Which Fold-Up

[groomi]

I'm considering getting a fold-up bike for commuting (needs to fold to take on train). I've never really looked into these things before and may have options of either second hand or buying new through cycle to work scheme.

Any suggestions and reasons?

[sjg]

Brompton.

They have by far the best balance of easiness of folding, compactness once folded, the fact that once folded it stays locked folded for easy carrying, and they will still fold with practical things like racks, lights and mudguards fitted. They ride remarkably well on the small-ish wheels, and will accommoadate tall riders nicely too. All of the folding joints are really nice bespoke units that are engineered to do that job rather than the bodged designs I've seen on others that try to use seat QRs and the like.

Expensive, but built to last. And above all, they're a British company manufacturing in Britain which is that rarest of things these days.

[Benny Saltstein]

Brompton thirded...

Got one 2 months ago on the Ride2Work scheme through Evans. Got the S2L (straight bars) and it does the business for me. I would have gone for a coloured frame but as said above the wait is a bit too long and it took long enough to get the voucher sorted out.

Pretty sturdy as well - I fell off this morning owing to a moon size crater in the road and while I'm suffering a bruised arse and grazed palm, the bike was unscathed.

[JPJ]

If you've got more than a few miles to cycle either end, and/or if you want some bigger wheels and proper gears, I can recommend the Airnimal Chameleon. However, if you don't need this extra capability then I think the others have got it covered.

[groomi]

Cheers Guys. I'm amazed the Brompton hasn't been outdone after all these years - you'd think the added complexity of a folding bike is where all the new technologies really could make a difference.

Better start looking then.

[zagato]

None. Just quick release the wheels off a normal rigid racer in ten seconds flat. I do this every day to liverpool street. No worries

[ewenm]

Gadget Show tonight rated the Brompton top of the 3 they tested.

[groomi]

zagato said:

None. Just quick release the wheels off a normal rigid racer in ten seconds flat. I do this every day to liverpool street. No worries

I'd like to do that, but I can just imagine some little Hitler at my station not letting me on. Can't risk that happening.