Originally Posted by
LKono
-The rolling ability does play in, so I'm glad that's getting a lot of attention. My office building is barely bike friendly. Myself and the five other bikers (in a downtown DC high rise!) have been working on it. We managed to get racks put in the parking garage, but I would still rather take my bike into the office with me (especially if it's a folder). Like I said, we're working on it, but wheeling bikes through the lobby is pretty frowned upon. However, the management seems to be OK with the folder when it's all compact (I've gotten them to treat it as though it's a wheelchair or stroller). I think they're worried about taking up space in a busy lobby. And it is busy, which is why I want more control than a wobbly balance on one wheel.
For this one requirement, a Brompton really stands out. Because of the integrated luggage block, the bike plus its bag rolls compactly and unobtrusively, as a single unit. It also fits into remarkably small spaces, making it a good cubicle mate. Also, if you ever fly, you can put the bike on the X-ray belt and check it like a wheelchair at the gate.
Really the Brompton is by far the most 'professional' choice. When folded it's just tidy in a way other rides don't match, and the roll-behind approach with the luggage attached has a dignity to it that keeps security and management types relaxed. There's a reason the yearly Brompton race requires a shirt and tie! :-D
I know a Brompton is probably a couple month's rent. But this is equally true for me, and I have no buyer's remorse whatsoever. Then again, I'm a designer, and what hooked me in the end was a subjective sense that it's the most elegant solution to the design space yet built.