Testers praise the Mariner D8’s stability thanks to the relatively long wheelbase and 20” wheels.
A reviewer appreciates the good power transfer and snappy feel of the reasonably rigid frame.
Experts say the folding process is easy and smooth.
The Mariner D8 comes with full-coverage SKS fenders, a rack with bungees, and mounts for a bag on the front of the bike.
At 27lb, the Mariner is light for a folding bike priced this low.
Owners and experts say the Mariner offers a good mix of price, portability, and practicality.
Reviewers find the Mariner D8 comfortable, thanks in part to the cushy saddle.
At just 31” x 13” x 26” when folded, the Mariner D8 is more compact than most folding bikes with 20" wheels.

4 reasons not to buy

Owners complain of poor build quality, defects, missing parts, and corrosion.
Despite the relatively wide 580mm handlebar, the Mariner D8 can feel twitchy.
The cargo rack is too small for standard panniers.
Dahon doesn't provide any geometry figures or guidance on rider fit for the Mariner.

Bottom line

Dahon’s Mariner D8 is a folding commuter with an aluminum frame, an 8-speed drivetrain, and 20” wheels. Experts applaud the easy folding process, relatively low weight, and smooth, comfortable ride. They also appreciate the inclusion of a cargo rack and bungee cords, full-size SKS fenders, and front bag mounting points. However, the rack is too small for standard panniers, and the bike can be difficult to roll when folded. Some owners complain about poor quality control, and reports of corrosion reduce the attraction for boaters, ironically. Overall, experts reckon the Dahon Mariner offers good value as a folding commuter bike.

Expert Reviews

80/100 based on 3 scored reviews

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i bike unfolded

Level 1 expert

Dahon Mariner D8 (A Best Seller?)

Level 1 expert

All in all, [it’s] a pretty good bike.

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Canadian Cycling Magazine

Level 5 expert

Review: Dahon Mariner D8

Level 5 expert

Overall, the Dahon Mariner D8 provides great value, a solid ride and top portability for flexible transportation.

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Wirecutter

Level 1 expert

The Best Folding Bike

Level 1 expert

After our 85-plus hours of research and testing, the well-designed Dahon Mariner D8 edged to the front of the pack, combining a comfortable ride and easy folding with good-enough components, all for a reasonable price.

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