Dahon Mariner D8 (2018) - Review

by Simon Ananda Raj May 19, 2025 1 min read

Dahon is an American bicycle brand known for making foldable bicycles. Folding bicycles have always had a market of its own amongst the eco-friendly and trend setting commuters. The Mariner D8 was originally made for people on boat trips to make land fall journeys easier and more entertaining. But not restricted just to that, this bicycle has become popular among all commuters. We got the opportunity to test ride this bicycle and here is what we thought.

A well-built and versatile folding bicycle which rides smoothly and is best suited for city commuting.

Simon Ananda Raj

Dahon Mariner D8 (2018)

Snapshot

3.9

Product Rating Out of 5

Performance 4.1

Design 3.9

Features 3.8

Value for Money 3.7
THINGS WE LIKE

✔ Easy and quick folding system

✔ Aesthetic design

✔ Adjustable handlebar height

THINGS WE DON'T LIKE

✖ Quite heavy

✖ N/A

✖ N/A
Frame

Alloy

The aluminium frame is strong and has an easy folding mechanism.
Fork

Hi-Ten Steel

Lightweight Fork.
Gearing

Shimano Altus 1x8-Speed

The Shimano Altus 8-Speed derailleur was perfect for commuting.
Breaks

V-Brakes

The Winzip V-Brakes were balanced and safe to use.
Tires

Schwalbe Citizen 20" X 1.6"

The Schwalbe 20” tires were a perfect blend of speed and traction.
Battery

N/A

N/A

: The frame of the Dahon Mariner D8 is constructed utilizing 75 lightweight aluminum, this are far more lightweight than the ones with steel frame. The build quality of the Mariner D8 is top notch, especially the frame. Due to the brushed aluminium finish, you can easily see the welds which are of a very high standard. Even if you are on the heavier side, this folding bike will likely be able to hold your weight. It has got a max rider weight of 15kg. This bicycle is pretty small when folded down and can easily be stowed under the office desk, in a small cupboard and even in your car boot. The folded size measures to 65cm x 32cm x 79cm and weighs 11.8 kgs.

The aluminium frame is strong and has an easy folding mechanism
: The Mariner D8 is equipped with an 8-Speed Shimano Altus rear derailleur. The 1x8 Speed drivetrain was perfectly suited for those short commutes. While the gears had enough depth for climbing flyovers, there wasn’t enough juice for those quick accelerations. The 8-Speed shifter on the right handlebar grip was easy to use and at a comfortable hand position.

The Shimano Altus 8-Speed derailleurs were perfect for commuting
: The Mariner D8 comes in only one colour variant in India, that's the brushed aluminium finish. It has a rust resistant coating unique to the rest of the Dahon range and a clear coating on top of that to further protect the frame. With its neatly welded tubes this bicycle is a definite head turner. The pannier rack with ropes attached is a great addition for touring purposes.

The pannier rack with ropes attached is a great addition for touring purposes
: The Winzip aluminum V-Brakes at the front and rear provided enough stopping power when riding amidst traffic in the city. There were no drags and the sudden braking felt safe. The brake levers were lengthy enough and also had a smooth spring action to engage the brakes.The riding position on the Mariner D8 is relaxed and that is mainly because of its impressive fully adjustable handlebar. The handlebar grips had enough cushioning to keep the palms comfortable while riding.

The Winzip V-Brakes were balanced and safe to use
: This folding bicycle rolls on a pair of Schwalbe Citizen 2” x 1.6”. These are nearly slick tires with an uninterrupted solid band run around the centre line. These neat treads provide good traction on both dry and wet conditions. The stock saddle from Dahon wasn’t ergonomically designed but had enough cushioning to keep the rider sore free on commutes even on bumpier roads. The overall ride quality was comfortable and smooth on city roads.

The Schwalbe 2” tires were a perfect blend of speed and traction

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Quote
: The Dahon Mariner D8 Folding bicycle is convenient and ideal for quick tasks all-around town. This bicycle is a high value investment you can whole-heartedly put into. The quality, workmanship, performance and design of this bicycle are absolutely outstanding. It is a versatile bicycle at this price range and I would totally recommend it if you are looking for a folding bicycle for commuting.Prices are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.