Dad can get to work -- or just get some exercise -- without enlarging his carbon footprint, on a lightweight folding bike that's easy to store and carry. The GOTHAM Citizen Bike has a hand-welded alloy frame, weighs 23 pounds and has 6 speeds.

Citizen Bike launched just over a year and a half ago, selling foldables directly from its website with models starting at $179. "Our philosophy is affordability," says the company's president.

GO DIRECT: Citizen folders are sold customer-direct only, to save money. Most accessories for the basic six-speed Gotham are not included, but the reasonable prices ($19 for a rack and fender setup) won't break the bank. GO GREEN: Four quick-release levers collapse the Gotham in seconds, making it perfect for short commutes that involve buses or trains.

Want to sightsee on bikes but don’t want to rent? There is Citizen’s Tokyo model folding bike. With six gears and 16-inch wheels, it weighs an airplane-friendly 29 pounds and costs an astounding $164. Throw in a $28 carrying bag and you’re ready to check it on the next flight to Narita.

Wheels on Wheels. In addition to a MetroCard, many New Yorkers now carry an MTA MetroBike ($299), a lightweight folding bicycle that was designed by the Citizen Bike company to be brought aboard any subway or bus.

This is from a line of six-speed portable bicycles that weigh as little as 23 lbs and fold small enough to store is a large tote bag.

With a utilitarian motto, "Folding bikes for going and being human," and proletariat pricing, the company's rides are a natural choice.

Green ideas for your tax rebate

Practicality meets its match with the folding bicycle by Citizen Bike. Develop a personal relationship with your bike, one where you never leave one another’s side.

Citizen Bike's lightweight folding bicycles offer a practical and affordable alternative to cumbersome, space-consuming frames.

Biking is a fast, carbon-free way to run errands around town; it's also a terrific exercise. The affordable and ultra-convenient Citizen Folding Bike makes the sport even easier.

2007 Best Place to get a Folding Bike

If you play your cards right, folding can land you a winner. Like the Citizen Bike, the latest evolution in two-wheel technology.

Portable & Folding Bikes

Folding Bike Bags

Folding Bike Accessories