Dahon Vitesse D8: the current position
The current Vitesse D8 is listed with an aluminium folding frame, eight gears, 20-inch wheels and Schwalbe Road Cruiser tyres. Regional equipment includes mudguards, a rear rack and an integrated seatpost pump, making it a practical mixed-transport package rather than a bare leisure folder.
Availability and specification vary by country, so UK buyers should confirm dealer support, warranty coverage and the exact hinge hardware before ordering. A current name does not make parts interchangeable with every earlier Vitesse.
- Aluminium folding frame
- Eight-speed drivetrain
- 20-inch wheels
- Mudguards and rear rack
- Integrated seatpost pump
- Compact urban and mixed-transport focus
Current model versus the version originally covered
The earlier Vitesse configuration used hub gearing. The current D8 uses an eight-speed derailleur arrangement and should be assessed as a separate complete bicycle.
The core appeal remains easy storage and mixed transport, but folded dimensions, weight and hinge details must be checked against the exact regional product.
What RideIn’s original review found
RideIn described the Dahon Vitesse as comfortable, reasonably easy to carry and good value. The review noted three- and seven-speed hub-gear versions for flatter or hillier routes.
The commuting package could include a chain guard, mudguards, rack, lights and optional dynamo hub. Easy folding and V-brakes completed the public-transport-friendly setup.
- Aluminium folding frame
- Hub gearing
- 3- or 7-speed versions
- V-brakes
- Listed weight: 11.71kg
Equipment and practical details
The Dahon Vitesse D8 should be judged as a complete bicycle rather than by one headline component. Frame fit, usable gearing, braking, tyre choice and mounting points determine whether it works for the intended route.
- Aluminium folding frame
- Eight-speed drivetrain
- 20-inch wheels
- Mudguards and rear rack
- Integrated seatpost pump
- Compact urban and mixed-transport focus
How it rides and who it suits
The Vitesse suits riders who need a bicycle to fit a flat, office, train or car boot while retaining a familiar geared ride. Its small wheels reward attentive tyre-pressure checks and a calm approach to potholes and kerbs.
Practise the full folding sequence and carry the folded bike before buying. Check that every hinge closes positively, the safety catches engage and cables move freely throughout the fold.
Checks before buying
Manufacturers can change components during a model's sales life, and shop stock can span more than one production run. Check the exact bicycle being offered rather than relying on the family name alone.
- Confirm the exact current specification on the retailer page
- Choose by reach and riding position, not only the nominal frame size
- Check tyre clearance plus rack, mudguard and bottle-mount compatibility
- Allow for pedals, lights, a lock and any workshop setup in the complete cost
- Confirm the regional warranty and availability of model-specific hinge parts
Ownership, setup and safety
A new bicycle still needs correct assembly and a safety check. Confirm wheel security, bar and stem alignment, brake operation, gear adjustment and tyre pressure before the first road ride. Use the component maker's torque values rather than guessing.
Keep the drivetrain clean, inspect the tyres and brake pads, and deal with play or unusual noise early. A qualified mechanic should assess suspected structural damage, persistent brake problems or work that requires specialist tools.
Check the current position
These live independent or primary sources support the present-day guidance on this page.