Originally Posted by
LDier
Looks like most of you recommend the 6 speed with the -12%. I was just a little concerned that with the front derailleur could be more troublesome than the slick 3 speed internal hub.
I've looked at the gear inches tables for the different Brompton bikes. It does seem like the 6 speed -12% would be great coverage for my riding.
You still get the slick internal hub with the 6 speed, the only difference is that is the it has a wider range between gears than the the 3 speed. Also what you call the front derailleur is actually in the rear. On the IGH there are two cogs instead of the usual one, which gives you the six gears you may need. Your left hand shifter, shifts between these two cogs. Simple design that works.