Second Folder that can keep up with a Birdy - Any Suggestions?
 

I have a very nice Birdy monocque that I got tricked out when I was consulting in Germany, but my girlfriend's living with me now and I need another bike for her (that's my excuse).

I'm mildly considering the IF Mode - have to take a look at it. Any other folders that could keep up with a Birdy worth a look?

I know from experience that a Brompton doesn't seem to fit the bill, but I'm willing to hear you out if you think otherwise.

This would be for trekking around town and longer rides in New York City.

Thanks in advance.

If you are looking at full suspension folders, any model Pacific Reach would, and would be more stable (something your girlfriend might like).. and of course, any of the Moultons could fit the bill.

Even older Moultons? I see a couple on ebay/craigslist....

Pacific IF Reach looks pretty good. I'll check that one out. Thanks.

I was thinking of any of the newer Space Frame Moultons/Pashley Moultons.. something like this with larger cross section tires and V-Brakes.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3286/...25069f855b.jpg

I assume you don't want a second Birdy.

Would love one, but my GF who is German calls it a "special needs" bike.

There's a 600 one in SF I'm considering.

The IF Mode has a 26x1.5 tire, a 22 Front, 12T back, and Speed Drive. Sheldon tells me this comes to 45.6 and 75.2 gear inches. And it's 32 pounds to boot. This bike ain't gonna keep up with your tricked out Birdy.

If you're really looking at the IF Mode, I suggest you look instead at one of these or even these, perhaps with a new folding stem. A Season tikit might also do the job.

Eschew the suspension and throw some fat tires on "NYC's folding bike", the Xootr Swift.

http://www.nycewheels.com/swift-folding-bike.html

http://www.xootr.com/folding-bicycle.html

If you are willing to spend up to $2,000 for her bike, yes, you should consider a Stock or Custom Bike Friday. (Our stock Pocket 8's are nice bikes.)

Our daughter managed a custom built New World Tourist on a budget of less than $2,000. I think a decent Pocket rocket could be had for around $2K.

FYI: With a Pocket Rocket Pro (and a bit of training) you might be the one doing the keeping up - depending upon her proficiency.

* drool *

Would be the obvious choice - or at least raid Pacific-cycles store (who developed and make Biirdy, Reach, IF bikes as well as many other performance bikes such as Airnimal and many dowhill racers). I've found them a bit slow to respond, but otherwise excellent customer service. A liitle know fact is they will ship just frame sets direct all over the world.http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=148814, http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=148817, http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=148816, http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=148815

Swift.

Airnimal.

Montague.

Tikit.