Brompton 2004
The template for folding bike practicality
The reason for the Brompton’s success is simple: the fold is quick and simple and the folded-down bike is easily portable
YEAR LAUNCHED #%&#
There had been folding bikes before the Brompton – from Allied paratroopers’ bikes during World War II to the Bickerton Portables of the 1970s – but none has been as successful as the Brompton. Since starting large-scale manufacturing in 1986, London-based Brompton has become Britain’s largest bike manufacturer, with its distinctive small-wheeled bikes seen on city streets (and public transport) all over the world. The reason for the Brompton’s success is simple: the fold is quick and simple and the folded-down bike easily portable in the train or the boot of a car, plus it’ll fit under your desk or tuck out of the way at home.
The 2004 version fulfilled its potential with a longer wheelbase which gave a ride to match the finessed folding, and these days there are a plethora of models in the range. These include bikes with internal-hub or derailleur gears, giving you a choice of two, three or four gears. Seven colour choices and three handlebar options should ensure a bike that’s right for you. They all have the same folding mechanism and pivoting rear triangle, and you can execute the five simple steps in 20 seconds, or as little as 10 for the wellpractised folding aficionado.
These days, not only does Brompton make its own electric C-Line bikes, it’s possible to fit an aftermarket Cytronex system to create a lightweight folding ebike that Warren rated highly last year.