thenay
Member
Hi, new to the forum here!
I'm after a folding bike, as I'll need it for a new daily commute involving trains. After reading a lot of reviews, it seems that the Brompton would be a better choice for what I need, as they fold small and keep their value well. However, buying a brand new one is something I can't afford at the moment.
So I've been looking for second hand models, and came across a 2003 M3L at an affordable price (£450). It's had a single owner, who recently changed the gears, shifter and cables; as well as rear wheel, chain, brake pads and mudguards. From the sound of it, the only thing that might need updating soon would be the front wheel... the saddle seems ok, although I've only seen pictures.
But I have no idea how much it costs to maintain a Brompton, let alone an old model. Could more experienced Brompton users advise me on the (dis)advantages of owning an old model? How easy / expensive is it to replace stuff if things go wrong? How easy is it to resell? Is it worth the effort, or better to invest a bit more and get a more recently made 2nd hand bike?
Many thanks in advance!
I'm after a folding bike, as I'll need it for a new daily commute involving trains. After reading a lot of reviews, it seems that the Brompton would be a better choice for what I need, as they fold small and keep their value well. However, buying a brand new one is something I can't afford at the moment.
So I've been looking for second hand models, and came across a 2003 M3L at an affordable price (£450). It's had a single owner, who recently changed the gears, shifter and cables; as well as rear wheel, chain, brake pads and mudguards. From the sound of it, the only thing that might need updating soon would be the front wheel... the saddle seems ok, although I've only seen pictures.
But I have no idea how much it costs to maintain a Brompton, let alone an old model. Could more experienced Brompton users advise me on the (dis)advantages of owning an old model? How easy / expensive is it to replace stuff if things go wrong? How easy is it to resell? Is it worth the effort, or better to invest a bit more and get a more recently made 2nd hand bike?
Many thanks in advance!