The Dahon K-One is an innovative folding electric bike that combines portability, performance, and convenience. It features a 20-inch aluminum foldable frame, making it easy to carry and store in compact spaces. The frame’s design is optimized for strength and durability while maintaining a lightweight structure.
One of the standout features of the Dahon K-One is its central motor system. The bike is equipped with a powerful 36V 250W central motor, which provides reliable assistance while riding. The central motor design ensures a balanced weight distribution, enhancing the bike’s stability and handling.
Powering the Dahon K-One is a 36V 8.7 AH Samsung battery chipset. Samsung is renowned for its high-quality battery technology, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability. The battery provides ample power to support the electric motor and offers a decent range for commuting and leisure rides.
In addition to its technical specifications, the Dahon K-One also boasts a range of practical features. It includes a comfortable saddle, ergonomic handlebars, and adjustable components to suit riders of different sizes and preferences. The bike also incorporates efficient braking systems for reliable stopping power.
The Dahon K-One folding e-bike is currently available at a sale price of $1,799.00, with a regular price of $2,299.00. This represents a significant discount, making it an attractive opportunity for potential buyers.
The sale price of $1,799.00 provides customers with substantial cost savings compared to the regular price. With a discount of $500.00, it allows individuals to acquire this feature-rich and high-performance electric bike at a more affordable price point.
With the Dahon, riders can enjoy the benefits of an electric bike without sacrificing convenience or performance. Its lightweight foldable frame, central motor system, high-quality battery chipset, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for urban commuters, travelers, and anyone seeking a versatile and efficient mode of transportation.
| Frame: | FEA 20-inch aluminum foldable |
| Motor: | 36V / 250W Bafang |
| Pedal Assist: | 5 levels of pedal assistance |
| Tires: | 20″ x 2.0″ 30TPI |
| Gearing: | DAHON Custom 8-Speed with Trigger Shifter |
| Throttle: | None |
| Drivetrain: | SRAM RD X5 9S |
| Display: | LCD Display |
| Saddle: | DAHON Ergo Comfort |
| Seat Post Battery: | 36V8.7AH Samsung cell |
| Range: | 30+ miles |
| Folded Dimensions: | 32.3″ H x 15″ W x 25.5″ L |
| Weight: | 42 lbs |
Dahon K-One: Design and Build Quality
The Dahon K-One features a high-quality FEA (Finite Element Analysis) 20″ aluminum foldable frame, designed to offer strength, durability, and portability. FEA is a computerized method used to analyze the structural integrity of materials, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Weighing in at 42 pounds (19 kilograms), the K-One strikes a balance between sturdiness and lightweight construction. The use of aluminum as the frame material contributes to its reduced weight, making it easier to carry and maneuver.
When folded, the dimensions of the K-One measure 33x15x26 inches (83x38x65 centimeters). This compact size allows for convenient storage and transportation, fitting into small spaces like car trunks, closets, or under desks. Whether you need to stow it away in a tight apartment or take it with you on public transportation, the compact folded dimensions ensure hassle-free portability.
The foldable design of the K-One enhances its versatility and usability. With quick-release mechanisms and folding hinges, the bike can be easily folded and unfolded within seconds, making it an ideal choice for commuters or travelers who need to switch between riding and other modes of transportation. The compact folded size also makes it more convenient to store the bike in tight living spaces or carry it on the go.
The FEA 20″ aluminum frame used in the K-One not only provides structural strength but also offers a comfortable and stable riding experience. The frame geometry is carefully designed to optimize balance, handling, and weight distribution, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
The RIGHT 8-speed Shimano shifter allows for precise and smooth gear changes, ensuring a seamless transition between gears. This shifter is designed to be easily operated with your right hand, conveniently placed within reach of your thumb or index finger.
Having 8 speeds at your disposal provides versatility in tackling various types of terrain. Whether you’re climbing steep hills, cruising on flat roads, or navigating through urban environments, the RIGHT 8-speed Shimano shifter allows you to find the optimal gear for efficiency and comfort.
The Shimano brand is widely recognized and trusted for its high-quality cycling components. Known for their durability and reliability, Shimano shifters are designed to withstand frequent use and provide consistent performance over time.
The tire size of 20 x 1.75-inch indicates that the K-One features tires with a 20-inch diameter and a width of 1.75 inches. This size is commonly found on folding bikes and offers a good compromise between agility and stability.
The K924 tires are designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The 1.75-inch width helps absorb vibrations and minor bumps on the road, contributing to a more comfortable cycling experience. This is particularly beneficial when riding over uneven surfaces or rough pavement.
These tires also offer a good level of traction, allowing riders to maintain control and stability while cornering or braking. The tread pattern on the K924 tires strikes a balance between low rolling resistance and sufficient grip on various surfaces, providing confidence and control during rides.
Furthermore, the K924 tires are built for durability. They are constructed with materials and design features that enhance puncture resistance, reducing the risk of flats during your rides. This durability ensures that you can confidently tackle different terrains without worrying about tire damage.
It’s worth noting that tire preferences can vary based on individual riding styles, terrain conditions, and personal preferences. However, the 20 x 1.75-inch K924 tires on the Dahon K-One strike a good balance between performance, comfort, and reliability, making them well-suited for urban commuting, leisurely rides, and light off-road adventures.
The Dahon K-One features a front light that operates at 6 volts with a power output of 2 watts, providing a brightness level of 15 LUX. This front light is designed to enhance visibility and safety during rides, particularly in low-light or dark conditions.
The use of a front light on the K-One is especially beneficial for riders who commute during early morning or evening hours when natural lighting conditions are reduced. It also proves useful in situations where visibility is compromised, such as riding in foggy or rainy weather.
By providing a reliable front light with a power output of 2 watts and a brightness level of 15 LUX, the Dahon K-One prioritizes rider safety and visibility. This feature allows riders to confidently navigate their surroundings and ensures that they can be seen by others, promoting a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
The Dahon K-One is equipped with a TCS LCD display, designed to provide riders with essential information and convenient control options during their rides. This display is located on the handlebar, allowing riders to easily access and monitor important data without distractions.
One of the key features of the TCS LCD display is its ability to show the battery volume. This feature allows riders to keep track of the remaining battery power, ensuring they have a clear understanding of how much electric assistance they have available. By monitoring the battery volume, riders can plan their rides accordingly and avoid unexpectedly running out of power.
Additionally, the TCS LCD display on the K-One provides a speed display. This feature allows riders to see their current speed in real-time, providing them with valuable information about their pace and allowing them to adjust their riding accordingly. Whether cruising at a comfortable speed or pushing for a faster ride, the speed display helps riders stay informed and in control.
The TCS LCD display on the K-One also includes a 4-degree feature. This feature refers to the adjustability of the display angle. Riders can customize the angle of the display to ensure optimal visibility and readability based on their riding position and personal preference. This adaptability ensures that riders can easily view the information on the display without straining or adjusting their posture.
So, the Dahon K-One’s FEA 20″ aluminum foldable frame combines the benefits of strength, durability, and portability. With its lightweight construction, compact folded dimensions, and efficient folding mechanism, the K-One is a practical and versatile choice for riders seeking a foldable electric bike that can easily adapt to various commuting and storage needs.
Dahon K-One: Motor and Battery
The Dahon K-One is equipped with a Bafang motor, delivering a reliable and powerful output of 250 watts. Bafang is a well-known and respected brand in the electric bicycle industry, renowned for producing high-quality and efficient motors.
With a 250-watt output, the Bafang motor offers ample power to assist riders during their journeys. This electric motor provides assistance when pedaling, making it easier to conquer hills, maintain higher speeds, and cover longer distances without exerting excessive effort.
The 250-watt output of the Bafang motor strikes a balance between performance and energy efficiency. It offers sufficient power to tackle various terrains and riding conditions while optimizing battery life. This ensures that you can enjoy longer rides without worrying about running out of power.
Additionally, the Bafang motor on the foperates quietly, allowing for a peaceful and enjoyable riding experience. Its low noise level ensures that you can focus on the scenery or have conversations without any unnecessary distractions.
The Dahon K-One distinguishes itself as a pedal-assist e-bike that operates without a throttle. Instead of relying on a throttle to engage the electric motor, the K-One utilizes a pedal-assist system that enhances the rider’s pedaling efforts.
The absence of a throttle means that the electric motor on the K-One is activated through the bike’s cadence sensor. The cadence sensor is a component that detects the rotation of the pedals. As the rider begins to pedal, the sensor sends a signal to the motor, providing a boost of electric assistance that matches the rider’s pedaling cadence.
The pedal-assist system on the Dahon K-One is designed to seamlessly integrate with the rider’s natural pedaling motion. It provides assistance in a smooth and intuitive manner, enhancing the rider’s pedaling power without the need for manual throttle control.
This pedal-assist system offers several benefits. First, it encourages a more active and engaged riding experience, as the rider must continuously pedal to activate the electric assistance. This promotes exercise and physical activity while still enjoying the benefits of electric assistance.
Furthermore, the pedal-assist system helps optimize the K-One’s battery life. By engaging the motor only when pedaling, the bike utilizes the battery power efficiently, maximizing the range and allowing for longer rides between charges.
The Dahon K-One received a torque sensor, adding an advanced level of responsiveness and efficiency to its pedal-assist system. The torque sensor is a key component that detects the amount of force applied by the rider while pedaling and adjusts the electric motor’s assistance accordingly.
One of the significant advantages of a torque sensor is its ability to provide assistance proportional to the rider’s pedaling force. This means that when encountering steep hills or challenging terrain, the motor will increase the assistance to match the increased force exerted by the rider. Conversely, when riding on flat ground or maintaining a consistent pace, the motor will provide minimal assistance, conserving battery power and promoting a more active riding experience.
Furthermore, the torque sensor enhances the overall safety of the K-One. Its responsiveness and real-time adjustment to the rider’s input promote better control and stability, especially during acceleration and deceleration. This feature provides a more intuitive riding experience and enhances the overall safety and confidence of the rider.
Dahon K-One folding bike is not designed or intended to be used as a mountain bike. Its features and specifications are optimized for urban commuting, leisurely rides, and light off-road adventures rather than rugged mountain trails.
The K-One’s design, including its 20″ wheels and aluminum foldable frame, prioritizes portability and compactness, making it convenient for storage and transportation. These features are not ideal for the demands of intense off-road riding typically encountered in mountain biking.
Mountain bikes are specifically engineered with features such as suspension systems, knobby tires, and durable frames to handle rough terrains, steep descents, and challenging trails. They are built to withstand the impact and stresses associated with off-road riding.
In contrast, the Dahon K-One focuses on providing a comfortable and efficient riding experience on urban streets and relatively smoother paths. It offers features such as a pedal-assist motor, lightweight construction, and convenient folding capabilities to cater to urban commuters and recreational riders.
The Dahon K-One features a seat post battery with a capacity of 36V 8.7AH. The battery utilizes high-quality Samsung cells, known for their reliability and performance in the electric bike industry.
The seat post battery design offers a sleek and integrated look while providing ample power for the K-One’s electric motor. The 8.7AH capacity ensures a decent range, allowing riders to enjoy extended rides without worrying about running out of power.
With a fully charged battery, the K-One offers a range of 30+ miles on a single charge. The actual range may vary depending on factors such as rider weight, terrain, level of electric assistance used, and riding conditions. However, the K-One’s range is designed to provide sufficient distance for commuting, recreational rides, and urban exploration.
The range of 30+ miles makes the Dahon K-One suitable for various riding scenarios. Whether it’s a daily commute to work, a leisurely ride through the city, or an exploration of scenic routes, riders can confidently rely on the battery’s capacity to provide them with the necessary power and range.
Recharging the seat post battery is convenient and straightforward. The battery can be easily removed from the seat post for charging, allowing riders to bring it indoors or to a charging station. The charging time may vary, but typically it takes a few hours to fully recharge the battery.
Dahon K-One: ConclusionsÂ
In the end, the Dahon K-One is a versatile and practical electric folding bike designed for urban commuting, leisurely rides, and light off-road exploration. Its features and specifications make it a suitable choice for riders seeking a compact and portable electric bike that can easily adapt to their urban lifestyle.
The K-One’s FEA 20″ aluminum foldable frame offers convenience and portability, allowing riders to easily fold and store the bike in tight spaces or transport it in vehicles.Â
Equipped with a Bafang motor outputting 250 watts, the K-One provides efficient pedal-assist power, assisting riders in conquering hills, maintaining higher speeds, and extending their range without excessive effort. The pedal-assist system, combined with the torque sensor, ensures a natural and responsive riding experience, adapting the motor’s assistance to match the rider’s pedaling effort.
With a seat post battery featuring a 36V 8.7AH Samsung cell, the K-One offers a range of 30+ miles on a single charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and recreational rides.Â
While the Dahon K-One is not designed for intense mountain biking, its capabilities on light off-road trails and urban streets make it a versatile option for riders who prioritize convenience, portability, and an enjoyable riding experience.
Pros:
- Portability: The foldable frame of the Dahon K-One allows for easy storage and transportation, making it convenient for urban commuters and riders with limited space.
- Electric Assistance: The pedal-assist system with a torque sensor provides a natural and responsive riding experience, enhancing the rider’s pedaling efforts and making it easier to tackle hills and longer distances.
- Battery Range: With a range of 30+ miles on a single charge, the K-One offers sufficient distance for commuting and recreational rides, reducing concerns about running out of power.
- TCS LCD Display: The display provides essential information such as battery volume and speed, allowing riders to stay informed and in control during their rides.
- Quality Components: The K-One utilizes components from reputable brands such as Shimano and Samsung, ensuring reliability and performance.
Cons:
- Limited Off-Road Capability: The Dahon K-One is not designed for intense mountain biking and may not perform well on rough terrains or challenging trails.
- Limited Suspension: The bike does not have a suspension system, which may result in a less comfortable ride on uneven surfaces or bumps.
- Compact Wheel Size: The 20″ wheel size may not provide the same stability and traction as larger wheels, particularly on rough or off-road terrains.
- Limited Gear Range: The 8-speed Shimano shifter may have limitations for riders who require a wider range of gears for different riding conditions.
- No Throttle: The K-One operates solely as a pedal-assist e-bike and does not have a throttle option, which may be a preference for some riders.
In summary, the Dahon K-One combines practicality, performance, and convenience in an electric folding bike. Its features, including the foldable frame, efficient motor, intuitive controls, and reliable battery, make it an excellent choice for urban commuters and recreational riders seeking a versatile and enjoyable electric biking experience.
