Originally Posted by
Mr. Fly
Have you, perchance, used a Brompton for a reasonable amount of time, and compared it to another folder like a Dahon Curve or Bike Friday Tikit which you, of course, also used for a reasonable amount of time? I am also interested in knowing what the implication(s) from the suspension on the drivetrain is.
Given the fact that the bike doesn't appeal to me, don't you think I'd have to be a tremendous idiot to not only purchase, but also continue using it for an extended period of time? No, just as any intelligent individual would, I purchase and use bikes I like, which perform as I like, and have the features I like.
I have, however, had the chance to ride a few miles on all three of the bikes you mentioned. As I said I felt the Brompton was too flexible in the rear and, the tikit, I felt was too flexible in the front. I very much liked the Curve, but not as much as some of the other available bikes with either larger or smaller wheels (I don't, in general, think the 16" wheel sizes strike a good compromise). Dahons are, however, somewhat lacking in quality control compared to some of the competition, but with the money saved you could easily afford to have any problems repaired or replaced.
As to the drivetrain, just as any bike with a nonunified rear triangle, the Brompton drivetrain requires an idler. This eliminates the possibility of going fixed gear and IMO the inconsistent chain tension degrades the performance and usability for single speed or IGH use. An idler is a fine compromise if you're using a derailleur, but of course the Brompton isn't really compatible with a derailleur, so you're stuck with the worst of both worlds (derailleur vs IGH) which really irritates someone like me who uses IGHs
because he's very particular about his chainline.
This is all, of course, in addition to the mushy feel of the suspension, the limited choice of handlebars/riding position, the high weight compared to other folders at the same price point...while it may be well suited to many people's uses, the Brompton is clearly NOT the "ideal" folder which every manufacturer should emulate.
Not to discount the Brompton's virtues (of which there are many), but if "imitation is the sincerest of flattery" then I think the relative lack of it on the expired Brompton patent is a testament to the bike's shortcomings. Enjoy your Brompton if you have one, but it's just not the folder for me.