Route: The Budget-Smart Way Into a Real 7-Speed Folding Bike
The DAHON Route is Dahon's most affordable current model — a 20" aluminum folding bike with a full Shimano 7-speed drivetrain and fenders included, built for riders who want the essentials of a folding commuter without paying for premium bracing or finishes.
🚴 Why Riders Love It
- 💰 Dahon's most affordable current model at $549
- ⚙️ Full Shimano 7-speed drivetrain despite the entry price
- 🛞 20" x 1.5" tires for stability most 14"/16" folders can't match
- 🌧️ Fenders included — ready for wet-weather commuting out of the box
- 🦶 Folding pedals included for a smaller stored footprint
- 🪶 26.4 lbs — manageable for lifting into a car or up a few stairs
⚙️ Key Features
⚙️ Shimano 7-Speed Drivetrain
A full 7-speed Shimano Tourney setup gives the Route real gearing range for commuting, shopping trips, and moderate hills — more than you'd expect at this price.
🛞 20" x 1.5" Wheels
Larger 20-inch wheels provide more stability and comfort than Dahon's compact 14"/16" models, especially on longer rides.
🌧️ Fenders Included
Full fenders come standard, keeping road spray off your clothes without an extra accessory purchase.
🦶 Folding Pedals Included
Folding pedals shave inches off the Route's stored width, a detail often reserved for pricier models.
🪶 26.4 lb Aluminum Frame
Light enough for occasional stairs or trunk-loading, while the aluminum frame keeps rust at bay.
📋 Full Technical Specifications
| Frame Material | Aluminum, 20" folding frame |
|---|---|
| Wheel / Tire Size | 20" x 1.5" |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Tourney 7-speed |
| Brakes | Winzip V-brakes |
| Product Weight | 26.4 lbs |
| Folded Dimensions | 31.5 x 13.4 x 26 in |
| Fenders / Rack | Fenders included; rear rack not included |
| Pedals | Folding pedals included |
| Colors | Pure Silver, Matt Black |
🚲 Ride & Handling
The Route's 7-speed Shimano drivetrain and 20 x 1.5" tires give it real range for flat-to-moderately-hilly commuting, shopping runs, and recreational rides — more stable than Dahon's compact 14"/16" folders, if bulkier to store. Winzip V-brakes keep stopping simple and cheap to maintain.
🆚 How It Compares
| Spec | This DAHON Model | Typical 20" Folding Bike | Brompton-Style Premium Folder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $549 (Dahon's most affordable) | $600–$900 | $1,200+ |
| Gearing | 7-speed Shimano | 6–8 speed | 2–6 speed |
| Fenders | Included | Often optional | Often optional |
| Weight | 26.4 lbs | 26–30 lbs | 24–29 lbs |
Competitor figures are publicly listed manufacturer specs at time of writing and may vary by model year.
🛡️ Why Shop With Us
📦 What's In The Box
- 1x DAHON Route Folding Bike (pre-assembled ~90%)
- 1x Folding/quick-release pedals (final install required)
- Owner's manual & warranty card
- Fenders (pre-installed)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Route a good first folding bike?
Yes — it covers the core essentials (7-speed gearing, fenders, folding pedals) at Dahon's lowest current price point.
Does it include a rear rack?
No, a rack is sold separately; fenders are included standard.
How much does it weigh?
26.4 lbs.
What terrain suits the Route best?
Flat to moderately hilly paved commuting and recreational routes.
How small does it fold?
31.5 x 13.4 x 26 in — larger than Dahon's ultra-compact K3 or Boardwalk D7, but still trunk- and closet-friendly.
Specifications reflect manufacturer-published data at time of publishing and are subject to change. Always verify fit, range, and load ratings for your specific use case.