While I certainly admire the way a Brompton folds and can't deny the total (well, almost) devotion and "cool-ativity" of the brand . . . I didn't buy one, but rather purchased a DaHon that cost (pretty much) the same, i.e. the Curve SL 8.

The reason? I rode both and vastly prefered the ride of the DaHon. Now I am fairly average height (for an American) at 5' 9" so the DaHon fits very well indeed with no mods necessary. I did add a rack, SPD pedals, rack trunk and lights, but the basic fit I did not change, since it works so well (for me). It has 16" wheels and the fold is almost as tight/small as the Brompton (which I needed since I ride the Metro train on my commute), so no worries there either.

So yes, I am glad there are Bromptons (and Birdys and Terns and whatever else) since it gives each individual valid choices with regard to what works best for them. The DaHon worked best for me; maybe not for you!

Rick / OCRR