What To Look For
Citizen folding bikes weigh 24 to 32 lbs. The bikes come with steel (Miami or Tokyo models) or alloy frames, sized at 16 or 20 inches. All models use six speed or seven speed Shimano index gear systems. For nearly maintenance-free gears and an internal hub system, the Shimano Nexus system is found only on the Barcelona model, also made with a low, curved frame for ease of use. For a lightweight bike with storage capacity, the MTA MetroBike is made for public transit riders. If you want a flashier ride, the Miami comes in bold metallic colors, fenders and a carrier rack included.
Common Pitfalls
Citizen folding bikes lack suspension. The St. Tropez has a suspension coil but is not a folding model. Color selection is very limited in all styles except the Miami. Riders will want to consult the specs provided on the Citizens website to ensure the bike will be a good fit to individual height. Taller riders might need a larger frame or bigger tires. Some assembly is required on bikes shipped from Citizen. Both pedals and the bike seat must be attached, and the bike ships folded.
Where To Buy
Citizen bikes can be difficult to find outside of the company website, but the website offers special sale prices on its bikes, along with customer testimonials and in-depth specifications. Foldingbicycles.us compiles a listing from eBay of folding bikes and bike supplies, including a photo of each, making a comparison search simple.
Cost
Citizen folding bikes cost $164 to $900 as of September 2009. Citizen offers a bike bag at a discounted price if you buy a bike and bag together. Shipments are via FedEx Ground and cost only $25 per bike. Citizen does not charge a restocking fee, and it offers a warranty on the bike frame and components. Shipping charges in either direction are not refundable.
Accessories
Citizen sells everything you need to keep your bike in good working order. For storage, it carries bike baskets and bags (underseat or handlebar versions). It also sells carrying bags for its folding bikes--backpack or gym bag styles. These are an excellent means of storage or handy for use during travel. Citizen carries bike rack and fender kits, inner tubes and gel seats for its bikes, and many accessories for general bike use such as bells, bike locks and pumps.
About The Author
Alice Moon is a freelance writer with experience writing on the Internet for more than 10 years. Moon was chosen as a Smithsonian Institute intern, working for the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. She has also traveled throughout Asia. Moon holds a Bachelor of Science in political science.
