To chip in my opinion on gear upgrading. I assumed the no.1 reason of upgrading from 8/9 speed to 21++ speeds is to help climbing. I am in the opinion that such thinking/rationale may not necessary 'sound'. The OEM 8/9 speed in most cases are sufficient for normal climbing fits for what the original intention of the bike is for. Sure, if one to take his/her folding bike to Genting and the like, he/she may finds 8/9 speed is insufficient. The question is how likely are you going to ride on Genting-like road? Even you do so (like more of the advanced cyclists), more gearing can only helps you to certain level, your up right seating geometric is 'hindering' your climbing efficiency, you will still find yourself struggling. If your are not struggling, it is likely that the climb is not steep enough and the regular 8/9 speed with reasonable fitness would just do the job fine (if you are not reasonably fit you probably won't attempted to steep climb type of ride). In the 'normal' outing rides, even there are some parts that are steep, it usually just a short climb, you can just tahan a bit and ride over it.

In most of the situation, 8/9 speed can climbs but what is lacking is the flat road speed. Therefore, instead of looking at increasing more speed, it make sense to have a bigger crank set, like 52T for the flat road speed. Frankly, easily 80-90% of the ride are on flat road.

Make sense?

Sifu, forum like riding lah, there are times not so fun also, sometimes it rains, and something got cars breeding down your neck. But then that is part of the ride. A lot of people would appreciate you in this forum. No worries and don't take it too personally, Just 'look open' abit (in Cantonese). Also like what explained, tembak menembak is not the intention. Forum is sharing that all. If really want to 'fight', take it to Genting lor.

So be cool and hang around

Would like to hv recommendations on a sandle that suits long ride,& stiff pedal that can be folded. Est.price & shop location info would definitely helps too. Cheers

Any recommendation for a butt-friendly foldies saddle? I do not ride my folding bike regularly, last week when I was having a long ride in Penang, my butt already given me trouble after rode about 18-20km. After that, it was really pain in the butt. Please do share with me your pick/recommendation for a comfy long ride saddle. :>