Originally Posted by
yangmusa
Hmm, that's odd, because what you are saying is precisely the opposite of what Reise & Muller have said about the design. The leading link suspension geometry means that braking forces and forward weight transfer cancel each other out during braking - counteracting brake dive. And my experience bears this out, even under hard braking I can't detect any brake dive.
I think Riese & Müller is wrong here. These systems have been used in the 90th. Then replaced by systems where swingarm link is in front. These are more sensitive and better anti dive. The effect on the Birdy is minimal anyway, as overall travel is short. It works ok. But try a German A force Kilo (on Dahon Jetstream XP) and you will recognize the difference.
The fold is difficult and fiddly compared to other folders. It took me a while to learn it and to consistently manage to fold without dropping the chain. I think it's worth it for a main frame tube with no hinge.
yes. I agree. Only the wheelbase should be longer. And it should have 20" wheels. More saddle to bar distance. And I would prefer it without front suspension.
Maybe you mean that luggage cannot be left on the rack? Yes, that's true.
yes, that's what I meant. It is nice that the luggage is partially suspended. But then, it conflicts with the fold. And the rear rack cannot handle heavy loads. That's the tradeoff.