Disc brakes? Yes!! Bigger wheels? No! "Gravel-able"? No need? For me the Brompton is a city commuter bike so the disc brakes on the regular Bromptons would be a significant, worthwhile, effective upgrade. Bigger wheels almost defeat the objuect of having a Brompton which is how much smaller it is when folded compared to some of the knock-offs. The streets of the UK have pot holes but not much gravel. This I really can't see the point of, at all. Obviously this is just one pov from one rider who uses the bike in a specific way, maybe others think it's a great idea, but not for me. If they put discs on the regular bikes that would make a real difference.
Love it. I want to travel via train to do adventurous rides on and off road without having to take the camper. This opens up so much possibilities. I also don’t have the space for a full size bike at home so this would be great.
i think you should really take a closer look on "vello" bikes - a brand from vienna which basically has a g-line for years now. even with drops if you really wanted
I’ve ridden a Brompton for 4yrs now and it’s been transformative. Always a keen road cyclist, I decided to get a Brompton for cycling to work (I cycle to the train station, get a train into London and then cycle to work). However I’ve also taken to using the Brompton for leisure and also on holidays, it’s so much easier and secure putting the bike in the car as opposed to a bike rack. It’s been so good that my wife also purchased a Brompton and cycles to work (weather allowing) and we love cycling together on UK based holidays. The MOST important feature of the Brompton, which has led us to do all these things, is the fold size. And, in turn, the most important feature of the fold size is the 16 inch wheels. Yes, this does lead to cycling compromises, especially a bit of concern when on uneven, non tarmac tracks (NCN take note!), however I’ve often thought this could be addressed through better, more rugged tyre options ( I find the current tyre option limited, although I may not be looking in the right places). I would be loathe to increase the size of the folded bike as: 1. This is the most important aspect of the bike, and 2. The current size, as small as it is, can still prove awkward to stow on busy trains (it doesn’t fit upright in the end luggage rack, meaning you have to lie it flat, and I have always thought it is way too dodgy to try and put on the overhead rack). So, as much as I find the new G line attractive as a weekend type bike, I would be concerned its larger wheel size would compromise the commuting aspect too much, which, for me, is the whole reason I purchased the bike. However, I do want to say that if you’re thinking of buying a Brompton, and are able to do so, then don’t hesitate. They are fantastic bikes, great fun, outstanding engineering and environmentally progressive. I haven’t owned a car for a number of years and the Brompton is a big part of my ability not to need to. 👍
Thank you for sharing your experience. It seems that the people at Brompton, as the engineers say, started with the wheel size, as this significantly improves comfort and handling, as well as the options for tyre placement. However, it’s true that this does sacrifice some of the compact size in the process.
I love my Brompton as much as you do. I've been cycling for over 25 years, and have ridden everything in that time (road, track, trials, mtb). Nothing has captured me the way the Brompton has. I do agree with your criticisms of the G line, but honestly, I love Bromptons so much that I just want one. I still think most of my commute would be fine. Would fit on the train and under my desk at the office like normal, but I also ride mine to the gym (and bring it inside!), and I'm not sure if it would fit through the pod door. They're just such amazing bikes, and I've been thinking about a 20" for awhile now, considering all of the aftermarket options out there. I'm super glad Brompton is now making one themselves, at a much lower price, and I might even be able to pick one up on cyclescheme!
Great comment. As someone looking to buy a Brompton mostly for city use, with occasional country jaunts and gravel paths, i've been obsessed by the T line with 16" fattish tyres as the ideal solution for compactness, weight, comfort on the road, and occasional jaunts off road. The G-line looks brilliant for the off-road bit, but a complete digression from the original problem that Bromptoms solve so well, which is city riding and commuting. I wish they had started with 16" for this one. If I want to do a proper gravel ride, i'll take my gravel bike (which doesn't really need to be folded, and weekend trains don't have the same restrictions as weekday commuters). The G line feels a bit gimmicky to me, although I absolutely will be trying one when I get the chance!
@@bradk7462 Is it really for gravel though? I don't have a Brompton, but would love to get one to do multi-hour rides out somewhere were I possibly have a car taking me back home (I live in the US, things are way more spread out!). I've been reticent to try that on 16-inch wheels. It seems like this may be the ticket.
@@fireboy6748As I see it, folding bikes are essentially a compromise between minimum fold up size and performance on the road. Bikes with larger 20-in wheels not only give better handling and ride, but they also have room for a proper rear derailleur up to 8 or 9 gears, more than enough for climbing steep hills and fast descents. 16 inch wheels have to use Sturrmey archer type three speed hub gears with fixed ratios that cannot be changed. Which you buy (20 inch or 16 inch) depends on what matters to you most.
Those jumps breached the Brompton-documented warranty terms for the G Line. If this is really a Brompton-sponsored video, then this constitutes contributory negligence should any future user (or their estate, in the worst case) make a legal claim against Brompton, GCN and Play Sports Network arising from any bike defect, and the consequences, after performing similar off-road jumps.
I’m currently in Belgium having just ridden my standard C-Line Brompton 374 miles, starting at the Hook and then conquered 24 of the Flandrien Challenge bergs/cobble sections (including De Muur & the Oude Kwaremont) and NOW you tell me about the G-Line!! A heads-up would have been nice.
Firstly, glad we have a successful bicycle manufacturing company in the UK that makes bikes in the UK. It just shows that with innovative products we can still beat the rest of the world and be profitable. Secondly, although I had never considered a bicycle like this, the new model with larger wheels id definitely something I would think about owning.
I watched the Brompton race, Congrats on placing. I live in Texas and had never seen one. I took a 5 day trip to Germany this month and saw them EVERYWHERE . I thought it would be great to be able to travel with a bike. Picking my road bike up from a shop tune-up, I stopped in a couple Bicycle shops just to look at some bikes. Living on a ranch an hour from the nearest shop, it was a great opportunity. And there they were, Brompton's!! A C Line Electric 4 speed was $3,950 and an Explore 6 speed was $1850. Blown away. We're a little behind on the versions but what a great bike I could actually travel with. Cool Encounter. The new bikes are awesome, I have a few trips to EU and possible UK in the future, that would make an excellent "souvenir" Great presentation !
I see people commenting that the bigger wheels/larger size negates the folding, urban, commuter use case (which makes sense), but this G Line seems best suited for international bikecamping/touring trips involving plane/train/ferry rides and weekend getaway jaunts where bringing multiple full-sized bikes is a hassle. Same Brompton name but appears to be a different use case altogether.
Disagree - slightly - if our (UK) roads were still in first world order, a 16 inch Brompton would be fantastic and loads of commuter fun and the G Line a great out of town option. But our roads are approaching 3rd world now - I think this could be a brilliant commuter too
Hi GCN, Have you guys ever talked about the main reason a lot of us want a folding bike? That is, if you live in a city famous for bike theft, being able to take it with you into your job is a huge bonus. (Plus riding on trains etc.) I admire Bromptons but never wanted one because my city is renowned also for its potholes, bad construction and crumbling street infrastructure (Philadelphia, PA). Now with 20" wheels, a Brompton might become a possibility. I have two folding bikes because I can take them into my office -- a Tern and a Montague. Both are fine and have 26" wheels. The Montague has a stiffer frame so I cannot feel that it is a folding frame at all. The Tern is okay, but on hard climbs, sometimes you can feel the frame creak and strain in a way that is not reassuring. There are a surprising number of steep hills around Philadelphia, including gorgeous nature trails in the Wissahickon gorge, which is deep and steep, some trails as much as 15%.
I wouldn't worry. I ride a Flevobike Greenmachine that uses the same wheels (actually 50mm width instead of the Bromptons 54mm on a 406 wheel) and it takes potholes and tree roots like a champ.
I agree with you with the potholes and road conditions, New York City is similar That's why I'm excited for the g line. My biggest worry though about the new g-line despite the slightly larger tires is being able to handle the hills in New York City, I live towards the north side of the city where it just gets more hilly the more north you go and there are some very steep hills
As an owner of 2 Bromptons, one electric, this is an exciting change. I'll be at the head of the line when these come to the US especially since we have moved from the city to the country recently. I'm sure when I told my wife this morning that the G line was coming that she didn't immediately clue in that I'll start saving for one today. Well done Bromptons and GCN for the great video!
Exactly smoother ride more range with the slightly bigger wheels, But keeping the frame and its features the same, This thing is great. The only thing is I'm really really hoping that they made this so that it can handle hills very well. Otherwise I might complain about that part
This bike fits a niche I've been looking for for a long time now. I love my 16" Brompton but on gravel it's less than ideal. Here we have the solution. Yes, the bigger wheels make for a bigger bike but by keeping the Brompton fold true to the original Brompton, you still get the most 'gravely' bike with the smallest fold out there. It's on my Christmas list, in case my wife is reading this!
As a Dane, I must add that we seem to have "Polished Gravel" on our passes, as I have never had a puncture on my 2019 Brompton (Original tires)! Only a certain size of stones seems to be placed at intervals to stop the riding, for having to pick them out from the smallest distance between the wheel and the mudguards, where they keep hiding and making noises😁! Finn. Denmark
It must be said that there's nothing new about 20" wheels on a folding bike, they go back many decades. I have an old Raleigh that has 20" wheels and 1 3/4" tyres. Larger wheels and fat tyres make for greater comfort. Of course both come at the expense of being less compact when folded.
I have an old 3 gear Brompton. I commute from my house in Wembley to London Bridge. That's a 25 mile return trip. It does a great job. I've had my Brompton for many years. It's the best around town. It fits in the boot of my Saab 99 without the need for a rack, when required. Perfect. This opens up weekend jaunts in new terrain. I like the idea 🤔😃❤
Ive been thinking of getting a Brompton for a while because travelling by bike and train is so unreliable and therefore often stressful in the UK. Even if you reserve a space for your bike there is no guarantee that you will actually get that space, often it will be filled with suitcases or buggies. Bromptons are clearly the best folding bike available, based on sales and reputation, everyone I've ever spoken to who owns one sings there praises. I value comfort and versatility in all my bikes so the G-Line looks like a good way to go. I'm 6'1'' so sizing options are another big plus, well done Brompton!
Old man's got one. He's a little taller than us, it's reliable. Still fits snug. Might try to upgrade the folks on to this version for the extra comfort.
Bought a Brompton for the same reason. In case it helps, you can buy an extended seatpost on a regular Brompton. It was about £70 - but for what I needed it for it was worth it. I'm 6ft and the extended seatpost works well for me with plenty of room for someone taller I'd imagine.
Avanti's pendelino trains are usually very straight forward for travelling with a bike once you have a reservation. They physically won't allow people to put anything other than bikes in that space. Otherwise yes, provision for bikes on trains in the UK is all over the place.
@@AutiSam1974 A lot of people have understandably mentioned the price, and this bike in particular is not for me, but if you end up using your Brompton for commuting instead of a car then, over time, compared with a car, taking into account initial purchase, insurance, petrol and the rest, it's possibly going to save thousands. If it's not a replacement for a car, then the equations is a bit different. I gritted my teeth when I bought mine because it is for an essential train journey and it's the only way to guarantee getting a bike on a train.
Done a number Brompton customer surveys; they've incorporated pretty much everything I ever asked for - although I'd like to have seen more anti-theft measures on the electric version
I,m working in bicycle industries and I am a cyclist myself (mainly gravel, some MTB) . As i admire the Brompton engineering , NEVER even cross my mind to owe one- until now. I have this beauty yesterday in my hand and I was in love with it. I would absolutely love to have one (unfortunately £2,5k for me its out of question )
I’ve been riding bikes again after many years, for five years now. And I’m so glad to be on bike again, but the problem I have is that as a visually, impaired person. Is that the bike is my only option beyond walking and Transit. And with the lower back and sciatic nerve pain I’ve had for quite a few years, the bike was the only way to get around that was comfortable for me. And now that I’ve lost about 30 pounds, done more physical therapy, and made sure to get out and move around more, the back issues and the sciatic nerve pain have all but dropped away. Unlike people in their car is going through drive-through is all the time, I’ve been turned away from restaurants because I did not want to leave the bike outside to be stolen so the Brompton looks like the true solution for me, but with my weight being over 200, it doesn’t offer much in the way of choice choices for carrying capacity. The regular Brompton smacks out at 242 pounds for everything, and the P line to me is the most attractive because of its lighter weight. But if I ever wanna go anywhere and I need to haul anything, I really can’t do it on it so when they announce the G line with a max weight capacity of 287 pounds, then it starts to look a whole lot more attractive for me. I don’t relish the greater weight, but the fact that they have put bearings into the rollers, should help a great deal. The thing that makes the Brompton so attractive is that it strikes that balance between greater accessibility and greater mobility. and the reason I say that is because of the distances I can cover on it versus walking.
I had a go on one of these, really nice to ride. I can see these being a massive hit. Fun to ride. I wanted more sweep in the handlebars, but that’s easily fixable.
The 2015 M3L is the best money I’ve ever spent. Im not anti new innovations but I’ve been so upset that the 3 speed hub has been dropped. The new G line looks good and I love the fact Brompton have seen sense and fitted it with an 8 speed hub. If they would only give us a 16” Brompton with an 8 speed hub - what a popular bike that would be for short rides to the shops and long rides to John O’Froats. Come on Brompton … 👍🏻
I suspect the larger hub diameter of the Alfine vs the SA would make it an absolute pig to build into a 16" wheel... I know it's only a couple of cm difference and I'm not saying no-one's ever done it, but to do it quickly and consistently on a production line is a different matter... Damn shame they dropped the 3-speed hub, that would have been my choice if I ever bought one :-(
This was designed for me - you have to book your bike on trains in the Scottish Highlands well in advance due to tight restrictions. This would open up many more possibilities to enjoy off road riding, making or changing plans at the last minute.
I've been riding my Brompton for 25 years but I'd love a G-Line. I recently did the Way of the Roses (Coast to Coast) and had to hire a bike because of the restrictions of taking a bike on the trains. A G-Line looks like it would be great for this. Unfortunately I can't justify the price.
20" trifolds from other brands have existed for years, same quality but way lower price tags (20%). There's no need to pay a premium to buy a brand name, companies like brompton just wanna charge a premium over the fact that cars are that much more expensive seeing people are switching from driving to bike commuting.
I agree, the price is very steep. What used to be the price to pay for the small size is hard to justify. I don't have this kind of budget. So I've been riding a Tern Verge D9, with slightly bigger wheels 22in that cost half the price and weigh the same. I upgraded to Shimano Deore and Schwalbe one tyres. I ride it every day in London and on light trails and it's rock solid after 5 years. I just finished London-Brighton last week-end on it I had so much fun on it. It handled Ditchling Beacon quite well. The new Brompton might be a good bike, but this new bigger size positions it in a slightly different category where I feel the competition is a lot stronger. It would be interesting to do a video comparing this G line with the Tern Verge either D9 or P10.
@@ashchbkv6965 That's what came to my mind about this. There's a brand called "Mint" that makes a 20" trifold with disc brakes and 9 speeds for way less than this thing. The only difference is that it doesn't fit tires as wide as this G-line.
This is the answer to all my problems but for the gearing. I've been searching for years for a rollable folding bike for easy transport on the trains in Japan, that was comfortable to ride (my 2017 Brompton is just terrible for long touring), and that had low enough gearing (lowest needs to be 18-19 inches) for the mountain roads here in Japan. This bike meets two of those three requirements, but the lowest gear is still too high. If I can replace the Alfine with a Rohloff (which should be possible if the rear triangle can fit an Alfine), however, then this will be the last bike I ever need to buy. Can't wait to see more reviews of it.
Sorry if the question is stupid, but how do you measure gearing in inches? Is it the gear ratio times the wheel radius? In that case, wouldn't it make sense to also divide by the crank length? You would get a (dimensionless) number which is the ratio between the force exerted on the pedal and the force produced at the tyre Edit: I looked it up and it turns out "gear inches" are exactly what I guessed, and the number I proposed is called the "gain ratio"
The easiest way of lowering your gears is to fit a smaller chainring. You will lose top end of course. I had to do this for my mum's folding bike (Bickerton Argent 1707 Country).
@@HughDWallace From the Brilliant Bikes video on the G-Line, it appears the smallest possible chainring is 50 teeth. That brings the gear range for an Alfine 8 with a 22 tooth sprocket to between 22.4 and 68.6 inches. That’s just not enough for touring.
@@PeterBaggins Brompton don't appear to offer anything smaller than a 50T but it is easy to buy a different crankset for a square taper BB. Mum's bike came with 50T FSA crankset and I bought a smaller chainring (might have been 38T) & changed it over in an afternoon. The chain tensioner on the Brompton should be able to handle smaller chainrings though you'll need to shorten the chain I'd guess.
@@HughDWallace I’m not sure you can replace the BB in this new G-Line with a 39 tooth chainring like you can in the other Bromptons. There seems to be a chain guard that only works with the larger chainrings. Also, a 39 tooth chainring would bring your top gear down to 53.5 inches which is just ridiculous. I suspect that Brompton have fitted the Alfine 8 because it’s cheap and the rest of the bike is already so expensive that adding a Rohloff would have put off too many potential customers. At least it’s possible for home modifiers with enough cash (I’m retiring next year and my wife has let me buy one more bike as my retirement present haha) to make the modification without having to replace the triangle, forks, cabling etc etc. I’m going to start saving right now for one.
I have been riding the kinetics 20 inch MTBrompton (all steel) for more than a year now. It has alfine 11 speed and 2.4inch tyres. Everything I wanted from a gravel brompton
As an 20-year long Brompton user, riding it in various countries; I think the G-line looks great, I would love to try it. My biggest gripe about the Brompton design has been the weight and their use of materials. A titanium frame is cool, but too expensive. Why not make an aluminium or carbon frame? Lugging a Brompton from metro station to metro station is not fun. Several countries require folding bikes to be inside a bag to allow them on trains, so then it's not really an option to use the little wheels on the back.
Watching this after completing a weeklong tour on a regular C-Line through Transylvania/rural Romania. No roads there, only directions. This is LITERALLY the bike I was sketching up in my mind as those 16 inch wheels of my beloved Brom rattled over stones and roots. Cheers to the engineers at Brompton for finally creating the ultimate adventure bike!!
@@endianAphones Hi it was 60k and 40k on two days mostly hilly terrain. I would say that a similar priced gravel bike is probably more efficient because an Alfine hub got a little more drag compared to a super clean chaindrive, I would also recommend to change for tubeless or tpu tubes for more efficienty. The tires is great but the tube is only a "standard" Schwalbe and quite thick. I took the bike with the train to the start and at the end I put it in a trunk of a Renault Clio - something I could not have done with my regular gravelbike. And it felt super stable and smooth on the gravel downhills, something I did not expect.
This is interesting to me as I got a mini velo 406 20 inch bike last year for urban riding - a Velo Orange Neutrino. With extra light wheels and 2.1 inch tires and a 155 crank this thing is super maneuverable in urban settings, takes off like a rocket from stops and weighs 11kg so easy to carry up stairs. I’ve decked it out with racks and now use my car less than half as frequently as I used to. The wheels deal with crappy road surfaces but I went all out with a Redshift stem and suspension dropper post. My plan is to add a hub motor. The Brompton has the bonus of being foldable. I’d totally recommend 20 inch bikes if you do a lot of urban riding.
@@ruzziasht349 don’t care. In 50 years of riding 15 odd bikes from an Eatons Chopper with sissy bar to a Bianchi Specialissima to whatever in mountain bike tech it’s the most fun bike I’ve ever ridden. When you get old these things matter more.
I can see this being very successful. It will appeal to those who want to fling the bike in the boot of their car at the weekend and go riding country trails or exploring coastal towns.
You know, I was in London very recently and I saw a bike like this out on the street and I thought, no way that’s a Brompton, just look at the wheels. But it screamed Brompton in every way (except it had no branding I could discern) to the point where I wanted to flag the rider down and ask. Obviously I didn’t do that, and in the end I chalked it up to a larger knockoff. But now I’m not so sure. I have a pair of inexpensive Zizzo bi-folders that are this size and I think they’re such a great sweet spot. Granted they cost 1/5th what the G-line does for the same kit (albeit heavier, but with a 300-pound payload), but they’re nowhere near as nice. What matters most, I think, is that this size is proven. So happy Brompton made this.
A lot of people are asking "will it commute?" I couldn't find the info on Brompton's site but according to Cycling Weekly's review, the folded size of the G-Line is "690mm (h) x 730mm (l) x 402mm (w) in a size Small, [against 650mmx585mmx 270mm for the standard Brompton]". So it's obviously not as svelte as the original, we all knew that, but it should still fit under an office desk. Might not slide into the smaller nooks and crannies on the train though, so get to the luggage rack first!
Interested to see if they introduce bike packing accessories, I love my current Brompton B75 but really not possible to go bike packing on it & while I know there are bigger more suitable bikes out there for that, I just love Bromptons and as a petite woman find them a much more comfortable ride & love that I can just bung it on a train or bus if needed 😊
I’m most excited about the disc brakes! I’m really hoping they bring those to the 16 inch line. If I were to get a g line it would be because of the brakes.
Finally, I’ve been waiting for this since I first purchased a Brompton six years ago. I currently have a custom 20 inch titanium Brompton now but with a stand Shimano derailer instead of a hub gear system and it’s pretty light so really what I’m looking for is a titanium version of this G series call it a GT.
Brilliant timing, building my own version of this already, wanted a BMX/MTB/ folder that fits in my car, 20!inch wheels, 2.4 tyres 8 speed claris...made in steel for prototype, not light..but funny how we're all heading the same way, been on the cards for a while as kenetics made a kit This will be competition for bike Friday, also a very capable bike I try mine in Ashton court too!
Waiting for a GT Line already Fact that people say its heavy is wrong. There are lot of room to shed weight. The gear hub, derailleurs, bb, cranks, inner tube, etc.
I love my old Brompton, it’s what got me back into cycling four years ago. Also having just bought a Moulton, I agree that 20” wheels roll so much better. If I hadn’t just got the Moulton, I’d be all over one of these. Also… how about a bit of Moulton content on GCN? Much like Brompton they’re another venerable British brand, c’mon guys show ‘em a bit of love.
I really like the look of this new Brompton. I have owned a Brompton for about 12 years and use it mainly on holiday when camping. This summer I took it on some single tracks and found it quite hard to stay upright. This new G line would definitly be more stable on rough narrow tracks. We have a Brompton dealer in my town so I will be keeping my eye out for when it arrives here.
I have a U.S. made Bike Friday 20" wheel folding bicycle. It's a good bike, but doesn't fold as compactly as the Brompton. I'll be buying the Brompton G-line when it comes out. My only comment is that it should have a belt drive vs. the chain drive. I have the Shimano Alfine 11 speed hub with belt drive and I never want to go back to a chain. The belt drive is zero maintenance.
I have been using my Brompton T-Line als my main commuting and leisure bike since 2023 and i am totally loving this bike so much! The G-Line will be bought on the first day after it releases!
I've had my Brompton 2.5 years. Love it. It's nothing like my normal bikes, but it's the bike that can be available when my others are not. For that reason I don't mind that it feels so different, because it gets used when the only other options would be walking or public transport. I've used mine off road and for longer rides. So I'm definitely curious about the G line.
I do a lot of touring in all sort of terrains with my Brompton, I had never a problem off road. Of course I am very curious but perhaps although the G-line is folded in the same way, it can be too big to have the flexibility using public transport than with a "normal" Brompton. Definitely I am very tempted, but I have doubts to change my trusty Brompton for this one.
Smart!! I actually had written BROMTON off my list when I test rode one last year - just felt a tad bit dainty for urban terrain which includes pot holes and going on and off curbs to survive -- BUT THEY ARE BAXK ON BLOCK ! BRAVO!! and there's the E-version too!? Out of my price range BUT STILL NEAR THE TOP OF MY WISH LIST!
I have a stunning raw lacquer Super light (P-Line), but do serious daily millage some on gravel/hardback. Was looking at other options but Brompton have just delivered the perfect upgrade!
I rode my Brompton 9 Streets across Bulgaria using mostly farm and forest tracks. It is certainly doable. But you do need to be a bit of a masochist and the bike certainly is not made for it. There was quite a lot of pushing. The G1 is a real shocker. Brompton have added all the new things that were needed in one go. We can finally get rid of the "City Bike" tag line for this model. I still think the chainwheel is going to be too big for me. But thats an easy fix. The G1 could end up being their best seller.
I would love one if it wasn't so darn heavy! I had a 20 inch Tern Verge x20 and it rode like a proper Road Bike but the fold was really clumsy.. like an afterthought. And I found because of the folded size I would never take it anywhere because it was just too unwieldy. Then the T Line came and I thought that was the perfect bike. But if only it had larger tires and disc brakes. I hope those features trickle down to a new T-line. Oh and tubeless tires too. Till then I'll keep riding my trusty T Line. I will go and test ride that bike when it hits the states.. you know... just for fun!
I have done a fair few of Simon Warren's best cycling climbs on my standard Brompton.... very tough at times... but with better handling and a 8 speed ratio this is certainly the one I need!
This is ah-ma-zing! I’m and roadie, and a gravel rider, and I already want one of these, they look great, look like a lot of fun, an possibly an ideal commuter / everyday bike for people who live a bit more rurally! As well as for campers, caravaners etc…
Frankly: I can't wait to get one! Seven years ago, I've replaced our second family car with a Reese & Mueller Birdy folding bike and moved from this one to Brompton after a year or so. Since I'm a little taller I still can't find a riding position comfortable enough for longer rides on the 16", and I hope that the G-Line will be able to provide just that.
Thanks for the excellent and informative video. I've ridden an H3L now for several years, for general use and for touring in Europe in conjunction with buses/trains/boats. I find it a very good bike for this, including gravel track riding (at a sensible speed of course!). I also have a Dahon Vitesse with 20" wheels, which weighs in at only 1.5kg heavier than the brommy, as its made from alloy. I have to say that I don't find much difference between the 16 and 20 inch wheels, they do ride similarly. However, the brommy is the better quality bike between the 2, a bit unfair as the Dahon is very good and only cost me £600 in 2014. I do see the attraction of the 20" brommy though, it looks as if it performs as well as a full size bike, if that's the case then I could replace 3 of my bikes with just the one!
As a Brompton and hybrid rider I can see the attraction. My original sized Bromptons are superb but for some rides I use a disc braked Trek. I for one can see the attraction of replacing the Trek with another Brompton (e.g. for gravel and no need to carry multiple heavy duty city locks as a folder comes inside with you, and could easily be carried by car for those further away pleasure rides)
I’ve got a 10 year old 6 speed Brompton,it looks very tempting to sell my existing one & get the G line,I think it will be a great success for Brompton👍.Colin P.
Never ridden a Brompton. But this new model is simply brilliant. Brompton has created a foldable bike that has the same ride quality as a full-size bike and you can ride it almost anywhere. That is brilliant!! Will I buy one. Not sure, but this bike is certainly number one on my list if I am going to buy a foldable bike.
I love my regular Brompton which I have had for about 8 years now. I love in the peak district and it gets some hammer up the hills as you can imagine on my commute from Buxton to Matlock. It is my favourite bike I own as I just find it a joy to ride and I don't feel like I have anything to prove on it. However, one bug bear of mine is the rear triangle hinge which needs replacing frequently. I have asked father Christmas this year to buy me the quite expensive reaming tool so I can do it myself. This is also because with living in the sticks my nearest Brompton dealership is quite some distance away. My LBS won't touch this with a barge pole. I was wondering wether or not Brompton have reconsidered this aspect of their design within the G Line range. It is my opinion, that there is room for making this either more robust or easily serviceable if they haven't considered it?
Nice bike! Especially in the orange frame. But for those of you considering a folding bike I want to recommend Bickerton as a much cheaper alternative. I bought my mum an Argent 1707 Country a few years ago. It weights 12.8kg and comes with 20" wheels. No disk brakes but V so plenty of stopping power. To be fair, it doesn't fold as neatly as a Brompton but it is a lot cheaper.
A good move by Brompton. I created a similar bike to the G Line based on a folding Giant Expressway. Kenda Aptor 20x1.75 tyres, 11-34 8sp Acera, 70mm stem, wider bars, and a brooks flyer saddle. A lot of fun. You sound like Jeremy Clarkson on the intro😅
Been riding same Brompton 24 years (+ a few parts changes….). Looking for a bigger bike as I approach old codgerdom you’ve supplied the answer! Thanks Brompton! Really looking forward to getting my hands on one of these.
Mmm sounds familiar... ...20" wheels, wide tyres, hydraulic disc brakes, 8 speed Alfine hub gears, dynamo lights, adjustable handle bars, carbon belt drive and fast fold... ...and that's my Tern Verge S8i. Nice bike. Good ride. Not as light as you'd like... ...but I STILL prefer to use my single speed Brompton even in the Galloway hills.
This is a shallow comment, but the reason I like it most is that I think it looks amazing, in addition to being practical. I 100% appreciate the offer of the original Bromptons, and that their practicality and small folded size comes from their wheel size, but they just look... it's too much for me. I can't be the only one. I think this will open Bromptons up to a broader appeal.
I can see the G-line being very popular. The B16 is great for urban transport, especially when moving from place to place by train or bus. The B20 will do the same for leisure, but with a bit more comfort for longer rides. I am very tempted.
Anyone who doesn't appreciate some electric assistance for city riding isn't actually riding in cities. So much easier and safer to swim with the sharks when you have Tour-power in the legs. And now we need the Brompton Chopper, same bike, same motor, just with chrome high-rise bars and a banana seat. 😀
I am delighted to see that they have changed to disc brakes (the conventional brakes ruined my rims within 5 yrs) and the gearing (the +/- shift on my 6 spd fails at the first sign of any moisture or dust). Mine has been a wonderful bike with mediocre components - it looks like they're fixing these, which is more important than changing wheel size, I believe. Well done!
Seems like a bike I'd consider buying if I were still living in the US. As others have said, the bigger folded size would make me think twice before getting one, as the 16" version one already "just fits" in a number of situations like car trunks or train luggage racks (I live in France and have taken my Brompton to the UK and Germany). However, that wouldn't be as much of an issue in the US since they have more space, bigger cars etc... so the bigger size wouldn't make much of a difference. And since they also have longer distances in general, the bigger wheels and nicer feel on the road would come in handy.
Really like it but I don't think I should be buying a 3rd Brompton 😀. Maybe sell one of the other two but then which one ? 😁 That aside I think if I did I'd go with the electric if I did. I don't have the best back so wouldn't want to carry a G-line far but an electric version would give me more possibilities to venture out further from where I spend much of my time (near Dartmoor) to follow some trails while able to fold it up to store when not in use. Many like me probably already thinking a titanium one would interesting but maybe given it's use case that wouldn't be ideal. And would probably create a superlight first is my guess, so rear triangle titanium. Great job by Brompton! Looks great.
20" wheels are more than enough for gravel and light off roading. I've got a single speed folding bike with 20s and I regularly rip it around on gravel roads, it is stupid fun!
Fantastic! well done for Brompton, I think this would make riding all the more enjoyable. Like many others I own an Brompton already and been very happy with it including during a period of heavy commuting in London. With this though I would be tempted to ride it on paths and go a little further on it too, just for the fun. Question is I have for myself is would this replace my original Brompton? I don't think I could justify owning both.... A version with Titanium rear section and fork would be even more appealing to cut on weight - like the old super light version that I already own.
I imagine the more comfortable out-of-the-saddle pedalling experience is due largely to the wider handlebars, as well as the larger wheels. The narrow traditional bars are a bit squirrely.
I have it's Austrian competitor, the Vello Gravel. I've just ridden it (with a torn ACL I hasten to add) from Luxembourg to Bilbao over two weeks in August. If it rides anything like that bike I'd be happy. I'm a bit sad this bike wasn't available for my trip because I think it wins on the fold compared to the Vello Gravel. I'm already a C line owner but baulked at the idea of doing that trip on it, but it was probably imminently possible.
I have been commuting with my C line explore for 2 years, and have been expecting a 12 gear version for my wife. The G line is definitely too good to miss.
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
What do you think of the new Brompton G-Line? 🚵
Disc brakes? Yes!! Bigger wheels? No! "Gravel-able"? No need? For me the Brompton is a city commuter bike so the disc brakes on the regular Bromptons would be a significant, worthwhile, effective upgrade. Bigger wheels almost defeat the objuect of having a Brompton which is how much smaller it is when folded compared to some of the knock-offs. The streets of the UK have pot holes but not much gravel. This I really can't see the point of, at all. Obviously this is just one pov from one rider who uses the bike in a specific way, maybe others think it's a great idea, but not for me. If they put discs on the regular bikes that would make a real difference.
Love it. I want to travel via train to do adventurous rides on and off road without having to take the camper. This opens up so much possibilities. I also don’t have the space for a full size bike at home so this would be great.
i think you should really take a closer look on "vello" bikes - a brand from vienna which basically has a g-line for years now. even with drops if you really wanted
Happy to see innovation from Brompton. Very interesting product but missing on gear range for gravel, something easy to solve with an Alfine 11 speed…
The hunchback looks a bit like the dahon ion hollywood..
I’ve ridden a Brompton for 4yrs now and it’s been transformative. Always a keen road cyclist, I decided to get a Brompton for cycling to work (I cycle to the train station, get a train into London and then cycle to work). However I’ve also taken to using the Brompton for leisure and also on holidays, it’s so much easier and secure putting the bike in the car as opposed to a bike rack. It’s been so good that my wife also purchased a Brompton and cycles to work (weather allowing) and we love cycling together on UK based holidays. The MOST important feature of the Brompton, which has led us to do all these things, is the fold size. And, in turn, the most important feature of the fold size is the 16 inch wheels. Yes, this does lead to cycling compromises, especially a bit of concern when on uneven, non tarmac tracks (NCN take note!), however I’ve often thought this could be addressed through better, more rugged tyre options ( I find the current tyre option limited, although I may not be looking in the right places). I would be loathe to increase the size of the folded bike as: 1. This is the most important aspect of the bike, and 2. The current size, as small as it is, can still prove awkward to stow on busy trains (it doesn’t fit upright in the end luggage rack, meaning you have to lie it flat, and I have always thought it is way too dodgy to try and put on the overhead rack). So, as much as I find the new G line attractive as a weekend type bike, I would be concerned its larger wheel size would compromise the commuting aspect too much, which, for me, is the whole reason I purchased the bike. However, I do want to say that if you’re thinking of buying a Brompton, and are able to do so, then don’t hesitate. They are fantastic bikes, great fun, outstanding engineering and environmentally progressive. I haven’t owned a car for a number of years and the Brompton is a big part of my ability not to need to. 👍
Thank you for sharing your experience. It seems that the people at Brompton, as the engineers say, started with the wheel size, as this significantly improves comfort and handling, as well as the options for tyre placement. However, it’s true that this does sacrifice some of the compact size in the process.
I love my Brompton as much as you do. I've been cycling for over 25 years, and have ridden everything in that time (road, track, trials, mtb). Nothing has captured me the way the Brompton has. I do agree with your criticisms of the G line, but honestly, I love Bromptons so much that I just want one. I still think most of my commute would be fine. Would fit on the train and under my desk at the office like normal, but I also ride mine to the gym (and bring it inside!), and I'm not sure if it would fit through the pod door.
They're just such amazing bikes, and I've been thinking about a 20" for awhile now, considering all of the aftermarket options out there. I'm super glad Brompton is now making one themselves, at a much lower price, and I might even be able to pick one up on cyclescheme!
Great comment. As someone looking to buy a Brompton mostly for city use, with occasional country jaunts and gravel paths, i've been obsessed by the T line with 16" fattish tyres as the ideal solution for compactness, weight, comfort on the road, and occasional jaunts off road. The G-line looks brilliant for the off-road bit, but a complete digression from the original problem that Bromptoms solve so well, which is city riding and commuting. I wish they had started with 16" for this one. If I want to do a proper gravel ride, i'll take my gravel bike (which doesn't really need to be folded, and weekend trains don't have the same restrictions as weekday commuters). The G line feels a bit gimmicky to me, although I absolutely will be trying one when I get the chance!
@@bradk7462 Is it really for gravel though? I don't have a Brompton, but would love to get one to do multi-hour rides out somewhere were I possibly have a car taking me back home (I live in the US, things are way more spread out!). I've been reticent to try that on 16-inch wheels. It seems like this may be the ticket.
@@fireboy6748As I see it, folding bikes are essentially a compromise between minimum fold up size and performance on the road. Bikes with larger 20-in wheels not only give better handling and ride, but they also have room for a proper rear derailleur up to 8 or 9 gears, more than enough for climbing steep hills and fast descents. 16 inch wheels have to use Sturrmey archer type three speed hub gears with fixed ratios that cannot be changed. Which you buy (20 inch or 16 inch) depends on what matters to you most.
Can we have some thumbs up for Si’s jumping skills too?!
✌🏼👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Lend it to Blake for a proper test 😅😅
I second that let Blake jump it
One vote for Sam Pilgrim!
Those jumps breached the Brompton-documented warranty terms for the G Line. If this is really a Brompton-sponsored video, then this constitutes contributory negligence should any future user (or their estate, in the worst case) make a legal claim against Brompton, GCN and Play Sports Network arising from any bike defect, and the consequences, after performing similar off-road jumps.
I’m currently in Belgium having just ridden my standard C-Line Brompton 374 miles, starting at the Hook and then conquered 24 of the Flandrien Challenge bergs/cobble sections (including De Muur & the Oude Kwaremont) and NOW you tell me about the G-Line!! A heads-up would have been nice.
Confirming the heads up now!
2:03 looks like the original Mini next to the BMW Mini.
I assembled a 20" titanium knock-off 2 years ago. It is a joy to ride and I am still enjoying it now. Glad that Brommie is rolling out the G-Line!
Firstly, glad we have a successful bicycle manufacturing company in the UK that makes bikes in the UK. It just shows that with innovative products we can still beat the rest of the world and be profitable. Secondly, although I had never considered a bicycle like this, the new model with larger wheels id definitely something I would think about owning.
I'm not from the UK but it's refreshing to know for once a big bicycle company has no labour sourced from Asia.
@@harcoremonkey They buy in most parts from Taiwan and China apparently and build in London.
It provides a bit more versatility to handle the bumps of the daily commute.
Who cares if a country can beat the rest of the world? Pointless, self-destructive goal/mindset
The ideal number of bikes is now n + 2
G + 1
I've heard about this n+1 thing. What is it about?
@@unexperienced-t2w It doesn't matter how many bikes you have, you always want just one more.
@@MeFreeBee oh my god
I watched the Brompton race, Congrats on placing. I live in Texas and had never seen one. I took a 5 day trip to Germany this month and saw them EVERYWHERE . I thought it would be great to be able to travel with a bike. Picking my road bike up from a shop tune-up, I stopped in a couple Bicycle shops just to look at some bikes. Living on a ranch an hour from the nearest shop, it was a great opportunity. And there they were, Brompton's!! A C Line Electric 4 speed was $3,950 and an Explore 6 speed was $1850. Blown away. We're a little behind on the versions but what a great bike I could actually travel with. Cool Encounter. The new bikes are awesome, I have a few trips to EU and possible UK in the future, that would make an excellent "souvenir" Great presentation !
I see people commenting that the bigger wheels/larger size negates the folding, urban, commuter use case (which makes sense), but this G Line seems best suited for international bikecamping/touring trips involving plane/train/ferry rides and weekend getaway jaunts where bringing multiple full-sized bikes is a hassle. Same Brompton name but appears to be a different use case altogether.
Disagree - slightly - if our (UK) roads were still in first world order, a 16 inch Brompton would be fantastic and loads of commuter fun and the G Line a great out of town option. But our roads are approaching 3rd world now - I think this could be a brilliant commuter too
@@jonchapman4448 the more you can utilize it without having to pack it up on a daily basis, the better.
In that case there are many similar options which happen to be much cheaper than a Brompton G Line.
Hi GCN, Have you guys ever talked about the main reason a lot of us want a folding bike? That is, if you live in a city famous for bike theft, being able to take it with you into your job is a huge bonus. (Plus riding on trains etc.)
I admire Bromptons but never wanted one because my city is renowned also for its potholes, bad construction and crumbling street infrastructure (Philadelphia, PA). Now with 20" wheels, a Brompton might become a possibility. I have two folding bikes because I can take them into my office -- a Tern and a Montague. Both are fine and have 26" wheels. The Montague has a stiffer frame so I cannot feel that it is a folding frame at all. The Tern is okay, but on hard climbs, sometimes you can feel the frame creak and strain in a way that is not reassuring. There are a surprising number of steep hills around Philadelphia, including gorgeous nature trails in the Wissahickon gorge, which is deep and steep, some trails as much as 15%.
I wouldn't worry. I ride a Flevobike Greenmachine that uses the same wheels (actually 50mm width instead of the Bromptons 54mm on a 406 wheel) and it takes potholes and tree roots like a champ.
I agree with you with the potholes and road conditions, New York City is similar That's why I'm excited for the g line. My biggest worry though about the new g-line despite the slightly larger tires is being able to handle the hills in New York City, I live towards the north side of the city where it just gets more hilly the more north you go and there are some very steep hills
As an owner of 2 Bromptons, one electric, this is an exciting change. I'll be at the head of the line when these come to the US especially since we have moved from the city to the country recently. I'm sure when I told my wife this morning that the G line was coming that she didn't immediately clue in that I'll start saving for one today. Well done Bromptons and GCN for the great video!
Exactly smoother ride more range with the slightly bigger wheels, But keeping the frame and its features the same, This thing is great. The only thing is I'm really really hoping that they made this so that it can handle hills very well. Otherwise I might complain about that part
Keep the Brompton videos coming 😍😍😍
There’s always something to do on a Brompton. Thanks for your support.
Always @@gcn 😍😍😍
They will as long brompton keeps sending the checks ❤
Viva el Brompton!
They will keep making Brompton ads like this for as long as Brompton keep paying for them.
This bike fits a niche I've been looking for for a long time now. I love my 16" Brompton but on gravel it's less than ideal. Here we have the solution. Yes, the bigger wheels make for a bigger bike but by keeping the Brompton fold true to the original Brompton, you still get the most 'gravely' bike with the smallest fold out there. It's on my Christmas list, in case my wife is reading this!
I’m giving you the heart so it’s easier for your wife to find your comment. Good luck!
As a Dane, I must add that we seem to have "Polished Gravel" on our passes, as I have never had a puncture on my 2019 Brompton (Original tires)! Only a certain size of stones seems to be placed at intervals to stop the riding, for having to pick them out from the smallest distance between the wheel and the mudguards, where they keep hiding and making noises😁! Finn. Denmark
It must be said that there's nothing new about 20" wheels on a folding bike, they go back many decades. I have an old Raleigh that has 20" wheels and 1 3/4" tyres. Larger wheels and fat tyres make for greater comfort. Of course both come at the expense of being less compact when folded.
❤
I was thinking about having a second brompton and thought i was crazy but it is good to know that I am not alone lol😂
I have an old 3 gear Brompton. I commute from my house in Wembley to London Bridge. That's a 25 mile return trip. It does a great job. I've had my Brompton for many years. It's the best around town. It fits in the boot of my Saab 99 without the need for a rack, when required. Perfect. This opens up weekend jaunts in new terrain. I like the idea 🤔😃❤
Ive been thinking of getting a Brompton for a while because travelling by bike and train is so unreliable and therefore often stressful in the UK. Even if you reserve a space for your bike there is no guarantee that you will actually get that space, often it will be filled with suitcases or buggies. Bromptons are clearly the best folding bike available, based on sales and reputation, everyone I've ever spoken to who owns one sings there praises. I value comfort and versatility in all my bikes so the G-Line looks like a good way to go. I'm 6'1'' so sizing options are another big plus, well done Brompton!
Old man's got one. He's a little taller than us, it's reliable. Still fits snug. Might try to upgrade the folks on to this version for the extra comfort.
Bought a Brompton for the same reason. In case it helps, you can buy an extended seatpost on a regular Brompton. It was about £70 - but for what I needed it for it was worth it. I'm 6ft and the extended seatpost works well for me with plenty of room for someone taller I'd imagine.
@@guest_informant thanks, I've now watched the video to the end and seen the price, might be scaling back my aspirations to the c-line now 😬
Avanti's pendelino trains are usually very straight forward for travelling with a bike once you have a reservation. They physically won't allow people to put anything other than bikes in that space. Otherwise yes, provision for bikes on trains in the UK is all over the place.
@@AutiSam1974 A lot of people have understandably mentioned the price, and this bike in particular is not for me, but if you end up using your Brompton for commuting instead of a car then, over time, compared with a car, taking into account initial purchase, insurance, petrol and the rest, it's possibly going to save thousands. If it's not a replacement for a car, then the equations is a bit different. I gritted my teeth when I bought mine because it is for an essential train journey and it's the only way to guarantee getting a bike on a train.
Finally a 20" Brompton. Great news. The dahon Jetstream p8 with full suspension from about 15yrs ago was brilliant. This could be a great addition.
Done a number Brompton customer surveys; they've incorporated pretty much everything I ever asked for - although I'd like to have seen more anti-theft measures on the electric version
I,m working in bicycle industries and I am a cyclist myself (mainly gravel, some MTB) . As i admire the Brompton engineering , NEVER even cross my mind to owe one- until now. I have this beauty yesterday in my hand and I was in love with it. I would absolutely love to have one (unfortunately £2,5k for me its out of question )
I’ve been riding bikes again after many years, for five years now. And I’m so glad to be on bike again, but the problem I have is that as a visually, impaired person. Is that the bike is my only option beyond walking and Transit. And with the lower back and sciatic nerve pain I’ve had for quite a few years, the bike was the only way to get around that was comfortable for me. And now that I’ve lost about 30 pounds, done more physical therapy, and made sure to get out and move around more, the back issues and the sciatic nerve pain have all but dropped away. Unlike people in their car is going through drive-through is all the time, I’ve been turned away from restaurants because I did not want to leave the bike outside to be stolen so the Brompton looks like the true solution for me, but with my weight being over 200, it doesn’t offer much in the way of choice choices for carrying capacity. The regular Brompton smacks out at 242 pounds for everything, and the P line to me is the most attractive because of its lighter weight. But if I ever wanna go anywhere and I need to haul anything, I really can’t do it on it so when they announce the G line with a max weight capacity of 287 pounds, then it starts to look a whole lot more attractive for me. I don’t relish the greater weight, but the fact that they have put bearings into the rollers, should help a great deal. The thing that makes the Brompton so attractive is that it strikes that balance between greater accessibility and greater mobility. and the reason I say that is because of the distances I can cover on it versus walking.
I had a go on one of these, really nice to ride. I can see these being a massive hit. Fun to ride. I wanted more sweep in the handlebars, but that’s easily fixable.
I‘d buy a titanium G-line!
That would be something interesting to see.
@@gcn considering the price of a “standard” t-line I’d be happy to afford the steel frame
Yep, me too. The G-Line is too heavy and I don't like the fat tires.
It's bound to be on the cards
Alas, I think I need both my kidneys, so wound't be able to afford one.
The 2015 M3L is the best money I’ve ever spent. Im not anti new innovations but I’ve been so upset that the 3 speed hub has been dropped. The new G line looks good and I love the fact Brompton have seen sense and fitted it with an 8 speed hub. If they would only give us a 16” Brompton with an 8 speed hub - what a popular bike that would be for short rides to the shops and long rides to John O’Froats. Come on Brompton … 👍🏻
I suspect the larger hub diameter of the Alfine vs the SA would make it an absolute pig to build into a 16" wheel... I know it's only a couple of cm difference and I'm not saying no-one's ever done it, but to do it quickly and consistently on a production line is a different matter...
Damn shame they dropped the 3-speed hub, that would have been my choice if I ever bought one :-(
I have the 6 speed version and its perfect for short rides to work or longer leisure rides and can take any hill too 👍
@@The1trueDave Get your own IGH; Sturmey-Archer, SRAM, Shimano choices.
@kwhatten does anyone sell one built into a 16" wheel though?
@@The1trueDave I would assume one could have someone like Wheelbuilders or Universal Cycles build it for you.
My husband has been thinking about getting a Brompton but never felt like it was a proper fit for him. As a MTB guy this might change everything.
Eventually try to look at the US former Army Bike, Montague? An MTB with ½ folding and many gears, and now also in a civilian version.
This was designed for me - you have to book your bike on trains in the Scottish Highlands well in advance due to tight restrictions. This would open up many more possibilities to enjoy off road riding, making or changing plans at the last minute.
been hovering over a brommy for about three years, this has just pushed me over. Ill be buying one. Propper brakes, wheels and tyres, sign me up!
I've been riding my Brompton for 25 years but I'd love a G-Line. I recently did the Way of the Roses (Coast to Coast) and had to hire a bike because of the restrictions of taking a bike on the trains. A G-Line looks like it would be great for this. Unfortunately I can't justify the price.
WOTR was fine on a regular Brompton with lower gearing for me.
20" trifolds from other brands have existed for years, same quality but way lower price tags (20%). There's no need to pay a premium to buy a brand name, companies like brompton just wanna charge a premium over the fact that cars are that much more expensive seeing people are switching from driving to bike commuting.
I‘d go with the Austrian Vello
I agree, the price is very steep. What used to be the price to pay for the small size is hard to justify. I don't have this kind of budget. So I've been riding a Tern Verge D9, with slightly bigger wheels 22in that cost half the price and weigh the same. I upgraded to Shimano Deore and Schwalbe one tyres. I ride it every day in London and on light trails and it's rock solid after 5 years. I just finished London-Brighton last week-end on it I had so much fun on it. It handled Ditchling Beacon quite well. The new Brompton might be a good bike, but this new bigger size positions it in a slightly different category where I feel the competition is a lot stronger. It would be interesting to do a video comparing this G line with the Tern Verge either D9 or P10.
@@ashchbkv6965 That's what came to my mind about this. There's a brand called "Mint" that makes a 20" trifold with disc brakes and 9 speeds for way less than this thing. The only difference is that it doesn't fit tires as wide as this G-line.
This is the answer to all my problems but for the gearing. I've been searching for years for a rollable folding bike for easy transport on the trains in Japan, that was comfortable to ride (my 2017 Brompton is just terrible for long touring), and that had low enough gearing (lowest needs to be 18-19 inches) for the mountain roads here in Japan. This bike meets two of those three requirements, but the lowest gear is still too high. If I can replace the Alfine with a Rohloff (which should be possible if the rear triangle can fit an Alfine), however, then this will be the last bike I ever need to buy. Can't wait to see more reviews of it.
Sorry if the question is stupid, but how do you measure gearing in inches? Is it the gear ratio times the wheel radius? In that case, wouldn't it make sense to also divide by the crank length? You would get a (dimensionless) number which is the ratio between the force exerted on the pedal and the force produced at the tyre
Edit: I looked it up and it turns out "gear inches" are exactly what I guessed, and the number I proposed is called the "gain ratio"
The easiest way of lowering your gears is to fit a smaller chainring. You will lose top end of course. I had to do this for my mum's folding bike (Bickerton Argent 1707 Country).
@@HughDWallace From the Brilliant Bikes video on the G-Line, it appears the smallest possible chainring is 50 teeth. That brings the gear range for an Alfine 8 with a 22 tooth sprocket to between 22.4 and 68.6 inches. That’s just not enough for touring.
@@PeterBaggins Brompton don't appear to offer anything smaller than a 50T but it is easy to buy a different crankset for a square taper BB. Mum's bike came with 50T FSA crankset and I bought a smaller chainring (might have been 38T) & changed it over in an afternoon. The chain tensioner on the Brompton should be able to handle smaller chainrings though you'll need to shorten the chain I'd guess.
@@HughDWallace I’m not sure you can replace the BB in this new G-Line with a 39 tooth chainring like you can in the other Bromptons. There seems to be a chain guard that only works with the larger chainrings. Also, a 39 tooth chainring would bring your top gear down to 53.5 inches which is just ridiculous. I suspect that Brompton have fitted the Alfine 8 because it’s cheap and the rest of the bike is already so expensive that adding a Rohloff would have put off too many potential customers. At least it’s possible for home modifiers with enough cash (I’m retiring next year and my wife has let me buy one more bike as my retirement present haha) to make the modification without having to replace the triangle, forks, cabling etc etc. I’m going to start saving right now for one.
So pleased they have finally gone for 20" wheels. I was always put off by the smaller ones because of the very poor road conditions we have in the UK.
The UK is now the France of the '70s - i.e Europe's leading pot-hole provider! France, meanwhile is now the UK of the 80s... Funny how times change!
Really a great foldable gravel bike! This is perfect for most cities with streets with bad conditions.
I have been riding the kinetics 20 inch MTBrompton (all steel) for more than a year now. It has alfine 11 speed and 2.4inch tyres. Everything I wanted from a gravel brompton
As an 20-year long Brompton user, riding it in various countries; I think the G-line looks great, I would love to try it. My biggest gripe about the Brompton design has been the weight and their use of materials. A titanium frame is cool, but too expensive. Why not make an aluminium or carbon frame? Lugging a Brompton from metro station to metro station is not fun. Several countries require folding bikes to be inside a bag to allow them on trains, so then it's not really an option to use the little wheels on the back.
carbon and aluminum frames are already exist in copycat brompton. 🤣
I really love my C-line, it's my only bike and I will keep it for life. I dont think I will ever buy a better bike :)
Watching this after completing a weeklong tour on a regular C-Line through Transylvania/rural Romania. No roads there, only directions. This is LITERALLY the bike I was sketching up in my mind as those 16 inch wheels of my beloved Brom rattled over stones and roots. Cheers to the engineers at Brompton for finally creating the ultimate adventure bike!!
A great bike - have done a testride for 100km and it rides super stable.
Nice.
Was that a single ride? How efficient is it compared to a regular bike, with similar threaded tires?
@@endianAphones Hi it was 60k and 40k on two days mostly hilly terrain. I would say that a similar priced gravel bike is probably more efficient because an Alfine hub got a little more drag compared to a super clean chaindrive, I would also recommend to change for tubeless or tpu tubes for more efficienty. The tires is great but the tube is only a "standard" Schwalbe and quite thick. I took the bike with the train to the start and at the end I put it in a trunk of a Renault Clio - something I could not have done with my regular gravelbike. And it felt super stable and smooth on the gravel downhills, something I did not expect.
Had the chance to try it 2 month ago and it was amazing !
Great! Wishing the Brompton team loads of well-deserved success!
This is interesting to me as I got a mini velo 406 20 inch bike last year for urban riding - a Velo Orange Neutrino. With extra light wheels and 2.1 inch tires and a 155 crank this thing is super maneuverable in urban settings, takes off like a rocket from stops and weighs 11kg so easy to carry up stairs. I’ve decked it out with racks and now use my car less than half as frequently as I used to. The wheels deal with crappy road surfaces but I went all out with a Redshift stem and suspension dropper post. My plan is to add a hub motor. The Brompton has the bonus of being foldable. I’d totally recommend 20 inch bikes if you do a lot of urban riding.
The Velo is that ugly thing, that looks like an ironing board, right?
@@ruzziasht349 don’t care. In 50 years of riding 15 odd bikes from an Eatons Chopper with sissy bar to a Bianchi Specialissima to whatever in mountain bike tech it’s the most fun bike I’ve ever ridden. When you get old these things matter more.
I ride a Moulton tsr far from original also 20 inch wheels and I agree wholeheartedly. The weirder the better@@charlesblithfield6182
I can see this being very successful. It will appeal to those who want to fling the bike in the boot of their car at the weekend and go riding country trails or exploring coastal towns.
You know, I was in London very recently and I saw a bike like this out on the street and I thought, no way that’s a Brompton, just look at the wheels. But it screamed Brompton in every way (except it had no branding I could discern) to the point where I wanted to flag the rider down and ask. Obviously I didn’t do that, and in the end I chalked it up to a larger knockoff. But now I’m not so sure. I have a pair of inexpensive Zizzo bi-folders that are this size and I think they’re such a great sweet spot. Granted they cost 1/5th what the G-line does for the same kit (albeit heavier, but with a 300-pound payload), but they’re nowhere near as nice. What matters most, I think, is that this size is proven. So happy Brompton made this.
A lot of people are asking "will it commute?" I couldn't find the info on Brompton's site but according to Cycling Weekly's review, the folded size of the G-Line is "690mm (h) x 730mm (l) x 402mm (w) in a size Small, [against 650mmx585mmx 270mm for the standard Brompton]".
So it's obviously not as svelte as the original, we all knew that, but it should still fit under an office desk. Might not slide into the smaller nooks and crannies on the train though, so get to the luggage rack first!
Interested to see if they introduce bike packing accessories, I love my current Brompton B75 but really not possible to go bike packing on it & while I know there are bigger more suitable bikes out there for that, I just love Bromptons and as a petite woman find them a much more comfortable ride & love that I can just bung it on a train or bus if needed 😊
I’m most excited about the disc brakes! I’m really hoping they bring those to the 16 inch line. If I were to get a g line it would be because of the brakes.
Had a test ride last Saturday in London Brompton Junction and it's 100% fun to ride, cannot wait to get one. 😊
Don’t forget to share it with us when you have it!
Finally, I’ve been waiting for this since I first purchased a Brompton six years ago. I currently have a custom 20 inch titanium Brompton now but with a stand Shimano derailer instead of a hub gear system and it’s pretty light so really what I’m looking for is a titanium version of this G series call it a GT.
Brilliant timing, building my own version of this already, wanted a BMX/MTB/ folder that fits in my car, 20!inch wheels, 2.4 tyres 8 speed claris...made in steel for prototype, not light..but funny how we're all heading the same way, been on the cards for a while as kenetics made a kit
This will be competition for bike Friday, also a very capable bike
I try mine in Ashton court too!
Great new bike from Brompton! Thank you for the video.
Our pleasure!
Waiting for a GT Line already
Fact that people say its heavy is wrong. There are lot of room to shed weight. The gear hub, derailleurs, bb, cranks, inner tube, etc.
I love my old Brompton, it’s what got me back into cycling four years ago. Also having just bought a Moulton, I agree that 20” wheels roll so much better.
If I hadn’t just got the Moulton, I’d be all over one of these.
Also… how about a bit of Moulton content on GCN? Much like Brompton they’re another venerable British brand, c’mon guys show ‘em a bit of love.
I really like the look of this new Brompton. I have owned a Brompton for about 12 years and use it mainly on holiday when camping. This summer I took it on some single tracks and found it quite hard to stay upright. This new G line would definitly be more stable on rough narrow tracks. We have a Brompton dealer in my town so I will be keeping my eye out for when it arrives here.
I have a U.S. made Bike Friday 20" wheel folding bicycle. It's a good bike, but doesn't fold as compactly as the Brompton. I'll be buying the Brompton G-line when it comes out. My only comment is that it should have a belt drive vs. the chain drive. I have the Shimano Alfine 11 speed hub with belt drive and I never want to go back to a chain. The belt drive is zero maintenance.
I have been using my Brompton T-Line als my main commuting and leisure bike since 2023 and i am totally loving this bike so much! The G-Line will be bought on the first day after it releases!
I've had my Brompton 2.5 years. Love it. It's nothing like my normal bikes, but it's the bike that can be available when my others are not. For that reason I don't mind that it feels so different, because it gets used when the only other options would be walking or public transport. I've used mine off road and for longer rides. So I'm definitely curious about the G line.
Just when I thought I had all the bikes I need, I realise I now need one of these too!
We realised that exact same thing too
What a cool bike. Now thinking of getting one.
Bromptons (and their riders) are ace. I'm always amazed by the number of Bromptoneers that compete the Dunwich Dynamo with very little fuss indeed.
Yep, I’ll be getting one.
I do a lot of touring in all sort of terrains with my Brompton, I had never a problem off road. Of course I am very curious but perhaps although the G-line is folded in the same way, it can be too big to have the flexibility using public transport than with a "normal" Brompton.
Definitely I am very tempted, but I have doubts to change my trusty Brompton for this one.
Smart!! I actually had written BROMTON off my list when I test rode one last year - just felt a tad bit dainty for urban terrain which includes pot holes and going on and off curbs to survive -- BUT THEY ARE BAXK ON BLOCK ! BRAVO!! and there's the E-version too!? Out of my price range BUT STILL NEAR THE TOP OF MY WISH LIST!
I have a stunning raw lacquer Super light (P-Line), but do serious daily millage some on gravel/hardback. Was looking at other options but Brompton have just delivered the perfect upgrade!
I rode my Brompton 9 Streets across Bulgaria using mostly farm and forest tracks. It is certainly doable. But you do need to be a bit of a masochist and the bike certainly is not made for it. There was quite a lot of pushing. The G1 is a real shocker. Brompton have added all the new things that were needed in one go. We can finally get rid of the "City Bike" tag line for this model. I still think the chainwheel is going to be too big for me. But thats an easy fix. The G1 could end up being their best seller.
I would love one if it wasn't so darn heavy! I had a 20 inch Tern Verge x20 and it rode like a proper Road Bike but the fold was really clumsy.. like an afterthought. And I found because of the folded size I would never take it anywhere because it was just too unwieldy. Then the T Line came and I thought that was the perfect bike. But if only it had larger tires and disc brakes. I hope those features trickle down to a new T-line. Oh and tubeless tires too. Till then I'll keep riding my trusty T Line. I will go and test ride that bike when it hits the states.. you know... just for fun!
I have done a fair few of Simon Warren's best cycling climbs on my standard Brompton.... very tough at times... but with better handling and a 8 speed ratio this is certainly the one I need!
This is ah-ma-zing! I’m and roadie, and a gravel rider, and I already want one of these, they look great, look like a lot of fun, an possibly an ideal commuter / everyday bike for people who live a bit more rurally! As well as for campers, caravaners etc…
As much as I love my P Line, 20", disc brakes, more tyre clearance etc makes me excited for a potential Brompton GP Line in the future
Frankly: I can't wait to get one! Seven years ago, I've replaced our second family car with a Reese & Mueller Birdy folding bike and moved from this one to Brompton after a year or so. Since I'm a little taller I still can't find a riding position comfortable enough for longer rides on the 16", and I hope that the G-Line will be able to provide just that.
I'd get a Retro Raleigh Stowaway 🇬🇧🇬🇧
Definitely Not The Lightest Contraption, but your be in Grans Cool Book when you pop down the shops. 😎
Looks great and such slick prevention by Simon!
I watched this just to see Si be happy on a Brompton. Nerd.
Looks like a fun little bike!
Thanks for the excellent and informative video. I've ridden an H3L now for several years, for general use and for touring in Europe in conjunction with buses/trains/boats. I find it a very good bike for this, including gravel track riding (at a sensible speed of course!). I also have a Dahon Vitesse with 20" wheels, which weighs in at only 1.5kg heavier than the brommy, as its made from alloy. I have to say that I don't find much difference between the 16 and 20 inch wheels, they do ride similarly. However, the brommy is the better quality bike between the 2, a bit unfair as the Dahon is very good and only cost me £600 in 2014. I do see the attraction of the 20" brommy though, it looks as if it performs as well as a full size bike, if that's the case then I could replace 3 of my bikes with just the one!
As a Brompton and hybrid rider I can see the attraction. My original sized Bromptons are superb but for some rides I use a disc braked Trek. I for one can see the attraction of replacing the Trek with another Brompton (e.g. for gravel and no need to carry multiple heavy duty city locks as a folder comes inside with you, and could easily be carried by car for those further away pleasure rides)
Really good to see something new from Brompton, a very good video
I’ve got a 10 year old 6 speed Brompton,it looks very tempting to sell my existing one & get the G line,I think it will be a great success for Brompton👍.Colin P.
Never ridden a Brompton.
But this new model is simply brilliant.
Brompton has created a foldable bike that has the same ride quality as a full-size bike and you can ride it almost anywhere.
That is brilliant!!
Will I buy one.
Not sure, but this bike is certainly number one on my list if I am going to buy a foldable bike.
I love my regular Brompton which I have had for about 8 years now. I love in the peak district and it gets some hammer up the hills as you can imagine on my commute from Buxton to Matlock. It is my favourite bike I own as I just find it a joy to ride and I don't feel like I have anything to prove on it. However, one bug bear of mine is the rear triangle hinge which needs replacing frequently. I have asked father Christmas this year to buy me the quite expensive reaming tool so I can do it myself. This is also because with living in the sticks my nearest Brompton dealership is quite some distance away. My LBS won't touch this with a barge pole. I was wondering wether or not Brompton have reconsidered this aspect of their design within the G Line range. It is my opinion, that there is room for making this either more robust or easily serviceable if they haven't considered it?
😱 OMG! Is this the beginning of a new era?
It could be, a new (bi)cycle!
@@gcn All good things come in cycles!
I've always had a thought that if Bromptons were a little more pothole-proof, they'd be the perfect urban bike. My prayers have been answered.
Nice bike! Especially in the orange frame. But for those of you considering a folding bike I want to recommend Bickerton as a much cheaper alternative. I bought my mum an Argent 1707 Country a few years ago. It weights 12.8kg and comes with 20" wheels. No disk brakes but V so plenty of stopping power. To be fair, it doesn't fold as neatly as a Brompton but it is a lot cheaper.
Genuinely think this could be the killer e-bike to rule them all. Looking forward to a test ride
A good move by Brompton. I created a similar bike to the G Line based on a folding Giant Expressway. Kenda Aptor 20x1.75 tyres, 11-34 8sp Acera, 70mm stem, wider bars, and a brooks flyer saddle. A lot of fun.
You sound like Jeremy Clarkson on the intro😅
I love my 11 year old Brompton. If only I was quite a few years younger (76/77). Well done Brompton. PS, I’m not ready for an electric bike just yet.
Looks great to me and a very sensible way to broaden the customer base
Been riding same Brompton 24 years (+ a few parts changes….). Looking for a bigger bike as I approach old codgerdom you’ve supplied the answer! Thanks Brompton! Really looking forward to getting my hands on one of these.
Mmm sounds familiar...
...20" wheels, wide tyres, hydraulic disc brakes, 8 speed Alfine hub gears, dynamo lights, adjustable handle bars, carbon belt drive and fast fold...
...and that's my Tern Verge S8i. Nice bike. Good ride. Not as light as you'd like...
...but I STILL prefer to use my single speed Brompton even in the Galloway hills.
This is a shallow comment, but the reason I like it most is that I think it looks amazing, in addition to being practical. I 100% appreciate the offer of the original Bromptons, and that their practicality and small folded size comes from their wheel size, but they just look... it's too much for me. I can't be the only one. I think this will open Bromptons up to a broader appeal.
Been riding my normal Brompton off-road and on long rides since getting it they are solid so this one must be bombproof
I can see the G-line being very popular. The B16 is great for urban transport, especially when moving from place to place by train or bus. The B20 will do the same for leisure, but with a bit more comfort for longer rides. I am very tempted.
Anyone who doesn't appreciate some electric assistance for city riding isn't actually riding in cities. So much easier and safer to swim with the sharks when you have Tour-power in the legs. And now we need the Brompton Chopper, same bike, same motor, just with chrome high-rise bars and a banana seat. 😀
Really enjoyed this video and the G line looks very exciting 😊
I am delighted to see that they have changed to disc brakes (the conventional brakes ruined my rims within 5 yrs) and the gearing (the +/- shift on my 6 spd fails at the first sign of any moisture or dust). Mine has been a wonderful bike with mediocre components - it looks like they're fixing these, which is more important than changing wheel size, I believe. Well done!
I'll be purchasing one of these! My forth Brommie over the years 😊
Seems like a bike I'd consider buying if I were still living in the US. As others have said, the bigger folded size would make me think twice before getting one, as the 16" version one already "just fits" in a number of situations like car trunks or train luggage racks (I live in France and have taken my Brompton to the UK and Germany). However, that wouldn't be as much of an issue in the US since they have more space, bigger cars etc... so the bigger size wouldn't make much of a difference. And since they also have longer distances in general, the bigger wheels and nicer feel on the road would come in handy.
Really like it but I don't think I should be buying a 3rd Brompton 😀. Maybe sell one of the other two but then which one ? 😁 That aside I think if I did I'd go with the electric if I did. I don't have the best back so wouldn't want to carry a G-line far but an electric version would give me more possibilities to venture out further from where I spend much of my time (near Dartmoor) to follow some trails while able to fold it up to store when not in use.
Many like me probably already thinking a titanium one would interesting but maybe given it's use case that wouldn't be ideal. And would probably create a superlight first is my guess, so rear triangle titanium.
Great job by Brompton! Looks great.
20" wheels are more than enough for gravel and light off roading. I've got a single speed folding bike with 20s and I regularly rip it around on gravel roads, it is stupid fun!
So glad that Brompton has finally taken another revolutionary frontier in the folding bike history!
Gotta love that . I’m surprised it took this long . But quite possibly on my future shopping list 👍😁
Fantastic! well done for Brompton, I think this would make riding all the more enjoyable. Like many others I own an Brompton already and been very happy with it including during a period of heavy commuting in London. With this though I would be tempted to ride it on paths and go a little further on it too, just for the fun. Question is I have for myself is would this replace my original Brompton? I don't think I could justify owning both....
A version with Titanium rear section and fork would be even more appealing to cut on weight - like the old super light version that I already own.
I imagine the more comfortable out-of-the-saddle pedalling experience is due largely to the wider handlebars, as well as the larger wheels. The narrow traditional bars are a bit squirrely.
I have it's Austrian competitor, the Vello Gravel. I've just ridden it (with a torn ACL I hasten to add) from Luxembourg to Bilbao over two weeks in August. If it rides anything like that bike I'd be happy. I'm a bit sad this bike wasn't available for my trip because I think it wins on the fold compared to the Vello Gravel. I'm already a C line owner but baulked at the idea of doing that trip on it, but it was probably imminently possible.
I have been commuting with my C line explore for 2 years, and have been expecting a 12 gear version for my wife. The G line is definitely too good to miss.
Wow! Having ridden my Brompton on gravel and knowing how bumpy it was this will be great!