The Brompton's versatility is pretty much unparalleled. Sure a Strida may be smaller and more convenient in some concrete ways, but a Brompton covers - with some adjustment - just about all common scenarios one can think of (other than off-roads, obviously).

- multi-modal
- urban
- shopping
- day rides
- touring

Personally, I've taken this versatility to make a long-term commitment to my Brompton, which is to say each upgrade - however expensive - ups the comfort and rideability and luggability for years to come. A $180 saddle works out inexpensive if the bike is ridden almost everyday, and brought overseas regularly to tour. Since the bike is with me all the time, I don't worry about expensive parts (grips, saddles, pedals etc) being stolen or damaged either. It's also a great conversation starter.

Contrast this to my $2k MTB which I don't dare to leave locked outside a mall for more than 2 minutes. I'm sure the Strida are great machines for their purpose, but you can't really go wrong with a Brompton (unless you hate the ride).