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“In my view Brompton folding bikes are leagues ahead of...”

written by gadgetjunkie on 22/10/2008

Good Points
Superb design engineering and build quality
Great fun to ride
The smallest folded size of all the quality folding bikes
very little maintenance needed with hub gears

Bad Points
Standard handlebars a little flimsy
Standard brakes not as efficient as a full size bike
Initial cost is high

General Comments
In my view Brompton folding bikes are leagues ahead of their competitors. None of the others offer the combination of ride quality, practicality, easy folding and transportation that Brompton offers. The design that lets it fold down to such a tiny size in seconds is pure genius. The build quality is superb, it feels like it will last forever and it's British made !

At first the small wheels and upright riding position take a little getting used to. The hub gear on mine has 3 speeds which is adequate but I have to get off and push up steep hills, you can specify more gears if needed.

If you are tall like me (6'1") you will need the longer seat post. The flat handlebar version (S Type) will also be better as it gives you a more "stretched" riding position. I found the standard upright handlebars too high and rather flimsy, they flexed under heavy braking which didn't inspire confidence so I swapped them for mountain bike handlebars which was easy to do and a big improvement. I cannot over-emphasise the advantage the Brompton has over it's rivals in respect of the compactness when folded. If you regularly commute by public transport or need to carry it in a car boot this is THE folder to buy. It's very comfortable to ride with a basic rear suspension spring helping iron out the bumps which you will feel more on a small wheel bike than on a full size one. You quickly learn to dodge potholes though !

I've twice used it on the 60 mile London to Brighton bike-ride no problem and it is just as fast as a full size bike.

In summary I can't recommend Brompton highly enough.