I totally agree. I've had my Brompton M 6 speed for 10 years and no problems. Have toured the Danube in Austria from Passau to Vienna 350 miles and carrying full camping gear with two others riders on MTBs. Easy return journey by train for me (but less so for the MTBs). On road trips it sits behind the driver's seat. I've got a road bike and an MTB but the Brompton is the one I will always keep. Now I'm 80 years old I've added an electric motor (Nanoeletricbikes) for the hills around my UK home. Absolutely brilliant.
I live in New York City in a basement apartment in Brooklyn. I was a bike commuter for many years. I had health problems so I didn’t ride but recently I started riding again for errands and actually strange riding for exercise. I have a S2L. I use to work at a bike shop for 16 years. I love riding my Brompton knowing I can stop and go inside a place if needed. And I love the cute factor.
That's spot on at the end about the buyer's remorse. When I bought my brompton I felt terrible to transfer $2k from my bank account. I wanted to return it the next day. But a week went by and I was convinced this was the best long-term purchase I had ever made. It's been a month and I'm still happy and look forward to riding it every morning
Funny I have a garage, but it was after I got my Brompton, that I decided all regular bikes could be sold. We are reducing our footprint, having Bromptons make for a more minimalist existence.
Everything you said is true! I was initially shocked by the sticker price of my M6L but I bit the bullet and bought it. I have owned the same bike for over 8 years now and I have to say it is probably the best bicycle I have ever owned. It is expensive, but it has repaid itself many times over. I ran over a speed bump at night at full speed and I thought I wrecked the fork but I guess the suspension and the flexibility of the fame absorbed the shock. Brompton folks here in Singapore regularly cycle more than 100miles around the island and I used to cycle daily 22 miles to and from my old work place. This bike is incredibly durable. The only things I have changed are the tire inner tubes, everything else is pretty much stock.
Yep, a great bike. I spent 12 days touring the Lofoten Islands in arctic Norway last summer (I’m 73 years old); easy to get it there from the US and easy to take it on planes, ferries and trains while there.
Peter Forde I hope to tour on my Brompton this summer if the world ever opens back up. Norway! That’s really great I would love to go there someday. Thanks for sharing.
It's funny because I also have other bikes that I use to commute, but still prefer the Brompton. Indeed, having it under my desk is absolutely awesome.
Andrew Richie who designed the Brompton is a genuine genius AND they're a high quality product built right here in London, not knocked out in a far-east sweatshop!
Agree completely, bought mine on a whim and I don’t even commute by bike. But it’s just so versatile, never have to wear a back pack, never have to carry any tools or a pump as everything is built into the bike (hidden toolkit is an option) don’t have to carry a lock as I just take the thing inside with me. It fits in a standard gym locker with the saddle removed, mine has the mudguards and dynamo lights fitted as standard, so I never have to bother about carrying lights or charging them or getting filthy when it rains. It even has a bell fitted as standard. I just love it, especially in sumner when I can just grab the thing and head out the door in shorts and a T-shirt and spend the day cruising round the pubs and coffee shops and I only need take my keys and phone with me. And if I put the bag on the front I can even grab some shopping on the way home.
Yes, all those reasons and more are why so many love this bike. It just fits into almost everyone’s lives seamlessly. I find all the conveniences of this bike truest remarkable.
I have the same model. They are brilliant bikes and I also use it as my main bike. Pre coronavirus lockdown I was regularly doing 30 km a day on it, on and off trains, up canal towpaths etc. Highly recommended.
Totally agree with you. Brompton is more than a commuter bike. We have been touring with it in Asia, Europe, South and North America for more than a decade. It follows us in planes, trains, buses and boats. A great adventure companion.
Same here, have 12 various types of bikes, Brompton is my goto. Everything from traveling with it (Ikea Dimpa bag) on plane, to city riding and keeping under desk (no bike theft worries), maintenance anywhere as it acts as a bike stand, folded behind car seat, folded on boat, and it is fast (other than carbon road bike, I'm usually waiting for others). The other thing no one mentions is that it is comfortable too with the rear shock and its made out of steel. I've modded mine with Brooks leather saddle, Ergo grips, Kojak tires (way faster), and X detachable pedals, EasyWheels, all worthwhile upgrades.
Chester Ritchie awesome. I have said that this bicycle rides great and that I took it on an 85 mile ride with no pain so you are right it’s super comfortable.
I couldn't have put it any better. I've had my Brompton for 16 years (!) now and it is still performing well! It truely deserves reviews like this. If I would have to choose between my bikes, the Brompton would be the keeper, hands down.
I keep my bikes for a long time as well and the Brompton build quality ensures me that it will be around for years to come. Thank you for the feed back, I will be making an addition follow up video detailing more things about the Brompton that I missed and think most people should know.
Alien On a Bike I did not know Sturmey Archer was made in asia? Huh, you lean something new everyday. Mine seems to be working fine but I have many more years to put it through it's paces.
Excellent review of the benefits of owning a Brompton. I purchased one a few weeks back and my other Bikes havent seen daylight. Im planning on selling them and just using the brompton.
I totally agree, it's about 8 years I have mine and it help me each days. Solid, convenient very good folding design, compact, stylish. It's an extension of us in term of mobility. Thanks for your sharing!
@@ibikeunfolded Well I picked it up from my bike shop today 😃 What a piece of engineering.. they even threw the little multitool in too. Very happy, I am now in the Brompton army! Love the Channel, keep the content coming👍👍 sorry about the star wars comment.. the convinient this bike is quote really tickled me 😂👍😃
I live in an apartment and I fold it up in a cupboard and to be able to pop the Brompton in the back of my car drive to somewhere nice and take the bike out is fab. Parts and upgrade's are also readily avalable. Love the bike , I can't wait untill lock down end to use it again.
Great video! I concur with your opinion 100%. The convenience of having a Brompton quickly makes the bike pay for itself. I can store it under a table. I take it in the trunk of my car when I have to bring the car to its service at the auto shop; I take the Brompton out, leave my car and roll away! Everybody is left with their jaw on the floor. I have taken it on the subway, on the bus. I use it as a trolley cart for groceries or any occasional shopping. You can't do that with a regular-sized bike. And as you pointed out, it's extremely well built! It feels super solid. My cousin bought one of those cheap folders, and it's a piece of cr*p; it feels like it will fall apart into pieces at any moment.
Great review thanks. No point me watching it I suppose really because I ordered mine a couple of weeks ago and it’s coming around the end of June, but I love seeing what other people think. I can hardly wait.
I love it so much and it's a bike that can last a lifetime. I think my only issue is the small wheels can be tricky on uneven surfaces and where there are high curbs etc but beyond that is a perfect bike and I can't wait to travel more using it.
I almost bought a Brompton but changed my mind and got a Tern Link D-8 Clairis instead. Nice bike. I'm still thinking of getting the Brompton in a few more months. Really liked your video, Bromptons are great. Thanks
There are other good folding bikes out there, however when you factor in quality, how it rides, durability, and most importantly.....serviceability and parts accessibility, Brompton wins has down. Thanks for watching.
Public Administration you are correct, however tern does have a fair number of proprietary parts that are difficult to get ahold of even on newer models. Brompton has been the same for years and all the parts are just an order away.
I couldn’t agree more! I initially bought my Brompton for multi-modal commuting and for easily taking on a train or plane for bike touring far from home. But it rides so well, it has become my primary bicycle, and I use for all kinds of practical and recreational riding. Yes, the price is a bit steep, but my Brompton has served me well for 10 years already, and I expect it to last decades more!
Actually, they are cheap: take the price you paid for your Brompton, divide it by 10 (years), and that is your annual price...and you can divide that in half because it's going to last you at least another 10 years. Buy once, buy the best is the cheapest way to go.
@@LaughingStock_, I agree 100%! I think a lot of US Americans think of bicycles as inexpensive toys or recreational equipment and balk at prices above US$1000. But especially for a folding bike that you can always bring inside and isn’t subject the same kind of theft risk as other bikes, it can easy provide excellent transportation for a decade or more!
Great video mate! Very informative and a real pleasure to watch. I'm thinking about downsizing my bike to be able to put it into my car boot and take it whatever I go. Cheers and have a nice day!
I have been watching brompton reviews for 3 years.A couple of weeks ago I went to try out one at Down town Toronto. I tried High handle bar(c-line) I liked it.I am 5.10”. I like relaxed bike touring. Can anyone suggest me best handle bar.I will be booking my brompton this month. ❤This is the review which gave me a clear idea about the differences between a commuting bike and brompton. Thank you 🇨🇦
My Brompton experience is very similar to yours Brian, I bought mine for travelling, but it pretty much has replaced my other bikes, I have a mountain bike & road bike, but the Brompton is my commuter, travel, light off roading, distance, shopping and just going out for fun bike. The best bike I have ever owned. I have taken mine on holiday to the UAE, Australia & New Zealand from the UK in a B&W hardcase. I was also lucky enough to compete in the Brompton World Championship in 2018. Loving your Brompton & other videos Brian.🎥👌
I totally agree i love the bike i own the 2023 yellow bumblebee c line explorer with 6 speeds but i use a 44t chain ring because where i live it’s really hilly since i did that mod the bike is amazing i can reach even further every time is so much fun and the people get amaze how cool the bike looks i use it for training and do my grocery shopping here in Puerto Rico at the town of Juana Diaz
Couldn't agree more. I have M bars on mine but, I am seriously considering changing to the S bar following your comments on your lengthy ride. Great video mate, happy Bromptoning!
Thank you. Just keep in mind that the stem is different on the M bar vs S bar. The S bar is bent slightly forward and the M bar stem is not so much. S bar bikes have a little more clearance between handle bar and your knees. M bars don’t need this because you are more upright.
@@ibikeunfolded Ahh, noted. I thought I had heard something about the stem that would affect it. I have some old Kona bars that I will try in the first instance and then change the stem if it does affect it too much. TBH, the titanium stem wouldn't be a bad option. Cheers for the reply, take it easy.
I have the same all black black 2020 model as you, just that mine is in M bar configuration. I love my brompton just as much as u do! I couldn't stop telling my cycling friends how good this bike fits into my cycling needs. It took my 2-3 years before finally buying it and I have loved it ever since!
You can buy some magnetic hiviz straps that wrap around you frame and places where the cables Rub on the Paint work on the Frame also they wrap around your wrist or ankle for dark nights. Cool.
I love this channel and am thrilled to hear from someone as passionate about Bromptons as I am. I own a black H6R that I bought in 2017. There are so many benefits, and you've touched on many of them. I look forward to watching more of your videos.
I have an electric 6 speed Brompton - I love it - not good on v poor roads but workable and hangs on my wall at home - very manoeuvrable and nippy - made v well and my go to bike - great for shopping and with electric it’s incredibly versatile
This will absolutely work for commuting and replace a regular bike, however, they weight 35 plus lbs. that’s what Walmart bikes weigh. I just did 20 miles on a night ride for fun on the Huffy Rockcreek that weight 40 lbs with the chain I got on it. You can still get this bike at Walmart for $95. It’s the mtb that is teal. Strava had me at 38 mph at one point. So can you do it? Yes. Do you want to? I got a track bike kilo TT and it weighs 11.5 lbs and it cost $500. A third of the weight and price. I don’t have to push a 35 lbs bike. It’s not about the speed. Technically you can’t go over 20 miles an hour on ebikes in like almost every state, so how fast can you go on your acoustic? You’re tired from work and you are the motor, it’s about efficiency. And you would go faster on a lighter bike with the same effort or as fast with less. That’s why you don’t want to ride them for ten miles. You can, but you can also punch your self in the face. No thanks. A long ride in the heat with a little bike that weighs more than 30 lbs? You can keep that sorry.
Great, video…. Always appreciate a raw and candid (first hand) opinion on bikes on my bucket list. That way I know whether or not to remove them from said list. *I’ve only owned Dahons.
Virtually stock configuration Bromptons have carried their riders and huge amounts of luggage and camping gear on round the world tours and ultra long distance touring routes without problems! The Brompton is the original multi-modal transport bicycle and it remains unequalled in that role. You Tube videos, forums, blogs and social media abound with riders adventures with their Bromptons, my favorite being Bike Rafting using the superb Alpacka Rafts Packrafts. With a Brompton and an Alpacka Raft Packraft you can virtually cover the entire planet!
I made the mistake once of cleaning my bike chain in a pale of solvent in my bathtub with . There was grease and black oil stains and grits that scratched the tub just with a little splashing out of the pale. I'd say be careful if trying that.
It’s a fantastic bike. Also tough as hell. The only limits I have are when the hill grades go above 9%. Though I will pedal up 5th Ave in San Diego on my Brompton; Texas Street that’s 15% grade…ahhhh not so much.
4:25 omg 😂😂 That being said, I’m also amazed by the quality of my Brompton, not just how easy it folds, but driving it is just fun and it’s surprisingly fast.
@@daveadriffield7296 Fortunately, my "cheap crappy plastic gear shifters" seem to work perfectly!! You're entitled to express your opinion, but I think it is made of plastic for the good reason of weight reduction and performance and functionality are without problem. I do think, however, they should use better and bigger wheels for folded position, and the design of clamps should be improved.
I always thought of these as clown bikes .... until I got one. Couple of things to add, they've been making them for years so they've ironed out many issues, the guy who owns the company and designed the original is a bit of an eccentric genius, studied at Cambridge (possibly engineering), moonlighted working for high end engineering companies while he tried to get it all together, Dad was an old school city banker. Still working there. Massively popular in London where you can but them on a scheme and pay for them out of your gross salary (saving you 40%) and in 6 months they'll have saved you enough on your tube fair to pay for itself.
Wow, I wish they had that kind of pay program for the Brompton here in the U.S. yes, the fact that these bikes stay the same besides some minor improvements is a testament to the fact that I can rely on them to deliver parts for years to come.
I am midway through the review and this is exactly what I was looking for. I have been on the fence about a Brompton for two years (actually, I was ready to buy and a very honest bike shop owner encouraged me to wait). I do live in NYC, but not in Manhattan nor an appartment.😁. While I could commute multi-modal, I want to eliminate public transit and transit sharing altogether. My commute would be about 12 miles each way. This video helped a whole lot. Now to find an orange black edition S6R. Thanks for the share! Also what is your setup for filming? I love the angle and lighting for evening vlogging. I haven't seen that before.
You won’t be disappointed if you buy one. I know they are super expensive but they make up for that in quality and convenience. I will be making a more in-depth follow up that explains the good that bad just to be completely transparent.
I have multiple night time vlogging setups. Here I am using a go pro hero 8 with a media mod. And a rode wireless external mic. I have a selfie setup with a low diffused light set off at an angle as not to blind me whist riding my bike at night.
You won't be disappointed. I've had my fair share of bikes over the years, and the Brompton is hands-down the best one I've ever had. The way it looks (it does look a bit silly, with those tiny wheels and the bent central tube) does not match the way it performs. It's a keeper.
Surprising, right? I bought mine because I needed something I could bring on board a bus. I didn't realize it would be such a joy to ride, or that the front bag could haul such large loads, or that I would like the quirky appearance so much. Really consider getting the mount and front bag. It is so nice to ride without that weight on your shoulders. I got a cheaper Chinese Silverock bag from Ali Express for daily commuting, and a real Brompton bag when REI had a sale. It was a lot of money, but now I can haul 2 gallons of water or a large load of groceries no problem. I don't have a car, so this helps a lot.
Try upgrading yung chainring to 60t and change the rear wheel to 2 speed to save atleast 1kg weight and you will be surprised how fast it can go, you can even overtake a roadie.
I did not know they made 60 tooth front chain rings. Cool.😎 I have a 54 tooth chain ring and a 3 speed internal hub with a 2 speed derailleur on mine currently. I will have to check into that. Thanks...
brian d vlogs you can look up online for some third party 60t chairings coz brompton doesnt produce above 56t if im not mistaken.. btw thats maximum size a brompton can take, any bigger than that will affect the folding..ride safe!
Sorry not well versed in bike tech. So 2 gears in the back and 1 in front for a total of 3? Should I get the 3 speed instead of 6? Live in Florida. No hills here. Only bridges. Thx.
@@jawjuh1005 there is an internal gear hub at back wheel that does 3 gears . Add to that 2 sprockets to add a high and low on each of the 3 internal hub gears so all in all 6. Not much price or weight difference for 3 speed and 6 speed so 6 is generally better. Hope you get to test ride one soon
Jon Neet 0 seconds ago Just watched an English gentleman's RU-vid video. In it, he does the same route on different days. First with an older Canondale drop bar road bike, then with his newer 3 speed Brompton. I think it was a 12 mile route. He was surprised that the Brompton won with a bit higher average speed. There must be something to this Brompton stuff!
If you watch PETER from bikes +life he says how good the Brompton is etc. But he took a trip from NEW York to philadelphia. A total distance of 150 miles in 20 hours.. That's how good the Brompton is...
I got a Brompton for about 10 years and agrees 100% with what this guy said. Now I just bought an electric kit from swytch. Can’t wait to take my Brompton to the next level!
Those wheels are subpar for a pleasure ride. 26 is the minimum. Brompton should make one in this size. But I’m from the Netherlands so grew up with bikes.
These seem such good machines but so out of reach to me, in my old age. My cheapy folder should be here in about a week or 10--11 days. I'll learn from it and see if I enjoy this style of bike, thinking I will. I only know of one fella that bought the same machine as I have, here on RU-vid, and with some instant upgrades, he likes it very much. I hope I will too
I cycle toured the 4 Rivers in South Korea on my Brompton clone and I thought the bike was awesome, so yeah the original should be just as good, if not better. But most parts and upgrades are customised and are therefore quite expensive. The smallest folded dimensions and decent weight (12-13kg) make it extremely portable and stowable. Cycling speed is not really a big factor when you get a Brompton (or clone).
There (surprisingly) nippy , so nippy that one downhill i bolted it over my handlebars! But I lived to tell the tale, as did my Brompton. There serious bikes that can go miles. They can be annoying sometimes with the occasional glitch e.g. my handlebar catch/nipple braising sjapped and was repaired under warranty and the gear shifters can have issues but overall they are worth the occasional glitch
Woh you really have concluded almost all the pros of this bike especial about cleaning in your bathroom that after wet day ride. If there is one thing more it might be the adaptor for all fancy bags to be put in front. I am going to buy one!!!!
I've used the Brompton hire scheme a few times in Central London and admit they have the benefit of portability on the transport network. Otherwise they are pretty slow and strange to ride without the stability of a top tube.
I see two folding bike for sale in this area that I want. One 2009 brompton for 700euros. The other is a birdy for 350 euros. Both seems to be in ok condition, the birdy is much further away. How does these two bikes compare? People say the brompton has name brand, more accessories and more compact when folded, steel frame. Others say the birdy is lighter, faster, more comfortable since it has front and rear suspension, cheaper.
We have a scheme in the UK called cycle to work scheme in which the UK Government lets you buy a bike over set periods of time,(12/24/48 months) and allows it to be tax deductible. Your employer joins the scheme so that the monthly deduction gets taken at gross wage. And you don't have to use it to cycle to work, it's a way to get people out of cars and reduce pollution. I have just signed up and intend to get a Brompton. The decision was made mostly on the praise this guy has lavished on it.
Great videos! Ive learned alot. Waiting for my Brompton to be built (with rack) probably any day now. Where do you work? Does the Brompton take the place of a car for you?
Between the ZiZZO Liberte review that you previously had review and this bike, which bike would you recommend regardless of price? Also, would you get this bike with or without the rack?
I’m glad most people like there brompton but there must be people out there that, just like me, have bad experience with there bike. I would never recommend to anyone to by a brompton, the price is not at all justified, the maintenance is overpriced,... If I knew what I know now I would just by a cheep folding bike and just use it till it’s broke and bye a new one, even then it would be much cheaper than buying that brompton. I hope you people keep enjoying your brompton and never encounter the troubles that I have.
Those unaware of the Brompton's outstanding build quality and capabilities just look at it alongside other mostly inferior folding bikes, and carp on about the price. The Brompton really is a case of getting what you pay for. Secondhand values especially now, are incredible even on 10+ year old bikes. Tells you something? I'm adding another one to my fleet, I pick up a new M6L next week, bolt blue electric. I can't wait!
I’ve had a Brompton 6 speed in SF for almost 6 years (and I’m an old fat guy) and while I agree with most of what this guy says, I also think it’s not a terribly comfortable ride for long bike trips. I have NOT taken other full size or folding bikes on long bike trips either though. But, having ridden this bike across SF, and back, I find my arms get sore and my hands go numb. My arse isn’t exactly thrilled, either. It’s also more unstable than big wheel bikes--something Brompton owners disavow like White House Guy and the last election. Mmmmmnnnn. No. I’ve fallen off this bike in odd situations where I haven’t on larger wheeled bikes. Still, I love this bike. I heartily recommend this bike, especially to those with space issues who no longer fancy bikes as wall art or hallway clothing hangers. And when you’re young and slim and full of vigor, well, I’ve gone faster than I would have imagined, even uphill, in SF, at my age, in my condition; I can only imagine how fast you’ll go on this strange looking little bike!!!
I agree 100% with everything you said. I've only had mine for 7 months and I am still not sure how to drive it perfectly safely. But the more I ride it, the more I learn and am amazed by what is possible to do safely on that bike. I'd love to ride with somebody experienced who could teach me tips and tricks. So far I can easily go down a few steps or jump/climb one. I can keep my arms flex and rigid while the front wheel stutter on bumpy roads or tracks. It does react sometimes like a mountain bike but mainly like a road bike. But also, I am still afraid to be daring, I know I could fall for the stupidest of reasons.
Yes, people seem to generally say Bromptons are slow and are uncomfortable. That's absolutely not my experience, I find them quite quick and supremely comfortable.
