[Folding Bike Comparison] Hands-on Demonstration: Why Mint Bob 3 14-inch Is Suitable for the Whole Family? What's the Difference from Dahon K3?

Posted by Jollymap - 2024-08-27T00:00:00.000+08:00 - 2025 Folding Bike Recommendation

Portable and Professional Folding Bike - Mint Bob3

Mint's Bob3 folding bike is a smaller version of the Bob7, featuring excellent performance and design. Compared to the previous generation Bob7, the Bob3 is lighter and more suitable for smaller users, offering a blend of professional standards and practical usability.

In addition to its versatility, the Bob3 continues Mint's tradition of innovative design. Its elegant appearance, user-friendly functionality, and reliable riding experience make the Bob3 an ideal choice for urban riders seeking both style and performance.

Mint Bob3 - The Little Brother of the Bob7 Series

The Bob3 inherits the excellent features of the Bob7 in its design. It uses a comfortable M-type handlebar with ODI silicone grips for good shock absorption. The braking system employs a specially designed three-speed shifter for flexible control. The front fork also includes a pig nose mount for additional functionality.

Handlebars - ODI Silicone Grips

Wheelset Design

The wheelset uses a 7-O'clock C-type drum brake design, equipped with mudguards for a cleaner look. The frame's welding craftsmanship is exquisite, with CNC-machined aluminum folding locks that seamlessly blend with the bike's body.

Two-Stage Seat Adjustment

The Bob3 features a two-stage seat adjustment design, catering to different heights and user needs. The upgraded quick-release seat clamp also enhances stability and flexibility.

Drivetrain System

The 45T large chainring paired with a hollow BB bearing and 152mm crank arms ensures high power transmission efficiency. The rear three-speed freewheel offers 9T, 11T, and 15T options, suitable for various road conditions. The sound of the spinning freewheel is anticipated to be delightful.

Other Accessories

Lastly, the Bob3 includes a rear rack, shock-absorbing rubber wheels, and auxiliary mudguards, demonstrating its practicality and convenience. When folded, it can be easily pushed, making it very useful for urban commuting.

The pig nose design at the front is a distinctive element. It not only enhances the visual appeal but may also provide functional advantages such as improved aerodynamics or better handling.

Seat Design

The Bob3 uses a 7-O'CLOCK brand torsion-type racing seat, designed for performance. This seat better conforms to the rider's pelvis, enhancing comfort and support during rides.

Folding Pedals

The Bob3 also includes Wellgo folding pedals, which significantly increase the bike's portability. These pedals can be easily folded when needed for storage or transport, saving a lot of space.

Bob3 vs. K3 Comparison

Handlebar Width: Both are 55cm, with no significant difference.

2. Distance from Handlebar to Seat: Bob3 is 59cm, K3 is 62cm, with K3 being slightly longer.

3. Handlebar Height: Bob3 is 88cm, K3 is 91.5cm, with K3 being slightly higher.

4. Crank Length: Bob3 uses 152mm short cranks, while K3 uses longer 170mm cranks, which can affect riding feel and power output.

4. Seat Post Adjustment:

Bob3 features a two-stage telescopic seat post design, adjustable from 64cm to 97.5cm.

K3's seat post is longer but has a higher minimum height of 71cm and a maximum of 96cm.

Based on these size parameters, the Bob3 overall is more suitable for users with a height of around 125-170cm, broadening its target user group.

Comparison Summary

Drivetrain System:
- Bob3 uses a hollow BB with a 45T front chainring and a 9T/11T/15T rear freewheel, offering gear ratios from 5x to 3x.

- K3 uses a square taper BB with a 53T front chainring and a 9-speed, 11-speed, and 17-speed rear freewheel, offering gear ratios from 5.9x to 3.1x.

Speed Performance:
- Bob3's top speed is about 27.5km/h, with a minimum of 16.5km/h.
- K3's top speed is about 32.5km/h, with a minimum of 17.2km/h.
- Both bikes are leisurely folding bikes with a top speed of around 5km/h.

Comfort:
- Bob3's longer frame (94cm) and chromoly steel frame with rear suspension provide slightly better overall comfort than K3.
- K3's shorter frame (86cm) and aluminum frame offer higher rigidity but relatively less comfort.

Folding Size:
- Bob3 is shorter in height but similar in depth compared to K3.
- Bob3's length is also slightly shorter than K3.
- Overall, K3 has a smaller folding size than Bob3.

Pushing Performance:
- Bob3 may be slightly better than K3 for pushing, thanks to its seat and handlebar design, and it has four easy-rolling wheels for smoother pushing.

Weight:
- Bob3, including pedals and easy rolling wheels, weighs around 10kg.
- K3, including pedals and side stands, weighs 8.5kg, slightly lighter than Bob3.

The larger Bob7 model in the Bob series is now available at JollyMap's physical stores and website. In addition to the Bob3 and Bob7, JollyMap stores and websites also offer other brands and models of folding bicycles. Customers are encouraged to visit the store to compare and choose the products that best suit their needs!