Vintage 1988 Dahon Classic III Folding Bike — Sturmey-Archer 3-Speed

Vintage 1988 Dahon Classic III — The Folding Bike That Started It All

Before folding bikes were everywhere, there was Dahon. The company essentially created the modern folding bicycle category in the 1980s, and the Classic III is one of the machines that built its reputation. This is a 1988 example — and unlike most bikes of that age, it is not a project. It works.

The original polished frame shows beautifully. There are normal scratches and light wear consistent with age and use, but no major dents or cracks. Mechanically it is genuinely sorted: the Sturmey-Archer 3-speed shifts correctly, the wheels roll true, the tires hold air, and — the part that matters most on a folder — it folds and locks securely.

That last point deserves emphasis. A folding bike whose latches have gone sloppy is worthless, because the fold is the entire reason it exists. This one still locks up properly, which is why it remains a usable bike rather than a shelf ornament.

The appeal is genuinely double-sided. It is a collectible piece of cycling design history from the company that invented the segment — and it is also a practical commuter you can fold into a car boot, carry onto a train, or stand in the corner of a small apartment. The Sturmey-Archer internal hub is the ideal city drivetrain: shift while stopped at a light, nothing exposed to get knocked out of alignment, and close to zero maintenance.

Why This One Is Worth Having

• Heritage that means something: an early Dahon from the marque that defined folding bikes.
• Folds and locks securely: the single most important thing on a used folder, and it passes.
• Sturmey-Archer 3-speed, shifting correctly: a legendary internal hub, working as intended.
• Original polished frame: presents beautifully, no major dents or cracks.
• Wheels true, tires holding air: ride it, do not rebuild it.
• Steel construction: tough, and repairable by any competent shop.

Specifications

Condition Notes

Excellent vintage cosmetic condition. Original polished frame shows nicely. Normal scratches and light wear from age and use. No major dents or cracks found.

Sturmey-Archer 3-speed shifts correctly. Wheels roll true. Tires hold air. Folds and locks securely.

Included: Dahon folding bicycle only. No accessories — no bag, no rack, no pump.

As with any bicycle of this age, we recommend a tune-up before daily use. Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description.

Shipping & Local Pickup

Ships freight, professionally packed. Local pickup is available at our Miami location — get in touch and we will set it up. One only.

Questions about the fold, the hub, or condition? Message us — we are happy to help.