Strida 5.0 Folding Bike

It's pretty much impossible to ride this bike without a grin on your face!
The quirky looks certainly raise eyebrows and usually a smile from passersby too!
The bike comes extremely well packaged - secure but not excessive materials, clear manual, and once the tyres are inflated it good to go immediately - first time set up is restricted to the addition of the compact (but impressive) LED lights – as these are mounted via elastic straps – 5 seconds each max.
I’ve always been sceptical about folding bikes – in terms of the hassle of assembly – and on reading that the Strida could be assemble in just 10 seconds I was inwardly wondering if this after 200 times – possessing slightly geeky tendency’s I timed myself and was amazed that on my very first go I was ready to ride in 17 seconds – after the weekend 10 seconds is very realistic. Hassle of assembly is not just about speed – handling too is a concern – being one of life’s less than graceful creatures I usually have no problem getting tangled and snagged on whatever is available (if only I has a penny for every coat pocket I’d ripped on a door handle...). Yet again the Strida comes up trumps – the brake cables are concealed neatly in the frame tubes, the brake levels have loops to hold them in a closed position (this has the added benefit of locking the wheels – so it doesn’t roll about when you’re putting it up / taking it down) and the hubs are magnetic which effectively holds the bike in the folded position without the need for clips, clasps, clamps or any other devices beginning with the letter C ... The spring-loaded folding pedals are a thing of beauty too!
In use – the saddle is very comfy indeed – the handle bar grips have definitely been designed with body geometry in mind, and it’s very responsive – steering is sharp; braking (via the disc brakes) is assured; and the Kevlar belt propels with confidence – and no oil to spoil clothes to boot!
The main downside to the Strida is that it is single gear – the selected ratio is sensible as allows reasonable pace on the flat and will deal with all but the most challenging of inclines – but as my commute to work is largely flat I wanted just a little more pace – that said for commutes of under 3 miles – the advantages make it a serious contender. If Strida could introduce some kind of nexus style hub gearing system it would make this bike incredible.
My only other suggestion for improvement would be the inclusion of carry bag for the Strida as standard – I’m aware that it’s available to buy separately but for this price I think it would move the Strida to an even higher level in the value stakes. I’d have no hesitation in taking the Strida in a bag on public transport – but would be wary of receiving dark glances from bus drivers if I took it on ‘as is’.
Finally I should say that putting it away is a breeze – trips to the shed after work are a thing of the past – goes in the cupboard under the stairs!