For all those trips out on the train that involve carrying a large bike, well this is the new traveling one.

In Chicago, bicycles are allowed on trains except for rush hour service. Being allowed and actually getting your bike on a train are two different matters. Getting on isn’t too bad, but getting off is a terrifying experience for me. I have to control a bike with flapping wheel down high, steep stairs and I always feel like IU’m going to fall head first onto the platform.

I’ve seen the Dahon folding bikes in Chicago — popular with commuters. My brother-in-law has one and keeps it in the trunk of the car. I went to Kozy’s and saw this model, took a short ride, and bought it.

It’s a bit hard to get used to because of the smaller wheels. Not quite as stable as my full-sized bike, but a pleasure to ride. I learned to be careful. The handle bars adjust up and down over a wide range and I started out with them high — ape hanger style. On a gavel train, riding one handed, I hit a rock, the wheel swerved to the right, and I wound up falling on my back. It took a while and I felt that perhaps I made a mistake. Subsequent rides on pavement, both hands, and the handle bars lower so that I have a bit of pressure has re-built my confidence. I will ride this bike on trails — carefully. Now if only winter would go away.