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Old 11-10-09 | 08:00 PM
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SesameCrunch
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 3,845
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From: San Francisco Bay Area

Bikes: 2005 Fuji Professional, 2002 Lemond Zurich, Folders - Strida, Merc, Dahon, Downtube, Recumbent folder

OK, I'll start. No need to debate that the Brompton is the gold standard in folded size, and the Tikit has the fastest fold. So much for the easy stuff.

Ride quality:
- Both bikes ride very well. The Tikit has a stem, which allows for a longer reach. It has an adjustable handlebar post, which the Brompton does not. So, I can get into more aggressive riding positions on the Tikit for "sportier" rides. The Brompton offers a single, more upright sitting position.
- The Brompton handling has always felt "twitchy" to me. Therefore, I was surprised, when I measured a slightly larger trail on the Brompton. I guess the difference is caused by the stem on the Tikit, which results in a more moderated feeling when you turn the handlebars.
- Advantage - Tikit, IMHO.

Gearing:
- I think the Tikit wins this category as well. Its 8 speeds (on the standard model) are the typical external derailleur variety - they shift easily with the grip shifter. The Brompton has 6 speeds made up of 3 speeds in the internal hub, and an innovative 2 speed derailleur in the rear. However, due to the gearing, you end up having to engage both the right and left side to shift up or down the gears progressively. Fine if you're commuting, but a pain if you're trying to go fast.
- Advantage - Tikit, IMHO

Rollability:
- The Brompton offers small wheels on the rear triangle that allows you to roll the bike when folded, using the seat to push. However, these wheels are about 6 inches apart and aren't all that stable.
- The Tikit rolls very nicely on its front wheel when folded. There is a handle built in for you to hold the bike and roll. Very smooth.
- Advantage - Tikit, IMHO

Braking:
- The Tikit has V brakes with 3" pads which offer very nice braking power. The Brompton uses caliper style brakes with 2" pads. They work, but the Tikit's offer better stopping power and confidence.
- Advantage - Tikit, IMHO

Commuting:
- There is no bike in my stable that I would rather take than the Brompton when I have to go on a bus or train. Period. Full Stop. End of discussion. It's small folded size, coupled with a nice, efficient ride make this the King of Commuting.

Long distance riding:
I feel very comfortable on the Tikit for long distance rides. Longest I've done is 54 miles with over 3,500 ft of climbing. Especially now that I have my Tikit fitted with the Schlumpf Speed Drive, I feel confident taking it for looooong rides. I'm planning to do a 5 day, 400 mile organized ride next year, and am thinking of taking the Tikit instead of my full size bike. Just want to be different, ya know.

Despite giving the Tikit more advantage points, I love both bikes and admire their engineering. They're both designed well for their purposes. Which is better? Well, it depends on your intended use of the bike, doesn't it?
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Last edited by SesameCrunch; 11-10-09 at 08:12 PM.
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