Originally Posted by
Fentuz
So why are there many Dahon-type bikes and hardly any Brompton copies? ...I cannot figure out why Bromptons are not more copied. Any thoughts?
Gizmo loving folks' analysis yields smallest fold = best. This is completely disconnected from the end user's requirements. Perhaps for most customers, the simple one hinge side-folding design folds 'small enough', meets their needs and isn't as fussy or expensive. Could it be that the Andrew Ritchie design, based on unique London multi-modal transport parameters, is just a niche in a niche?
Why isn't the Di Blasi more copied? Why isn't the Birdy more copied? Why isn't the Strida more copied? Why aren't we all riding around on Bickertons or Picnicas?
No one is forcing riders to buy a certain design. Is it the marketplace at work? Could it be that, gasp! Dr. Hon got it 'right'?