I was curious as to the folded dimensions of the Birdy. I agree the new monocoque frame does look like it is more compact than the old/new classic frame but according to Pacific Website the folded dimensions are actually larger. Old style frame - 62 x 33 x 72 cm /New Style frame 60 x 39 x 72 (R20 model)
I had a Birdy for 5 years and I always avoided folding because folding as well as unfolding is a pain in the a..., not only physically uncomfortable and mechanically difficult and anti-intuitive with no snaps, but also dirty fingers are guaranteed as you have to fully grab the fork by hand, always with brake dust on it. Furthermore, even though the folding size of a Birdy compared to a Brompton is not so much bigger than other "folding bikes", it is still some 30 % more in length and depth which is enough to make it impossible being carried into a bus, and even very crowded metros/trains become problematic. There's a reason why Brompton is so successful compared to Birdy even with a decades lasting lack of innovation in weight, gears and tires.
Luckily I am not an old fart needing an e-bike to get up to speed. So I am quite happy with my Birdy and would never go for a Brompton with its outdated and unreliable tech. Just thinking about breaking this monstrosity down a steep hill with rim brakes made for childrens's bikes gives me the creeps.
Wait... Did you know that Birdy is coming out with a new ebike, the MOOVE, with a mid-drive BOSCH Performance Line SX motor, with 600 watts and 55 Nm of torque? Together, the battery and motor will weigh slightly under 9 pounds. Just imagine if the MOOVE had a Rohloff hub also. I know that Birdy has a Rohloff version so may they can couple the BOSCH motor and Rohloff hub together. This could be the future. Imagine a titanium version too.
Why are you comparing expensive toy with bicycle, which is unfair. The expiration of the patent is the best news Because you can buy one made in China for less than a third of the price.anyway its performance is shit You're just folding for convenience, right ?