Folding Bikes West

Which Folder to Pick?

In addition to the obvious criteria for selecting any type of bicycle here are a few specific to folders:

Foldability

Most among us seem a bit hesitant at first attempt but after folding and unfolding just a few times the procedure reveals itself as amazingly simple, easy, predictable and quite enjoyable. Quick too: Folding or unfolding takes an honest 15-30 seconds depending on the bike model and the proficiency of the person. Part of foldability is also how simply, securely and elegantly the bike locks together as a package when folded.

Compactness

Here the numbers speak for themselves (see Folded Dimensions Table).

Wheel size

It may be hard to suggest any significant real world riding difference for many a cyclist between a large and a small wheeled well designed bicycle, except perhaps that a small wheeled bike can feel 'too quick' or even 'twitchy' for the first few moments out for the first time rider. However this feeling is overwhelmingly replaced, swiftly and reassuringly, by an appreciation (elation even) of its nimbleness and agility. Does wheel size matter? Just a few of our test riders declare a distinct preference relating to whether 16, 20 or 24" wheels.

Comfort and performance

This is clearly another area where individual preference rules. However, we'd venture to suggest that the latest generation folders we sell all ride and handle amazingly well. In fact a fair percentage of our customers rarely fold their folders—they simply prefer them to larger wheeled bikes.

The number of gears may be less important than how low the lowest and/or how high the highest gear is—please check 'gear inches'. We offer folders from single speed to 24 gears. Some come with derailleur shifting, others with internal hubs or a combination hereof.

Accessories

All of our brands offer a wide assortment of accessories such as rear or front luggage options, fenders, racks, lights, bags etc.

Weight

Folder models currently offered weigh between 23 and 29 lbs.

Copyright © 2011 EbikesNW

March 2011

Surely a 'Folder' is a 'Folder'?

Hardly.

• Some 'folding' brands are factually 'take apart' bikes and may require an hour with bike tools to disassemble.
• Other brands fold partially only and require tools to disassemble completely.
• Yet other brands—while they do fold—more or less 'collapse' and are awkward to gather up, carry and stow away.
• Our brands, the Brompton and Giant, fold predictably, crisply, easily and completely in 15-30 seconds without tools and no parts need to be removed.