Hey, welcome to the club! I'll try to answer the questions I can be helpful with; I'm snipping a bunch of stuff for brevity's sake.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
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With this in mind, I have some questions about Brompton bikes that I’m hoping some good folks can answer.
#1 M-Type, S-Type, P-Type. I’m not totally sure which handle-bar configuration to get. What is the most popular configuration? What are the drawbacks / benefits of each? What would people consider the best all around model? Is the geometry of the M type and S type and P type bikes exactly the same? Are the stem lengths on each the same? If so, do people swap out different handle-bars as the need arises. If not, are you sort of locked in?
The M-type bar is the most common, and the one I'm using. Only real drawback I can see is that it can slip in the clamp if you're overly aggressive about dropping off curbs / riding through potholes / etc. The stem lengths between the types are all different. The bars can be changed around, though it's not something you'd want to do often with the B's pinch-bolt-style stem clamp.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
#2 Gears:
(Part A) This is a major question. I would like to have a bike that provides lots of options, however, after riding the S-Type 2 speed, I realized simplicity can be good too. Are the 2 and 3 speed Bromptons significantly lighter than the 6 speed? Do people generally wish they bought a 6 speed after initially getting a 2 or 3 speed? Is the 6 speed much better on hills.
The 2-speed will be quite a bit lighter than the 3-speed; the 6 speed will be slightly heavier than the 3-speed (it being the three-speed, plus a pair of sprockets and a derailer-enabled tensioner).
Stock gearing does tend to be a little high; ask for one of the reduced gearing options if you think you'll be confronting hills regularly.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
(Part B) I have heard that Brompton is now making its own 6 speed hub that will be different from the previous models. These bikes should be available in February. Are they worth waiting for? Is this a major upgrade? How will it be different than the previous 6 speed?
The BWR is a lighter version of the current 6-speed setup.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
#3 Titanium parts: They say you save a kilo. In total, its about 500 USD more. Realistically, will these titanium parts be worth it in the long run or should I (as they say in the movie: 13th Warrior) just grow stronger? Is this a big deal for people who carry their bike around a lot?
The Ti parts are definitely tempting, but the weight isn't that big a deal for me--even though I've added weighty parts, carry my M3L up stairs regularly, and have pencil-like arms. Probably the S2L would be the most cost-effective way to get a light Brompton.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
#4 Options:
Tires: What is the best all-around tire option? Is it common for people to swap out Brompton tires for some better 16 inch aftermarket variety?
I've been happy with the stock tires, though some switch to Schwalbe Marathons.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
Easy Wheels. Seems like it’s a good idea to score a set of easy wheels to replace the casters on the bike. They are, however, about 50 bucks! Do people order these or create a different (off the shelf) option for themselves.
The replacement wheels on eBay are a good choice; the Easy Wheels, IIRC, are only recommended if you have a rack installed.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
Saddle: It seems like the Brooks B-17 is considered a god-send my most cyclists. Should I believe the hype?
YMMV, but I've always had better luck with leather saddles than plastic ones. I've got a Selle An-Atomica on my B now, which is another leather saddle you'd do well to contemplate.
Originally Posted by
driftwork
#6 Other options: Besides the bike cover, are there any other Brompton options that people regard as a good idea? Pump? Certain luggage bags?
I've replaced the stock Zefal pump with a Quicker Pro. Haven't needed it yet though (crosses fingers).
ECB