Originally Posted by
Coldhands
Hi Wilfried,
I'm researching folders with the aim of using one for medium-long distance touring. It won't be a round the world type of affair but more traveling here and there. I like the folding concept for arriving at airports, train stations, etc, and just folding it out and cycling away hassle free. I have no idea about cycles really other than you sit on them and peddle. So naturally I'm quite nonplussed by the sheer amount of options and choices out there. Sorry to cut this short then, I was looking at the Verge P20 - with the idea of putting a rack on the back and using it for this type of travel. Would you think it would make a good tourer? The Verge would be at the very top of my budget, hence the Tern models specifically made for touring (Verge Tour and Elicpse Tour) are too pricey. Any tips from an existing owner would be appreciated!
Many thanks
I've ridden the Tern up to 80+ miles in a day. I don't know how it would do with fully loaded touring, but I carried enough stuff for a weekend away (sleeping indoors, not camping, a pannier and a backpack strapped to the rack). Tern also sells a full on touring bike, the Verge S27h. At 36 lbs., that thing is a beast (I've never seen one IRL). I considered it, but I ultimately needed a sportier everyday bike, and I have to schlep it up and down stairs, so I couldn't cope with the weight of the S27h.
I should figure out a way to put some weight on the front. All the weight on the rear rack affects handling, but not so much that I can't manage.
PS Reading your post again, I've never tried to take the P20 on a plane, so I don't know about airports. I have taken it on trains, and that works fine. The fact that it folds means you can usually get around any restrictions on regular bikes. Carrying the bike folded is manageable, but not fun.