Brompton versus Birdy - Anyone in Tampa, FL

[jmaher]

I am trying to decide on one of these bikes and received a lot of good info on a previous inquiry. Is there anyone in the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Florida area that would let me take a quick (around the block) test ride and see if it will fit into my small trunk?

Any help will be appreciated.

-Jim

[mulleady]

Have you not considered the Downtube Mini 8 speed hub bike as a compromise? Yan from Downtube also offers a 30 day money back guarantee. If you return you simply foot the very reasonable shipping costs. Almost folds as compact as the Brompton and capable of going off-road. One of the regs Jur will attest to the bike's versatility. See:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=218634&highlight=review+mini

Downtube are clearing these in open auction on ebay for just over $400. That's a steal for a bike that suits your needs perfectly! See:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Downtube-mini-Folding-Bicycle-Bike-Internal-8sp-Hub-08_W0QQitemZ230265845369QQihZ013QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[jmaher]

I have thought about the DT but I seem to see too many threads where there are little problems with them. Don't misunderstand me, they look like they are a great value for the money. However I wouldn't mind spending a little more for something that would be better in the long run.

I actually did go to local dealer for DT to see what I thought in person but they are no longer carrying them.

I am almost to the point of assuming I can't really fit anything in the trunk and started measuring my back seat so that I could at least take one bike when I was planning to ride. That opens up a lot more possibilities. Anyone in this area with a Swift?

-Jim

[mulleady]

I'd buy a high-end Brompton Jim if you have a small trunk. That's assuming if it's for road use only. If not the Biek Friday Tikit.