They're great bikes and I love mine. And they're so much fun to ride! While Brompton aren't very helpful in giving access to spares for workshops unless they also sell the bikes, once you understand their proprietary take on everything they're reasonably straight forward to service. Top upgrades for me: - 44t chainring on the 6-spd/'Explore' spec gives a far more usable range of ratios for most riders. The stock 50t is simply too tall for most use-cases - Ergon 'GS1 Evo' grips are a huge comfort gain, though any ergo grip will be an improvement - Brompton's own 'See Me' lights are really very good (if you have a stock saddle) and integrate beautifully with the overall package - Brompton's own Eazy Wheels nail weight/performance/durability; buy the 5mm version and swap the bearings to 626-2RS = current 6mm standard for half the price - The cheap £25 alloy micro racks are perfect for better folded rollabiillity - Restrap's luggage block release toggle is a great quality of life upgrade if you use a bag (also much slicker and less prone to snapping than zipties) - Frame protection tape for protecting high-wear areas on the frame, both from cable and tyre-rub and general bashing around while carried - Frame protection plate for underside of chainstay protects against damage from fork-hook when folding/unfolding - Fidlock bottles with the Unibase work brilliantly on the stem - Continental 'Contact Urban' tyres offer a nicer ride (and improved rolling resistance) over the Marathon Racer
44T, on a Brompton? At first I wondered for what use I had the low gears of my 6, till I met an absurd serpentine road and had to walk on top! Finn. Denmark
I sadly sold my 2018 C Line (originally known as the M3L) in Lagoon Blue just two days ago but am looking at the P line in Metallic Black as a lighter replacement.
I bought my black M3L in early 2015 and have used it almost every day since. It does everything a bike should do, including touring. I can’t imagine letting it go, it is part of me and my life.
That brown leather of the saddle fits very well to the dark blue frame, looks beautiful, I would add add leather handles (and maybe tanwall tires) to round it up.
As a Dane I found the Clear Tape "Protection" from the Factory absolutely useless and near worn through after a few folds, so I bought a "Full Set" of Plates and a fork Badge, from China, as a first. I have sown Leather on the frame and up the stem post, and have a padded transport pouch for my pedal (Absurdly Expensive). I have also changed most loose parts on my Superlight to carbon and titanium - even the - "Heavy Metal" clamps on my mudguards, to carbon, as my M handlebar. I have two leather grips, with a Brompton print, on it, but locked in each end with a ring! My saddle is a slightly padded Selle Italia, from carbon, also for low weight, for now below 9 kilo. From that it still looks like when bought in 2019 with its Flame Paint. Finn. Denmark
@@bikenomic1363 I have changed all bolts and nuts, S-discs on my 6 speed to titanium. Also the special "gear-nut" and -the front axle. The bolt and an alu wedge holding my fork. A Titanium Crank. My fork and triangle are Standard from Titanium, as my stays for the Mudguards, and luckily Brompton has sawed the "bend wire" for the Pump! If not it would have weighed much more!!! Sadly if ever needing a Pump, you need a much more complicated solution, which I also have, to be mounted. Finn. Denmark 😃
I have had my Brompton since 2015. Don't use it for commuting as I used to when I initially bought it, but it has been repurposed as my bike for exercise and do over 12 miles a day. It is solid and a joy to ride.
I've had my 3-speed Brompton for 24 years. I only use it when I need a folding bike, so it doesn't get a great deal of use, I guess it's done about 10,000 miles. The folding pedal has broken once, and the rear hinge bearing has worn out twice. Wear in the hinge bearing is something to look out for on a secondhand bike. It's not a particularly straightforward repair, as the new bearings have to be reamed out to the correct size. The best thing about the bike is that it fits in the back of my Smart Car!
That is the best-looking Brompton I've seen! Maybe it's the saddle and strap, which I will have to get for my A-Line later. Accessorizing for the Brompton is fun!
Thank you so much for this excellent review. I am thinking to buy one brompton. I am impress of the bike. I am look forward for the next video. Keep going.
i have had my 6 speed brompton for over 5 years. i've added an electric motor i love it ps this makes it two wheel drive . so glad i bought it. fits in my car and camper. the best of the folding bikes in my opinion. they are so much more capable that they look. regularly i do off road tracks with mine. i agree with the Bags very good my Pug likes a ride in the front bag.
An excellent review, as good as it gets, no rush, articulate, informative, comprehensive; educational.. I've always been surprised how zippy these bikes can be, on one of the Ride London events I watched, some guys were really steaming along. When I've come across the odd one on the road, I've had to push on to pull one in. As you say, a super versatile bike, I think I'll put one on my shopping list.
My 4th month with my Brompton S-type handlebar 2-speed C-line. The low handlebar makes me cycle faster and feel more stable. The 2 speeds are hard and harder and I can tell by the with of my quads. Every day is leg day. I have the Matcha green colour but I also love Yuzu Lime, Dune Sand, Flame Lacquer. Vermillion red. These bikes should have a statement colour. I loved the video. keep it up!
I’m just looking at getting my 1st Brompton & feel a bit overwhelmed by all the gear choices. Funny enough I’m tempted by the c-line 2 speed in matcha green but concerned I may be limiting myself. Don’t plan on doing any touring as such just city exploring & “pootling” about trying to improve fitness. Would you recommend the 2 speed for this or not?
@@stelloyd4266 For my part I find the 12 speed too much for the limited speed range of a Brompton. I don't need ½ gears also, but mostly use the top 3 of my 6 gears (which has been discontinued!). You are able to find a 7 gear wheel and changer for a Brompton, which will run lighter than internal gears, but not from Brompton! Finn. Denmark
@@matztertaler2777 Mostly what I may find on the Chinese A.E. platform of shops. You are able to search for specific items, and if named - 5 sets of titanium nuts and parts, specific for a Brompton, I of course chose the least expensive, also considering the "Postal Expenses" on top (Some send without Postage if over a value!). And if buying a - length (more than original choices) titanium black seat post, and it feels solid and weighs what is named, I suppose I'm not being cheated? And I expect less costly than an Original, Standard Post? They sell Joseph Kuosac, H&H, Aceoffix and also "no name" parts, according to need and what you want. And it is much less complicated, sorry, than dealing with Firms in the UK! It takes some time for delivery, but they generally are trustworthy and delivers what is sold! I have hardly had any problems at all, during many years and much dealing, also non Brompton! Finn. Denmark
Good review. Thank you. Like you I have other bikes. I go through phases of riding my Brompton same as yours M6L all the time everywhere as they are such fun bikes to ride then I move to one of my full frame bikes for a bit and the Brompton takes a rest. Variety is the spice of life. I have taken mine on tour to Gran Canaria, Andalusia and riding the high TdF cols of the Pyrenees, several tours in Wales to name a few places. Each time it has performed admirably. It is so much easier flying with a Brompton than a full frame bike or going by train, but still just as nerve racking when flying as to whether it will arrive with you at your destination and still in one piece. But so far so good. The ride can be improved by putting two Jubilee clips around the rear rubber suspension block to firm the ride up which is a massive improvement and the first mod I made when I got my first brompton 20 years ago. This first one was stolen from outside Senate House London University, but I got another on my house insurance quite quickly and this is the Brompton I now have a red and black M6L some 18 years later. How time flies! I have fitted short Titec bar ends, SPD XT pedals, an ACE rear rack off Amazon about £65 (I don't like the Brompton rear rack, fugly and heavy), front SP dynamo hub (just bought another new wheel with the SP hub already built into the wheel about £120), Supernova E3 Pro dynamo lights which are bright and always on. Joseph Kousac larger easy wheels (with bearings) so it rolls a lot easier when half or fully folded, wheel extender so it is a lot more stable when folded. I use a Topeak beam rack to carry rear Ortlieb panniers coupled with the rear rack when touring on my Brompton. This means there is still adequate ground clearance and I can still fold it with the panniers on. Loaded up it can carry a fair amount of gear. I only weight about 65-66kg so I am never going to overload it although I have had 30kg in the front touring bag. Mine is an old style one with FULL metal frame and it is VERY strong. I have fitted a 39T front chain ring (Shimano Ultegra from a surplus triple chainset I had kicking around in my garage). It did initially have a 50T chain ring which was far too big meaning the gearing was far too high. I got a 44T ring at first but this wasn't low enough so I fitted a 39T front chain ring which has remained on my bike. I thought I might at some point put the 44T back on but no, the 39T remains on it as I use all the gears now and can climb all but the very steepest slopes. Going down you don't need to pedal just brake. It will spin out at around 22-24mph in top which is more than enough for me. It's a great bike and I shall never ever sell it. As you say look after them they will last a life time. I would recommend periodically spraying the inside of the tubes with some thing like ACF50 to keep corrosion at bay because the rear triangle tubes corrode from the inside. At one point I had to use mine to commute 40 miles to and from work through two winters which was not fun. The poor weather quickly devours the transmission like any derailleur geared bike. I use Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres on it and have never had a puncture with them. Mine is one the last models with the metal Torpedo gear shifter which I am very please about as it is very robust unlike later models like yours with plastic units which imho look and feel cheap. The only weak point of the bikes, the Achilles heel, is the rear lower hinge pivot adjacent to the bottom bracket. The second one has literally just failed on my bike and I shall need to replace it. I bought a replacement bush kit some time ago as I felt it was about time to replace it as it was becoming very stiff to fold, but now it must have collapsed as it is now very free to fold but lots of play which makes riding it interesting and is what happened when it failed previously. The cost to get a Brompton dealer to repair it is likely to be well over £100 as last time it was around £85 iirc. So now I buy the reamer you need for the new bushes and do it myself. I have most of the other tools that are needed to do it. I suppose 9 years is pretty good. The bottom hinge pivot does take a lot of stress and long hard mountain climbs must put even more stress and wear on it. So it has done well all considered. Love your Jack Russell. Foresty Forest has one as well. Very loyal dogs. Check out his YT channel if you haven't already. www.youtube.com/@forestyforest ATB.
Thanks for this, great read. Looks like you have really used it on your adventures. I may well chaenge the chainrings in the future. I still pass senate house for work during the week. A mention in the same comment as Foresty Forest bought a smile to my face. What a great channel and guy. The dog is called Eddie, he does like coming on the outings.
You are able to buy a Harder, Taiwanese, Joseph Kuosac rubber suspension, or one part made from tree. At first I wondered why it was offered, but now I know! Finn. Denmark
I've owned a Brompton, bike friday and dahon speed pro. I thought about upgrading to a titanium Brompton. I bought a helix bike instead. Helix a bit bigger and ride more like regular bike and much cheaper than the titanium Brompton.
Fellow tempest blue Brompton owner! I swapped my grips for Ergon GP1, those have been very comfortable over the stock grips. For the roller wheels, I’ve heard that Decathlon’s 63mm 82a skate wheels are good, though you might experience more heel strike. Haven’t tried the wheels myself as I have a rear rack that helps roll the bike around.
Excellent explanation- i own 3 and love each. The S bar allows you to be a bit aggressive on rides. The H bar is like for slow grocery rides but my favourite is the p-line for its weight loss. Love the engineering marvel
Good review. I got one 6 months ago so I could travel by train (No car). My Dahon was awkward and I much prefer the Brompton. I can take the train and go camping easily.
I have three bikes : Brompton, MTB and old racer, so B gets used as intended - intercity train travel. I wouldn't have bought a Brompton til I got a battered 2nd hand which needs lots of maintenance as it's old and well worn. Thanks for the video.
I enjoyed your review, i do like my Brompton. The way i use it on gravel paths etc i think the G line which is out later this year would suit me better. I doubt i will be able to justify the cost to upgrade though.
I went for Ergon grips, a titanium seat post and a Swytch kit. I thoroughly recommend all three. I have reduced gearing but now I want to switch to the fast gearing instead.
That's a good review and largely mirrors my experience, but I am still figuring out the gears, which are not , I feel, sequential as such, with quite sizeable spacing. I find myself largely using gear 2 just switching between high and low.
They are great bikes certainly, and feature some excellent design and engineering....howeverwhen I was shopping for my folder several years ago, I ended up buying a Mezzo D10. (Sadly no longer in production which seems nuts!) It was actually cheaper and had a better level of standard equipment. It also folds very cleverly into a small package, although it is a tad longer than the Brompton when folded. Despite being sll aluminium framed, uts still not very lightweight to lug around, but dies have the little trolly wheels to assist on platforms or smooth surfaces. Its a little faster to fold and unfold too, as the central curved beam of the frame is a single piece and does not require any clamp with a screw fitting. Otherwise, it folds almost exactly like the Brompton. The pedals are both foldable and are the ecact same size too. (Having one smaller than the other does seem a bit binkers to me!!) The other selling point for me is that the Mezzo uses standard off the shelf Shimano gears and many other standard and readily available parts that do not require very pricey bespoke Brompton bits and bobs. It has a decent full size luggage rack and I opted to buy the two different bags that go on it; the large commuter bag (which is great and carries a decent load!) and the smaller but zip extendable travel pack. Both bags have detachable should straps for carrying them off the bike once you fold it. The commuter bag is a large size briefcase/laptop bag with padded protection, refelctive highlights and panels and tabs to attach lights to. Both bsgs came with waterproof covers in bright yellow, but they are very waterproof anyway. I think Bromptons have the edge on looks, with elegant lines and are a genuine design classic, (available in a range of lovely colours too; the D10 was only available in a hard anodised black finish, which is bullet proof!) but I was on a very tight budget and found the ride comfort and the excellent use of standard bike parts was the winner......oh, and of course, I forgot to say, its a full ten speed bike with excellent ratios!! 😊
I own a Dahon Speed Uno (single speed), Brompton C series (6 speed) and a Tern Verge P10 (recently purchased). The Tern P10 is the best of the three. I wouldn’t buy the Brompton again, due to 16” wheels provide uncomfortable ride on non smooth surfaces. 20” wheels or bigger is what I recommend. And the Tern Verge P10 provides a smoother ride and faster speed.
@@mindstalk The Brompton is the most compact, but the Tern Verge is compact enough. They weigh virtually the same. But Brompton’s smaller size would probably be better for traveling via plane, bus or train.
A ½ folder on larger wheels will naturally feel less heavy to ride. But if the primary reason for a buy is the fold, no one beats a Brompton type bike. A Montague may be the best ½ folder to buy, with more gears and ordinary wheels during riding. Finn
I've had two Brompton's. One with 12% lowered gearing 3 speed, and the other normal 3 gears with Dynamo lighting system. Best one was the standard with 12% lowered gearing. Remember, standard Bromptons are very heavy to begin with. But if you get the one with the back rack, it adds additional weight. You will get tired quickly if you have to carry it around as you move about in mass transit. Three main pet peeve with Brompton. Unique tire size makes it slightly more difficult to source than a standard 18" tires. Second, the internal hub gearing system, the Sturmey Archer needs periodic maintenance. Otherwise, they will eventually not shift properly. Third, when you shift gears, you have to stop pedaling. This can be a bummer when you're in a middle of a climb and have to shift, which means you have to stop pedaling. Would I get another Brompton though? Yes, if I live in an apartment in a city somewhere. No if I live in a house.
My Bromptons are now 21 and 13 year old. Bought new for £550 new and other circa £600 as ex demo bike. Both 6 speed with older converted to Electric (nano). Plenty of upgrades and replacement parts so plenty spent on since. Similar age bikes sell for more than bought for so hold value well.
Other observation is bike can be used by more than one of family as loads of height adjustment, my mother 4ft 6 and myself just over 6ft can ride same bike. I agree the bike is twitchy at first but can be advantage when used to it, infact I struggle with my 26inch wheeled tourer as steering seems to wallow compared to it. I don't think ride is that harsh, maybe 100 to 110 psi is too high, I tend to stick at 80 to 90. Type of tyres make a big difference for ride. Continental Urban or slicker tyres such as Kojaks seem faster
i had one that i gave to my dad and he cant ride it anymore. I'm 6'3" and 205 lbs and have the extended seatpost on a 6 speed c type. i was going to sell it but everytime I see it folded in my den I would change my mind. once you get the seatpost height dialed in and get the shifting down and keep the psi at 100 lbs I am always amazed at how well it rides compared to a large bicycle. they are great.
I have stopped running my tyres hard. I am now running Continental Urbans at *65* psi front, *75* psi back. I get a more comfortable ride, without giving up the low rolling resistance of these tyres.
I 'won' a free Yeo Valley C-line e-bike Brompton a couple of years ago and love it. Just bought a big bag for touring with trains and buses. Due to age/disability I get more limited mileage - in my rural hilly Scotland I can only get about 20 miles before needing a recharge (cafe lunch), and get a sore bum - (B should offer optional saddles) I use lower tyre pressures but that probably reduces mileage. It will get stuck up with mud, leaves in winter and doesn't like gravel, but can do firmer forest trails in dry weather. So best for short paved trips and fair weather. I bought a Tote bag to cover the battery which was reluctant in persistent rain. I am going to bungee my collapsable walking sticks along the mainframe for using on holiday. I love feeling free travelling on a bike.
Don't replace the saddle for a softer one! Actually I find the original fine and used it for a long time, but now I have a stone-hard, slightly padded, Selle Italia saddle on mine. It takes a little riding in spring to be used to, but the present Tour de France riders use hard saddles for their rides for extreme distances! Finn. Denmark
Tyre pressure: I personally pump my Schwalbe tyres to 65 psi, which is the recommended minimum. Comfort is important to me, which is fine at this minimum pressure. Try it out.
I really like bromptons but I would imagine the steering is a bit twichy ( my folder has 20 inch wheels ) and I would have to change the front chainwheel for something a lot smaller ( where i live its really hilly. So much , my folder is electric, i suupose i could get a kit for one if i could afford it tho.). I'm surprised you didnt go for a brookes sprung saddle if the ride is a bit harsh. Cheers.
I have a Brompton 6 speed flat bar model. It can handle very steep hills because of the wide gear ratio range, although obviously not being electric, you have got to put the effort in, not the motor. The wife has an ADO air 20 folding 250 watt CE electric bike. In hybrid mode it can do 22 mph with the extra accessory throttle fitted and the speed limit raised ( where permitted ). It is very good value for money, robust, well made and stable and can be returned to 'legal mode' without the throttle operational and 15.5 mph max pedal assist, at the touch of a button in the menu.
Thnaks for the comment here. It is a little twitchy at first but yu get used to it, but also very manuverable. I may change my gear ratios in future (for touring). Like the springs but just a bit overkill for my own day to day use. For longer rides have one on my touring bike which i will swap over. I have too many bikes!
Very thorough and thoughtful review. But hinge clamps look like antique tech; compare the bulletproof hinges on the Tern. And the B's flimsy plastic gear changer mounted awkwardly on a cheap looking handlebar, whereas the gear shifter is integrated into the handlebar on my Tern C8, a much more robust, tho' heavier and bigger, design. The Brompton has a "Rube Goldberg" look to this American-i.e., awkward technology- a cottage industry appearance. The design is clever and it does make you feel "English" or "British". But its diminutive scale and small wheels do not inspire confidence in this Californian. The cockpit of the Brommy feels cramped and too "vertical", whereas the Taiwanese Tern and Dahon bikes are much more sophisticated tech. The range of "fixes" for components on the B. speaks directly to the "rube goldberg" appearance I'm describing.
11 years on. The back tire wears out quick and if you're a guy riding some of the prettier colors you can get unwanted attention. Those are the only real negatives
I live in a car free city with plenty of bike infra structure. BUT, center town has a medieval nature and quite a bit of streets are still cobblestone. A Brompton, unless you have suicidal tendencies, is a total nono. For less money you can get a R&M Birdy which is a far better option ( suspension, bigger wheels). For even less you can get an electric ADO Air S with 20 inch wheels and front suspension. It's a no brainer for me, a Brompton is totally out of the question.
The wheels are just too small and they get nicked. Remember the Moulton? Where are they now? We have some of the worst roads in the world, so best to keep your commuting bike doing what it was designed for, a badge for the wealthy
Brompton is one of the best investments I ever made. Gives me so much joy.
can relate to that :-)
They're great bikes and I love mine. And they're so much fun to ride! While Brompton aren't very helpful in giving access to spares for workshops unless they also sell the bikes, once you understand their proprietary take on everything they're reasonably straight forward to service. Top upgrades for me:
- 44t chainring on the 6-spd/'Explore' spec gives a far more usable range of ratios for most riders. The stock 50t is simply too tall for most use-cases
- Ergon 'GS1 Evo' grips are a huge comfort gain, though any ergo grip will be an improvement
- Brompton's own 'See Me' lights are really very good (if you have a stock saddle) and integrate beautifully with the overall package
- Brompton's own Eazy Wheels nail weight/performance/durability; buy the 5mm version and swap the bearings to 626-2RS = current 6mm standard for half the price
- The cheap £25 alloy micro racks are perfect for better folded rollabiillity
- Restrap's luggage block release toggle is a great quality of life upgrade if you use a bag (also much slicker and less prone to snapping than zipties)
- Frame protection tape for protecting high-wear areas on the frame, both from cable and tyre-rub and general bashing around while carried
- Frame protection plate for underside of chainstay protects against damage from fork-hook when folding/unfolding
- Fidlock bottles with the Unibase work brilliantly on the stem
- Continental 'Contact Urban' tyres offer a nicer ride (and improved rolling resistance) over the Marathon Racer
Thank you for the upgrade list.
That is some serious modifications, thanks for this will definitely be upgrading some of my components.
44T, on a Brompton? At first I wondered for what use I had the low gears of my 6, till I met an absurd serpentine road and had to walk on top! Finn. Denmark
I use the luggage release strap in my wheels, to polish my naves while riding! Smaller in front than on my 6 speed back. Finn
It’s by no means my only do-it-all bike, but I ride mine every chance I get, and it’s my one bike that I can’t imagine ever selling.
I sadly sold my 2018 C Line (originally known as the M3L) in Lagoon Blue just two days ago but am looking at the P line in Metallic Black as a lighter replacement.
Couldnt have put it better, thanks for the comment
@@vonettadevowas the c line available in 2018👀
@@ArslanAndArslan Yes, it was, not sure why you’re questioning me on something I stated.
@@vonettadevo just asking because I thought is was model as M6L,S3L blah blah blah and so on….
I bought my black M3L in early 2015 and have used it almost every day since. It does everything a bike should do, including touring. I can’t imagine letting it go, it is part of me and my life.
That brown leather of the saddle fits very well to the dark blue frame, looks beautiful, I would add add leather handles (and maybe tanwall tires) to round it up.
Thanks for that hint. I will be upgrading very soon
As a Dane I found the Clear Tape "Protection" from the Factory absolutely useless and near worn through after a few folds, so I bought a "Full Set" of Plates and a fork Badge, from China, as a first. I have sown Leather on the frame and up the stem post, and have a padded transport pouch for my pedal (Absurdly Expensive). I have also changed most loose parts on my Superlight to carbon and titanium - even the - "Heavy Metal" clamps on my mudguards, to carbon, as my M handlebar. I have two leather grips, with a Brompton print, on it, but locked in each end with a ring! My saddle is a slightly padded Selle Italia, from carbon, also for low weight, for now below 9 kilo. From that it still looks like when bought in 2019 with its Flame Paint. Finn. Denmark
Thanks for the comments, a few nice mods. I am looking at some titanium upgrades.
@@bikenomic1363 I have changed all bolts and nuts, S-discs on my 6 speed to titanium. Also the special "gear-nut" and -the front axle. The bolt and an alu wedge holding my fork. A Titanium Crank.
My fork and triangle are Standard from Titanium, as my stays for the Mudguards, and luckily Brompton has sawed the "bend wire" for the Pump! If not it would have weighed much more!!! Sadly if ever needing a Pump, you need a much more complicated solution, which I also have, to be mounted. Finn. Denmark 😃
I have had my Brompton since 2015. Don't use it for commuting as I used to when I initially bought it, but it has been repurposed as my bike for exercise and do over 12 miles a day. It is solid and a joy to ride.
This is a great candid review! Thank you!
Thanks, appreciate the comments
I've had my 3-speed Brompton for 24 years. I only use it when I need a folding bike, so it doesn't get a great deal of use, I guess it's done about 10,000 miles. The folding pedal has broken once, and the rear hinge bearing has worn out twice. Wear in the hinge bearing is something to look out for on a secondhand bike. It's not a particularly straightforward repair, as the new bearings have to be reamed out to the correct size.
The best thing about the bike is that it fits in the back of my Smart Car!
Thanks for the comments here, one of the few bikes that fit in a smartcar I imagine.
Love the vid. I love Bromptons but you're right people do have strong feelings!
That is the best-looking Brompton I've seen! Maybe it's the saddle and strap, which I will have to get for my A-Line later. Accessorizing for the Brompton is fun!
Nice, honest review. You have a good, casual approach on camera.
I appreciate that! thank you
The first time I saw a bike carrying strap was in this video. I think it's a very useful accessory.
Brilliant piece of engeneering and artwork.
Thank you so much for this excellent review. I am thinking to buy one brompton. I am impress of the bike. I am look forward for the next video. Keep going.
appreciate the comments, more coming
hire one instead. you'll thank me later (when you return it)
i have had my 6 speed brompton for over 5 years. i've added an electric motor i love it ps this makes it two wheel drive . so glad i bought it. fits in my car and camper. the best of the folding bikes in my opinion. they are so much more capable that they look. regularly i do off road tracks with mine. i agree with the Bags very good my Pug likes a ride in the front bag.
Thanks for sharing
An excellent review, as good as it gets, no rush, articulate, informative, comprehensive; educational.. I've always been surprised how zippy these bikes can be, on one of the Ride London events I watched, some guys were really steaming along. When I've come across the odd one on the road, I've had to push on to pull one in. As you say, a super versatile bike, I think I'll put one on my shopping list.
I just did. There are some terrific bargains to be had on ebay. Second hand bromptons have never been cheaper and most have hardly been used.
@@peterwillson1355 Thanks Peter ...
Thank you, appreciate the positive comments. Hope you manage to get one.
My main reason for adding a brompton to my collection is the clever and unique engineering.
couldn't agree more, very clever.
My 4th month with my Brompton S-type handlebar 2-speed C-line. The low handlebar makes me cycle faster and feel more stable. The 2 speeds are hard and harder and I can tell by the with of my quads. Every day is leg day. I have the Matcha green colour but I also love Yuzu Lime, Dune Sand, Flame Lacquer. Vermillion red. These bikes should have a statement colour. I loved the video. keep it up!
glad your enjoying your leg workouts :-), thanks for the comments
I’m just looking at getting my 1st Brompton & feel a bit overwhelmed by all the gear choices. Funny enough I’m tempted by the c-line 2 speed in matcha green but concerned I may be limiting myself. Don’t plan on doing any touring as such just city exploring & “pootling” about trying to improve fitness. Would you recommend the 2 speed for this or not?
@@stelloyd4266 For my part I find the 12 speed too much for the limited speed range of a Brompton. I don't need ½ gears also, but mostly use the top 3 of my 6 gears (which has been discontinued!). You are able to find a 7 gear wheel and changer for a Brompton, which will run lighter than internal gears, but not from Brompton! Finn. Denmark
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188which brand are the aftermarket gears you mentioned here?
@@matztertaler2777 Mostly what I may find on the Chinese A.E. platform of shops. You are able to search for specific items, and if named - 5 sets of titanium nuts and parts, specific for a Brompton, I of course chose the least expensive, also considering the "Postal Expenses" on top (Some send without Postage if over a value!). And if buying a - length (more than original choices) titanium black seat post, and it feels solid and weighs what is named, I suppose I'm not being cheated? And I expect less costly than an Original, Standard Post?
They sell Joseph Kuosac, H&H, Aceoffix and also "no name" parts, according to need and what you want.
And it is much less complicated, sorry, than dealing with Firms in the UK! It takes some time for delivery, but they generally are trustworthy and delivers what is sold! I have hardly had any problems at all, during many years and much dealing, also non Brompton! Finn. Denmark
Good review. Thank you. Like you I have other bikes. I go through phases of riding my Brompton same as yours M6L all the time everywhere as they are such fun bikes to ride then I move to one of my full frame bikes for a bit and the Brompton takes a rest. Variety is the spice of life. I have taken mine on tour to Gran Canaria, Andalusia and riding the high TdF cols of the Pyrenees, several tours in Wales to name a few places. Each time it has performed admirably. It is so much easier flying with a Brompton than a full frame bike or going by train, but still just as nerve racking when flying as to whether it will arrive with you at your destination and still in one piece. But so far so good.
The ride can be improved by putting two Jubilee clips around the rear rubber suspension block to firm the ride up which is a massive improvement and the first mod I made when I got my first brompton 20 years ago. This first one was stolen from outside Senate House London University, but I got another on my house insurance quite quickly and this is the Brompton I now have a red and black M6L some 18 years later. How time flies!
I have fitted short Titec bar ends, SPD XT pedals, an ACE rear rack off Amazon about £65 (I don't like the Brompton rear rack, fugly and heavy), front SP dynamo hub (just bought another new wheel with the SP hub already built into the wheel about £120), Supernova E3 Pro dynamo lights which are bright and always on. Joseph Kousac larger easy wheels (with bearings) so it rolls a lot easier when half or fully folded, wheel extender so it is a lot more stable when folded. I use a Topeak beam rack to carry rear Ortlieb panniers coupled with the rear rack when touring on my Brompton. This means there is still adequate ground clearance and I can still fold it with the panniers on. Loaded up it can carry a fair amount of gear. I only weight about 65-66kg so I am never going to overload it although I have had 30kg in the front touring bag. Mine is an old style one with FULL metal frame and it is VERY strong.
I have fitted a 39T front chain ring (Shimano Ultegra from a surplus triple chainset I had kicking around in my garage). It did initially have a 50T chain ring which was far too big meaning the gearing was far too high. I got a 44T ring at first but this wasn't low enough so I fitted a 39T front chain ring which has remained on my bike. I thought I might at some point put the 44T back on but no, the 39T remains on it as I use all the gears now and can climb all but the very steepest slopes. Going down you don't need to pedal just brake. It will spin out at around 22-24mph in top which is more than enough for me.
It's a great bike and I shall never ever sell it. As you say look after them they will last a life time. I would recommend periodically spraying the inside of the tubes with some thing like ACF50 to keep corrosion at bay because the rear triangle tubes corrode from the inside. At one point I had to use mine to commute 40 miles to and from work through two winters which was not fun. The poor weather quickly devours the transmission like any derailleur geared bike.
I use Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres on it and have never had a puncture with them. Mine is one the last models with the metal Torpedo gear shifter which I am very please about as it is very robust unlike later models like yours with plastic units which imho look and feel cheap.
The only weak point of the bikes, the Achilles heel, is the rear lower hinge pivot adjacent to the bottom bracket. The second one has literally just failed on my bike and I shall need to replace it. I bought a replacement bush kit some time ago as I felt it was about time to replace it as it was becoming very stiff to fold, but now it must have collapsed as it is now very free to fold but lots of play which makes riding it interesting and is what happened when it failed previously. The cost to get a Brompton dealer to repair it is likely to be well over £100 as last time it was around £85 iirc. So now I buy the reamer you need for the new bushes and do it myself. I have most of the other tools that are needed to do it. I suppose 9 years is pretty good. The bottom hinge pivot does take a lot of stress and long hard mountain climbs must put even more stress and wear on it. So it has done well all considered.
Love your Jack Russell. Foresty Forest has one as well. Very loyal dogs. Check out his YT channel if you haven't already.
www.youtube.com/@forestyforest
ATB.
Thanks for this, great read. Looks like you have really used it on your adventures. I may well chaenge the chainrings in the future. I still pass senate house for work during the week. A mention in the same comment as Foresty Forest bought a smile to my face. What a great channel and guy. The dog is called Eddie, he does like coming on the outings.
You are able to buy a Harder, Taiwanese, Joseph Kuosac rubber suspension, or one part made from tree. At first I wondered why it was offered, but now I know! Finn. Denmark
I love Brompton so much that i preordered a trifold copy ebike coming this August.
I've owned a Brompton, bike friday and dahon speed pro. I thought about upgrading to a titanium Brompton. I bought a helix bike instead. Helix a bit bigger and ride more like regular bike and much cheaper than the titanium Brompton.
different bikes for diferent people I suppose. Thanks for the comment
Since I got mine my "proper" road bike has basically been gathering dust. These things are SO MUCH FUN to ride.
hard to ride without smiling, thanks for the comments
Fellow tempest blue Brompton owner!
I swapped my grips for Ergon GP1, those have been very comfortable over the stock grips. For the roller wheels, I’ve heard that Decathlon’s 63mm 82a skate wheels are good, though you might experience more heel strike. Haven’t tried the wheels myself as I have a rear rack that helps roll the bike around.
Thanks for the info!
Excellent explanation- i own 3 and love each. The S bar allows you to be a bit aggressive on rides. The H bar is like for slow grocery rides but my favourite is the p-line for its weight loss. Love the engineering marvel
thanks, appreciate the comments
Good review. I got one 6 months ago so I could travel by train (No car). My Dahon was awkward and I much prefer the Brompton. I can take the train and go camping easily.
Glad you enjoying it, couldn't agree more
I have three bikes : Brompton, MTB and old racer, so B gets used as intended - intercity train travel. I wouldn't have bought a Brompton til I got a battered 2nd hand which needs lots of maintenance as it's old and well worn. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for sharing!
I enjoyed your review, i do like my Brompton. The way i use it on gravel paths etc i think the G line which is out later this year would suit me better. I doubt i will be able to justify the cost to upgrade though.
I went for Ergon grips, a titanium seat post and a Swytch kit. I thoroughly recommend all three. I have reduced gearing but now I want to switch to the fast gearing instead.
That's a good review and largely mirrors my experience, but I am still figuring out the gears, which are not , I feel, sequential as such, with quite sizeable spacing. I find myself largely using gear 2 just switching between high and low.
definitely the trickier part of the Brompton. I'm also still get caught out
A Brompton with a Brookes saddle.....now that is really class.
They are great bikes certainly, and feature some excellent design and engineering....howeverwhen I was shopping for my folder several years ago, I ended up buying a Mezzo D10. (Sadly no longer in production which seems nuts!) It was actually cheaper and had a better level of standard equipment. It also folds very cleverly into a small package, although it is a tad longer than the Brompton when folded. Despite being sll aluminium framed, uts still not very lightweight to lug around, but dies have the little trolly wheels to assist on platforms or smooth surfaces. Its a little faster to fold and unfold too, as the central curved beam of the frame is a single piece and does not require any clamp with a screw fitting. Otherwise, it folds almost exactly like the Brompton. The pedals are both foldable and are the ecact same size too. (Having one smaller than the other does seem a bit binkers to me!!) The other selling point for me is that the Mezzo uses standard off the shelf Shimano gears and many other standard and readily available parts that do not require very pricey bespoke Brompton bits and bobs. It has a decent full size luggage rack and I opted to buy the two different bags that go on it; the large commuter bag (which is great and carries a decent load!) and the smaller but zip extendable travel pack. Both bags have detachable should straps for carrying them off the bike once you fold it. The commuter bag is a large size briefcase/laptop bag with padded protection, refelctive highlights and panels and tabs to attach lights to. Both bsgs came with waterproof covers in bright yellow, but they are very waterproof anyway.
I think Bromptons have the edge on looks, with elegant lines and are a genuine design classic, (available in a range of lovely colours too; the D10 was only available in a hard anodised black finish, which is bullet proof!) but I was on a very tight budget and found the ride comfort and the excellent use of standard bike parts was the winner......oh, and of course, I forgot to say, its a full ten speed bike with excellent ratios!! 😊
I own a Dahon Speed Uno (single speed), Brompton C series (6 speed) and a Tern Verge P10 (recently purchased). The Tern P10 is the best of the three. I wouldn’t buy the Brompton again, due to 16” wheels provide uncomfortable ride on non smooth surfaces. 20” wheels or bigger is what I recommend. And the Tern Verge P10 provides a smoother ride and faster speed.
Thanks for sharing!
What if you were flying with a bike frequently, and biking mostly short trips in cities?
@@mindstalk The Brompton is the most compact, but the Tern Verge is compact enough. They weigh virtually the same. But Brompton’s smaller size would probably be better for traveling via plane, bus or train.
A ½ folder on larger wheels will naturally feel less heavy to ride. But if the primary reason for a buy is the fold, no one beats a Brompton type bike. A Montague may be the best ½ folder to buy, with more gears and ordinary wheels during riding. Finn
@@mindstalkwho does that? A minority
Thanks for your opinion.
I've had two Brompton's. One with 12% lowered gearing 3 speed, and the other normal 3 gears with Dynamo lighting system. Best one was the standard with 12% lowered gearing. Remember, standard Bromptons are very heavy to begin with. But if you get the one with the back rack, it adds additional weight. You will get tired quickly if you have to carry it around as you move about in mass transit.
Three main pet peeve with Brompton. Unique tire size makes it slightly more difficult to source than a standard 18" tires. Second, the internal hub gearing system, the Sturmey Archer needs periodic maintenance. Otherwise, they will eventually not shift properly. Third, when you shift gears, you have to stop pedaling. This can be a bummer when you're in a middle of a climb and have to shift, which means you have to stop pedaling.
Would I get another Brompton though? Yes, if I live in an apartment in a city somewhere. No if I live in a house.
thanks for the comments and feedback. it definitely has limitations but still use it more than any other bike, at least in the city
My Bromptons are now 21 and 13 year old. Bought new for £550 new and other circa £600 as ex demo bike. Both 6 speed with older converted to Electric (nano). Plenty of upgrades and replacement parts so plenty spent on since. Similar age bikes sell for more than bought for so hold value well.
Other observation is bike can be used by more than one of family as loads of height adjustment, my mother 4ft 6 and myself just over 6ft can ride same bike. I agree the bike is twitchy at first but can be advantage when used to it, infact I struggle with my 26inch wheeled tourer as steering seems to wallow compared to it. I don't think ride is that harsh, maybe 100 to 110 psi is too high, I tend to stick at 80 to 90. Type of tyres make a big difference for ride. Continental Urban or slicker tyres such as Kojaks seem faster
Just got a Brompton about 3 months ago and was just watching your video. Just out of curiosity how high is your seat post? Luv the vlog!
i had one that i gave to my dad and he cant ride it anymore. I'm 6'3" and 205 lbs and have the extended seatpost on a 6 speed c type. i was going to sell it but everytime I see it folded in my den I would change my mind. once you get the seatpost height dialed in and get the shifting down and keep the psi at 100 lbs I am always amazed at how well it rides compared to a large bicycle. they are great.
I have stopped running my tyres hard. I am now running Continental Urbans at *65* psi front, *75* psi back. I get a more comfortable ride, without giving up the low rolling resistance of these tyres.
I 'won' a free Yeo Valley C-line e-bike Brompton a couple of years ago and love it. Just bought a big bag for touring with trains and buses. Due to age/disability I get more limited mileage - in my rural hilly Scotland I can only get about 20 miles before needing a recharge (cafe lunch), and get a sore bum - (B should offer optional saddles) I use lower tyre pressures but that probably reduces mileage. It will get stuck up with mud, leaves in winter and doesn't like gravel, but can do firmer forest trails in dry weather. So best for short paved trips and fair weather. I bought a Tote bag to cover the battery which was reluctant in persistent rain. I am going to bungee my collapsable walking sticks along the mainframe for using on holiday. I love feeling free travelling on a bike.
thanks for the comments here, sounds like your getting the most out of yours.
Don't replace the saddle for a softer one! Actually I find the original fine and used it for a long time, but now I have a stone-hard, slightly padded, Selle Italia saddle on mine. It takes a little riding in spring to be used to, but the present Tour de France riders use hard saddles for their rides for extreme distances! Finn. Denmark
Thank you for the good video! Do you think that with a rack the balance will be better and the rack will protect the bike fenders?
I love this bike, flexible in mobility
couldn't agree more :-)
Think you'll ever convert one of your Bromtons to the twenty inch kits out of Britain?
I find the steering is a bit lively, maybe a steering damper would help.
steering definitely a bit twitchy
You need the touring bag on the front with some weight in it.
Yes! You should get a Brompton, buy mine.
Why do you want to sell it?
@kayasper6081 I want to sell MY Brompton because it is an H and I am an S. It was wrongly sold to me as an M.
@@peterwillson1355 I see. Sorry to hear you end up with the wrong one. I would certainly need an H.
I'd love to buy a Brompton but I need one with a higher load capacity. I'm heavy, so I need one that can carry 150kg.
not sure what the maximum weight is for the Brompton, thanks for the comments
Tyre pressure: I personally pump my Schwalbe tyres to 65 psi, which is the recommended minimum. Comfort is important to me, which is fine at this minimum pressure. Try it out.
What about flats? Higher pressure will produce less punctures! I ride around 95 PSI.
@@Air-ic279 Last flat I had is probably 10 years ago, due to broken glass. So yes, 65 psi is fine with me.
What is the total weight you carry (you + cargo ) … concerned ny 220# + 20# cargo too heavy for that
@@GGg-ic9ku Agreed. My systemweight is 68 kg + 13 kg + 10 kg = 91 kg max (me, Brompton, cargo), which equals 200 lbs.
so far been really lucky, no flats in 4 years on the brompton.
Instead of checking reviews, hire one of those. You'll thank me later (when you return it)
I really like bromptons but I would imagine the steering is a bit twichy ( my folder has 20 inch wheels ) and I would have to change the front chainwheel for something a lot smaller ( where i live its really hilly. So much , my folder is electric, i suupose i could get a kit for one if i could afford it tho.). I'm surprised you didnt go for a brookes sprung saddle if the ride is a bit harsh. Cheers.
I have a Brompton 6 speed flat bar model. It can handle very steep hills because of the wide gear ratio range, although obviously not being electric, you have got to put the effort in, not the motor. The wife has an ADO air 20 folding 250 watt CE electric bike. In hybrid mode it can do 22 mph with the extra accessory throttle fitted and the speed limit raised ( where permitted ). It is very good value for money, robust, well made and stable and can be returned to 'legal mode' without the throttle operational and 15.5 mph max pedal assist, at the touch of a button in the menu.
Thnaks for the comment here. It is a little twitchy at first but yu get used to it, but also very manuverable. I may change my gear ratios in future (for touring). Like the springs but just a bit overkill for my own day to day use. For longer rides have one on my touring bike which i will swap over. I have too many bikes!
Very thorough and thoughtful review. But hinge clamps look like antique tech; compare the bulletproof hinges on the Tern. And the B's flimsy plastic gear changer mounted awkwardly on a cheap looking handlebar, whereas the gear shifter is integrated into the handlebar on my Tern C8, a much more robust, tho' heavier and bigger, design. The Brompton has a "Rube Goldberg" look to this American-i.e., awkward technology- a cottage industry appearance. The design is clever and it does make you feel "English" or "British". But its diminutive scale and small wheels do not inspire confidence in this Californian. The cockpit of the Brommy feels cramped and too "vertical", whereas the Taiwanese Tern and Dahon bikes are much more sophisticated tech. The range of "fixes" for components on the B. speaks directly to the "rube goldberg" appearance I'm describing.
11 years on. The back tire wears out quick and if you're a guy riding some of the prettier colors you can get unwanted attention. Those are the only real negatives
thanks for the comment, what tyres do you run?
@@bikenomic1363 marathon plus
If you need a bike to be brought inside public transport, for sure
Your dog wants to take a ride , too. As soon as you opened it up, he dropped the ball........
If you need speed upgrade your chainring.
In India where to buy this bike.
The only thing steering me away from this bike is the price.
I live in a car free city with plenty of bike infra structure. BUT, center town has a medieval nature and quite a bit of streets are still cobblestone. A Brompton, unless you have suicidal tendencies, is a total nono. For less money you can get a R&M Birdy which is a far better option ( suspension, bigger wheels). For even less you can get an electric ADO Air S with 20 inch wheels and front suspension. It's a no brainer for me, a Brompton is totally out of the question.
completely agree small wheels not suited for all occasions, thanks for the comments
What's the city? Sounds awesome!
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@@minecraftHOBO101 ruclips.net/video/fLXhjLlJ1Rs/видео.html
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It's just an expensive toy .The expiration of the patent is the best news
different bikes for diferent people I suppose. Thanks for the comment
The wheels are just too small and they get nicked. Remember the Moulton? Where are they now? We have some of the worst roads in the world, so best to keep your commuting bike doing what it was designed for, a badge for the wealthy
They get nicked from under your desk, or people wrench it from your hands?
Remember Brompton!? Where are they now…
@@tubecated_development plenty of second hand ones for sale