I currently ride a 3 speed Brompton as my everything bike, from my 3 mile commute to long 70 mile joy rides. I'm now considering a second bike; yes, folderitis and n+1 lust set in. I discussed the possibility of upgrading my Brompton in other threads (something I might yet do further down the line), but now I'm thinking a second, "roadier" sort of bike might be better than one compromise everything bike. I'm prompted to look into an upgrade or new bike because of the Brompton's narrow gearing. I worry about hills every time I go somewhere with actual hills, so I want a lower low gear; a higher high gear would be nice too. I'm stuck with folders since I live in a closet of an apartment in a fifth floor walkup.
I'm considering the
Tern Verge P20. I've found almost nothing about it on BF (I guess it's one of Tern's newer models), and little enough in the way of reviews on the web, so I figured I'd ask to see if anyone has any thoughts about it.
The Brompton will remain my day to day commuter and get around town bike; its small fold is just too useful for that. The Tern will be a supplement, mostly intended for long or fast rides. I see it as the fun bike with a better ride than the B, but who knows, I may find I use it as a utility bike too. I'll add rack and fenders, to keep the bike somewhat practical. I don't want to have to worry about the weather, and I always carry some stuff, a bag at least. Perhaps it'll be better for hauling stuff than my rackless Brompton.
So any thoughts about this bike (or perhaps a similar Tern model)? Are there any other bikes I should consider (although I've dithered about this decision long enough)?
On a tangential note, does anyone have experience with Schwalbe Kojak tires on the mean streets of New York City, or similar place, with lots of rough roads, potholes, and debris? I currently ride Schwalbe Marathons, which have been pretty tough with only a small handful of flats in two years. I don't have experience with other tires, and worry a bit about the thinner, slicker Kojaks.