Cycling UK Forum

Hi Robin,

The Brompton will take 110kg rider + 20kg luggage. No problems there.

I recommend a look at the Yahoo Brompton forum and table your question. http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/BromptonTalk/ This is a very helpful site. Several members complete 100 mile + rides and tour with full camping kit. A to B magazine is also informative.

I am at retirement age, have a Brompton with M bars, fizik saddle and 6 gears with reduction. Also a Dawes Tourer with drop bars and 18 gears.

The Dawes is my ride of choice for 30 mile leisure rides. It is about 2mph faster than the B due to different handlebars and lower body profile. The large wheels soak up Surrey's bumpy roads better than the B. The B has rear suspension. Rolling resistance can be reduced with 100psi Marathon tyres. Lower pressures a little for comfort.

That said the B is such fun to ride and opens up many possibilities. You can fit into cars, buses, trains boats or planes easily. This enables linear rides or travel further afield. You can call it a day and hop on the bus if the weather turns bad. Combine with a bus pass if old enough! Brompton is also great in traffic. I enjoy exploring towns and cities using lanes and paths. The luggage system is brilliant.

I was introduced to the B by an experienced tourist with a stable of bikes. He recons that if he could have only one bike it would be a Brompton. We have ridden many miles round the lanes of France. Bromptons are also good conversation starters.

They have good resale value, are UK built and have excellent spares backup. Highly recommended.

Hope this helps,

Regards,

Scott W.