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Origami Wasp!

Old 07-14-18, 12:55 PM
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Origami Wasp! It's on the way,...

I just ordered an Origami Wasp, and I can't wait for it to be shipped!!! I wanted a small 16" wheeled folder, and the Wasp fit the bill. I did want an internal geared hub, but considering the sweet low price ($228.00 shipped), I couldn't let it pass me by. I will put a slightly longer seatpost on it (580mm to 640mm), and I'm going to swap out the pedals for some Wellgo F265 aluminum folding pedals instead.

Eventually I'll probably need a carry bag for it, since I'm not too sure if it has magnets to secure it closed, or if I'll need some velcro strapping. This is going to be my commuter bike, as I need a small 7 speed bike to get me up the few hills I'll be facing on my ride to the train station. And the smaller the better after the car accident I had earlier this year (rear ended by a truck,...TOTALLY DESTROYED my Ford Explorer XLT).

I had hoped that the Dahon Curve I'd purchased off of a respected forum member would be sufficient, but the gearing just isn't low enough to get me up the (surprisingly) steep hill I need to overcome on the journey. LOL!!!

I'll update this post with a few pics, and my meager mini-review after it arrives. I'm STOKED!!!
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Old 07-14-18, 05:00 PM
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I will provide a free carry bag for you.
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Old 07-14-18, 05:12 PM
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Originally Posted by Pinigis
I will provide a free carry bag for you.
WOW!!! Thank you!!! I can't wait to get my new bike,...and the bag will make it so easy to take on the crowded Long Island Rail Road.
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Old 07-15-18, 03:15 AM
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Nice looking bike and some decent components on there for its price level. The one issue is that springs to mind is the limited clearance between the derailleur and ground due to the small wheels plus the use of a low end Tourney derailleur with weak springs, plastic flex etc. It could get damaged easily or get caked in mud etc which means shifting will be poor as its a very light duty product anyway. Bikes seem better suited for countries that drive on the left hand side. Here in the UK my drivetrain is almost always protected from hitting the pavement/kerb as it is on the far side of the pavement but for people who drive on the right side of the road there seems more risk of damage with such a bike but maybe in practice its not that bad. The aluminium seat post, handlebars and stem mean it's competitive on weight at just over 11kg. The use of a 7 speed freewheel means a 7 speed freehub wheel and 7 speed cassette could be a direct replacement without needing any other components changed to increase strength, reliability and shifting performance over the long term. It's certainly nicely priced anyway at the moment.
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Old 07-15-18, 04:23 PM
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I'll upgrade parts if I need to in the future, as it's a solid deal for the price. I'm impatiently awaiting it's shipment/arrival. I plan on taking it with me to work the day after gets to my house.
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Old 07-15-18, 04:47 PM
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Originally Posted by tds101
I'll upgrade parts if I need to in the future, as it's a solid deal for the price. I'm impatiently awaiting it's shipment/arrival. I plan on taking it with me to work the day after gets to my house.
You don't need to upgrade it, some people run that drivetrain for years without a care in the world. 75% of the time upgrades are the product of a rider with money and a desire to spend it. I'm often that guy!
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Old 07-15-18, 04:52 PM
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Originally Posted by Joe Remi
You don't need to upgrade it, some people run that drivetrain for years without a care in the world. 75% of the time upgrades are the product of a rider with money and a desire to spend it. I'm often that guy!
I usually upgrade when something doesn't work for me. I guess I should be good then,...it's a solid bike as is.
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Old 07-17-18, 04:24 PM
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Update: My new ride should arrive by tomorrow,...Thursday at the latest. WooHoo!!!
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Old 07-19-18, 05:42 PM
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OK, she arrived tonight,...and she's BEAUTIFUL!!! I'll post some pictures when I get to take my new baby or a spin. And the bike bag,...it's excellent quality.
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Old 07-19-18, 06:19 PM
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It's new bike day!
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Old 07-19-18, 06:58 PM
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Originally Posted by Joe Remi
It's new bike day!
Not for everyone.....
(still waiting sorta-patiently for my new S6L)
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Old 07-19-18, 07:30 PM
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Originally Posted by FolderBeholder

Not for everyone.....
(still waiting sorta-patiently for my new S6L)
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Old 07-19-18, 09:01 PM
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Haha.
Well generationally speaking I’m more this:
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Old 07-19-18, 09:04 PM
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Originally Posted by tds101
OK, she arrived tonight,...and she's BEAUTIFUL!!! I'll post some pictures when I get to take my new baby or a spin. And the bike bag,...it's excellent quality.
Pictures.
Or it didnt happen. (Thats the rulz of the internet Im told)
Congrats to you BTW.
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Old 07-23-18, 11:37 AM
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Specs:
Frame: 7005 Aluminum (WRONG,...it's 6061 series aluminum. I wanted the 7005 series, but considering the price, no biggie.)
Fork: 20″ Steel
Wheels: 16″​
Weight: 25 lbs.
Handlebars: Aluminum 24.5 x 550mm rotating
Handlebar stem: Aluminum, Folding, height-adjustable
Headset: Threadless
Seatpost: Aluminum, 33.9 x 580mm
Crank arms: Forged aluminum 170mm
Chain ring: 48 tooth Steel
Chain guard: plastic
Chain: KMC Z50 1/2″ x 3/32″
Freewheel: Shimano 7-speed MF8 TZ21
Brakes: Aluminum vee-brake
Derailleur: Shimano Tourney TZ
Shifter :Shimano RevoShift
Rims: Aluminum​, double wall
Spokes: 14g Coated steel
Hubs: Quick Release 28H
Tires: Kenda Kwest 16 x 1.5
Saddle: Soft Velo
Pedals: Plastic folding
Kickstand: Adjustable aluminum
Folded dimensions: 12.8″ x 29″ x 25″
Suggested rider height: 4’6″ to 5’10”
Max rider weight: 230 lbs.
Wheelbase: 39.5″
Handlebar height: 40″ to 43″​
Seat height: 33″ to 37″
Seat to handlebar: 24.”
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Old 07-23-18, 11:44 AM
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Old 07-23-18, 12:23 PM
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Looks very nice. I think 6061 aluminium is generally regarded now as superior to 7005 and 6061 is much more commonly used on aluminium bikes. Like yourself I wouldn't really care either way but I would have a slight preference for 6061. Some of the cheapest nastiest aluminium frames are still using un-heat treated 7005 because I think is easier to weld for less advanced facilities and small scale factories. 6061 is more about hydro-forming and heat treatment and controlling the properties of the frame more, making lighter for the same strength etc. I remember reading on alibaba some factory that claimed they had invested in all new equipment and no longer made inferior 7005 frames but had progressed to being capable of making high quality 6061 frames. I guess that was marketing to justify their investment but made 7005 sound very inferior.
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Old 07-23-18, 05:21 PM
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Originally Posted by Bonzo Banana
Looks very nice. I think 6061 aluminium is generally regarded now as superior to 7005 and 6061 is much more commonly used on aluminium bikes. Like yourself I wouldn't really care either way but I would have a slight preference for 6061. Some of the cheapest nastiest aluminium frames are still using un-heat treated 7005 because I think is easier to weld for less advanced facilities and small scale factories. 6061 is more about hydro-forming and heat treatment and controlling the properties of the frame more, making lighter for the same strength etc. I remember reading on alibaba some factory that claimed they had invested in all new equipment and no longer made inferior 7005 frames but had progressed to being capable of making high quality 6061 frames. I guess that was marketing to justify their investment but made 7005 sound very inferior.
Bolth aluminium 6061 and 7005 can be great for frames.
the best and lightest frames in all dahon are 7005 ones found on dahon mu sl slx series...
7005 frames are stiffer and rider very nice.
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Old 07-23-18, 08:02 PM
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Well,...the specs stated 7005 series, and that's what I'd expected. Not a deal breaker for me,...but food for thought for others.

OK,...a few thoughts on the bike. It's amazingly slowwwwwww. On the 7th gear, highest, I max out at, maybe, 12mph? It's more of a cruise about town kind of ride.

According to Sheldon Brown's gear inch calc, this is the gear inches:

For 16 x 1.5 / 37-305 tire with 170 mm cranks

With SunRace 14-16-18-20-22-24-28 7-speed Freewheel Cassette

46.1, 40.4, 35.9, 32.3, 29.4, 26.9, 23.1

If these numbers are correct, I'll need a somewhat bigger chainring. I don't mind low gearing,...my stamina is pathetic,...buy it's a bit too low. This will be my first upgrade.

Now, build wise, it's pretty solid. There's a bit of flex in the handlepost, but I'd expected that. Nothing serious,...not like anyone will be standing up and grinding/mashing anyways. The frame is nice and stiff, and the wheels are well built. The Kenda tires even go up to 65psi (nice, low resistance). I luv that it comes with fenders, and the fact there's no magnets is actually a plus IMO. There's a nice velcro strap that's included to secure the halves of the bike together, and I find it being included a welcome relief. I use a velcro strap on all my bikes, as the magnets are deceptively unreliable.

Now, before I'm asked about rolling while folded, it's possible, but ONLY if you remove the rear fender (one wheel rolling). The small splash guard on the fender will rub on the ground. I value keeping dry over 1 handed rolling,...

Shifting is smooth, and there's no missed steps. The handgrips are ergo, and quite nice. I also, surprisingly enough, like the included seat. it's more comfortable than I'd expected it to be. The seatpost is also long enough to accomodate my 5'11" height.

Overall, I like the bike, and I'll definitely be keeping it. I'll also be swapping out the chainring. The gearing is just a wee bit too low. Still,...a low priced, nicely built & spec'd winner.
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Old 07-23-18, 09:48 PM
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I highlighted the Wasp's very low gearing in another thread earlier...

You will recall that I said that its stock gearing suggested that it was only for the most sedate, unhurried and leisurely of rides. And Paul chimed in agreement.

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Old 07-23-18, 10:41 PM
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Those tires might not grip well on wet roads.

I had a nasty fall riding in the rain last summer.

I was about to make a right hand turn, wanted to slow down a little, so I only used 1 finger, locked up the rear wheel and the bike (20" dahon with those tires) spun around instantly, putting me on the pavement.

My right foot gripped the pavement perfectly, (5-10 shoes) and I ended up with a rather painful knee sprain that had me limping around for a few weeks.

I switched to Maxxis DTH tires that have substantially more traction.

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Old 07-23-18, 11:00 PM
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Originally Posted by SHBR



Those tires might not grip well on wet roads.

I had a nasty fall riding in the rain last summer.

I was about to make a right hand turn, wanted to slow down a little, so I only used 1 finger, locked up the rear wheel and the bike (20" dahon with those tires) spun around instantly, putting me on the pavement.

I did get a foot down that gripped the pavement perfectly, (5-10 shoes) and I ended up with a rather painful knee sprain that had me limping around for a few weeks.

I switched to Maxxis DTH tires that have substantially more traction.
You locked the rear wheel with one finger? You locked the rear wheel with one finger with wet rims/brake pads from the rain? If water acts are a lubricant between the wheel and the road, it also acts likewise between the rim and the brakepad.
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Old 07-24-18, 01:13 AM
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Originally Posted by Abu Mahendra
You locked the rear wheel with one finger? You locked the rear wheel with one finger with wet rims/brake pads from the rain? If water acts are a lubricant between the wheel and the road, it also acts likewise between the rim and the brakepad.
Its easy to do if you don't have traction. (if there is oil mixed with water, pavement can be almost as slick as ice)

I tested this many times after the crash, it was indeed quite easy to lock the rear wheel on wet roads, with those tires. (V-brakes still stop quite well even with wet rims in my experience)
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Old 07-24-18, 08:00 AM
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Originally Posted by Abu Mahendra
You will recall that I said that its stock gearing suggested that it was only for the most sedate, unhurried and leisurely of rides. And Paul chimed in agreement.
Dang,...I think I must have missed that post. NP,...for the price I have no issues with an upgrade or 2.

​​​​​​And on the tire/brake front, I'm not concerned about slipping in the rain out where I live. If it's going to be raining, I'd be forced to take the car anyways. And when the tires do wear out, I'll be getting some Schwlbe's, my tire of choice.

Also, the brakes aren't going to lock up on this bike. Maybe if I get some koolstops,...but not with the current pads.

I did forget to mention,...the pedals on the bike will be swapped before the next ride. They're way too flexy, and kinda smaller than I like,... Again, an easy fix for someone with a few spare parts.
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Old 07-24-18, 02:52 PM
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Originally Posted by BromptonINrio
Bolth aluminium 6061 and 7005 can be great for frames.
the best and lightest frames in all dahon are 7005 ones found on dahon mu sl slx series...
7005 frames are stiffer and rider very nice.
I know I can seem like a Dahon hater but I've never been impressed with Dahon frames. I looked at a budget model in a Halfords store and it was poorly welded and this 'Dalloy' crap seem's like a ploy to disguise giving any real data on their frames, they could juggle manufacturers and materials used and people would be none the wiser if all they state is 'Dalloy'. The two most advanced large scale frame manufacturers in the world, Giant and Merida have long since abandoned 7005 and moved to 6000 series aluminium. Admittedly 6061 is now their lower level of aluminium with 6066 being the premium aluminium at Merida and 6011 at Giant. Many brands buy Giant aluminium frames and they are recognised as the very best in the world (Canyon etc). Giant offer a 160kg total load capacity and lifetime warranty on their frames, pretty much un-matched by their competitors.

Looking at fuji-ta the world's biggest frame manufacturer by far that has a huge chunk of the aluminium frame market seems to have abandoned 7005 as well as there is no mention of it on their page.

HI-TEN STEEL FRAME AND ALLOY FRAME - Tianjin Fuji-ta Bicycle Co.,Ltd.

Again I have no problem with 7005 and have some older bikes with that frame material but I think its false information to imply that 7005 is equal to 6000 series nowadays. Most of the 7005 frame producers now are smaller scale facilities lacking the technology to manufacture 6000 series frames. Benefits of 6000 series is easier to produce stronger welds, more supple and ability to flex more to resist fatigue over the more brittle rigid but slightly stronger 7005. Again most frames are designed for the properties of the material.

This is the same model as mine. A Saracen jump bike made of 7005-T6 manufactured by Merida in the early 2000's. You can see how they have reinforced the frame to withstand the impacts of jumps with reinforcing between the seat stays and chain stays and much material around the headtube.

I guess the point is now that it simply may not be possible to buy a new 7005 frame now for many models as it has been abandoned by many manufacturers and is becoming increasingly scarce. Once you take Fuji-ta, Giant and Merida out of the mix you have taken an absolutely huge chunk of world quality aluminium frame production out of the mix. Giant are the biggest by revenue and Fuji-ta by volume and Merida are very big too.

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