Birdy thread
11-21-16, 06:18 AM
#801
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Or you can run 20" 406 wheels. You must of course replace V-brakes with adjustable arms for pads to reach the rims.
11-21-16, 06:34 AM
#802
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If you are a handy person, you could get a 20" inch mudguards to fit.
11-21-16, 07:29 AM
#803
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[QUOTE=desastar;19204744]If you are a handy person, you could get a 20" inch mudguards to fit.
Thanks. Nice bike! But is appears to be a slightly newer model than mine, with fender/mudguard mounting holes on the front fork. Mine has none.
I first tried some very cheap generic folding bike fenders from eBay, drop shipped from China. They had only a single center mount,m and no side stays. They worked, and could be removed easily for packing as airline luggage. But the coverage wasn't as good as I wanted, and I don't know how well they would have lasted.
While in Amsterdam, I visited Tromm Tweewielers (a/k/a Vouwfiets.nl, which I think translates as "FoldingBikes.nl"). They were able to adapt a set of fenders made for current Birdys to my older model by cutting and bending the side stays to spring-clip into the pivot holes in the lower front suspension hinges. "We've done this before", they said. The price was quite reasonable, and they did the work the same day. It seems pretty stable. They have several Birdys in stock, and sell and service the full line as well as other folding bikes:
Vouwfietsen
Riese Muller Birdy vouwfiets
They are located diagonally across the boulevard from the northeast corner of the Amsterdam RAI conference and expo center; you can get direct trains from Schiphol Airport to RAI station without having to go through downtown.
For train and planes, I got a folding bike carrying bag for about US$20 on eBay from another drop-shipper in China. It was sturdier than I expected, although on my next trip i will be sure to pad the axle ends so they don't punch through. It's large enough to fit the folded Birdy easily without pulling wheels or fenders. It fit in luggage racks on treains, even on the high-speed Thalys which has limited luggage space (like the French TGV). To get the size small enough for airline luggage, I unbolted the wheels and fenders. Not too difficult, and I could do it at the airport. Once the wheels are pulled, the rear derailleur folds into a protected position between the front forks. With a little fiddling, I found an arrangement that got the size of the package well within the airline checked baggage limit. On three flights, Turkish Airlines didn't even look twice at it or ask what it contained, much less measure it, but I felt better knowing it would pass if measured. I tied the Birdy package together with a couple of old inner tubes (better than bungy cords, a trick I learned from Kash at Warm Planet in SF) before putting it in the bag, to keep parts from shifting and make it easier to handle as luggage on subways and trams to and from airports in places where I didn't want to ride to the airport.
Aside from the ease of airline and train transport, what impressed me most was the handling of the Birdy on pave (stone paving blocks) in Amsterdam, Brussels (they don't call it "Belgian block" for nothing) and Istanbul (where the paving stones are often especially irregular). I'd ridden on cobbles and paves before in Brussels and elsewhere in Europe, but the Birdy suspension handles them far better than a large-wheeled bike, as it does potholes.
Thanks. Nice bike! But is appears to be a slightly newer model than mine, with fender/mudguard mounting holes on the front fork. Mine has none.
I first tried some very cheap generic folding bike fenders from eBay, drop shipped from China. They had only a single center mount,m and no side stays. They worked, and could be removed easily for packing as airline luggage. But the coverage wasn't as good as I wanted, and I don't know how well they would have lasted.
While in Amsterdam, I visited Tromm Tweewielers (a/k/a Vouwfiets.nl, which I think translates as "FoldingBikes.nl"). They were able to adapt a set of fenders made for current Birdys to my older model by cutting and bending the side stays to spring-clip into the pivot holes in the lower front suspension hinges. "We've done this before", they said. The price was quite reasonable, and they did the work the same day. It seems pretty stable. They have several Birdys in stock, and sell and service the full line as well as other folding bikes:
Vouwfietsen
Riese Muller Birdy vouwfiets
They are located diagonally across the boulevard from the northeast corner of the Amsterdam RAI conference and expo center; you can get direct trains from Schiphol Airport to RAI station without having to go through downtown.
For train and planes, I got a folding bike carrying bag for about US$20 on eBay from another drop-shipper in China. It was sturdier than I expected, although on my next trip i will be sure to pad the axle ends so they don't punch through. It's large enough to fit the folded Birdy easily without pulling wheels or fenders. It fit in luggage racks on treains, even on the high-speed Thalys which has limited luggage space (like the French TGV). To get the size small enough for airline luggage, I unbolted the wheels and fenders. Not too difficult, and I could do it at the airport. Once the wheels are pulled, the rear derailleur folds into a protected position between the front forks. With a little fiddling, I found an arrangement that got the size of the package well within the airline checked baggage limit. On three flights, Turkish Airlines didn't even look twice at it or ask what it contained, much less measure it, but I felt better knowing it would pass if measured. I tied the Birdy package together with a couple of old inner tubes (better than bungy cords, a trick I learned from Kash at Warm Planet in SF) before putting it in the bag, to keep parts from shifting and make it easier to handle as luggage on subways and trams to and from airports in places where I didn't want to ride to the airport.
Aside from the ease of airline and train transport, what impressed me most was the handling of the Birdy on pave (stone paving blocks) in Amsterdam, Brussels (they don't call it "Belgian block" for nothing) and Istanbul (where the paving stones are often especially irregular). I'd ridden on cobbles and paves before in Brussels and elsewhere in Europe, but the Birdy suspension handles them far better than a large-wheeled bike, as it does potholes.
11-28-16, 11:39 AM
#804
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Got new lights for the Birdy and thought I'd share since I was impressed with how it looked on last nights ride.
11-30-16, 09:14 PM
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Because opportunities to testride Birdys in the US are few and far between, I'd appreciate if someone in this group would "humor me" and answer a couple of questions...
First, For reasons of weight (I'm a "wienie" and beyond "middle aged") I am currently leaning towards the current 10 speed disk monocoque model. I wonder what the gear range is as expressed in "gear inches". I'm thinking about my ability to handle hills in my area (Portland, Oregon) yet still allow me to move on the flats and downhill at 18-20mph or so.
Second, the ten speed disk Birdy is fitted stock with a 21degree "sport stem"; if I find for the sake of comfort (with my stiff back) that I prefer the position offered by the 10degree stem provided on the Rolloff model, how difficult is it to obtain replacement part(s) and effect the change?
Third, components listed on the Pacific-Cycles site vary from model to model. The disk brakes on all disk models appear to be mechanical rather than hydraulic. (I suspect that is because folding might be more problematic with hydraulic brake lines. ?) Are the stock components all "good enough" or should I count on replacing (some) of them with higher quality components soon? (Money is not much of a concern; smoothness and predictability of function are!)
In advance, thanks all!
First, For reasons of weight (I'm a "wienie" and beyond "middle aged") I am currently leaning towards the current 10 speed disk monocoque model. I wonder what the gear range is as expressed in "gear inches". I'm thinking about my ability to handle hills in my area (Portland, Oregon) yet still allow me to move on the flats and downhill at 18-20mph or so.
Second, the ten speed disk Birdy is fitted stock with a 21degree "sport stem"; if I find for the sake of comfort (with my stiff back) that I prefer the position offered by the 10degree stem provided on the Rolloff model, how difficult is it to obtain replacement part(s) and effect the change?
Third, components listed on the Pacific-Cycles site vary from model to model. The disk brakes on all disk models appear to be mechanical rather than hydraulic. (I suspect that is because folding might be more problematic with hydraulic brake lines. ?) Are the stock components all "good enough" or should I count on replacing (some) of them with higher quality components soon? (Money is not much of a concern; smoothness and predictability of function are!)
In advance, thanks all!
12-01-16, 11:50 PM
#806
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New BIRDY spec 52T chainring, 11-34T freewheel (11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26, 30, 34)
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding. I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding. I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
12-02-16, 12:54 AM
#807
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New BIRDY spec 52T chainring, 11-34T freewheel (11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26, 30, 34)
"running the numbers" through a gear inch calculator, I compute a range of 25-80.
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
This I did not know...but, I think the 1.5 degree net change would be negligible. Its possible that the 21 (or 19.5) degree stem would be my preference, but its nice to know if I would have the option of change.
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding.
That makes sense to me. The origin of my uncertainty is that somewhere (noting that I've spent a lot of time "researching" Birdy details and options online) I read that the disk model was hydraulic, a statement that contradicted most of what I had read.
I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
"running the numbers" through a gear inch calculator, I compute a range of 25-80.
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
This I did not know...but, I think the 1.5 degree net change would be negligible. Its possible that the 21 (or 19.5) degree stem would be my preference, but its nice to know if I would have the option of change.
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding.
That makes sense to me. The origin of my uncertainty is that somewhere (noting that I've spent a lot of time "researching" Birdy details and options online) I read that the disk model was hydraulic, a statement that contradicted most of what I had read.
I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
It does. thanks!
12-02-16, 01:15 AM
#808
Senior Member
New BIRDY spec 52T chainring, 11-34T freewheel (11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26, 30, 34)
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding. I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
The New BIRDY 3D forged stem has a function which not many people knows. The upper stem can rotate 180 to change the 21degree to 19.5, not sure if this info will help you but I wouldn't know this if I didn't visit Pacific museum. However Pacific also do offer the 10/21 degree stem as an optional accessory!
Pacific museum staffs also told me the reason they spec mechanical disc brakes is to prevent problems from folding & unfolding. I have the BIRDY standard 9sp model and the original components are good for me!
Hope these helps
12-02-16, 10:55 AM
#811
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Only thing worth changing imo is tyres,chainring guard, and shorter cage mech.
I tend to upgrade brake blocks and cables as a matter of course on folders.
Get rid of the chain catcher if fitted by installing,paffic chain tensioner near bottom bracket as mk 4 come with standard. To avoid the catcher getting jammed in cassette. Expensive if happens. I had to buy new rear mech.
Hence I dont run the chain catcher anymore on my birdies. Its not an issue on an IHG bike.
Else prefference for saddles,grips and peddles as usual.
I tend to upgrade brake blocks and cables as a matter of course on folders.
Get rid of the chain catcher if fitted by installing,paffic chain tensioner near bottom bracket as mk 4 come with standard. To avoid the catcher getting jammed in cassette. Expensive if happens. I had to buy new rear mech.
Hence I dont run the chain catcher anymore on my birdies. Its not an issue on an IHG bike.
Else prefference for saddles,grips and peddles as usual.
Last edited by bhkyte; 12-02-16 at 10:59 AM.
12-02-16, 03:35 PM
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https://www.r-m.de/en-gb/folding-bike/birdy/#
"Hydraulic disk brakes
The fastest route to a standstill.
The hydraulic Shimano Deore disk brakes deliver maximum performance, no matter what the weather. The large brake disks allow the braking effect to be distributed most effectively. They don’t produce rim wear and impress with their consistent braking performance."
12-02-16, 07:58 PM
#814
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Yes, Mark III is the latest generation Birdy. USD1,850 sounds about right for the Standard model. The Ten-speed, Touring with SRAM DualDrive, and the Rohloff models will be more. Unless you really want/need a Birdy, you'd do better to spring for a Reach which actually costs less.
Last edited by Abu Mahendra; 12-02-16 at 08:04 PM.
12-02-16, 09:55 PM
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Yes, Mark III is the latest generation Birdy. USD1,850 sounds about right for the Standard model. The Ten-speed, Touring with SRAM DualDrive, and the Rohloff models will be more. Unless you really want/need a Birdy, you'd do better to spring for a Reach which actually costs less.
Looks like it's $ 2,450 on their site
12-03-16, 05:03 AM
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12-04-16, 04:25 PM
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Titanium rolhoff disc version= yes
There are several birdie models.
Called different names in different countries and tend to have different specs. Unless this has changed last few years.
The monocoque frame is avialable in any mark except the mk1.
Hubs vary. IHG, rear mech,or dual drive
Racks vary, touring, sport or city types. Vary from no racks to front and back panniers.
Brakes are disc or V brakes on all but mk1 afaik.
£1500 reguardless sounds cheap.
12-05-16, 07:13 PM
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Depends on the model and spec.
Titanium rolhoff disc version= yes
There are several birdie models.
Called different names in different countries and tend to have different specs. Unless this has changed last few years.
The monocoque frame is avialable in any mark except the mk1.
Hubs vary. IHG, rear mech,or dual drive
Racks vary, touring, sport or city types. Vary from no racks to front and back panniers.
Brakes are disc or V brakes on all but mk1 afaik.
£1500 reguardless sounds cheap.
Titanium rolhoff disc version= yes
There are several birdie models.
Called different names in different countries and tend to have different specs. Unless this has changed last few years.
The monocoque frame is avialable in any mark except the mk1.
Hubs vary. IHG, rear mech,or dual drive
Racks vary, touring, sport or city types. Vary from no racks to front and back panniers.
Brakes are disc or V brakes on all but mk1 afaik.
£1500 reguardless sounds cheap.
The specs of the Mark 2 Birdy I am interested in is this:
- Frame: BIRDY Monocoque
- Fork: BIRDY spring suspension
- Color: Scotch Brite + Coating Black
- Head Sets: AL-2 1-1/8" H:27.5mm A-head type
- BB Parts: 68/113mm steel axle
- Seat Post: BIRDY AL7075 34.9x570mm black anodized w/ laser scale
- Tire: Maxxis BIRDY 18x1.5" 90psi kevlar inside w/reflective sidewall
- Rim: Alex DA16 w/ ground side walls & indicator 24H
- Hub: F- BIRDY 24H / R: Shimano Alivio 36H
- Chainwheel: BIRDY 56T w/ double chainguard
- Freewheel: Shimano CS-HG50 9speed 11~32T
- Derailleur: Shimano Alivio 9 speed
- Shifter: Shimano Alivio 9speed right only
- Saddle: Velo VL-3023 black
- Pedal: VP-197 silver cage w/BS reflectors
- Handlebar: AL2014 520mm black anodized
- Stem: BIRDY adjustable stme 10degree
- Brake: Avid SD5 V-brake
- Brake Lever: Avid FR5 for V-brake
- Accessory: Bell
- Suspension Unit: Red PU
- Dimensions Folded (HxWxL): 23.6" x 15.4" x 28.3" (60cm x 39cm x 72cm)
- Weight (w/o pedal): 24 lbs (10.9kg)
Is $1,500 a good deal for that bike? Or is this $1,850 Mark 3 Birdy better and worth the extra money over the Mark 2? https://www.nycewheels.com/birdy-stan...ding-bike.html . Also Birdys are pretty fast? I know it mostly depends on the rider and how much effort is put in but just curious if it can go fast compared to other folding bikes
Last edited by TheChosenOne; 12-05-16 at 07:23 PM.
12-05-16, 08:01 PM
#820
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One more thing, what are the difference between Mark 2/3 9 Speed Birdy and the New Classic?
- Frame: BIRDY Classic
- Fork: BIRDY spring suspension
- Color: Blue
- Head Sets: FSA NO.10 Internal type
- BB Parts: 68/122.5mm steel axle
- Seat Post: BIRDY AL7075 34.9x570mm black anodized w/ laser scale
- Tire: Maxxis BIRDY 18x1.5" 90psi kevlar inside w/reflective sidewall
- Rim: Alex DV15 w/ ground side walls & indicator 24H
- Hub: F- BIRDY 24H / R- Shimano 8speed 36H
- Chainwheel: BIRDY 52T w/ double chainguard
- CG Freewheel: Shimano CS-HG41 8speed 11~32T
- Derailleur: Shimano Acera 8speed
- Shifter: Shimano Acera 8speed right only
- Saddle: Velo VL-312-2 black
- Pedal: VP-199A silver cage w/BS reflectors
- Handlebar: AL6061 520mm black anodized
- Stem: BIRDY standard stme 17degree
- Brake: Tektro 836AL V-brake
- Brake Lever: Tektro CL-330RS for V-brake
- Accessory: Bell
- Suspension Unit: Red PU
- Dimensions Folded (HxWxL): 24.4" x 13" x 28.3" (62cm x 33cm x 72cm)
- Weight: (w/o pedal) 24 lbs. (10.9kg)
12-05-16, 08:50 PM
#821
Senior Member
You can try to post your questions the Facebook Pacific Cycles Birdy group.
12-06-16, 03:09 AM
#822
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BIRDY Mk3
New Classic BIRDY
Main differences:
1. Frame: New Classic BIRDY has round tube frame, same as the Mk1 BIRDY, but of course many improvements compared with the Mk1 model. The New Classic BIRDY was introduced in 2014 as a special edition for BIRDY's 20th anniversary. New BIRDY (Mk2/3) has monocoque frame which looks more aesthetic, but of course more expensive than classic model.
2. Price: In Asia (especially Taiwan) many users consider the New Classic BIRDY as entry level model, so if you don't have much budget then New Classic BIRDY would be the best choice.
3. Specs: I think you can find it all on Pacific website.
I happen to have both models (actually New Classic for my wife T^T) and I have to say the New Classic is a very very good deal!!
New Classic BIRDY
Main differences:
1. Frame: New Classic BIRDY has round tube frame, same as the Mk1 BIRDY, but of course many improvements compared with the Mk1 model. The New Classic BIRDY was introduced in 2014 as a special edition for BIRDY's 20th anniversary. New BIRDY (Mk2/3) has monocoque frame which looks more aesthetic, but of course more expensive than classic model.
2. Price: In Asia (especially Taiwan) many users consider the New Classic BIRDY as entry level model, so if you don't have much budget then New Classic BIRDY would be the best choice.
3. Specs: I think you can find it all on Pacific website.
I happen to have both models (actually New Classic for my wife T^T) and I have to say the New Classic is a very very good deal!!
12-06-16, 05:12 AM
#823
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It sound reasonable value to me, but I come form UK and dont know the value of money and goods in your country.
12-12-16, 09:09 PM
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One more question before I feel confident in buying the 9 speed MK3, for riders 5'5" or shorter, do you struggle to reach the bar? Do you have to extend your arm 100% out and lean to get a good handle on the bar which makes it very uncomfortable to ride? Or are you able to ride comfortable and don't need to extend your arms all the way out?