Also in the UK, I'm thinking of selling my C Lines for the G Line! I just want a smoother and less 'twitchy' ride. How are you finding it so far? As I think I'd just use the roller rack more than picking it up and lugging it like everyone shows (include in this video).
Thanks for sharing your impressions! I think the G Line looks great. I've seen many comments to the effect of "you might as well get a full size bike," but that seems to neglect 20-inch wheels are *by far* the most common folding bike wheel size -- and the G-Line is significantly more compact (with a neater fold) than most of those options. Of course, the G-Line is more expensive than most 20-inch bifolds, but this is Brompton we're talking about. It's not like anybody buys these bikes because they think they're getting a good deal. And regarding weight, I suspect the smoother rolling rack will make up for its carry weight in most cases. The 16-inch Brompton isn't all that good at rolling without customizations (note how many users add skate wheels), and the G-Line seems to roll a lot better out of the box (although it seems similarly prone to tip over when loaded with a bag).
The Brompton (S3E upgraded to S5E in my case) is full of compromises, but I'm willing to put up with those compromises because of its portability. The G Line seems a bit too bulky and heavy for my use cases. I mean if I'm going to lug around a G Line, I might as well use my custom Ti road bike with S&S couplers. Even though in its broken down configuration it's still bigger than a folded G Line...it's around 10lbs lighter than the G Line.
Are self-aligning clamps something you can retrofit to older Brompton? I bought a 6 speed rack equipped Brompton a few years ago, right before they changed the naming scheme from H6L to the different Line variants.
I feel that for a folding bike, the folded dimensions of the G Line are still a bit large. However, the G Line is a commendable and encouraging product attempt, especially given that Brompton’s basic structure has hardly changed over the decades. The G Line clearly incorporates improvements to address some of the shortcomings of a typical Brompton. For example, it finally offers a standard dropout width, which greatly facilitates upgrades and modifications to the drivetrain and wheelset. The bike also integrates many enhancements from the P Line and T Line models. The wider handlebar and support for wider tires, both of which improve stability. The disc brakes bring better braking performance, especially in wet conditions. I think it’s unfortunate that there aren’t more options for internal gear hubs, such as an 11-speed Alfine option (the current 8-speed range feels somewhat lacking for hilly terrain). There’s also no belt drive option; pairing a folding bike with a belt drive and internal gear hub could make for a better setup (belt drive no maintenance needed). At the very least, offering these as potential factory upgrade options would be ideal (for example, a factory-ready split rear triangle for belt drive compatibility).
This loses some of the key Brompton benefits, due to the increased size and weight. The main one for me is multi-modal transport. The traditional Brompton fits easily on light rail or on the bus without being in the way. It stashes easily in the trunk of even a small hatchback 🚗 I can carry my Brompton through a station without needing to rest my arm. I might need to spend some time lifting weights before being able to do that with the G line. But I do see the advantages of the G line as well; a significantly comfier ride on those tires, and much improved braking. I would describe my Brompton’s brakes as “mostly adequate.” If you have a bigger vehicle and aren’t taking the bike on public transport every day, this looks great. But then I’d start to wonder why I’d get an expensive folder and not a full size bike and bike rack. It’s going to fit a niche, but I think the niche is even smaller than the one the original Brompton fills.
I went down a tooth on the rear sprocket to get a bit more speed out of it and I think it's perfect. Highly recommend the G line if you're a larger person who never felt a Brompton was right for you because they were too small. Definitely heavy though. Don't think I'd go with the G if I regularly had to carry it very far.
@@BestSideCycling I shipped it in the box it came in which is oversized. About 28x28x18 inches and maybe 45 pounds. United and British Air ships bikes in a box without an oversize fee. Always check current programs.
What do you think of the G Line? Would you want to get one? What other questions do you have? One detail I forgot to include is that the total weight limit of the bike has been increased to 280 pounds so that is another neat feature especially for bike touring or anything else!
My only question is why does the presenter laugh every 2 or 3 seconds? This isn't comedy material, it's a technical review of a bicycle. Perhaps it's a verbal tic, a Tourette's thing? In that case, it would be an involuntary thing, and acceptable (I suppose). But nevertheless, it's very grating.
Seems like a lost opportunity that they don't offer a Gates belt drive with that Alfine hub... seems like it would be a great thing for a folding bike.
It completely changes the folding patterns. But I agree, I think that Brompton should be investing in figuring out how to start offering a belt drive, if they are already willing to add the weight of a gear hub.
You buy a Brompton for its fold and easy transport and storing, and not for the ride, which is with more rolling resistance on the small wheels! If wanting a "larger bike", and having room for it, I would definitely prefer a ½ folding Montegue, the former US Army type, and also an Mtb Bike! And I definitely don't like loose pedals, to be lost during transport or having problems to get free - or back on the bike again!! My 2019 SuperlightM6LXBrompton, what is left from my originally bought bike, is now much modified with new Titanium and Carbon parts, down to below 9 kilo, and still with Mudguards, as a Dane and for a price much less than a - similar weight T-line, also with Mudguards of course! And I have missed the problems from the strange new "holes" by the hinges, which are letting in water and - gravel all over the inside of the frame, also on - top of the Crank and the Ball-bearings in front! And besides that I haven't the room for a G-line in my moderate European size cars luggage room so I would also need a new Car. Finn. Denmark
I got one in the uk and already have upgraded the chain set to double crank with 53-44 with front derailleur. Super easy up hills for an old guy @ 63.
Would love to see how you did this and with what components. Did you post the details anyplace?
Yes, if you can share that, it would be 🎉
Also in the UK, I'm thinking of selling my C Lines for the G Line! I just want a smoother and less 'twitchy' ride. How are you finding it so far? As I think I'd just use the roller rack more than picking it up and lugging it like everyone shows (include in this video).
Many thanks for making and sharing your experience of the new G line.
Thanks for sharing your impressions! I think the G Line looks great. I've seen many comments to the effect of "you might as well get a full size bike," but that seems to neglect 20-inch wheels are *by far* the most common folding bike wheel size -- and the G-Line is significantly more compact (with a neater fold) than most of those options.
Of course, the G-Line is more expensive than most 20-inch bifolds, but this is Brompton we're talking about. It's not like anybody buys these bikes because they think they're getting a good deal. And regarding weight, I suspect the smoother rolling rack will make up for its carry weight in most cases. The 16-inch Brompton isn't all that good at rolling without customizations (note how many users add skate wheels), and the G-Line seems to roll a lot better out of the box (although it seems similarly prone to tip over when loaded with a bag).
Very much need a folding bike. Great video!
Where did you get your custom cycling cap made? Very cool.
Eliel Cycling!
Finally, normal review.
Is it possible that you test it with train ride?
The Brompton (S3E upgraded to S5E in my case) is full of compromises, but I'm willing to put up with those compromises because of its portability. The G Line seems a bit too bulky and heavy for my use cases. I mean if I'm going to lug around a G Line, I might as well use my custom Ti road bike with S&S couplers. Even though in its broken down configuration it's still bigger than a folded G Line...it's around 10lbs lighter than the G Line.
Are self-aligning clamps something you can retrofit to older Brompton? I bought a 6 speed rack equipped Brompton a few years ago, right before they changed the naming scheme from H6L to the different Line variants.
No, not the Brompton ones anyway. There are third party versions available though.
I feel that for a folding bike, the folded dimensions of the G Line are still a bit large. However, the G Line is a commendable and encouraging product attempt, especially given that Brompton’s basic structure has hardly changed over the decades. The G Line clearly incorporates improvements to address some of the shortcomings of a typical Brompton. For example, it finally offers a standard dropout width, which greatly facilitates upgrades and modifications to the drivetrain and wheelset. The bike also integrates many enhancements from the P Line and T Line models. The wider handlebar and support for wider tires, both of which improve stability. The disc brakes bring better braking performance, especially in wet conditions. I think it’s unfortunate that there aren’t more options for internal gear hubs, such as an 11-speed Alfine option (the current 8-speed range feels somewhat lacking for hilly terrain). There’s also no belt drive option; pairing a folding bike with a belt drive and internal gear hub could make for a better setup (belt drive no maintenance needed). At the very least, offering these as potential factory upgrade options would be ideal (for example, a factory-ready split rear triangle for belt drive compatibility).
This loses some of the key Brompton benefits, due to the increased size and weight. The main one for me is multi-modal transport. The traditional Brompton fits easily on light rail or on the bus without being in the way. It stashes easily in the trunk of even a small hatchback 🚗 I can carry my Brompton through a station without needing to rest my arm. I might need to spend some time lifting weights before being able to do that with the G line. But I do see the advantages of the G line as well; a significantly comfier ride on those tires, and much improved braking. I would describe my Brompton’s brakes as “mostly adequate.” If you have a bigger vehicle and aren’t taking the bike on public transport every day, this looks great. But then I’d start to wonder why I’d get an expensive folder and not a full size bike and bike rack. It’s going to fit a niche, but I think the niche is even smaller than the one the original Brompton fills.
Hi, thanks for this quick review!
I wat to know how tall you are to compare to me in order to choose wisely the Brompton size. Thanks!
I'm about 165cm and the size small was good!
I went down a tooth on the rear sprocket to get a bit more speed out of it and I think it's perfect. Highly recommend the G line if you're a larger person who never felt a Brompton was right for you because they were too small. Definitely heavy though. Don't think I'd go with the G if I regularly had to carry it very far.
Also got one in the UK the first week they came out and brought it home on United as luggage.
@@bluecalvette were you able to fit in a normal checked bag or was it considered oversized? Congrats on the bike!
@@BestSideCycling I shipped it in the box it came in which is oversized. About 28x28x18 inches and maybe 45 pounds. United and British Air ships bikes in a box without an oversize fee. Always check current programs.
Eventought many loves the Gline but I feel it wasn’t that popular as the time when the Tline came out, anyway I still appreciate my Pline 😊.
Very cool.
You should drive an another hr or so to Eugene. And you can test ride the best 20in folder. At Green Gear
Haha I have never tried out a Bike Friday! Would love to.
When you said it was time for the quintessential question, my mind went to "Will it climb?", not folding. Guess I'm not a brompton rider!
hahaha it's how I know you're a best side cycling rider though :)
What do you think of the G Line? Would you want to get one? What other questions do you have? One detail I forgot to include is that the total weight limit of the bike has been increased to 280 pounds so that is another neat feature especially for bike touring or anything else!
My only question is why does the presenter laugh every 2 or 3 seconds? This isn't comedy material, it's a technical review of a bicycle. Perhaps it's a verbal tic, a Tourette's thing? In that case, it would be an involuntary thing, and acceptable (I suppose). But nevertheless, it's very grating.
@@TheSandyStudioand I thought you was here for the G Line
Mini vs big mini
Seems like a lost opportunity that they don't offer a Gates belt drive with that Alfine hub... seems like it would be a great thing for a folding bike.
It completely changes the folding patterns. But I agree, I think that Brompton should be investing in figuring out how to start offering a belt drive, if they are already willing to add the weight of a gear hub.
@@Jack-fw4mw This is why the Strida was such a great folding bike. Not really very available in the U.S. anymore, unfortunately.
Are you planning to buy one ? Not me it's too big for me
You buy a Brompton for its fold and easy transport and storing, and not for the ride, which is with more rolling resistance on the small wheels! If wanting a "larger bike", and having room for it, I would definitely prefer a ½ folding Montegue, the former US Army type, and also an Mtb Bike! And I definitely don't like loose pedals, to be lost during transport or having problems to get free - or back on the bike again!!
My 2019 SuperlightM6LXBrompton, what is left from my originally bought bike, is now much modified with new Titanium and Carbon parts, down to below 9 kilo, and still with Mudguards, as a Dane and for a price much less than a - similar weight T-line, also with Mudguards of course!
And I have missed the problems from the strange new "holes" by the hinges, which are letting in water and - gravel all over the inside of the frame, also on - top of the Crank and the Ball-bearings in front!
And besides that I haven't the room for a G-line in my moderate European size cars luggage room so I would also need a new Car. Finn. Denmark
I wish someone gave an independent review. If Brompton loaned a bike to do a Review, could you say it was inbias ?
It's too big. A big Brompton is like a big Mini : it's not.
Personally, I needed a sturdier folding bike, so this will be perfect for me.
WAY TOO BIG AND HEAVY
Micro shift is crap and makes the entire bike BS!