Brompton Bikes
In 1988 a man called Andrew Ritchie, brought a bike to the market that revolutionised folding bikes and in turn commuting by bike. Ritchie invented the Brompton Bicycle, right here in the UK.
Brompton is a brand that defines attention to detail, reliability and convenience. You will see Brompton Bikes on the streets that were purchased back in 1988 looking just as they good as they did when they came off the factory floor, they are timeless.
The Brompton bicycle comes in just one style but they can be customised to suit your needs with different frame weight, gear set ups and colours to choose from when you use the Brompton Bike Builder.
[Ever wondered what it’s like to ride a Brompton Bicycle? Deputy Editor Aoife puts on to the test and discovers a love affair that will last a lifetime.]
If you are looking to buy a second hand Brompton, there are some available but they are few and far between. Generally they tend to hold their value. Do make sure you buy from a reliable source, as there is always the chance that a second hand Brompton has been stolen.
The Brompton Bike Range:
The Brompton is a bike which rides superbly, is safe, agile and fast, yet folds easily and quickly into a highly-compact and portable package.
The actual weight of a Brompton bike depends on the model and configuration, but ranges from 9 – 12½ kg (20 – 28lbs). The weight of mudguards, pedals, etc. are included in these figures.
The featured bikes here will give you an idea of what options are available. Check out the interactive Brompton Bike Builder for a full list of the options available.
Brompton S1E
Price: £765
Weight: 10.3kg
The Brompton S1E has a steel frame, standard suspension and one speed. It is the cheapest bike in the Brompton range but comes with the same high standard when it comes to components and reliability.
This bike is fully customizable, so if you do feel like spending a little more you can go for additional suspension, a fancier saddle and even extended saddle height if you are a little on the tall side.
This model also comes in a slightly lighter version, coming in at 9.3kg, it has a steel/ titanium frame and better tyres. The price for the Brompton S1E-X is £1,345.
Brompton S2L
Price: £890
Weight: Approx 10.4kg
For many, the Brompton S2L. The grips are lower and further forward than on the M Type, giving a sporty riding position which complements the positive feel of these bikes.
Brompton’s derailleur system turns a single-speed into a nimble 2-speed bike without the weight of a gear hub; the result is a light bike that can handle most journeys. The key S Type is the S2L (also available as S2L-X which made of titanium is lighter and costs £1,160).
Brompton P6R Global Traveller
Price: £1,358
Weight: 13.7kg
If you fancy heading off on a Brompton biking adventure than the P6R Global Traveller is the bike for you. This particular offering comes with a few nice additions which include Shimano hub dynamo lighting, Schwalbe Marathon tyres, a telescopic seatpost, a T Bag and Rack Sack.
These features coupled with six gears, mean this is the bike for action and adventure. Although the handlebars are a little heavier than the M Type’s, the lower grips, angled for comfort on longer stretches of road, allow the rider to get down out of the wind and deliver real power to the pedals; the upper grips provide a welcome contrast after a long stretch of riding and also give great control for manoeuvring in traffic.
Brompton M3L Timeless Classic
Price: £1,198
Weight: 12.3kg (including the weight of the C Bag)
This is the classic Brompton bike featuring a reliable 3-speed hub, Brompton tyres, a telescopic seatpost, a C Bag, battery lights and a Brooks B17 saddle as standard.
The distinctive U-shape of the M Type’s handlebars has been used on the Brompton since the outset which give an upright ride with superb control. There is also ample storage available with the inclusion of an C-Bag on the front of the bike. The Brompton M3L remains the most popular option in the range.
Brompton H6L Urban Climber
Price: £1,280
Weight: 12.5kg (including the O Bag)
This bike is an all-singing, all dancing Brompton. Equipped with an O Bag, Shimano hub dynamo lighting and mud guards as standard, you are ready to hit the road from the get go.
Elsewhere the bike features 6 gears, Brompton tyres and an extended seat post. It also has the highest grip height of the four option available, which is perfect for the latest craze – the slow cycling revolution. So all you need to concentrate on is enjoying the ride and taking in the views.
Brompton H2L-X Smart Commuter
Price: £2,079
Weight: 11.4kg (including the O-Bag)
If you are looking for something speedy and light with all the bells and whistles then this is the Brompton for you. The Brompton H2L-X has a titanium frame and comes with Brompton tyres, a telescopic seatpost, an O Bag, SON hub dynamo lighting and a Brooks B17S saddle.
Like the H6L this model also features the H type handlebars for the most upright riding position in the range.
Also worth a read:
How to: Not look like a typical cyclist
The Joys of Commuting by Brompton Bicycle
Commuter Style: Penny in Yo’ Pants
