Forty London commuters will take part in a race on folding bikes around Smithfield Market on Saturday 23rd June to win a Dahon MuSL folder worth £800.

The race will have a Le-Mans-style start, with commuters running to their folded cycles and then unfolding them and making them ready to ride before being able to enter the fray.

Matt Ward, from Dahon distributor Fisher Outdoor, explained the appeal of a folding bike race. ‘In true commuter spirit, winner takes all – there’s no second chance when it comes to catching your train … Expect fierce competition, barging and even a little cheating as our commuters race to prove their skills.’ Matt went on to explain ‘This event couples Dahon’s ethos with that of urban riding and ensures that the myth of a folding bike being a niche product is dead!’

James Pope, the director of event organisers the Face Partnership, has been out and about in London sourcing a broad selection of commuters, from bankers and web designers to store managers and architects, to take part in the race. ‘With the competitors dressed in jackets and tie, the race will be just like the daily mad dash to catch the train,’ said James. He went on to point out that the commuters will need more than just speed to win. ‘As well as having to run to their bikes and build them, the course is fast and technical, so expect some fierce competition and a lot of barging!’

Matt Ward, from Dahon distributor Fisher Outdoor, is thrilled to be involved. ‘Dahon are really excited to be the sponsor of the inaugural Nocturne folding bike race. As the folding market grows, more and more people are realizing that a folding bike can be portable, light and fast.’