I was browsing the Net this morning and came across Airstream Life's Tour of America, a blog about a family (Rich, Eleanor & Emma) traveling across America in an Airstream travel trailer.

Airstreams are beautiful, durable trailers with a loyal following (just have a gander at the shiny Airstream photo pictured at right; I found it on Flickr). Growing up, one of the things I enjoyed doing at Mardi Gras time was riding my bike over to City Park and checking out all the gleaming silver Airstreams parked around Tad Gormley Stadium for the Wally Byam Caravan Club International (WBCCI) New Orleans Mardi Gras Rally. But I digress.

This Airstreaming family posted a Christmas gift for Airstreamers wish list to help non-campers understand the needs & desires of those living in travel trailers. Naturally, the list leaned towards light, useful items that took up little space so it was no surprise that the list included a folding bike (which are great for riding around the campground or to the store). What DID surprise me was the list included a specific type of folder - a Birdy. Don't get me wrong; Birdy's are great folding bikes but they start at $1250. Why pay over a grand for a Birdy folding bike when other sturdy yet light folders are available at a fraction of the price?

Here are 3 examples of folding bicycles that fold in seconds without tools (note that the most expensive folding bike in the list below is HALF the cost of the average Birdy).
- $169 23 Lb. / 6 Speed Folder (see how it folds)
- $329 Adjustable Size 6 Spd Folder (fits kids or adults) (see how it folds)
- $699 3 Second / 3 Speed Folding Bike (see how it folds)

Happy Trails,
Larry Lagarde
RideTHISbike.com
Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.

Labels: Airstream, Christmas gift list, folding bicycle, folding bike, gift suggestions, RV, travel trailer, wish list