Help Needed from Folding Bike Users

[srw]

That is reassuringly frank - thanks. How do you find them in terms of comfort and robustness (withstanding breakage)?

I have a Brompton, so that in itself gives a head-start - it's as robust as anything and has rudimentary suspension. But frankly I'm heavy enough the suspension doesn't do a great deal. I tend to ride with tyres pumped to maximum PSI, and it's a great ride, even over London potholes. The only reason I can tell I'm not riding a bigger bike is the fact that I can easily dodge around and through traffic and little obstructions.

Seriously - 4 miles is nothing, especially on flattish roads. Just make sure the saddle's at the right height and the tyres are well inflated and you'll get used to it very quickly.

 

[robert b 2]

Thanks. What do you make of the Ridgeback I linked to in terms of the spec? Would you say 7 gears is enough, in the event I do take on a bit of hilliness?

Cheers

 

[Origamist]

A seven speed hub will give you a good range of gears for most conditions. If you need to lower the gearing further, get a larger sprocket.

Why don't you test ride the bike (and others) - that will give you a much better idea of what to expect. At first the bike will feel twitchy, but you'll quickly get used to it.

I've done century rides on folders, so less than 10 miles a day won't be a problem.

 

[robert b 2]

Thanks for all the info guys.

 

[lazyfatgit]

I bought a Brompton after seeking some advice on here, and it's been just great. I find the steps between the gears (6 speed) a bit large in comparison to the road bike, and if i spin a bit then the suspension can feel a bit bouncy (should have got the stiffer bung), therefore I usually have a lower cadence on it. Otherwise I've done 10 miles easily.

 

[Yellow Fang]

Bromptons are better for that kind of thing, though they cost more. One problem with a lot of fold-ups is that their chainrings are on the outside when folded up, so you're more prone to getting grease everywhere. Bromptons are different because the chainring ends up in the middle of the package. I think Mezzos fold up into a tidy package too. If that Ridgeback is similar to a Dahon, then another drawback is that they don't seem that easy to carry, although they're easier to drag along the ground. Given that choice, I think I'd rather get the Ridgeback Horizon and continue to cycle the whole way.