Unspoken Brompton ownership problems. - You will turn into a total bore as you tell everyone who isn't interested just how great they are - You will have to learn how to not be so self satisfied when friends and coworkers complain about their commute - any money saved from other means of transport is instantly spent on bags, and other accessories you probably don't need.
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 my lightweight is a 2020 Chpt3. So far I've managed to not think of things like that. Thanks man... I'm now about to lose a Sunday and probably many hundreds of pounds 🤣
I came back to this video after bought my Brompton and I noticed gear 3 making different ticking sound when pedalling! Your video reassured this is normal so I have nothing to worry now. Thank you!
Another "thinking person's Brompton video." That sighing sound? I think it's the collective lowering of stress levels amongst Brompton riders. With a video like this, "it's normal." Thanks.
Haha you got it! The idea is to lower stress levels of new Brompton owners. We've all been there and wondered if something was wrong with the bike.
Год назад
@@EverydayCyclingexactly, I’am a new owner and I can’t unfolding because seat post. I was so frustrated, but this video is perfect to me. Thanks a lot. 🙏🏽🫡
The seatpost locking confused me as well the first time I couldn't unfold the bike, but once you know that, it actually makes a lot of sense. It's designed so that you can carry the half-folded bike up stairs and the like by holding it at the seat, which would otherwise unfold it.
I’m an absolute Brompton “Newbie” and have been enjoying the work you have been putting out. I had to take a moment and thank you for this one in particular. I have noticed a couple of these idiosyncrasies, so it’s good to know there is nothing to be concerned about. Thanks a again
I really appreciated this video. I've been riding a Brompton for 8 years and I was unaware of the nuances of the internally geared hub - I've certainly noticed the coasting sound but I had always thought something was wrong. Thanks for the reassurances!
I'm glad I saw this - I was worried when I was riding my girlfriend's Brompton that there was something not right on one of the hinges because I could feel the bike flex so much when I was braking hard. Turns out that's just the way they are!
My goodness! I watched this video before getting a Brompton but recently had to revisit when my Brompton would lock when unfolding and not kick open! I didn't extend the seat post fully. Thank you so much!
I'll add two more problems I've encountered. 1. Finding a bike mechanic that can work on the bike, especially when traveling and an issue comes up. 2. The 16" Wheel can be a bit dangerous on a lousy, pothole riddled street if you're not focused.
@@ArTeCh777 That's funny. I owned two Bromptons over the last 8 years. So no reason for jealousy, and my two points are from personal experience. The video is titled "10 Brompton Problems". I'm just adding two that were common for me. Not bashing the brand. Nothing folds like a Brompton, and they're fun. So I do have more than a clue, I have at least two.
When you purchase a new you have 5 years warranty for frame and gears, after years I guess gears need to be replaced, if you smart you can do by yourself if not you have to find and pay.
Coming from Dahon, I struggled with two issue with my Brompton B75. First the gear 3 noise (thought I received a faulty bike), second the seat pool issue, being short I had to replace it with the standard length instead of the extended one that comes with Brompton B75. Great video
If you had a seat pool issue, you might check for leaks where it is poking , check for burrs, and make sure you have a seat on the bike at all times. Consider the Brooks saddle with a drain slot.
I'm a road biker, took the T-Line for a spin and found the overall flex disconcerting actually (I also have a Ti Road bike, it's comfortable and not flexy). This video explains a few things...
I managed to crack my front mud guard by not turning the handle bars to the left before swinging the rear wheel under the frame. I bought a new mud guard and replaced it, but it was definitely a lesson learned. Seeing your mudguard bend like that somehow without snapping brought back bad memories.
Oh, thanks for sharing! I can easily see that fender breaking. If it was a little more dried out, like a few years old, it could totally have broken there.
This was very helpful. I was concerned about the gears. Makes sense now. I was used to riding bikes with a derailer where you have to shift while peddling.
I love the sound of the internal hub clicking. One thing I noticed when I first got my Brompton was I kept catching my pant leg on the rack wheel when stopping.
OMG this should be required viewing when you buy a Brompton. It answered several concerns I had (like the clicking sound continuing while pedalling), some things I never would have realized, and some stuff I had to figure out on my own (like the seatpost holds the rear wheel in folded mode, and the fact that you shouldn't pedal when shifting the hub).
It is perfectly OK to keep pedalling hub gears while changing, just don't put any driving pressure on them. This is the same technique as recommended for derailieur gears, meaning all Brompton gear changes can be done while *lightly* spinning the pedals.
I agree with all that. I would love them to make a superlight version for travelling. 6mm flanges and bombproof design are great for commuting, but let's get exotic and have a 9kg model for taking on a plane. Even Ford has the Mustang, and the F150.
Thank you for this video. As a new Brompton owner, I had wondered about these too. This has been very validating and comforting. Here are two others I can think of: (1) Why doesn't the front wheel unfold? Because you must first slightly tilt the front end up to release the bracket? (2) Is it normal that a Brompton without a bike rack won't roll on the 3 little roller wheels? Yes, the third wheel is mainly for fender protection and stabilization when folded. With the handlebar extended but everything else folded you tilt the bike slightly onto the other pair of rollers for movement.
3:24 in any cases, shifting gears while going a steep uphill is not advisable as you’re in a risk of having chain cuts. It’s advisable to shift before the ascend
I totally got stymied by the seat post locking the unfolding! Had mostly been storing and rolling through the grocery store with the seat post up and was utterly confused as to why I couldn't unfold it when it was down early on. Made total sense once I figured out what was going on.
On my M6L, I traced an annoying rattle to be coming from the little wheel that is on the rear fender/mudguard. As I do not need to push the bike around in shopping-cart mode, I wedged a thin piece of plastic under that plastic wheel. I have enjoyed a rattle-free ride ever since😃
It's funny when you were talking about the Sturmey Archer gears, all the points you brought up i knew were normal because it brought back memories of using them back in the 1970s when i was a little kid and i haven't even used them since then. I guess you never forget some things.
I keep learning about Brompton with your amazing videos, Victor. Thanks once again. The strange noises from my dear Sturmey always bugged me. It is comforting to hear from someone more experienced that is everything OK.
I own 4 bikes with Rohloff 14 gear hubs. I call nr. 6 and 7 gears: the cat is scratching its nails. So with hubs some gears makes noise. That is normal.
My Brompton is 2000-vintage - with a 5-speed Sturmey-Archer - so never had the rear triangle latch. Usual practice was to use a toestrap to hold the parts together! Another characteristic is that the B. rides better with some weight over the front e.g. a bag of shopping. Depends on rider weight I suppose but even at my lightest I was 70 kg / 155 lbs.
Be careful you dont hit a pot hole. The front wheel can fold under and send you over the bars. The flexing of thd item bars can also fatigue and you may find fhe bars are not attached. Somd early bromptons had a strengther. Had z brompton for years. Never again, too dangerous
My hub makes no ratcheting noise whatsoever when pedalling in any gear. However, I do get the normal ratchet sound when freewheeling along, or when back-pedalling stationary. My Brompton is a six-speed from 2019.
That's what I have. A great choice! Consider also going for the 12% reduced gearing, i.e. 44-tooth chainwheel, as it is easier on the hills and the loss is minimal to zero on the downhills as we often prefer to freewheel on sharp downhills.
@@Muddy283 Do you regret not getting the rack (L vs R)? I took an H6L for a test ride yesterday, it was equipped with a 44 tooth chainring and hills were definitely manageable. This was my first ride on a Brompton and two negatives did stand out - the roads and trails are in bad shape here and much more of that was transmitted to me than on my non folding bike with front suspension and a suspension seat post. The other was the shifting; I know I’d adjust but using two shifters, often simultaneously, with unique requirements (pedaling vs not pedaling), is a very, uh, English system. I also found that the hub seemed misadjusted because under load climbing hills it popped into a different gear several times. Shifting is definitely my least favorite part of the bike. I’m on the fence right now, going to give myself time to digest my impressions and see where I end up.
Hi again@@readyplayer2! Here are my thoughts on your questions: 1. Hub gears popping into a different gear while riding is definitely due to maladjustment and should not be happening - nor does it happen to me...even when fully loaded - either on the hub or the derailleur. Proper adjustment however is necessary - and is very clearly and well explained in the Brompton Technical Videos* 2. The key to the Brompton 6-gear system is to understand that the hub gears provide you with gears 1, 2 & 3 and the derailleur gear lever provides you with a half-step up, thus giving you the three extra gears of 1½, 2½ and 3½. Once you've grasped that, using the Brompton gears should become much easier and intuitive. 3. No, I don't regret at all not getting the rack. Most people I know who have it barely or even never use it so all they're getting (imho) is extra dead weight. As for the added stability it is claimed it gives you when parked, this can be largely compensated by adding the Eazy Wheels to the configuration when purchasing (I forgot to mention this as the other important thing imo to specify when purchasing a Brompton) and, I think (I'm in the process of acquiring it!), getting also the X-Wheel Eazy Wheel Extender: www.bikegang.co.uk/bikeganghut/Brompton-X-Roller-Easy-wheel-extender-AL7075-Strong-Alloy-V-3-p52912213 4. Regarding the bumpier small wheel ride (complete with Bromptonesque minimalist suspension 🥴), unfortunately I can't help you there, except suggesting you ride with softer tyres (not too soft though, otherwise the walls of the tyres could wear somewhat quickly) Hope that helps 😉 ------------------------------- _* I'm astonished to discover that all the original Brompton RUclips Tech Videos have been deleted_ 😵😵. _They have others but they are far fewer and don't seem so good. I have sent a mail to Brompton Support and copied the owner and MD, Will, into the mail, pleading with them - and him - to restore those gems of videos if they haven't already been completely deleted_ 😨. _If and when they are restored, I'll post back here._
i know all of this second nature but it sure is comforting to hear and watch you go through it over and over and over again. Thanks. By the way, I sure love your paved trails on the video.
Great video. But I would argue that the 'Sturmey Archer Rattle', especially if excessively loud, is not normal. It is usually caused by excess play between on the drive-side cone baring and the internal baring thus causing the gear cage that sits between being too loose . The problem can be cured by tightening the right hand cone so that gear cage is tighter, and slackening the left hand cone accordingly so the wheel still runs freely. Its a bit trial and error to get this right but once you do, in will all run better than it left the factory.
Hey, Thank you for the video! On 3:14 you're mentionning a clicking sound on the 3rd gear. Is it normal that it happens as well when the wheel does not turn and I pedal backwards? It also happens on the 2nd gear on my bike...
I own the explorer model for one year.Great bag and paint too. For me the main issue was to eventualy clean the bag inside after some vegetable and fruit shopping. I have solved whit one heineken beer crate who I have attached on a separate bag frame whit solid plastic tyes. I have cut all the separators from inside except two on the corners for plastic bag storage. I also use one rubber cargo net when needed. Also I use this box for chair when I want to sit. I have also put une rubber band from one old bike tube on the main frame for scratching protection and more grip for my son when I carry him standing on the frame. It s look a little junkie but I like this note on Bromton. Cheers from Romania !
@@EverydayCycling Hello I have send the photo today. Mabe it wil be nice to make a short video whit Brompton photos from all members of your channel .cheers
A very simple and convenient modification is to turn the latch mechanism by 180 degrees, so that the latch handle is pointing upwards. This makes folding much faster and more convenient, because you do not have to fiddle "within" the gap between rear triangle an tube for the seatpost.
I has been a long time since I rode my brompton.. But I will be needing it for a trip to Paris... So I was just checking video's for some general maintenance.. and this popped up. I will be adjusting my rear wheel immediately because it is something that has been bothering form the start. I bought for 15 years ago, no internet, so I never knew that how I could adjust it... The seat post was my first lesson, i almost missed a train because it is too heavy for me to carry..
The degree of familiarity with gearhubs seems to be different on the culture you grew up. The Fichtel & Sachs internal 3-speed was more or less the only thing we had in the 80ies, most of us even knew how to service them. Only a handful could afford a posh 10 speed derailleur for their street bikes, a 2 × 10 made us stand in awe. :) Neverthelss, the standard was one gear. Or three: Sit, stand, push.
Well done… again :) Very soothing. We’ve taken our Bromptons to Vancouver. Every day we get comments. Today, two :) Best purchase in a long time. Life on two wheels is great.
Thanks. I'm on my own here and the letter codes and little tricks are something that is not easy for me to figure out--your video helped. They doubled down on the code with the new models, so I need to get after that. I have an R, but beyond that???? Ha
The unlatched mode actually makes it *easier* to carry with the nose of the saddle over your shoulder... it keeps the weight of the rear end closer to your own center of gravity.
Thanks for great review! I would like to know as a possible first time buyer about the ply on the seat. As the seat is so highly placed, won’t the seat stem move back and forth as we cycle?
the unfolding without the sadde pind up, confused me a little the first time, as I had taken my car to service and wanted to ride home on my new bike! And it wouldn't unfold!! But then I realized what was the problem. I also wondered why I couldn't make it fit inside my black B&W travelbox, as I had seen pictures of a folded Brompton inside one, til I found out that Scandinavian Bromptons are sold with a 600 mm post as standard, and that's the problem! But I have bought a telescope post for travels, which will solve my problem, though adding some weight to my Lightweight. But for my own fun I have also bought a black 600mm titanium post with an integrated holder for a saddle, so I will save the added weight of a saddle clamp, though I have bought a lighter Aceoffix clamp, which are lighter than the original, and functions better from my opinion.
The fact that these problems exist on all Brompton bikes doesn't mean they are not actual problems. Just that they come from the design, not from wrong use or abuse. And the fact that for some of them, like the latch and the rear wheel damaging the paint, there are widespread recommendations to get around or avoid them means that they are actual issues for most users. When I saw the title of this video I was expecting explanations as to how and why these "problems" are actually part of the design because they help in some way. And the only one that was covered that way was the flexing stem absorbing the bumps. For all others you simply acknowledge that they exist. I have been looking at Brompton for some time and wanted to get one but it's those kind of little annoyances that constantly hold me from making the move. I hoped this video would help me but it just reminded me why I won't buy one until several of those issues are properly addressed.
Unspoken Brompton ownership problems.
- You will turn into a total bore as you tell everyone who isn't interested just how great they are
- You will have to learn how to not be so self satisfied when friends and coworkers complain about their commute
- any money saved from other means of transport is instantly spent on bags, and other accessories you probably don't need.
Titanium bolts for my Lightweight!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 my lightweight is a 2020 Chpt3. So far I've managed to not think of things like that. Thanks man... I'm now about to lose a Sunday and probably many hundreds of pounds 🤣
Love it!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 I've only recently bought my Brompton...now it is my pet and I'm compelled to spoil it with gifts!!!
That is soooo me, on BOTH counts.
Problem #11: Brompton is damn expensive.
That’s normal.
HAHAH 😅😅😅
That was funny! True.
Is the same as why Ferrari is expensive 🤣🤣
I was thinking the same thing
Actally...
Bromptons are quite cheap. If you want expensive, look at the Birdy.
I came back to this video after bought my Brompton and I noticed gear 3 making different ticking sound when pedalling! Your video reassured this is normal so I have nothing to worry now. Thank you!
Another "thinking person's Brompton video." That sighing sound? I think it's the collective lowering of stress levels amongst Brompton riders. With a video like this, "it's normal." Thanks.
Haha you got it! The idea is to lower stress levels of new Brompton owners. We've all been there and wondered if something was wrong with the bike.
@@EverydayCyclingexactly, I’am a new owner and I can’t unfolding because seat post. I was so frustrated, but this video is perfect to me. Thanks a lot. 🙏🏽🫡
I decided to continue years of researching and considering buying a Brompton, and that's normal.
The seatpost locking confused me as well the first time I couldn't unfold the bike, but once you know that, it actually makes a lot of sense. It's designed so that you can carry the half-folded bike up stairs and the like by holding it at the seat, which would otherwise unfold it.
Go get a real bike dork.
I’m an absolute Brompton “Newbie” and have been enjoying the work you have been putting out. I had to take a moment and thank you for this one in particular. I have noticed a couple of these idiosyncrasies, so it’s good to know there is nothing to be concerned about.
Thanks a again
I really appreciated this video. I've been riding a Brompton for 8 years and I was unaware of the nuances of the internally geared hub - I've certainly noticed the coasting sound but I had always thought something was wrong. Thanks for the reassurances!
I'm glad it was reassuring!
I'm glad I saw this - I was worried when I was riding my girlfriend's Brompton that there was something not right on one of the hinges because I could feel the bike flex so much when I was braking hard. Turns out that's just the way they are!
When you put a new video out about a Brompton… it’s like opening a Xmas present on Xmas day! 🥳😎
AHaha I'm glad you think so. Thanks for being so active on the channel!
My goodness! I watched this video before getting a Brompton but recently had to revisit when my Brompton would lock when unfolding and not kick open! I didn't extend the seat post fully. Thank you so much!
I'll add two more problems I've encountered.
1. Finding a bike mechanic that can work on the bike, especially when traveling and an issue comes up.
2. The 16" Wheel can be a bit dangerous on a lousy, pothole riddled street if you're not focused.
You don’t have clue, just jealous
@@ArTeCh777 That's funny. I owned two Bromptons over the last 8 years. So no reason for jealousy, and my two points are from personal experience. The video is titled "10 Brompton Problems". I'm just adding two that were common for me. Not bashing the brand. Nothing folds like a Brompton, and they're fun. So I do have more than a clue, I have at least two.
When you purchase a new you have 5 years warranty for frame and gears, after years I guess gears need to be replaced, if you smart you can do by yourself if not you have to find and pay.
@@ArTeCh777 yeah you sure told me. You smart, I could tell by your grammar.
1.Mechanics? There are Brompton mechanics?
2. Yep, smaller than 20"s are a bear
Everything's a compromise
Thank you! I thought somethings wrong with my gear hub.
One month with my brompton and I thought that the gear noise was a fault on my bike 🤣🤣🤣. Now I can be proud of that noise!
Coming from Dahon, I struggled with two issue with my Brompton B75. First the gear 3 noise (thought I received a faulty bike), second the seat pool issue, being short I had to replace it with the standard length instead of the extended one that comes with Brompton B75. Great video
If you had a seat pool issue,
you might check for leaks where it is poking , check for burrs,
and make sure you have a seat on the bike at all times.
Consider the Brooks saddle with a drain slot.
I do front and rear unfold at the same time, creates this “pop” effect, way to impress your skeptic all colleagues. 😁
First time to have a brompton and this video assured me that my bike is just fine. Thank you
I'm a road biker, took the T-Line for a spin and found the overall flex disconcerting actually (I also have a Ti Road bike, it's comfortable and not flexy). This video explains a few things...
I managed to crack my front mud guard by not turning the handle bars to the left before swinging the rear wheel under the frame. I bought a new mud guard and replaced it, but it was definitely a lesson learned. Seeing your mudguard bend like that somehow without snapping brought back bad memories.
Oh, thanks for sharing! I can easily see that fender breaking. If it was a little more dried out, like a few years old, it could totally have broken there.
This was very helpful. I was concerned about the gears. Makes sense now. I was used to riding bikes with a derailer where you have to shift while peddling.
I love the sound of the internal hub clicking. One thing I noticed when I first got my Brompton was I kept catching my pant leg on the rack wheel when stopping.
OMG this should be required viewing when you buy a Brompton. It answered several concerns I had (like the clicking sound continuing while pedalling), some things I never would have realized, and some stuff I had to figure out on my own (like the seatpost holds the rear wheel in folded mode, and the fact that you shouldn't pedal when shifting the hub).
It is perfectly OK to keep pedalling hub gears while changing, just don't put any driving pressure on them. This is the same technique as recommended for derailieur gears, meaning all Brompton gear changes can be done while *lightly* spinning the pedals.
I agree with all that. I would love them to make a superlight version for travelling. 6mm flanges and bombproof design are great for commuting, but let's get exotic and have a 9kg model for taking on a plane. Even Ford has the Mustang, and the F150.
Look out for the T line Brompton in the near future
You can do it , but it gets pricey. It's all about compromises.
Very useful, especially how to turn rubber knob to lock the real wheel, which take a while for me without success until I watch your video.
Thank you for this video. As a new Brompton owner, I had wondered about these too. This has been very validating and comforting. Here are two others I can think of:
(1) Why doesn't the front wheel unfold? Because you must first slightly tilt the front end up to release the bracket?
(2) Is it normal that a Brompton without a bike rack won't roll on the 3 little roller wheels? Yes, the third wheel is mainly for fender protection and stabilization when folded. With the handlebar extended but everything else folded you tilt the bike slightly onto the other pair of rollers for movement.
Great video , thank you for clarifying what that rattle is , I've been looking for something loose .
Brilliant video, highlighting all the features that make a Brompton a brilliant bike.
Thank you so much for the first one.. Almost bought a replacement elastomer.
Thanks! I just got my first Brompton and this video is very useful!
These bikes are very well made, enjoy it!!
A lovely, interesting, informative and helpful video with great videography and narration.
Excellent information for a new owner like me! Thank you so much!
3:24 in any cases, shifting gears while going a steep uphill is not advisable as you’re in a risk of having chain cuts. It’s advisable to shift before the ascend
I totally got stymied by the seat post locking the unfolding! Had mostly been storing and rolling through the grocery store with the seat post up and was utterly confused as to why I couldn't unfold it when it was down early on. Made total sense once I figured out what was going on.
3:45 THANKS THANKS THANKS. The only answer I needed.
On my M6L, I traced an annoying rattle to be coming from the little wheel that is on the rear fender/mudguard. As I do not need to push the bike around in shopping-cart mode, I wedged a thin piece of plastic under that plastic wheel. I have enjoyed a rattle-free ride ever since😃
It's funny when you were talking about the Sturmey Archer gears, all the points you brought up i knew were normal because it brought back memories of using them back in the 1970s when i was a little kid and i haven't even used them since then. I guess you never forget some things.
I keep learning about Brompton with your amazing videos, Victor. Thanks once again. The strange noises from my dear Sturmey always bugged me. It is comforting to hear from someone more experienced that is everything OK.
Glad to hear that!
I own 4 bikes with Rohloff 14 gear hubs. I call nr. 6 and 7 gears: the cat is scratching its nails. So with hubs some gears makes noise. That is normal.
BRILLIANT film thank you!!!! It really helped me and the others I shared the link with, on the different hub clicking sounds!!!! ❤
This channel is the most in tune in Brompton owners.
I'm glad you think so, Thanks!
Thank you, you answered a worry I had about the gears clicking. I can now get on and enjoy my cycling knowing “it’s normal” 😀😀
Very usefull and also cool camera angles!
Thanks!
Yup, I’d wondered about quite a few of those. And come to the conclusion they’re perfectly normal..... probably. Nice to have confirmation!
Great info! Way to GO BROMPTON!
great list, very informative! thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video and info. You voice is very clear and professional👍
I am new brompton rider, and your videos are very usefull for me to understand the Brompton engineering.
As an engineer myself, the Brompton still blows my mind.
Fabulous video thanks. Answers questions that we have all had.
Excellent. Answered a lot of questions.
My Brompton is 2000-vintage - with a 5-speed Sturmey-Archer - so never had the rear triangle latch. Usual practice was to use a toestrap to hold the parts together!
Another characteristic is that the B. rides better with some weight over the front e.g. a bag of shopping. Depends on rider weight I suppose but even at my lightest I was 70 kg / 155 lbs.
Be careful you dont hit a pot hole. The front wheel can fold under and send you over the bars. The flexing of thd item bars can also fatigue and you may find fhe bars are not attached. Somd early bromptons had a strengther. Had z brompton for years. Never again, too dangerous
I always do pedal first, handle bar, swing the front wheel, then seat post 😅
My hub makes no ratcheting noise whatsoever when pedalling in any gear. However, I do get the normal ratchet sound when freewheeling along, or when back-pedalling stationary. My Brompton is a six-speed from 2019.
I’ve been mulling over getting an H6L as my first Brompton and it’s very useful to see tips and info like this. Thanks!
Glad to hear it!
you won’t be sorry
That's what I have. A great choice! Consider also going for the 12% reduced gearing, i.e. 44-tooth chainwheel, as it is easier on the hills and the loss is minimal to zero on the downhills as we often prefer to freewheel on sharp downhills.
@@Muddy283 Do you regret not getting the rack (L vs R)? I took an H6L for a test ride yesterday, it was equipped with a 44 tooth chainring and hills were definitely manageable. This was my first ride on a Brompton and two negatives did stand out - the roads and trails are in bad shape here and much more of that was transmitted to me than on my non folding bike with front suspension and a suspension seat post. The other was the shifting; I know I’d adjust but using two shifters, often simultaneously, with unique requirements (pedaling vs not pedaling), is a very, uh, English system. I also found that the hub seemed misadjusted because under load climbing hills it popped into a different gear several times. Shifting is definitely my least favorite part of the bike. I’m on the fence right now, going to give myself time to digest my impressions and see where I end up.
Hi again@@readyplayer2!
Here are my thoughts on your questions:
1. Hub gears popping into a different gear while riding is definitely due to maladjustment and should not be happening - nor does it happen to me...even when fully loaded - either on the hub or the derailleur. Proper adjustment however is necessary - and is very clearly and well explained in the Brompton Technical Videos*
2. The key to the Brompton 6-gear system is to understand that the hub gears provide you with gears 1, 2 & 3 and the derailleur gear lever provides you with a half-step up, thus giving you the three extra gears of 1½, 2½ and 3½. Once you've grasped that, using the Brompton gears should become much easier and intuitive.
3. No, I don't regret at all not getting the rack. Most people I know who have it barely or even never use it so all they're getting (imho) is extra dead weight. As for the added stability it is claimed it gives you when parked, this can be largely compensated by adding the Eazy Wheels to the configuration when purchasing (I forgot to mention this as the other important thing imo to specify when purchasing a Brompton) and, I think (I'm in the process of acquiring it!), getting also the X-Wheel Eazy Wheel Extender: www.bikegang.co.uk/bikeganghut/Brompton-X-Roller-Easy-wheel-extender-AL7075-Strong-Alloy-V-3-p52912213 4. Regarding the bumpier small wheel ride (complete with Bromptonesque minimalist suspension 🥴), unfortunately I can't help you there, except suggesting you ride with softer tyres (not too soft though, otherwise the walls of the tyres could wear somewhat quickly)
Hope that helps 😉
-------------------------------
_* I'm astonished to discover that all the original Brompton RUclips Tech Videos have been deleted_ 😵😵. _They have others but they are far fewer and don't seem so good. I have sent a mail to Brompton Support and copied the owner and MD, Will, into the mail, pleading with them - and him - to restore those gems of videos if they haven't already been completely deleted_ 😨. _If and when they are restored, I'll post back here._
Thank you for your informative videos!
Glad you like them!
i know all of this second nature but it sure is comforting to hear and watch you go through it over and over and over again. Thanks. By the way, I sure love your paved trails on the video.
That trail is really nice! A few stretches are still under construction.
Helpful thanks, I was worried about the noise in gear 3
Great video. But I would argue that the 'Sturmey Archer Rattle', especially if excessively loud, is not normal. It is usually caused by excess play between on the drive-side cone baring and the internal baring thus causing the gear cage that sits between being too loose . The problem can be cured by tightening the right hand cone so that gear cage is tighter, and slackening the left hand cone accordingly so the wheel still runs freely. Its a bit trial and error to get this right but once you do, in will all run better than it left the factory.
Had my first Sturmey Archer in 1969, nice system, a bit hard when riding in the Swiss Alps.
Hey, Thank you for the video!
On 3:14 you're mentionning a clicking sound on the 3rd gear. Is it normal that it happens as well when the wheel does not turn and I pedal backwards? It also happens on the 2nd gear on my bike...
Sell it and get yourself a proper bike.
Cool bike! Had not heard of this folder. Thanks for the vid!
"That's totally normal". Such a relaxing and relieving phrase to hear. Please do a part two. It's very soothing.
Edit: spelling.
Haha I'm glad you found it soothing. I'll make a follow-up to this one with more "totally normal" things to talk about.
@@EverydayCycling Thank you!
How about: When you get your first Brompton you will want to ride it all the time. That's totally normal. =D
@@madiantin when you walk into the Brompton shop just out of curiosity and leave with a bike and a bag, totally normal.
@@EverydayCycling Perfect!
The rear hub is definitely "verbose" and it disturbed me until I asked... You did not talk about cables rubbing on the frame... very good video 👍
Will make sure to add that to a part 2 of this video! Thanks for pointing that out!
Great info. Thank you
I have all those problems, and thnks for the video now I will not think anymore about my Brompton pushbike.
Classic 😂
This is the kind of "owner Q&A" that should be done on each and every product on the market!
Well done!
I own the explorer model for one year.Great bag and paint too.
For me the main issue was to eventualy clean the bag inside after some vegetable and fruit shopping.
I have solved whit one heineken beer crate who I have attached on a separate bag frame whit solid plastic tyes.
I have cut all the separators from inside except two on the corners for plastic bag storage.
I also use one rubber cargo net when needed.
Also I use this box for chair when I want to sit.
I have also put une rubber band from one old bike tube on the main frame for scratching protection and more grip for my son when I carry him standing on the frame.
It s look a little junkie but I like this note on Bromton.
Cheers from Romania !
I'm curious to see what that looks like. Thanks for sharing!
@@EverydayCycling I will try to send you a photo on Instagram from a friend be cauze I dont have IG.
@@EverydayCycling Hello I have send the photo today.
Mabe it wil be nice to make a short video whit Brompton photos from all members of your channel .cheers
A very simple and convenient modification is to turn the latch mechanism by 180 degrees, so that the latch handle is pointing upwards. This makes folding much faster and more convenient, because you do not have to fiddle "within" the gap between rear triangle an tube for the seatpost.
I has been a long time since I rode my brompton.. But I will be needing it for a trip to Paris... So I was just checking video's for some general maintenance.. and this popped up. I will be adjusting my rear wheel immediately because it is something that has been bothering form the start. I bought for 15 years ago, no internet, so I never knew that how I could adjust it... The seat post was my first lesson, i almost missed a train because it is too heavy for me to carry..
Good job with your video complete informat..definitely with all details l need know about brompton..❤❤
The degree of familiarity with gearhubs seems to be different on the culture you grew up. The Fichtel & Sachs internal 3-speed was more or less the only thing we had in the 80ies, most of us even knew how to service them. Only a handful could afford a posh 10 speed derailleur for their street bikes, a 2 × 10 made us stand in awe. :)
Neverthelss, the standard was one gear. Or three: Sit, stand, push.
I had one in the late 90's. The chrome seat post kept slipping and so you had to tighten up the seat clamp bolt which meant you couldn't fold it.
Well done… again :)
Very soothing. We’ve taken our Bromptons to Vancouver. Every day we get comments. Today, two :)
Best purchase in a long time. Life on two wheels is great.
Oh, it is great. Thanks, David!
Thanks good video!
Btw what saddle is that thank u😊
Thanks. I'm on my own here and the letter codes and little tricks are something that is not easy for me to figure out--your video helped. They doubled down on the code with the new models, so I need to get after that. I have an R, but beyond that???? Ha
Heel strike on rollers. Handle bar touching floor when folded. Gears not switching.
Great video. Thank you.
Another great video, love your presentation. Keep them coming.
Thank you! Will do!
I really like this video, so thank you very much :)
👏🏼nice one!! I didn’t know much about that bike until now
Cable rub is also a big one. Make sure you protect the frame where the cables have contact to
Thanks for reminding me of that one. I'll include it on a part 2 of this video!
Always terrific content.. thanks! … What is the Brompton name of that ‘Blue’ colour of bike of yours , looks know kinda 👍
Very interesting video....Thank you......
All this stuff you call `normal` has certainly put me off of ever wanting a Brompton!
That's good! Means it's informative 😌
The Gear Hub sounds and feelings kinda grind my Gears :D
The unlatched mode actually makes it *easier* to carry with the nose of the saddle over your shoulder... it keeps the weight of the
rear end closer to your own center of gravity.
That's true. That's what I do 😉.
Thanks for great review! I would like to know as a possible first time buyer about the ply on the seat. As the seat is so highly placed, won’t the seat stem move back and forth as we cycle?
Informative video, thanks!
Hi. Nice video. How about creaking noises. When I pedal it cresks but the bike is new lol. 😮
the unfolding without the sadde pind up, confused me a little the first time, as I had taken my car to service and wanted to ride home on my new bike! And it wouldn't unfold!! But then I realized what was the problem. I also wondered why I couldn't make it fit inside my black B&W travelbox, as I had seen pictures of a folded Brompton inside one, til I found out that Scandinavian Bromptons are sold with a 600 mm post as standard, and that's the problem! But I have bought a telescope post for travels, which will solve my problem, though adding some weight to my Lightweight. But for my own fun I have also bought a black 600mm titanium post with an integrated holder for a saddle, so I will save the added weight of a saddle clamp, though I have bought a lighter Aceoffix clamp, which are lighter than the original, and functions better from my opinion.
3:07
&
4:40
Ty very much 🙏
3:01 what's that sideways easy wheel configuration on the rear rack?
It's a GoRack. I made a video about it on the channel. Just search youtube for "gorack" and you'll find it!
Great useful video. 👍
Is there any safety issue in leaving the latching system at the rear unengaged as noted at 1:03 of the video?
End video, I like your front block bag. What bag is that? Pls share.. thank you 😊
Where did you get the mirror for the bike that folds well with the bike 🤔
Yep. He really likes the Brompton!
great video!!!
Can you fit wider tyres than it comes with? Got some bumpy canal paths to go on. Cheers.
i love your videos!
I think I had every one of these concerns when I got mine
The fact that these problems exist on all Brompton bikes doesn't mean they are not actual problems. Just that they come from the design, not from wrong use or abuse.
And the fact that for some of them, like the latch and the rear wheel damaging the paint, there are widespread recommendations to get around or avoid them means that they are actual issues for most users.
When I saw the title of this video I was expecting explanations as to how and why these "problems" are actually part of the design because they help in some way. And the only one that was covered that way was the flexing stem absorbing the bumps. For all others you simply acknowledge that they exist.
I have been looking at Brompton for some time and wanted to get one but it's those kind of little annoyances that constantly hold me from making the move. I hoped this video would help me but it just reminded me why I won't buy one until several of those issues are properly addressed.