Strida SX, Slip Cover & Commuter Train

A Great Combination.

by Larry Lagarde

Pictured below is an interesting slideshow demonstrating how one RideTHISbike.com customer uses a folding bike to cover part of his 1.5 hr commute.

Gregg B. is a Chicago area resident that commutes into the Windy City by METRA Rail. Gregg lives and works far enough from Metra to rule out walking to/from the train station. Rather than drive his car and park it at the station, Gregg felt the best solution was to ride a folding bike that he could take on the train. Once the train arrived downtown, he'd unfold the bike and ride it the last mile to his office.

To make the idea work, the bike would need to be light and fold compactly for storage; yet, it would need to be sturdy and comfortable too.

After lots of time looking over bikes online, Gregg called and explained his needs. My suggestion was to get a Strida SX. Here's what I wrote to him about this folding bike:

I love the SX. Color. Options. Ride. All good.

The tires on the SX are low rolling resistance. Combine that with the taller gear ratio and the bike moves - much faster than a Strida 5.0 and possibly slightly faster than the Duo. Will know for sure soon when I ride both over the same course & compare the results. The Duo is faster from a total stop because of the low gear.

After speaking with Gregg a couple of times by phone, he ordered a Strida SX. Once he got to ride the bike some, this is the note he sent regarding the SX folding bike:

WOW! This bike is great!! Within the first 20 feet I knew that the SX was a keeper. At 6'1" and 240 lbs, it is amazing how much difference a few modifications make in the ride quality. Larger high pressure tires, bent handle bars, and spring loaded seat makes for a much more comfortable, stable, and faster ride. Riding it seems much more intuitive and I will be able to ride longer distances with it. Thanks for suggesting the SX!

Also the new cover bag is perfect and well thought out. The Chicago area Metra train requires folding bikes to be covered and this cover is so light that it easily folds and can be placed in the rack to carry while riding. Additionally the bag can be put on upside down and the bike will roll while folded and covered.

Although the Strida SX is a great fit for Gregg B., everyone has different needs. So if you're considering a folding bike but are unsure which bike may be right for you, call or email me. I'll be happy to share my knowledge and experiences to set you in the right direction.