Swift folders
#3126
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 149
Likes: 0
From: seacoast nh / suburban hartford
Bikes: swift folder(alfine 8, marathon plus, crossrack, klickfix freepack)
I hear great things about the newest gen-lights from B&M, Schmidt and Philips, but most of those opinions are from people who've had the older gen-lights. It is VERY hard to find an opinion from someone who has compared them with the latest crop of battery LED lights, which usually put out more light but don't have optimally shaped beams.
Also in the back of my mind is a potential switch back to a 700c based bike with disc brakes for commuting during the wet months, from November to April. I'm not usually fighting for space on the train that time of the year anyway, and I've hardly ever folded it since last fall. I'd keep using the Swift as my commuter and road bike for April/May through October, though, when I need it to fold and it's mostly dry thus much less rim wear. If I did that then I'd probably stick with rim brakes.
Also in the back of my mind is a potential switch back to a 700c based bike with disc brakes for commuting during the wet months, from November to April. I'm not usually fighting for space on the train that time of the year anyway, and I've hardly ever folded it since last fall. I'd keep using the Swift as my commuter and road bike for April/May through October, though, when I need it to fold and it's mostly dry thus much less rim wear. If I did that then I'd probably stick with rim brakes.
the battery life on the ixon iq is amazing. i don't even think about charging it anymore. i just charge it every once in a while out of paranoia that i haven't charged it enough lately
i am thinking about changing brake systems eventually, but i really wonder if having something that is mroe reliable or enclosed, but that takes a little more effort to repair or uses slightly less commonly available parts, will save me any time when it comes to repairs and replacements (i use bike shops to do this stuff because i am too lazy to learn how to do it on my own). i feel like you are trading a quick repair more frequently for a longer repair less frequently.
#3127
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Hi, I am looking at buying a Xootr Swift in the UK. Can anyone help with 2 questions I have:
1. I am 6' & 1/2" tall, I am intending to buy the 'Large' model, is that the correct size?
2. Has anyone had any experience of taking a folded Xootr Swift on the London Underground at peak times- was it a problem? Do the guards try to stop you?
Thanks
1. I am 6' & 1/2" tall, I am intending to buy the 'Large' model, is that the correct size?
2. Has anyone had any experience of taking a folded Xootr Swift on the London Underground at peak times- was it a problem? Do the guards try to stop you?
Thanks
#3128
Junior Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: UK
Bikes: Xootr Swift singlespeed (16T) conversion
The information on sizing is on the Xootr web site here. Large would be correct for someone just over six foot tall according to that.
Sorry that I cannot help with your question about the Underground.
Sorry that I cannot help with your question about the Underground.
Last edited by Pallas; 09-24-12 at 04:15 PM. Reason: Removed lines about selling my Swift. Keeping it now.
#3129
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 183
Likes: 0
From: Porn capital of the world
Bikes: Schwinn Le Tour and Specialized Rockhopper comp
Good day All,
It's been a while since I've been on here, but I've got a question to ask the community. First off, this is not a for sale add or anything like that. But I do want to get an opinion on how much I should ask for for my used Xootr Swift. It's got stock components for and has been ridden many miles. Nothing worn out and in great mechanical condition. The paint has some wear spots and scratches, but nothing major. So what do you all think is a fair asking price for either the classifieds here or craigslist?
THanks in advance.
It's been a while since I've been on here, but I've got a question to ask the community. First off, this is not a for sale add or anything like that. But I do want to get an opinion on how much I should ask for for my used Xootr Swift. It's got stock components for and has been ridden many miles. Nothing worn out and in great mechanical condition. The paint has some wear spots and scratches, but nothing major. So what do you all think is a fair asking price for either the classifieds here or craigslist?
THanks in advance.
#3130
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 2,215
Likes: 0
From: Westwood MA (just south of Boston)
Bikes: 2009 Trek Soho
here's one datapoint: i bought a stock swift on CL in similar/good condition with a 30" samsonite suitcase (in not such good condition) for $400 or $450, can't remember which.
Good day All,
It's been a while since I've been on here, but I've got a question to ask the community. First off, this is not a for sale add or anything like that. But I do want to get an opinion on how much I should ask for for my used Xootr Swift. It's got stock components for and has been ridden many miles. Nothing worn out and in great mechanical condition. The paint has some wear spots and scratches, but nothing major. So what do you all think is a fair asking price for either the classifieds here or craigslist?
THanks in advance.
It's been a while since I've been on here, but I've got a question to ask the community. First off, this is not a for sale add or anything like that. But I do want to get an opinion on how much I should ask for for my used Xootr Swift. It's got stock components for and has been ridden many miles. Nothing worn out and in great mechanical condition. The paint has some wear spots and scratches, but nothing major. So what do you all think is a fair asking price for either the classifieds here or craigslist?
THanks in advance.
#3131
Not visited forum for a while. Hope all you Swift riders are fit and well.
Anybody from the UK thinking of buying a Swift with double ring chainset, give me a shout. Mine is being offered for sale? About the £350 ono. (This is not a for sale add...just want to gauge interest-if it the wrong forum,it can be moved!)
Anybody from the UK thinking of buying a Swift with double ring chainset, give me a shout. Mine is being offered for sale? About the £350 ono. (This is not a for sale add...just want to gauge interest-if it the wrong forum,it can be moved!)
Last edited by buzz609; 09-10-12 at 03:11 AM. Reason: Detail added
#3132
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 284
Likes: 0
Does anyone here have a spare XL (12") stem riser for a pre-2011 Swift lying around? Their site says that the old-style XL riser is unavailable, and mine has started to rust. The rust isn't too bad yet but I'd rather not attempt to repaint it if someone has a spare.
I'd be happy to buy one, trade my old normal-sized (10") riser, or trade a couple of other things I have around like bar-end shifters, flat/drop/moustache bars, or 1-1/8" threadless stems.
I'd be happy to buy one, trade my old normal-sized (10") riser, or trade a couple of other things I have around like bar-end shifters, flat/drop/moustache bars, or 1-1/8" threadless stems.
#3134
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 433
Likes: 3
Well certainly very late to this party but just got myself a new one of these at a good price and am trawling through all the posts in this thread!
So far this is what I have been trying
1. 130mm adjustable stem riser (I like a really upright ride)
2. New bars also with a 50mm rise.
3. I didn't even try it with the stock Kendra tires and whipped them off to fit Kojaks which is still my favorite tire.
4. Also trying a set of Big Apples
So far I like the ride, its VERY quick. I already own a Moulton TSR and a Brompton and I have to say the Xootr certainly adds to the mix. I would say it rides as well as the TSR though maybe a little more bumpy (the TSR is suspended both ends) though still not bad. Its also half the price. I quite like the fold and in some ways its easier than the TSR "split". will be fine for the car or taking into my office. My Brompton is still my bike of choice when going in and out of shops/restaurants.
I will be back later with some pics once I have had chance to get another (I only have one) big apple 20" tire to fit. I tried the one I had on the back and it does fit though you have to pull the wheel back to the outer stop (mudguard screw) in the rear dropout to clear/stop the tire side rubbing the chain stays.
Finally are these later ones a little heavier, mine was nearer 11kg than 10kg stock ?
Hmm just read this on their website
"Weight. 11.3 kgs (25 lbs.).
Note: this is inherently a very light bike due to the structural efficiency of the TrusFold frame system. We do equip it stock with some rugged 65psi tires and tubes, which actually adds almost 2 lbs (1 kg) to the weight. We also equip the Swift with a generous saddle. If you want to skimp on weight, just put on a lightweight tire/tube set and a racing saddle. "
Regards
Jerry
So far this is what I have been trying
1. 130mm adjustable stem riser (I like a really upright ride)
2. New bars also with a 50mm rise.
3. I didn't even try it with the stock Kendra tires and whipped them off to fit Kojaks which is still my favorite tire.
4. Also trying a set of Big Apples
So far I like the ride, its VERY quick. I already own a Moulton TSR and a Brompton and I have to say the Xootr certainly adds to the mix. I would say it rides as well as the TSR though maybe a little more bumpy (the TSR is suspended both ends) though still not bad. Its also half the price. I quite like the fold and in some ways its easier than the TSR "split". will be fine for the car or taking into my office. My Brompton is still my bike of choice when going in and out of shops/restaurants.
I will be back later with some pics once I have had chance to get another (I only have one) big apple 20" tire to fit. I tried the one I had on the back and it does fit though you have to pull the wheel back to the outer stop (mudguard screw) in the rear dropout to clear/stop the tire side rubbing the chain stays.
Finally are these later ones a little heavier, mine was nearer 11kg than 10kg stock ?
Hmm just read this on their website
"Weight. 11.3 kgs (25 lbs.).
Note: this is inherently a very light bike due to the structural efficiency of the TrusFold frame system. We do equip it stock with some rugged 65psi tires and tubes, which actually adds almost 2 lbs (1 kg) to the weight. We also equip the Swift with a generous saddle. If you want to skimp on weight, just put on a lightweight tire/tube set and a racing saddle. "
Regards
Jerry
Last edited by jerrysimon; 08-27-12 at 08:07 AM.
#3135
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 433
Likes: 3
Fitted the other 20" * 2" (406*50) Big Apple I picked up today.
Well all I can say is "Not bad" .The Big Apples smooth out the bumps quite nicely. Its not quite as smooth a ride as a Moulton TSR with its full suspension but its pretty damn close. I am running the big apples at 45PSI. I could maybe take them down to 40PSI though its a fine balance in terms of keeping the rolling resistance low or risking pinch punctures. At 45PSI the rolling resistance of the Big Apples seems only a little higher than the Kojaks.
I don't know in some ways I prefer it to my TSR. The Xootr is just so much FUN
It rides really well and although I prefer hub gears, the 8 gear derailleur seems a perfect match for the bike giving it a nice gear range and making it really fast to ride on the flat.
With the higher adjustable stem, new bars and Big Apples its weighing around 11.9kg on my scales. I will post some pics.
I am pretty much there, though may change the Gripshift to the equivalent SRAM X4 trigger changer. Also I could shave some more weight off by fitting a Brompton 54T chain set on, but the existing chainset looks better and is more adaptable so for 150g saving its not really worth it. I am also planning to add a little extra help to this bike as I have with my others, but more of that later
For me the other big plus for this bike, is that I would be prepared to lock it up and leave it. I might stick some gaffer tape over the badges but in the silver color I have, it should just blend in and not stand out in the same way the TSR does. I would never leave that locked up unattended.
Regards
Jerry
Well all I can say is "Not bad" .The Big Apples smooth out the bumps quite nicely. Its not quite as smooth a ride as a Moulton TSR with its full suspension but its pretty damn close. I am running the big apples at 45PSI. I could maybe take them down to 40PSI though its a fine balance in terms of keeping the rolling resistance low or risking pinch punctures. At 45PSI the rolling resistance of the Big Apples seems only a little higher than the Kojaks.
I don't know in some ways I prefer it to my TSR. The Xootr is just so much FUN

It rides really well and although I prefer hub gears, the 8 gear derailleur seems a perfect match for the bike giving it a nice gear range and making it really fast to ride on the flat.
With the higher adjustable stem, new bars and Big Apples its weighing around 11.9kg on my scales. I will post some pics.
I am pretty much there, though may change the Gripshift to the equivalent SRAM X4 trigger changer. Also I could shave some more weight off by fitting a Brompton 54T chain set on, but the existing chainset looks better and is more adaptable so for 150g saving its not really worth it. I am also planning to add a little extra help to this bike as I have with my others, but more of that later

For me the other big plus for this bike, is that I would be prepared to lock it up and leave it. I might stick some gaffer tape over the badges but in the silver color I have, it should just blend in and not stand out in the same way the TSR does. I would never leave that locked up unattended.
Regards
Jerry
Last edited by jerrysimon; 08-28-12 at 01:33 PM.
#3137
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 433
Likes: 3
Sure is jur.
I took it out again yesterday this time reducing the pressure in the BAs down to 40PSI. Whilst it made for an even smoother ride I think this is too low as the rolling resistance seemed to increase somewhat.
I notice they are rated for 30-70PSI. I have inflated them back up to 50PSI. Looks like the sweet spot is somewhere between 45-50PSI.
Regards
Jerry
I took it out again yesterday this time reducing the pressure in the BAs down to 40PSI. Whilst it made for an even smoother ride I think this is too low as the rolling resistance seemed to increase somewhat.
I notice they are rated for 30-70PSI. I have inflated them back up to 50PSI. Looks like the sweet spot is somewhere between 45-50PSI.
Regards
Jerry
#3138
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 433
Likes: 3
Ok I know there are loads of pics posted on here already but I did say I would so here is my version. As I said only changes are the adjustable stem and riser bars as I like a very upright ride.
Also some 2" BAs which I feel help smooth the ride.
The only thing I plan to add at this stage is a set of mudguards. I think it looks better without but living in the UK its not practical to ride without them

I find it folds a little smaller if you turn the front wheel 180 degrees in first

I need to post a pic of the QR mechs as they seem to have changed them now.
Regards
Jerry
Also some 2" BAs which I feel help smooth the ride.
The only thing I plan to add at this stage is a set of mudguards. I think it looks better without but living in the UK its not practical to ride without them


I find it folds a little smaller if you turn the front wheel 180 degrees in first

I need to post a pic of the QR mechs as they seem to have changed them now.
Regards
Jerry
#3139
Senior Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
Identification of these handlebars in beautiful Swift in gallery on Xootr site
Like alpacolypse and jerrysimon, I have been looking for a means to set up my pre-2011 Swift for a more upright riding position. The riser handlebars in the following Xootr gallery shot look great, adding some additional height and a little sweep:
https://www.xootr.com/gallery_swift-f...ished%20Beauty
Can anyone identify these for me? Looks like a very sweet setup!
Cheers,
John
https://www.xootr.com/gallery_swift-f...ished%20Beauty
Can anyone identify these for me? Looks like a very sweet setup!
Cheers,
John
#3140
55+ Club,...


Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 4,838
Likes: 1,215
From: Somewhere in New York, NY
Bikes: 9+,...
Anyone in NYC selling theirs??? Please pm me w/a way to contact you. I can't send PM's yet,...not allowed until 50 posts reached. I'd even trade my only ridden 3 times Melon Slice + $$$ for one. And I'd love to do a face-to-face transaction. This way both parties get to see the goods.
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If it wasn't for you meddling kids,...
#3141
Like alpacolypse and jerrysimon, I have been looking for a means to set up my pre-2011 Swift for a more upright riding position. The riser handlebars in the following Xootr gallery shot look great, adding some additional height and a little sweep:
https://www.xootr.com/gallery_swift-folding-bike.html?pictureId=117&imgTitle=Franklin's%20Polished%20Beauty
Can anyone identify these for me? Looks like a very sweet setup!
Cheers,
John
https://www.xootr.com/gallery_swift-folding-bike.html?pictureId=117&imgTitle=Franklin's%20Polished%20Beauty
Can anyone identify these for me? Looks like a very sweet setup!
Cheers,
John
I still have a couple pairs laying around, PM me if interested.
Just fyi, that picture in Xootr's gallery is of the maxed-out Swift built by bikeforums member "xootr swift". His original post about it was here. He used to have a Myspace page devoted to the build, unfortunately looks like it's been deleted.
Last edited by itsmoot; 09-09-12 at 10:52 PM.
#3142
Senior Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
Those are Dimension's original trekking bars, unfortunately discontinued (their current offerings are the conventional butterfly style). Can't seem to find any images on the net of the old ones. I had a couple of Electra Townies set up with them, they looked and worked beautifully on a cruiser.
I still have a couple pairs laying around, PM me if interested.
Just fyi, that picture in Xootr's gallery is of the maxed-out Swift built by bikeforums member "xootr swift". His original post about it was here. He used to have a Myspace page devoted to the build, unfortunately looks like it's been deleted.
I still have a couple pairs laying around, PM me if interested.
Just fyi, that picture in Xootr's gallery is of the maxed-out Swift built by bikeforums member "xootr swift". His original post about it was here. He used to have a Myspace page devoted to the build, unfortunately looks like it's been deleted.
Many thanks for your reply. Like "xootr swift" (XS) I have Ergon grips. It's hard to tell from the photo, but it doesn't look like he is using the stock twist shifter. Would you say there is enough room on this bar for both (Ergon grips and twist shifter)?
John
#3143
55+ Club,...


Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 4,838
Likes: 1,215
From: Somewhere in New York, NY
Bikes: 9+,...
I redact my request, as I've just purchased a Lombardo Power 2000. I got the last one I could find here in the USA on th interwebs,...me broke but me happy!!!
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#3144
I've got it bad
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
FYI, I have placed a Swift Folder for sale on ebay. https://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=251152823806 Thank you.
#3145
Senior Member

Joined: May 2004
Posts: 3,095
Likes: 12
From: Pacific Northwest
Bikes: Too many....................
FYI, I have placed a Swift Folder for sale on ebay. https://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=251152823806 Thank you.
Let the bidding begin....
#3146
itsmoot:
Many thanks for your reply. Like "xootr swift" (XS) I have Ergon grips. It's hard to tell from the photo, but it doesn't look like he is using the stock twist shifter. Would you say there is enough room on this bar for both (Ergon grips and twist shifter)?
John
Many thanks for your reply. Like "xootr swift" (XS) I have Ergon grips. It's hard to tell from the photo, but it doesn't look like he is using the stock twist shifter. Would you say there is enough room on this bar for both (Ergon grips and twist shifter)?
John
Just so you know, there are shortened Ergon grips specifically designed for use with twist shifters. Those shorter grips+shifter are only a bit longer than a regular Ergon by itself.
#3147
55+ Club,...


Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 4,838
Likes: 1,215
From: Somewhere in New York, NY
Bikes: 9+,...
FYI, I have placed a Swift Folder for sale on ebay. https://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=251152823806 Thank you.
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If it wasn't for you meddling kids,...
#3148
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
From: Tokyo
Hi all
Will soon be using the swift for some touring and after my European adventures would like some lower gearing.
I found the standard gearing was, for me, a little too high for the big Pyrenees I was lucky to ride.
What I was thinking, if I could pop on a front ring maybe one or two less teeth that would be great.
All is still standard on my Swift. Will any Shimano front ring suffice or do I need to stick to SRAM?
( Don't worry about lowering the gearing too much I never use top gear (my daughter burns me on a single speed mami-chari)).
I know some Swifters have added a smaller front ring alongside the larger and I don't mind that application either but my first choice would be a smaller front ring alone.
Look forward to any ideas.
Rob
Will soon be using the swift for some touring and after my European adventures would like some lower gearing.
I found the standard gearing was, for me, a little too high for the big Pyrenees I was lucky to ride.
What I was thinking, if I could pop on a front ring maybe one or two less teeth that would be great.
All is still standard on my Swift. Will any Shimano front ring suffice or do I need to stick to SRAM?
( Don't worry about lowering the gearing too much I never use top gear (my daughter burns me on a single speed mami-chari)).
I know some Swifters have added a smaller front ring alongside the larger and I don't mind that application either but my first choice would be a smaller front ring alone.
Look forward to any ideas.
Rob
#3149
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 323
Likes: 2
From: Carlisle, in England's Lake District, just a few miles south of the border with Scotland.
Bikes: A Bianchi C2C road bike, a steel framed touring bike and a Xootr Swift folder which has made the rest redundant!
Hi all
Will soon be using the swift for some touring and after my European adventures would like some lower gearing.
I found the standard gearing was, for me, a little too high for the big Pyrenees I was lucky to ride.
What I was thinking, if I could pop on a front ring maybe one or two less teeth that would be great.
All is still standard on my Swift. Will any Shimano front ring suffice or do I need to stick to SRAM?
( Don't worry about lowering the gearing too much I never use top gear (my daughter burns me on a single speed mami-chari)).
I know some Swifters have added a smaller front ring alongside the larger and I don't mind that application either but my first choice would be a smaller front ring alone.
Look forward to any ideas.
Rob
Will soon be using the swift for some touring and after my European adventures would like some lower gearing.
I found the standard gearing was, for me, a little too high for the big Pyrenees I was lucky to ride.
What I was thinking, if I could pop on a front ring maybe one or two less teeth that would be great.
All is still standard on my Swift. Will any Shimano front ring suffice or do I need to stick to SRAM?
( Don't worry about lowering the gearing too much I never use top gear (my daughter burns me on a single speed mami-chari)).
I know some Swifters have added a smaller front ring alongside the larger and I don't mind that application either but my first choice would be a smaller front ring alone.
Look forward to any ideas.
Rob



