Originally Posted by
oblada
I'd very much appreciate if anyone could weigh in with advice, or just to tell me that the surprise thing is a stupid idea and my husband needs to try the bikes on his own
(although we can always return if need be)
Availability from local bike shops is an important parameter too with those unusual bikes.
Even in a city like Paris, the Birdy is only available from a single store (
Les vélos parisiens in the 6th), and the Change/Airnimal aren't sold here.
You could also check bikes from Tern (available from Cyclable stores), as they might have solved their hinge issue by now; The
Verge P10 has disk brakes, and a
luggage block is available to stick a Brompton bag in the front.
Considering the Brompton is available in big cities and it rides well enough for touring — I'm not the only one using it as a touring bike —, I would suggest heading for Les vélos parisiens where you can try the Brompton and the Birdy. You'll find the Birdy rides better with its more rigid frame, but 1) folds bigger and 2) is more expensive (~2,500€ rear rack included). I also had a Birdy, but found the Brompton more practical because I know I'll never get stuck when taking it on a train/bus or hotel.