Both shaft drive and belt drive systems have been on the bicycle market for some time. The Strida folding bike was one of the first to use the belt system. With the belt system, you get no grease, a quiet ride, smooth power transmission, weight savings and no rust. The Shaft system, although slightly heavier gives many of the above advantages.

Abiobikes.com is a new Asian bicycle manufacturer who specialise in folding bikes with both shaft drive and belt drive systems. Currently, they produce two models, the Verdion and Penza. The Penza has an uncanny resemblance to the folder produced by Dutch bicycle company Beixo.com.

The bikes are currently on sale in both the US and Canada and retail for aprox $790. European retailers have yet to be added. Further details can be found on Abiobikes.com