Originally Posted by
abone
When I first began this upgrade quest I was focused on the Speed Pro TT as there was a like new one avail in my area and I’d read good things about the bike. Wasn’t looking at 451 wheels at all. Then I read about parts avail issues on that bike. I spoke to my LBS mechanic, who’s opinion I value, and he said stay away from that bike and have a look at the Verge series with the 451’s.
I take all the input gratefully and seriously and eventually form my opinion. I’m extremely analytical (unfortunately).
I might stand pat for a bit, adjust my budget (upwards of course) and look at better bikes.
Check the bike friday preloved page on a regular basis. You can find a real deal on a bike that will give you wings. Fridays have no frame hinge and ride just like a full sized bike. The fold is more than adequate for cars/trains and excellent for touring. And nothing is proprietary. You can always call BF and ask to be connected with a local owner to get a test ride - maybe you'll fall in love, and if you don't you can just move on and eliminate them. But if ride matters more than fold to you, you owe it to yourself to at least test ride one.