Dahon K9: Read the Current Specification Before Choosing
The Dahon K9 in the current USA specification is a 16-inch, nine-speed folder with disc brakes. Its attraction is that particular combination of equipment and package size. Before choosing it, distinguish the named model from the regional specification and from any particular bicycle shown in a photograph.
What the Dahon K9 table identifies
The manufacturer's table names KAA693, an aluminium frame and Formula BOND PRO rims marked 16-inch and 349. It lists CST C1698 tyres as 16 × 1-3/8, with 37-349 alongside. Those detailed entries are a more useful starting point than calling it simply a small folding bike.
The controls deserve the same attention. A Shimano CS-HG400 11–28T cassette appears beside a DAHON RD-M310 nine-speed derailleur and DAHON SL-M310C shifter. Although a promotional heading says Shimano nine-speed drivetrain, the detailed list does not identify an entirely Shimano transmission. Keep those individual names when discussing equipment.
Decide whether the equipment suits your routine
The specified 55T chainring and 170 mm crank accompany that cassette. Nine available gears describe the transmission's choices, rather than measuring a rider's hill-climbing ability. Likewise, the custom disc-brake entry identifies equipment without supplying a measured stopping-distance comparison.
Leave room for the items you will add
Fenders and a rack are optional in this record. A buyer expecting a weather-equipped commuter should therefore settle those items separately. The VP-F55 folding pedals and 33.9 × 580 mm seatpost are named, but neither entry establishes that another accessory or replacement will work.
BestBicycle lists this model as Dahon K9 Bike — Silver-4-Bearing. The listing supplies a concrete K9 reference for your comparison. The USA table supplies the technical details discussed here; the catalogue name does not prove that every delivered regional configuration matches that table.
Confirm the package and riding position in person
The source gives a folded size of 28 × 16 × 20 inches and a weight of 22.9 lb. Use those as documented references when arranging a demonstration. The rider-height fields are inconsistent at their lower bound: 143.3 cm in the metric header does not match the imperial table's 4 ft 7 in. Neither number guarantees comfortable reach or handling.
The 2025 exhibition photograph helps identify the K9's overall layout. It does not settle its current edition, bearing option or fit for another rider. DAHON's international FAQ also warns that regional specifications and model availability vary.
FAQ
Is the listed transmission entirely Shimano?
No. The detailed table names a Shimano cassette but DAHON derailleur and shifting controls.
Does the specification include a rack?
It labels the fender and rack optional, so inclusion needs separate confirmation.
Can the photo identify the current colour option?
No. It records an exhibition K9, not a verified current colour or configuration.
To place the K9 beside DAHON’s other compact approaches, read the range introduction. Return to the Dahon model directory when narrowing the shortlist.
Manufacturer references checked 3 November 2026: k9 (https://usa.dahon.com/products/k9), global faq (https://dahon.com/support/FAQ).
Photograph credits and permissions
Photograph 1
Original title: Dahon K9, Eurobike 2025, Frankfurt am Main (P1048231).jpg
Creator: Matti Blume; creator URI: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:MB-one
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