Hi Guys. Thanks for the responses. Not only for your responses to this thread, but for taking the time in the past. You two provided a real service.

Sorry about the vague comparison to the M-3 Brompton. I just meant that the GT-3 Merc has that type of handlebar and a 3 speed hub. Both of you are absolutely corect regarding the cost of all of the options. It is a major reason to go with the Merc. Just to make sure that this remains an advertisement, the Merc also comes with a carry bag and telescoping post.

I never saw the pictures of your bike WAvESHRDR. But I think that my mental picture is pieced together from your posts. Can the suspension handlebar post be replaced with a quill stem as in the earlier example? I also read that you actually bought a Ti Brompton to get the parts. Is it possible to simply get the fork/triangle? Can I write that your experience with the front derailer is a success?

What is the weight savings from hi-ten to cro-mo to titanium?

Size wise, I am just a little too big for the standard seat post on a Brompton: I like to say 6', but on a bad day I am more like 5' 11". However, on my regular bikes I like my seat high.

By the way, am I right about the material for the forks and rear triangle? That the standard Brompton is cro-mo while the Merc hi-ten steel.

So EvilV, you actually went on a loaded tour (bike with camping gear) on the bike? That is impressive.

Even though the range is hardly improved with the 6 speed, the rear derailer does give a lot more options. We would want to use it on some long rides. I am thinking that the rear derailer will make life easier in the long run.

I am still waiting to hear back from Anita regarding the availability of the 6 speed and a few other questions. (I also inquired on a schedule for the 8 speed SA hub) I'll let everyone know her response.

Time for me to run. Take care!

-G