I bought a Brompton in September. A few years ago, I had a Tern and couldn’t imagine riding the smaller-wheeled Brompton. But, now I absolutely love it. I’m a musician and music teacher in NYC. I ride my Brompton to school every day, fold it up, and bring it into my classroom. At night and on the weekends, I often ride my Brompton to rehearsals or performances with a saxophone on my back. Last week, I rode it over the Williamsburg Bridge for the first time. I did have to rest for a few minutes about halfway up the bridge, but it’s the best way to get around. I love the convenience of it, but I’m also finding these days that it is my go to over my Trek FX2 hybrid for other rides. It’s just easier to manage. Thanks for your video. It’s great to see others who love folding bikes too.
@@CraigMcGorryMusic wow! This sounds amazing. Would love to see a photo of you with the saxaphone and Brompton! What are cycle lanes / infrastructure for cycling like in NYC? I haven’t been for 5 or so years. Thanks for sharing 👍
I'm 65 and a lifelong cyclist. Got into folders 5 years ago to make train use easier. Small wheeled cycling makes me smile, it's fun. I have a Tern, C line Brompton and a a Rayleigh Stowaway.
I love my Brompton which I have had for 9 years. I recently had it converted by Kinetics, Glasgow and it has a 14 speed Rohloff hub and disc brakes. What was a great bike for multi modal transport is now even better as a touring bike as well. I totally agree with you about the joy of small wheel bikes. I always say that it is like when you were a kid swooping over rises and flying down the other side and screaming with joy. That's what a Brompton feels like even to a 65 year old. Interestingly mine is also my best load carrier compared to my MTB and my road bike. I carry full camping gear and also all my gear for yoga which is light but bulky. Enjoyed that video 👏
@@mattgemmell8345 hi, thanks for watching and sharing. Sounds like a great upgrade that works well for you. Does the conversion add a lot of weight? And yes those feelings of being a kid again are what it’s all about!
@@veloworks9266thanks, there is a slight weight increase, Rohloffs are not light but there are few other parts that came off and it really isn't noticeable and it is more or less the same size. An IKEA Dimpa bag is a bit tight now but doable. 18" x 2" wheels are great too. I think the fun part is overlooked with Brommies and the fold is the talking point but it really is fun to ride. Keep the videos coming 👏
My only regret is that I did not get a Brompton sooner. Small wheeled bikes are so accommodating to my small 2nd floor flat life, and outdoor adventures. Now, thanks to Health and age I have had to resort to ebiking (Brompton/Swytch), I do miss the lighter weight of unassisted cycling, and particularly my no mudguard, stripped down short-wheelbased summer Brompton. But thankfully I do still manage to cycle, not far or fast though. Thanks for sharing.
What a lovely relaxing and uplifting video to watch on this dark evening. We've recently sold two of our Bromptons, they went to a good home, a husband and wife who wrote us a letter to say how much pleasure they were getting from them. We've still got one each, they're such a joy to ride, and if you overindulge in the pub, just fold them and jump on the bus.
Thanks for the great film! I was bought a Raleigh Stowaway in 1973 when I was 11, I loved the bike, and as my Father was in the army then we moved every couple of years so it was easy to fold up and pack. I bought a Dahon Vitesse in 2014 for travelling to work using the train and loved it, and soon started using it for trips to Holland and Germany using the Stena lines service from Harwich - travelling as a foot passenger! I then treated myself to a 3 speed Brompton in 2019, and have used it on a number of tours in this country and abroad - next year I plan to tour/camp in Denmark with it. Whilst I have a couple of full size bikes (a Pashley roadster 3 speed and a 40 year old Raleigh), the small wheelers always bring a smile to my face when I ride them - I could quite happily ditch the full size bikes and manage all my cycling trips (including trips to Aldi etc.) on the folders.
I think the ting that got me first into folding bikes was the small wheels and the quirkiness around them compared to normal sized wheels, they just get different and more fun! But more than that the fact that you could take your bike anywhere, not having to carry a lock E V E R was the main thing that made me cycle more and live my folding bike put it hai day! And it is almost 20 years since my first folder which was a dahon Boardwalk till my current M6R Claret Brompton that I have been riding since 2014 and still loving it! Always enjoy your content keep up the good vibes and enjoy your rides!
@@vassiliosbartzokas922 thanks for the lovely comments, watching our videos and also sharing your story. Yes we love not having to carry a lock with the Brompton! Occasionally I will lock it but it’s so rare!
What a lovely video. I've been a small wheeled bike convert since the late 90s when I bought my first Moulton which was an F frame with 16" wheels. I've now got a (broken) APB, a 3 sp TSR and an 11 speed SST moultons alongside a yr old Brompton. I love all of them as they're all massively good fun to ride and capable.. The moultons are so stiff yet so comfortable that I say they're like a velvet covered girder. The Brommie is almost everything that's good about a Moulton, but it folds small enough to go anywhere with you. Keep sharing the love guys. ❤
@@veloworks9266 that's like asking which child you would keep:-) If only one then the Brompton. Not cos it's the comfiest. It isn't Not cos it's the quickest. It isn't. Not cos it's best handling. It isn't. Not cos it can carry more. It can't. But it is nearly all of the above, but I can fold it in seconds and take it into anywhere which I can't even do with a separable Moulton. Trains, shops, work. No worries about security.
@@veloworks9266 That's possibly the hardest question you could have asked :-). If I had to whittle it down to one it would be the Brompton. Not because it's the most comfortable. it isn't Not because it's the quickest. It isn't Not because it has the best handling. it doesn't. But the Moultons don't fold down like the Brompton does. It goes with me where ever I go with no worries about security. At work it's under the desk. At the shops it's in the trolley (Quick tip: Lidl trolleys have a little foldout shelf that's perfect for a Brompton).. That's a heck of a USP.
I have grown to love these small wheeled bikes as well. I have owned several Dahons and a Bike Friday, but I have to say, my Brompton C Line Explorer is my favorite. The fact that I can fold it up into such a small package to take with me opens up a much broader range of rides and more frequent opportunities for exploration.
On a very wet and windy Sunday I enjoyed a passive couch ride watching your excellent video! I love my three Brompton's, so much so I often consider clearing out the other bikes and acquiring another small wheeler. Apart from the practical aspect of a compact folder another bonus is making people smile as I am 6' 3'' and getting on a bit. The Bromptons make me feel 10 years old again (particular the one which has a Switch kit on it when I attack the big hill!). My titanium S type is superb for grab and go multi mode travel and sits in the hallway ready for those last minute decision rides. Also great for coffee shop visits as it sits neatly under the table- no need to carry a multitude of heavy duty street locks.
Really liked your video! Got my first small wheel folding bike 2 months ago (a Pacto Three) coming from a 26 inch Surly and a recumbent trike (also 20 inch wheels and foldable). What fun to ride these folding bikes!! I'm gonna stick with those from now on. 😁
Great video, i ride a inexpensive folding bike, zizzo forte.Its my favorite bike ,not sure why i wanted a folder because I rarely fold it.3000 miles and still loving it.
@@jered2177 sometimes it’s just the small wheels that make it a dream to ride. I’ll probably never fold / collapse the Moulton but it is just such a great bike to ride
I have the Forte too. It may be a bit heavy for a folder (28 lbs) but I rarely fold and carry it around. Here in the notoriously hilly and often wet Pacific Northwest US every one of those 8 gears and the 20x 1.95 inch tires are welcome features.
I own a bargain-basement, no frills B75 that cost me £800 and I love it, but after a few years of struggling with the hilly terrain in my part of the world I felt that at my advanced age(78) I needed a lighter and easier folder to get around on. So, after much thought, I decided to spend my cat's inheritance on a Brompton P line, in the hope that my knees would appreciate the benefit of a lighter bike fitted with 5 derailleur gears. The bike has fulfilled my expectations in every way. It is much easier to carry around than the B75, primarily because it feels a lot lighter and the left removable pedal allows me to hold it close when folded. The 5 speed conversion was a little tricky to 'tune' at first, and shifting down from 2nd gear to 1st was a hit and miss affair for a while, until I eventually mastered the technique of flicking the thumbshift button and getting it to click into bottom gear on a regular basis. In every way it feels livelier and more comfortable and sure footed than the B75, so I'd say to anyone who wanted to own a Brompton for the first time, to skip the heavyish, hub geared, old style C line bikes, save up their pennies and splash out on a Performance Line beauty.
Wow, Steve Parry made me an SP Brompton 20 years ago. I sold it but now have two custom Bromptons I’ve build up myself. Steve warmed up some food for my 1 year old son when I collected the bike. Nice chap, glad to see he’s still making bikes
Flying low on my Birdy these days and find it a great ride. Doesn’t fold as neat as a Brommie but 24 gears, suspension and 18 inch wheels make a big difference.
I have a full size gravel bike, tern verge x11 and eclipse p20. The verge is my favorite. I don't know how to explain it but every time I ride it I absolutely love it. Makes me happy every time.
Great to see you both enthusing about small wheel bikes. I’ve had my Brompton M6L for 7 years now and absolutely love it! My wife says she thinks it’s my best friend. Sad but probably true. Keep producing your great videos 👍
Hi Paul and Sarah, great video and made me think, why do I love my Brompton ? I've always fancied a Brompton and bought a C line explorer 6 speed last year even although my wife was very much against it as she thought they were "silly clown bikes" I have a Dawes one track hardtail mountain bike, a Cannondale cyclo-cross and a Giant dirt 2 e-bike, all of which I love. But since having my small wheel Brompton I find that it's my go to bike 😄 To be honest I don't know why, much to the annoyance of my wife. I wonder if it's an age thing being 70, but you youngsters love them too 👍 Anyway I've only had my Brompton about a year but there is something about them, I don't know what, but whatever it is I love it. Keep up the good work you two 👍
We have 5 Bromptons 3 mk 1 moultons and a TSR A8 Small wheeled bikes are sooo much fun and like you say they make you feel like a child again I’m 60 going on 16 !
I've got a 6 speed C line in Bumblebee yellow, absolutely brilliant. Such fun to ride just grab and go. People who have voiced negative opinions on it, talking about the wheel size etc, are soon converted when they ride it. The only thing stopping them is the price.
Congratulations on your lovely new addition, Bromptons are very addictive, I used to have a M3L but now I ride everywhere on a S6L, I love small wheeled bikes, I have a very strong Hankering for a Moulton but the wife would kill me. in your video you mention, 'if you know you know', which is how I feel, its difficult to put into words, but small wheels are for me the only way to travel. Thanks for once again sharing another great video.
@@MichaelWilde.pushbikegraddad thank you for your lovely comments - we really appreciate them. And I (Sarah) and so so lucky to have the Moulton ! And yep, if you know YOU KNOW!
I love my folding bikes I have a Tern E bike folder..and my no 1 is bike Friday Tikit my wife has DANHON MADE INTO A E BIKE.We ride them all the time.Love your channel it’s my favourite on You tube. Thanks again
@@barriewylde5915 hi, thanks so much for the lovely comment and really pleased you enjoy the videos. Sarahs grandads favourite bike of all time was his Bike Friday. And we both rode it too so we can see why you love it!
Love you guys! Your enthusiasm is contagious! I love small wheeled bikes too! I have two Brompton's and commute with them daily. Haven't tried a Moulton yet, but it's high on on my wish list!
Fun video, thanks! Between me and my girlfriend we have: 2x Bromptons, 2x Bickerton Junction, 2x Cube Compact Hybrid bikes and I also have an Airnimal Joey and a Tern BYB. They're all great bikes, each with own set of strengths and weaknesses. Almost forgotten, there also is an Orbea Katu waiting for major service!
Absolutely love my Brompton. It’s a cross between a racer and a bmx. Really fun to ride - makes me feel like a kid again - even on a commute. I can’t wait to try cycle touring and not had the chance to get a train yet, but I have many plans and they all include my Brompton. Thanks for a great channel - I’ve learned loads from you both already.
I've just restored a 50 year old Puch Picnic (non-folding), furnished it with BMX tyres, brakes and a period correct West German made quilted seat. Absolutely love it, so much so that I've now bought a 49 year old Puch Promenade. Would like to build a mini velo next.
My small wheeled folding bike is a Xootr Swift. It has 20" wheels and I have fitted drop bars to it and double chainset. It's great fun to ride and it folds for easy storage. The fold is not as neat as a Brompton but the larger wheels and range of gears makes it a pleasure to ride.
I totally agree about small wheels, i have 2 X 6 speed bromptons, reduced gearing for hills and trips, and I have 2X Moultons, APB 16 speed nd a TSR 30 speed I am very lucky to have so many. 😁
Bromptons are great. I've had one for years - but they are expensive. For those wanting to try a budget small wheeler I highly recommend an old Dawes Kingpin. I've had several and still have a couple. They are a joy to ride and you can pick them up for a few quid
I have the Dawes Kingpin! It's the bike I would keep. My 700c Marin Larkspur I could never really get on with. Maybe it's because I'm only 5.2" and I feel it's too unwieldy? Also, the big wheels crammed into a small frame mean toe overlap is an issue. I would like the Marin to go to a good home as it's still mint - (a good cause maybe?) Tried to contact a charity here in Leeds where I live, but they didn't get back to me.
I don't have a Brompton but made a test ride of the C (electric), T Line and other fullsize e-bikes. I don't know why, but the acceleration on the Brompton rides like it has a motor, I even had to look at the front to make sure it really is the non electric model. I guess that's part of what you mean with at 1:45. The T Line was even snappier and if I have the money for it I guess I will get it. The price is high but I don't use a car so a more expensive bike that I'll use for decades is fine I guess.
great bikes. nice people. just absolutely love the channel. I live in Houston Texas and my family loves our b75 and our c I would like it if you showed a bit of skin on these videos. Just a thought. Maybe a part where you two make out. Just a suggestion. Nothing wrong with the videos as they are, but it it would just break down on the end with you two making out like a house on fire, it would tie the whole thing together. Anyway. Love the channel. And I especially liked the hill climbing one and the maintenance tutors. Great stuff. Keep up the good work.
My first bike was a Raleigh RSW 14, I had the Micky taken by all my chopper/racer riding friends. I went over to the dark side and rode 26” 27” and 700c” wheeled bikes but the love wasn’t there. I since had dahon’s and more latterly a KTM machina fold electric 20 inch bike, it’s amazing but I have a scratch I need to itch, I need a Brompton 😊
Thanks for sharing! And we know that feeling - Sarah’s first bike was a Moulton mini and everyone laughed at it (she didn’t mind too much) and when I first got my Brompton I lived in Glasgow and they weren’t around much at the time there and people would point and take the Micky. Little did they know 😀
Love small wheels on bikes and long ears on my donkeys. Yes, he’s a real boy. I got an inexpensive folding bike and my next bike will be a Brompton. Congratulations on your B model it’s my favorite color. Looking forward to the next video when you share with me how you’re getting on with your new bike. Nice to see your video in my list. Be well and warm.
@@veloworks9266 yes, I’ve had him for 30 years. He’s my child now that my children are all grown. He loves to race me on my bike down the pasture fence.
@@veloworks9266 his name Is Sancho, he’s a fully frosted spotted white color and carries very old genetics, he’s white with big silver patches. He is big like a horse, mammoth Jackstock He’s such a love bug. Dogs don’t live long lives, but donkeys do. I hope to share all my life with him, when I leave the earth my son will keep him fat and happy here on the farm.
I currently own 10 folding bikes and all of them are 16in wheel bikes with the exception of 2 and they are 20in wheel bikes. I don't like the 20in folding wheel bikes and I'm planning on getting rid of them in the near future. One of my 20in folding bikes is a tandem folding bike and I don't like it because the chain has to be removed to fold it. The new trifolding tandem bikes are on the market now and the chain doesn't have to be removed to fold the bike. The other 20in folding bike that I own just doesn't fix my taste and I'm looking to getting rid of it as well. I love my Brompton A line and Brompton C line folding bikes and my Origami Lotus folding bike is my 2nd favorite folding bike because it is fast and it came with a 58T chainring, 9 speed and it is a steel frame bike just like my Bromptons. I have an unbranded 16in single speed folding bike and it is about 13 years old and it has been basically a maintenance free bike.
What a collection! Thanks for sharing with us. We don’t fold our Moulton as it’s more collapsible than foldable but it’s still small enough to fit in the car if needed and just great fun to ride. But the bonus of easy train travel with the Bromptons is definitely the biggest plus!
My wife and I both have Bromptons. They have both recently been converted to battery (Nano) now. They still cycle great with the battery off but I can go so much further on tours or days out when I get tired. Great fun , great on trains, luggage is great plus I bought the rear rack carrier you did a review on (Vicinta) so good for touring. I keep looking for new adventures. What would you suggest for a bottle carrier.
Hi Peter thanks for watching and commenting. Sorry about the late reply. Glad you like the Vincita 👍 Bottle carrier wise I use the Restrap City Stem bag. Works wonderfully 👍
Paul !!! I knew you were the most handsome man in the world and Sarah confirmed what I see through my implacable computer screen. What I didn't know was that Sarah is the most beautiful woman in the world !!! Wow, together, you are heaven. Warning though, with such perfection, if you have kids, chances are they won't reach the angelic good looks the both of you have. That's OK. You have hearts of gold too. Real beauty comes from within. It was great to hear Steve Perry's opinion from the Folding Society what he thought was the best folding bike in the world. Without hesitation he said the T-Line !!! OMG !!! He just confirmed my thoughts too. Dang it's expensive but it's worth saving up for. What I really covet is the fully customized T-Line shown on the UA-cam channel, "Brompton Premium Parts." Yes, it's another $5K on top of the already $5K price for the T-Line but... I can dream.
@@davidhunternyc1 😂😂 David you are funny! And yes it was so good to hear about Steve’s favourite small wheeled bike! He’s ridden most folding and small wheeled bikes you can think of so definitely an oracle !
Great video and looks like a ride I'd like to do with my wife. I just bought her a Brompton and we find them so easy to get on and off trains which opens up such a vast area to explore new places rather than the same lanes close to home. Any thoughts on the G line. I have seen / sat on one but think they may be a touch too big to fit in the luggage space of a train.
@@MrSportster12 thanks! And yes it’s a great flat ride with a wonderful coffee stop 👍 The G line - we haven’t seen or ridden one but purchasing one I guess would be a matter of your needs. I personally don’t think I’ll get one because for me (Paul) the Brompton I have folds perfectly and I have other bikes that will do gravel. I think if someone’s never owned a Brompton or wants to push a Brompton that bit further it’s a good option.
I switched to smaller wheels for storage convenience. Even with 20" wheels I can take it on any train at any time. If for some reason I'm returning by car it fits in easily. They're just too versetaille for me to want to go back to bigger wheeled bikes.
@@krob9145 agreed! If we HAD to have only one bike paul would choose the Brompton and I’d pick the Moulton out of all our bikes. Thankfully right now we have the space for more than one each!
How does the cop bike fold with a cop carbon belt instead of a chain? Would love to have seen that fold up! Fun and informative video as always thanks so much!
@@GGg-ic9ku the carbon belt drive has to be removed to fold. We are seeing Steve again in December so will be sure to get a video of it folding! Thanks for the nice comments and watching 👍
@@veloworks9266 Thanjs for the reply. I look forward to that video. I love your new Brompton, lovely color! Oddly enough, I was born in Chicago and my dad would sometimes bring me with him to his work when I was young, and grab lunch at the Dill Pickle Deli, which was the block that was blown up (pretend) in the Blues Brothers movie. Then I was riding the ultimate bike as a child, a glorious yellow Schwinn stingray 3 speed, with banana seat. I get almost as much joy from my new Brompton 4 speed electric as I did that bike!
@@GGg-ic9ku thanks for sharing! How amazing. Paul really wants to go to Chicago so we will add that block to the list. And your childhood bike - what a dream!
@@veloworks9266 There’s so much to see and do in Chicago, unless you’re a huge blue brother’s fan, that would be the last place I would recommend going, especially since the deli is long gone and is just a wonderful childhood memory. You must get a true Chicago hot dog though … cannot be beat … wiener circle on Clark Street downtown Chicago would be the place to go. Though there are many superb places to get a Chicago hot dog.
I have a full size gravel bike, tern verge x11 and eclipse p20. The verge is my favorite. I don't know how to explain it but every time I ride it I absolutely love it. Makes me happy every time.
Easy question to answer. For me my Brompton makes me smile when I ride it, when I look at it parked and also when I pack it full of camping gear 😊😊
@@paulfairclough9350 agreed ! With all of these 😀
I bought a Brompton in September. A few years ago, I had a Tern and couldn’t imagine riding the smaller-wheeled Brompton. But, now I absolutely love it. I’m a musician and music teacher in NYC. I ride my Brompton to school every day, fold it up, and bring it into my classroom. At night and on the weekends, I often ride my Brompton to rehearsals or performances with a saxophone on my back. Last week, I rode it over the Williamsburg Bridge for the first time. I did have to rest for a few minutes about halfway up the bridge, but it’s the best way to get around. I love the convenience of it, but I’m also finding these days that it is my go to over my Trek FX2 hybrid for other rides. It’s just easier to manage. Thanks for your video. It’s great to see others who love folding bikes too.
@@CraigMcGorryMusic wow! This sounds amazing. Would love to see a photo of you with the saxaphone and Brompton! What are cycle lanes / infrastructure for cycling like in NYC? I haven’t been for 5 or so years. Thanks for sharing 👍
I'm 65 and a lifelong cyclist. Got into folders 5 years ago to make train use easier.
Small wheeled cycling makes me smile, it's fun.
I have a Tern, C line Brompton and a a Rayleigh Stowaway.
@@ianbarker1959 a great collection!
I love my Brompton which I have had for 9 years. I recently had it converted by Kinetics, Glasgow and it has a 14 speed Rohloff hub and disc brakes. What was a great bike for multi modal transport is now even better as a touring bike as well. I totally agree with you about the joy of small wheel bikes. I always say that it is like when you were a kid swooping over rises and flying down the other side and screaming with joy. That's what a Brompton feels like even to a 65 year old. Interestingly mine is also my best load carrier compared to my MTB and my road bike. I carry full camping gear and also all my gear for yoga which is light but bulky. Enjoyed that video 👏
@@mattgemmell8345 hi, thanks for watching and sharing. Sounds like a great upgrade that works well for you. Does the conversion add a lot of weight? And yes those feelings of being a kid again are what it’s all about!
@@veloworks9266thanks, there is a slight weight increase, Rohloffs are not light but there are few other parts that came off and it really isn't noticeable and it is more or less the same size. An IKEA Dimpa bag is a bit tight now but doable. 18" x 2" wheels are great too. I think the fun part is overlooked with Brommies and the fold is the talking point but it really is fun to ride. Keep the videos coming 👏
@@mattgemmell8345 totally agree with the last comment!
Nice views of the Weston-super-Mare to Clevedon bike route.
Indeed it is!
My only regret is that I did not get a Brompton sooner. Small wheeled bikes are so accommodating to my small 2nd floor flat life, and outdoor adventures. Now, thanks to Health and age I have had to resort to ebiking (Brompton/Swytch), I do miss the lighter weight of unassisted cycling, and particularly my no mudguard, stripped down short-wheelbased summer Brompton.
But thankfully I do still manage to cycle, not far or fast though.
Thanks for sharing.
@@taber247 thanks for watching and also sharing your small wheeled story. Glad you are still able to cycle 👍
What a lovely relaxing and uplifting video to watch on this dark evening. We've recently sold two of our Bromptons, they went to a good home, a husband and wife who wrote us a letter to say how much pleasure they were getting from them. We've still got one each, they're such a joy to ride, and if you overindulge in the pub, just fold them and jump on the bus.
@@devjon123 what a lovely story! How nice to know they’ve gone to people who really appreciate it. Thank you for watching and the lovely comments 👍
Thanks for the great film! I was bought a Raleigh Stowaway in 1973 when I was 11, I loved the bike, and as my Father was in the army then we moved every couple of years so it was easy to fold up and pack. I bought a Dahon Vitesse in 2014 for travelling to work using the train and loved it, and soon started using it for trips to Holland and Germany using the Stena lines service from Harwich - travelling as a foot passenger! I then treated myself to a 3 speed Brompton in 2019, and have used it on a number of tours in this country and abroad - next year I plan to tour/camp in Denmark with it. Whilst I have a couple of full size bikes (a Pashley roadster 3 speed and a 40 year old Raleigh), the small wheelers always bring a smile to my face when I ride them - I could quite happily ditch the full size bikes and manage all my cycling trips (including trips to Aldi etc.) on the folders.
@@MichaelWatkins-l6w sounds like a lovely collection of bikes and some great trips. Thanks for sharing your experiences 👍
I think the ting that got me first into folding bikes was the small wheels and the quirkiness around them compared to normal sized wheels, they just get different and more fun! But more than that the fact that you could take your bike anywhere, not having to carry a lock E V E R was the main thing that made me cycle more and live my folding bike put it hai day! And it is almost 20 years since my first folder which was a dahon Boardwalk till my current M6R Claret Brompton that I have been riding since 2014 and still loving it! Always enjoy your content keep up the good vibes and enjoy your rides!
@@vassiliosbartzokas922 thanks for the lovely comments, watching our videos and also sharing your story. Yes we love not having to carry a lock with the Brompton! Occasionally I will lock it but it’s so rare!
What a lovely video. I've been a small wheeled bike convert since the late 90s when I bought my first Moulton which was an F frame with 16" wheels. I've now got a (broken) APB, a 3 sp TSR and an 11 speed SST moultons alongside a yr old Brompton. I love all of them as they're all massively good fun to ride and capable.. The moultons are so stiff yet so comfortable that I say they're like a velvet covered girder. The Brommie is almost everything that's good about a Moulton, but it folds small enough to go anywhere with you.
Keep sharing the love guys. ❤
@@MrGarydawes thanks for sharing Gary and wow what a collection! If you had to have only one though which would it be?!
@@veloworks9266 that's like asking which child you would keep:-)
If only one then the Brompton.
Not cos it's the comfiest. It isn't
Not cos it's the quickest. It isn't.
Not cos it's best handling. It isn't.
Not cos it can carry more. It can't.
But it is nearly all of the above, but I can fold it in seconds and take it into anywhere which I can't even do with a separable Moulton. Trains, shops, work. No worries about security.
@@veloworks9266 That's possibly the hardest question you could have asked :-). If I had to whittle it down to one it would be the Brompton.
Not because it's the most comfortable. it isn't
Not because it's the quickest. It isn't
Not because it has the best handling. it doesn't.
But the Moultons don't fold down like the Brompton does. It goes with me where ever I go with no worries about security. At work it's under the desk. At the shops it's in the trolley (Quick tip: Lidl trolleys have a little foldout shelf that's perfect for a Brompton)..
That's a heck of a USP.
I have grown to love these small wheeled bikes as well. I have owned several Dahons and a Bike Friday, but I have to say, my Brompton C Line Explorer is my favorite. The fact that I can fold it up into such a small package to take with me opens up a much broader range of rides and more frequent opportunities for exploration.
@@jackshepherd1499 sounds great and yep I feel the same way about my Brompton P6R 👍
On a very wet and windy Sunday I enjoyed a passive couch ride watching your excellent video! I love my three Brompton's, so much so I often consider clearing out the other bikes and acquiring another small wheeler. Apart from the practical aspect of a compact folder another bonus is making people smile as I am 6' 3'' and getting on a bit. The Bromptons make me feel 10 years old again (particular the one which has a Switch kit on it when I attack the big hill!). My titanium S type is superb for grab and go multi mode travel and sits in the hallway ready for those last minute decision rides. Also great for coffee shop visits as it sits neatly under the table- no need to carry a multitude of heavy duty street locks.
Agree with everything you’ve said! The Brompton is the perfect companion for cafe visits ☕️
Really liked your video! Got my first small wheel folding bike 2 months ago (a Pacto Three) coming from a 26 inch Surly and a recumbent trike (also 20 inch wheels and foldable). What fun to ride these folding bikes!! I'm gonna stick with those from now on. 😁
Thanks for the kind comments and really glad to hear!
Great video, i ride a inexpensive folding bike, zizzo forte.Its my favorite bike ,not sure why i wanted a folder because I rarely fold it.3000 miles and still loving it.
@@jered2177 sometimes it’s just the small wheels that make it a dream to ride. I’ll probably never fold / collapse the Moulton but it is just such a great bike to ride
I have the Forte too. It may be a bit heavy for a folder (28 lbs) but I rarely fold and carry it around. Here in the notoriously hilly and often wet Pacific Northwest US every one of those 8 gears and the 20x 1.95 inch tires are welcome features.
I own a bargain-basement, no frills B75 that cost me £800 and I love it, but after a few years of struggling with the hilly terrain in my part of the world I felt that at my advanced age(78) I needed a lighter and easier folder to get around on. So, after much thought, I decided to spend my cat's inheritance on a Brompton P line, in the hope that my knees would appreciate the benefit of a lighter bike fitted with 5 derailleur gears. The bike has fulfilled my expectations in every way. It is much easier to carry around than the B75, primarily because it feels a lot lighter and the left removable pedal allows me to hold it close when folded. The 5 speed conversion was a little tricky to 'tune' at first, and shifting down from 2nd gear to 1st was a hit and miss affair for a while, until I eventually mastered the technique of flicking the thumbshift button and getting it to click into bottom gear on a regular basis. In every way it feels livelier and more comfortable and sure footed than the B75, so I'd say to anyone who wanted to own a Brompton for the first time, to skip the heavyish, hub geared, old style C line bikes, save up their pennies and splash out on a Performance Line beauty.
Wow, Steve Parry made me an SP Brompton 20 years ago. I sold it but now have two custom Bromptons I’ve build up myself. Steve warmed up some food for my 1 year old son when I collected the bike. Nice chap, glad to see he’s still making bikes
Great to hear! He was a very good friend of my grandads so it was lovely to run into him 😀
Flying low on my Birdy these days and find it a great ride. Doesn’t fold as neat as a Brommie but 24 gears, suspension and 18 inch wheels make a big difference.
@@timisles6935 sounds like a great compromise if folding isn’t really needed 👍👍
I have a full size gravel bike, tern verge x11 and eclipse p20. The verge is my favorite. I don't know how to explain it but every time I ride it I absolutely love it. Makes me happy every time.
@@xd1be9nb7v it’s so difficult to articulate isn’t it! But if you know, you just know!
Great to see you both enthusing about small wheel bikes. I’ve had my Brompton M6L for 7 years now and absolutely love it! My wife says she thinks it’s my best friend. Sad but probably true. Keep producing your great videos 👍
@@johnbayley1109 thanks John for watching and commenting. Hahahaha I love your wife’s comment and can understand it!
Hi Paul and Sarah, great video and made me think, why do I love my Brompton ?
I've always fancied a Brompton and bought a C line explorer 6 speed last year even although my wife was very much against it as she thought they were "silly clown bikes" I have a Dawes one track hardtail mountain bike, a Cannondale cyclo-cross and a Giant dirt 2 e-bike, all of which I love. But since having my small wheel Brompton I find that it's my go to bike 😄 To be honest I don't know why, much to the annoyance of my wife. I wonder if it's an age thing being 70, but you youngsters love them too 👍 Anyway I've only had my Brompton about a year but there is something about them, I don't know what, but whatever it is I love it. Keep up the good work you two 👍
Hi, thanks for sharing and I don’t think it’s an age thing. I think it’s the fun and joy they bring whatever your age!!! Maybe get your wife one 😂😀
We have 5 Bromptons 3 mk 1 moultons and a TSR A8 Small wheeled bikes are sooo much fun and like you say they make you feel like a child again I’m 60 going on 16 !
@@neilburgess5761 wow! What a fantastic collection! And yes they really are so much fun! If you know, you know!
I've got a 6 speed C line in Bumblebee yellow, absolutely brilliant. Such fun to ride just grab and go. People who have voiced negative opinions on it, talking about the wheel size etc, are soon converted when they ride it. The only thing stopping them is the price.
Great colour 💛 🐝 and unless you’ve ridden one you just don’t know 👍
Great to see Steve Parry. I have a Brompton and a few Moulton.
@@jonathanmellish4439 sounds like the perfect collection 🤩
Congratulations on your lovely new addition, Bromptons are very addictive, I used to have a M3L but now I ride everywhere on a S6L, I love small wheeled bikes, I have a very strong Hankering for a Moulton but the wife would kill me. in your video you mention, 'if you know you know', which is how I feel, its difficult to put into words, but small wheels are for me the only way to travel. Thanks for once again sharing another great video.
@@MichaelWilde.pushbikegraddad thank you for your lovely comments - we really appreciate them. And I (Sarah) and so so lucky to have the Moulton ! And yep, if you know YOU KNOW!
I love my folding bikes I have a Tern E bike folder..and my no 1 is bike Friday Tikit my wife has DANHON MADE INTO A E BIKE.We ride them all the time.Love your channel it’s my favourite on You tube. Thanks again
@@barriewylde5915 hi, thanks so much for the lovely comment and really pleased you enjoy the videos. Sarahs grandads favourite bike of all time was his Bike Friday. And we both rode it too so we can see why you love it!
Love you guys! Your enthusiasm is contagious! I love small wheeled bikes too! I have two Brompton's and commute with them daily. Haven't tried a Moulton yet, but it's high on on my wish list!
Ah thanks for the nice words and comments 😀 Glad you love your Bromptons and hope you get to try a Moulton one day 👍
Fun video, thanks! Between me and my girlfriend we have: 2x Bromptons, 2x Bickerton Junction, 2x Cube Compact Hybrid bikes and I also have an Airnimal Joey and a Tern BYB. They're all great bikes, each with own set of strengths and weaknesses. Almost forgotten, there also is an Orbea Katu waiting for major service!
@@ukrytykrytyk8477 wow what a collection!
Love small wheel bikes too. Have a classic Birdy and steal my Wife's Brompton too. Hope Sarah enjoys her new bike
@@michaelfreeman5933 I really think she will 👍
Absolutely love my Brompton. It’s a cross between a racer and a bmx. Really fun to ride - makes me feel like a kid again - even on a commute.
I can’t wait to try cycle touring and not had the chance to get a train yet, but I have many plans and they all include my Brompton.
Thanks for a great channel -
I’ve learned loads from you both already.
I've just restored a 50 year old Puch Picnic (non-folding), furnished it with BMX tyres, brakes and a period correct West German made quilted seat. Absolutely love it, so much so that I've now bought a 49 year old Puch Promenade. Would like to build a mini velo next.
@@dieppe182 sounds great!
Since I got my Brompton I've got back into cycle camping. Easy to take on the train 🙂
@@bobalinga ah fantastic! Yes agree. I’ve done quite a few tours on my Brompton with the tent etc. just perfect
My small wheeled folding bike is a Xootr Swift. It has 20" wheels and I have fitted drop bars to it and double chainset. It's great fun to ride and it folds for easy storage. The fold is not as neat as a Brompton but the larger wheels and range of gears makes it a pleasure to ride.
I'll have to look up a bike friday
Great bikes!
I totally agree about small wheels, i have 2 X 6 speed bromptons, reduced gearing for hills and trips, and I have 2X Moultons, APB 16 speed nd a TSR 30 speed I am very lucky to have so many. 😁
@@julieannwhitehouse8148 wow! Indeed. What a collection!
Bromptons are great. I've had one for years - but they are expensive. For those wanting to try a budget small wheeler I highly recommend an old Dawes Kingpin. I've had several and still have a couple. They are a joy to ride and you can pick them up for a few quid
@@PaulBeney yes a nice bike the kingpin. Thank you for watching and commenting
I have the Dawes Kingpin! It's the bike I would keep. My 700c Marin Larkspur I could never really get on with. Maybe it's because I'm only 5.2" and I feel it's too unwieldy? Also, the big wheels crammed into a small frame mean toe overlap is an issue. I would like the Marin to go to a good home as it's still mint - (a good cause maybe?) Tried to contact a charity here in Leeds where I live, but they didn't get back to me.
I don't have a Brompton but made a test ride of the C (electric), T Line and other fullsize e-bikes. I don't know why, but the acceleration on the Brompton rides like it has a motor, I even had to look at the front to make sure it really is the non electric model. I guess that's part of what you mean with at 1:45. The T Line was even snappier and if I have the money for it I guess I will get it. The price is high but I don't use a car so a more expensive bike that I'll use for decades is fine I guess.
Yes they are really zippy! I think if you don’t use a car it’s definitely a worthwhile investment 👍 thank you for watching our video
great bikes. nice people. just absolutely love the channel. I live in Houston Texas and my family loves our b75 and our c
I would like it if you showed a bit of skin on these videos. Just a thought. Maybe a part where you two make out. Just a suggestion. Nothing wrong with the videos as they are, but it it would just break down on the end with you two making out like a house on fire, it would tie the whole thing together. Anyway. Love the channel. And I especially liked the hill climbing one and the maintenance tutors. Great stuff. Keep up the good work.
My first bike was a Raleigh RSW 14, I had the Micky taken by all my chopper/racer riding friends. I went over to the dark side and rode 26” 27” and 700c” wheeled bikes but the love wasn’t there. I since had dahon’s and more latterly a KTM machina fold electric 20 inch bike, it’s amazing but I have a scratch I need to itch, I need a Brompton 😊
Thanks for sharing! And we know that feeling - Sarah’s first bike was a Moulton mini and everyone laughed at it (she didn’t mind too much) and when I first got my Brompton I lived in Glasgow and they weren’t around much at the time there and people would point and take the Micky. Little did they know 😀
Love small wheels on bikes and long ears on my donkeys. Yes, he’s a real boy. I got an inexpensive folding bike and my next bike will be a Brompton. Congratulations on your B model it’s my favorite color. Looking forward to the next video when you share with me how you’re getting on with your new bike. Nice to see your video in my list. Be well and warm.
@@normawingo5116 hi, thanks for watching and the lovely comments! Glad you like the colour 😀💙 And wait.. what? A real donkey?!
@@veloworks9266 yes, I’ve had him for 30 years. He’s my child now that my children are all grown. He loves to race me on my bike down the pasture fence.
@@normawingo5116 awwwww how sweet! What’s his name?
@@veloworks9266 his name
Is Sancho, he’s a fully frosted spotted white color and carries very old genetics, he’s white with big silver patches. He is big like a horse, mammoth Jackstock He’s such a love bug.
Dogs don’t live long lives, but donkeys do. I hope to share all my life with him, when I leave the earth my son will keep him fat and happy here on the farm.
@@normawingo5116 oh wow! He sounds incredible ❤️ a love bug donkey - what a dream!
If I could only have only bike for the rest of my life- Brompton, without hesitation..
I think Paul would agree!
I currently own 10 folding bikes and all of them are 16in wheel bikes with the exception of 2 and they are 20in wheel bikes. I don't like the 20in folding wheel bikes and I'm planning on getting rid of them in the near future. One of my 20in folding bikes is a tandem folding bike and I don't like it because the chain has to be removed to fold it. The new trifolding tandem bikes are on the market now and the chain doesn't have to be removed to fold the bike. The other 20in folding bike that I own just doesn't fix my taste and I'm looking to getting rid of it as well. I love my Brompton A line and Brompton C line folding bikes and my Origami Lotus folding bike is my 2nd favorite folding bike because it is fast and it came with a 58T chainring, 9 speed and it is a steel frame bike just like my Bromptons. I have an unbranded 16in single speed folding bike and it is about 13 years old and it has been basically a maintenance free bike.
What a collection! Thanks for sharing with us. We don’t fold our Moulton as it’s more collapsible than foldable but it’s still small enough to fit in the car if needed and just great fun to ride. But the bonus of easy train travel with the Bromptons is definitely the biggest plus!
My wife and I both have Bromptons. They have both recently been converted to battery (Nano) now. They still cycle great with the battery off but I can go so much further on tours or days out when I get tired. Great fun , great on trains, luggage is great plus I bought the rear rack carrier you did a review on (Vicinta) so good for touring. I keep looking for new adventures. What would you suggest for a bottle carrier.
Hi Peter thanks for watching and commenting. Sorry about the late reply. Glad you like the Vincita 👍 Bottle carrier wise I use the Restrap City Stem bag. Works wonderfully 👍
Totally agree - I’ve just swapped my 29in emtb, which I never got on with, for a 20in folding Estarli 20.8 and I’m absolutely loving it!
@@andybrining3090 sounds great! Thanks for watching and happy cycling 😀
Paul !!! I knew you were the most handsome man in the world and Sarah confirmed what I see through my implacable computer screen. What I didn't know was that Sarah is the most beautiful woman in the world !!! Wow, together, you are heaven. Warning though, with such perfection, if you have kids, chances are they won't reach the angelic good looks the both of you have. That's OK. You have hearts of gold too. Real beauty comes from within. It was great to hear Steve Perry's opinion from the Folding Society what he thought was the best folding bike in the world. Without hesitation he said the T-Line !!! OMG !!! He just confirmed my thoughts too. Dang it's expensive but it's worth saving up for. What I really covet is the fully customized T-Line shown on the UA-cam channel, "Brompton Premium Parts." Yes, it's another $5K on top of the already $5K price for the T-Line but... I can dream.
@@davidhunternyc1 😂😂 David you are funny! And yes it was so good to hear about Steve’s favourite small wheeled bike! He’s ridden most folding and small wheeled bikes you can think of so definitely an oracle !
@@veloworks9266 The truth is the truth. Stay awesome. ♥
Great video and looks like a ride I'd like to do with my wife. I just bought her a Brompton and we find them so easy to get on and off trains which opens up such a vast area to explore new places rather than the same lanes close to home.
Any thoughts on the G line. I have seen / sat on one but think they may be a touch too big to fit in the luggage space of a train.
@@MrSportster12 thanks! And yes it’s a great flat ride with a wonderful coffee stop 👍 The G line - we haven’t seen or ridden one but purchasing one I guess would be a matter of your needs. I personally don’t think I’ll get one because for me (Paul) the Brompton I have folds perfectly and I have other bikes that will do gravel. I think if someone’s never owned a Brompton or wants to push a Brompton that bit further it’s a good option.
I switched to smaller wheels for storage convenience. Even with 20" wheels I can take it on any train at any time. If for some reason I'm returning by car it fits in easily. They're just too versetaille for me to want to go back to bigger wheeled bikes.
@@krob9145 agreed! If we HAD to have only one bike paul would choose the Brompton and I’d pick the Moulton out of all our bikes. Thankfully right now we have the space for more than one each!
I have also had Bike friday bikes, NWT and a pocket rocket if you know them
@@julieannwhitehouse8148 my grandfather had a Bike Friday and it was his favourite bike !
How does the cop bike fold with a cop carbon belt instead of a chain? Would love to have seen that fold up!
Fun and informative video as always thanks so much!
@@GGg-ic9ku the carbon belt drive has to be removed to fold. We are seeing Steve again in December so will be sure to get a video of it folding! Thanks for the nice comments and watching 👍
@@veloworks9266 Thanjs for the reply. I look forward to that video. I love your new Brompton, lovely color!
Oddly enough, I was born in Chicago and my dad would sometimes bring me with him to his work when I was young, and grab lunch at the Dill Pickle Deli, which was the block that was blown up (pretend) in the Blues Brothers movie.
Then I was riding the ultimate bike as a child, a glorious yellow Schwinn stingray 3 speed, with banana seat.
I get almost as much joy from my new Brompton 4 speed electric as I did that bike!
@@GGg-ic9ku thanks for sharing! How amazing. Paul really wants to go to Chicago so we will add that block to the list. And your childhood bike - what a dream!
I have a Brompton C line and a Birdy Touring, both have their pluses and minuses, but love riding both of them
@@veloworks9266 There’s so much to see and do in Chicago, unless you’re a huge blue brother’s fan, that would be the last place I would recommend going, especially since the deli is long gone and is just a wonderful childhood memory.
You must get a true Chicago hot dog though … cannot be beat … wiener circle on Clark Street downtown Chicago would be the place to go. Though there are many superb places to get a Chicago hot dog.
Hi Paul & Sarah
Paul, aren't you sitting quite low on your Brompton saddle or is that just an idea?
Best regards, Bob.
@@bobgoossens201 hi Bob, nope, perfect height for me 😀
I have a full size gravel bike, tern verge x11 and eclipse p20. The verge is my favorite. I don't know how to explain it but every time I ride it I absolutely love it. Makes me happy every time.