What you want to see in a folders book?

[JeffOYB]

I'm neck deep in getting a new edition to press of what's going to be the only general book on folders (it's an updated translation of a German book). Lotsa work!

I've been going to do this book for a couple years now but for the past few months have finally been able to dig into it. It should be off the press this Spring!

So, does anyone have a wishlist or hotpoints to hit that they'd like to see in a folders book?

Thanks, Jeff Potter, http://AllBikeMag.com

[juan162]

What type of book is it to be? Is it supposed to be more instructional or more artistic? If it's more instructional, I'd love to see bikes categorized not only by wheel size and drivetrain, but by functionality. You know, which folder is best for road riding, multimode commuting, long rides, short rides, etc. And of course, beautiful pics! :)
Juan

[Simple Simon]

I'd agree with Juan's ideas on categorizations and FWIW I'd like to see lots of pictures, and for it to be as comprehensive and unbiased as possible. Most other publications / organisations seem to have their own agendas, personal favourites and even national biases. CHOP's A-Z list (http://long-john.com/pagefoldlinks.htm)seems to be the most comprehensive unbiased source on folding bikes... might be a good starting point.

Good luck - this sounds like a mamoth task !!

[caotropheus]

A bit of history and evolution of the folding bicycle and relationship with the evolution of cities and demand of transpostation to and out of the city. Main companies and special interess developed arround some folding bicycles, like the raleigh 20.

[Scooper]

Personally, I'd like to see charts comparing various folders' gearing ranges and the relative geometric relationships between bottom bracket, seat position (minimum height, maximum height), and handlebar for the various models. A chart showing folded size of each bike would also be helpful.

[14R]

Invite some concept artist and throw "future folders" into the last chapter with ultra cool concept drawings.

[folder fanatic]

Please try to write the book with the idea to appeal the average, nonenthusist cyclist. You don't want to alienate and scare them off.

[jasong]

I'd second Scooper's thoughts: many of us at 6' or above have limited options. Real details on BB to seat top for the folders out there, or how to elongate that. Make a point of mentioning the bikes that do and do NOT use standard components (bb's, weird hub sizes, .. ). Real folded dimensions and minimum (ie, wheels removed) folded dimensions that you've verified (not claimed by the mfctr). Options for travelling surcharge free in airlines will be a good topic.

Unfortunately, anyone that's spent a few hours in these forums will learn little from your book.

[Donkey Hodie]

sexy woman models, modeling with folders..

[14R]

Unfortunately, anyone that's spent a few hours in these forums will learn little from your book.

If you make it visually appealing, we may not learn anything from it but will make it a nice coffee table book for all of us. :)

[EriktheFish]

Recumbent Folders: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=267025

[LittlePixel]

ringo on his rsw16 on the cover

[Shaymo]

I look forward to buying the finished book. Best to keep it top level and use lots of photos and it appeal to the largest audience

[JeffOYB]

Thanks! I like the idea of including a good resources section and datapoints on various bikes. Helpful! It's 80% done right now. Lots of pics, accessible writing, great history chapter and tie-in with other trans issues. Really fascinating. The multimodal aspect is amazing. The "gap bridging" aspect. The folder isn't against other transit means---it makes them work better together. I like its realism: the folder submits to the car so that it can be better accepted by the general public. Would bikes be more popular if they didn't require racks to interact with cars? Seems likely! There are several very interesting roles for the lightweight bike that isn't in the way. As I say above, I'm not the author, "just" the publisher/editor, btw. The author is good about showing that folding bikes comprise several distinct types. I think you'll like it! ---The idea of adding specs info will be quite helpful, I see. Thanks again, all. I'll keep you posted.

[JeffOYB]

PS: I find that print and the Web work together. Each has its strongpoints. I always like to have key books AND key web contacts for my areas of interest. Of course, the folders book will provide many web contacts in its Resources section.

[14R]

I would like to see a picture of me on it with one of my folders. Please contact me for a small sample of stunnin'looking, high resolution folders in action.