cat0020

I've modded most if not all of my bikes, too.. for a cheap bike, stuff like seat, grips, stems that allow the bike to be better suited for my riding position and comfort.
Gearing and other performance mods would come once I wear out the OEM items, just to keep the cost of bike down and less waste of unwanted parts, even though I donate plenty of bikes/parts to local Bike Kitchen/Church for rehab bikes.
Origin of bicycles all start from being more efficient, whether you want something to allow more practical transportation than walking or all out racing, and to each purpose, selecting the right tool for the right job simply allows the rider to complete the task easier. Depending on your task, you mod your bike to compromise one way or another.
When OEM gearing is drastically changed; handling and operating conditions change for the bike, it may or may not be out of the range for what the bike is capable.. but on sub $100 folding, I'm getting myself familiar with the bike before I use it outside of its designated operating range from the factory.
Before investing more money/labor into a cheap folding bike, why not ride it as is until something falls apart use it to its factory capability to the max.
Save yourself some money and learn to operate it at its capacity.

tds101 

cat0020

As if these gif contribute anything to the discussion to support your viewpoint to the discussion?
This thread title is about 1st impression of a cheap folder, nothing about mods to your cheap folder in the title; do you find my posts non-contributing to the topic?

tds101 

Lovespicyfood

You seem obsessed with this cheap folder being under $100. Would it make you feel better if you knew it was actually a $229 folder?
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Sundeal-F...-NEW/269327433

I started this thread and I'm tired of your non-sensical "advice" and belittling comments. I'll mod my folder and spend as much $ on it as I feel like. I've been riding bikes and wrenching on them for over 30 years so I'll take that "risk" of changing the gearing on my long and treacherous 1.5 mile commute with this bike .

tds101 

And you have every right to do so. This guy is obsessed with all of us valuing his opinion. I'm all for modding whatever bike is available. My Origami Wasp was $199,...I modded it with the blessing AND assistance of the owner of the company - @Pinigis (Paul). The initial cost of the folding bike was inconsequential. I luv the bike,...modded (with HIGHER GEARING) I it even more.

So, in answer to his question,...no, he doesn't add to the conversation with his small/narrow minded opinion. We luv to mod ALL bikes here.

cat0020

cat0020

StanSeven

cocoabeachcrab 

if you can find a used rear wheel with a freehub, or maybe a new one on ebay, you will have some gear flexibility with easy to install cassettes instead of freewheels. look for a double wall rim. ThorUSA has some, and he sometimes has used ones or clearance wheels for folders. some of the other folder builders here might have a scratch and dent rear wheel for cheap.

tds101 

The advantage of upgrading the Sundeal folder is that it's an oem bike company. They manufacture folders for other resellers. That means the bike is most likely higher quality than what would normally be purchased for $199. Sounds like upgrade material to me. I believe there's even a thread where it was upgraded.

As for $199 bikes,...here's my Origami Wasp:

I've since put on wellgo folding pedals, maxxis tires, and removed the fenders. The HUGE chainring and new crank arms are from the owner of Origami Bicycles. Totally changed the STOCK gearing. No Safety issues, my legs luv it, very well put together. Very nice,...well worth it TO ME! And an inexpensive upgraders dream,...

Lovespicyfood

Looks NICE! Seems like some good upgrades that have increased your joy of the bike. That's what it's all about, eh?

I think I might try to find a freehub wheel and/or a free hub and maybe re-lace the wheel... I have a truing stand but have never done that before...

I have those Wellgo folding pedals too...way better than the stock plastic folding pedals that came with my bike but they are super heavy...but I guess they'll last forever!

Lovespicyfood

Appreciate your advice! I will check it out!

Doc_Wui

I guess there are two main thoughts?

Q1: Is it worth tossing away money when you mod something?
Sure. If it's a hobby, why not. You want a faster capability on your folder? Do it, You might never use it, but so what. It's fun, and not a whole lot of money.

Q2: Is the quality of the DNP debateable?
Honest answer? No. I think they are not as good as the cheapest Shimano. When I looked at mine (new), some of the teeth appeared to be shaped different from the others. I rationalize mine because (a) I do wamt the gear inches, and (b) we're not hard riders, standing on the pedals. However, on our next faraway excursion, I'll have a spare Shimano and a freewheel tool in my saddle bags.. Not going to be stranded.

.

cocoabeachcrab 

the DNP gear teeth might be shaped that way to be shimano hyper glide compatible. maybe.