Sub $500 Foldable Bikes - DRAKE Pro & GIANT FD806

Sub S$500 Foldable Bike

In this post, we will look into the sub-S$500 foldable bike range. As it's an islandwide search ongoing, if you do spot a bike with a sub-$500 price-tag do drop me a note at vmaxxum@gmail.com

DRAKE PRO 7spd

I have not heard of this brand prior to seeing it on TEF Bikers Junction facebook or at the Balestier (Thomson Road facing) outlet.

The Pro series comes in 2 models.

- PRO 7spd (7 speed) - Available in White $468 & Grey $498

- PRO SL 9spd (9 speed) - Available in Black $688

 

At $468 for the PRO white, it's  a $80 premium over the Releigh Broadway also carried by TEF. If you are wondering what the catch? A quick glance can see that Drake uses the same Shimano Tourney gear system and similar "Dahon Mu" styled frame. The paintwork and front handle post seems to be of slightly better quality but it's hard to really warrant the $80 for a better SUNTOUR folding pedal and sturdier looking saddle for the price.

 

 

GIANT FD806 7spd $450

 

Folding bikes are not the forte of GIANT, World's largest bicycle manufacturer based in Taiwan. GIANT offer a wide range of bicycle ranging from foldie, racer, mountain bike to even electric bikes. With a reliable brand name, the FD806 is the basic entry-level model from the bicycle giant.

 

With a $30-60 price difference between the entry level models from Raleigh and Polygon. GIANT offer a brand name you can trust while similar specs components as to Raleigh and Polygon. Weight is on the higher side of close to 13KG while rear rack and water bottle bolts are available by default. The frame does looks a little too imposing but at this price range there are very little to pinpoint about. GIANT does have a unique frame design as compared to it's competitors whom are close resemblance of Dahon (also a Taiwan origin company).

I would recommend GIANT FD806 over DRAKE Pro 7spd unless you prefer sleeker design or 0.5KG lighter frame in this instance.