Hi Eggplant Jeff,
Bromptons can be heavily modified. Handlebars, Disc brakes, hub brakes, Rohloff hub, different rear sprockets, racks, use a Birdy rear elastomer etc. However, you are stuck with ERTO 349 wheels which do not roll as well as ERTO 406...
As for folding, the Brommie is intuitive and can be done with surprising celerity.
Hi awagner,
Markus Riese and Heiko Mueller studied mechanical engineering at the Technical University, Darmstadt and were greatly influenced by the designs Dr Alex Moulton.
I cannot say I have noticed higher than normal tyre wear on my Birdy when compared to other small-wheelers that I have owned, but as tyres are relatively inexpensive it is not something that overly concerns me.
The Birdy seat stays have drainage holes to channel any accumulated water away.
Last edited by Fear&Trembling; 02-08-06 at 02:37 AM.