Coming into the fold

Bike Friday Their Pocket Rocket Pro model is the closest to racing geometry and probably still the design to chase. Stiff, responsive and fast. But 20-inch wheels and long stem made for sketchy handling in stiff cross winds. Spend more and get the carbon fork for a smoother ride. $1,895 to $5,215. $3,100 as tested. (800) 777-0258, www.bikefriday.com

Bike Friday
Their Pocket Rocket Pro model is the closest to racing geometry and probably still the design to chase. Stiff, responsive and fast. But 20-inch wheels and long stem made for sketchy handling in stiff cross winds. Spend more and get the carbon fork for a smoother ride. $1,895 to $5,215. $3,100 as tested. (800) 777-0258, www.bikefriday.com  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

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Airnimal chameleon

Airnimal chameleon
A true racing steed, particularly so with 24-inch wheels and carbon fork. Rear shock smooths out ride, but bobs. Triple crank makes it ready for any hill. Packing system is more buttoned-down, with more space for helmet and shoes. $2,100 to $3,600. $2,650 as tested. (415) 383-6366, www.airnimalusa.com  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Birdy bike

Birdy bike
Awkward folding and weight don’t add much convenience to this sidewalk-café scooter, and a giant front chainringÖ at 56 teeth seems designed for German cycling powerhouse Jan Ullrich - don’t try it in San Francisco. $990 to $1,490. $990 as tested. (877) 247-3987, www.birdybike.comÖ  (Eric Boyd / LAT)

Montague paratrooper

Montague paratrooper
This bike was built for military use, hence its rugged good looks. You need to remove the front wheel, but it will fit in the trunk of a compact sedan. Low-budget components keep the price down, but the ride suffers. The bike’s on the heavy side at 29 pounds. $645 to $695. $645 as tested. (800) 736-5348, www.montagueco.comÖ  (Eric Boyd / LAT)