of doing a mini-velo project can't decide which one to start with. I was leaning toward single speed with a bigger chain ring up front, but am not opposed to the internal hub. I am relatively, short 5'6/7" so I am not too worried about the geometry, I also a ride a Dahon Silvertip currently. Price is a factor, as I can afford more in upgrades the less I spend, but all are within my price range.

Any thoughts?

Mixie

https://newyork.craigslist.org/brk/b...525913300.html
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OVCAM1U...btag=289264073

vs.

Sundeal

https://www.randombikeparts.com/coll...-hub-brown-new

vs.

Respect

https://respectcycles.com/products/urban-minivelo-v3

tds101 

Did you spot this 1 from Bikes Direct? There's a HUGE thread about it here in the forums,...
Save Up to 60% Off Mini Velo Road Bikes, Roadbikes - Mercier Nano Mini Velo Bicycles

Abu Mahendra

Your Silvertip is foldable, separable or rigid?

12boy

If it really does weigh 23 lbs with an IGH that is remarkable. Has 451wheels and also a 10" toptube?

failo

The silvertip is foldable, but has two lockjaw hinges so it has very little flex.

failo

I have seen that bike, haven't looked through the thread yet. (I found the huge upgrade thread now). To be honest I am not in love with the looks of it and don't really want dropped bars and a double crank up front. I guess I could replace all that though, I'll have to see what others have done with that set up.

Abu Mahendra

You have a third generation Silvertip, then. The first gen was a non-foldable minivelo while the second gen was separable. I know Lockjaw for I own a Dash and a Dash Altena.





ps. Lockjaw hinges are two versions, Gen. I and Gen. II.

failo

Those are some nice looking bikes!

Doc_Wui

I'm thinking about the Sundeal City V2 as I would have to change the drop bars and put on new brake levers on the Bikes Direct Minivello. Probably not that much bike, but it's not much money either.

mimix101

I just picked up my Sundeal v2 from the bike shop. My initial impressions are that it's a nice bike with potential. I usually start on the 5th gear so it tops out really quick. I'm looking at swapping out the 46T for a 60T to hopefully make it faster. Other than that build quality looks okay. The brakes are super strong so I've had to make sure not to brake too hard especially the front brake. It's just going to take some time to readjust.

jhoneil

tds101 

I prefer this instead: https://www.amazon.com/Sundeal-470mm...ywords=sundeal

failo

Ended up going with a Respect Mini Velo. Picked up a demo for a good deal. It's great so far.

I put bullhorn handlebars, bar end calipers, new Kool Stop brake pads, Schawlbe Kojack Road Slicks (20x1.35), welgo commuter pedals, and a bigger chainring on it.

It is pretty light, probably right around 19lbs right now and rides fast. I kept the gear ratio somewhat low because, I have bad knees and have some hills on my commute to work, which is about 10 miles. I have done it twice so far (without the new tires). It is an excellent ride, easy to get up to speed, and the build quality is good. The saddle it came with is actually very comfortable.

When I have more money to spend, I think I will eventually put a new fork on it, and will eventually buy new wheels.

bikiola

Thats awesome. Where'd you get your demo bike?

failo

I contacted the company via their instagram. It took a little while, but when it eventually came and I'm loving it.

Chester

Recently bought both the Sundeal V2 and the Mixie Straightedge. The Sundeal for $250 from RandomBikeParts.com and the Mixie for $225 from FydelityBags.com.

The Sundeal is a great deal for what you get. Only $250 total and it's got a Nexus IGH, Tektro brakes, and even nice tires.

The Mixie for $225 is a solid deal mainly because there's no easy way to get a new SS/fixed mini velo for the same, or lower, price. But the components are terrible. I've got a Mercier Nano from BikesDirect.com, too, and the Mixie's components are a definite step down. The brake calipers are terrible, the saddle and grips terrible...even the small hardware, like various bolts, are terrible. But I don't regret the purchase at all, at $225.

tdonline

Recommendations for a mini-velo that has a low or lower step-thru build? Preferably affordable, of course. I really like the Orbea Kata but am not sure about the 5 speed Sturmey Archer. I don't know anything about SA, but just concerned I need more help when the road goes up.

tds101 

Avoid the 5 speed hub like it's the plague. My son has it on the bike I gave him. It's constantly in need of adjustment. Also, the gearing is too unevenly spaced,...a real PITA.

tdonline

Good to know. Seems the Katu have all gone with hubs in 2018 and 2019.

tds101 

The Sundeal V2 seems to be an excellent deal. If I could get away with purchasing it, I'd be all over it.

tdonline

Yes, but I am looking for low step thru frame though. Thus why the Katu appeals.

tds101 

Ah, yes, I forgot about that 1 little fact. Sorry,...

tdonline

A 7 speed Katu is available--must be from 2017 or earlier. What say you on the 7 speed. Think it's the same as the one on my Dahon D7--which is pretty horrible. Is there room/option to upgrade on the Katu?

Orbea Katu 40

tds101 

I like it,...EXCEPT that it's using a derailleur. I'd bite if it had an internal geared hub. I'd buy it, then swap the rear wheel and derailleur for an IGH and chain tensioner. Then it'd be PERFECT!

tdonline

What are you talking about Willis? The derailleur is what I'm looking for..But the question is can it be replaced by a better one? Like say, upgrading to a 8 speed? And would it be costly?