I hadn't thought about the heel strike issues with cantis. Another big advantage for the 451/caliper option. I am having trouble finding a 32 hole 451 rim however, which could cause me to reconsider the 406/RL520/v-brake option.

Velocity A23, 451, 32H, machined sidewall

I've got bikes with brifters/calipers/451, flat-bar levers/calipers/451, and flat-bar/V-brakes/406. Happy to answer questions.

Sun CR18's come in 32H; I've got 36H ones on my bike, and I haven't had any issues.

I think Alex R390 might also be available in 32H.

Alex rims have 32 hole 451 rims used for recumbents

Vanrex,
Thanks for posting "all" the details of the brake upgrade. Very helpful! :thumb:
PCG

The Swift folding bike is showing up on Xootr's Discontinued Model Support page. Anyone know what's up with that?

Noooooooooooooooo!!!!! That means they're going exclusive with scooters. Damn!!! :(

A bummer, but not really surprising. I'm guessing we've reached a point where just about everybody who wants a Swift has already bought one..the market for a folder that doesn't fold much can't be very large. Which is not a criticism of the bike, just my perception of the realities of the market.

Must be a market-driven decision. Folding bikes are a niche product, and Xootr Swifts occupy a niche in a niche.

I'm a bit shocked.

I wish the pricing of the frameset had dropped a little bit. This way I could get one, and build it up to my own specs. But, I wish it could go disk brake, without getting the expensive titanium version available via a group buy here on the forums.

Sure, the week after I ordered my Swift, they stop making them... I'll admit it, it's my fault obviously! (But I'm still thrilled to be getting a Swift...)

Welcome aboard!!! Now, enjoy that sucka!!!:thumb: Also, what version did you decide to purchase?

Human Powered Machines in Eugene Oregon makes a steel Swift.. [ old Friend of Peter Reich ]

being a small shop focused on cargo bikes , has the option of a front load carry platform, to have a basket, or porteur rack ..

you can ask for different fittings for a variety of drivetrain options too ..





;)

I went with the just the stock Swift in grey.... I tried reading all the stuff in this thread before I ordered and got so confused I figured I could just change parts later...

But got my Rido saddle, foldable pedals to add and will try to figure out some kind of leather bag that will let me still fold the bike and throw it in my car trunk, and I'll be happy....

Now I understand why it was $599 instead of $799.... although I'm not complaining about that!

I had the black single speed, and I had a NuVinci N360 CVT hub laced into a wheel for mine. I didn't like the hub, and I made the mistake of selling my bike. I should have just swapped out the rear wheel again, and kept my Swift. It's the only bike I regret selling.

Anyway, enjoy!!! It's a fantastic semi-folding ride. :)

I can relate. I have had a lot of personal bikes through the years. I can think of a couple I wish I had not sold.

By the way,

Can you guys recommend some upgrades?

I've been riding my Swift about 10 years now, and am thinking of sinking some money into it.
I have a mostly stock Xootr swift with North Road handlebars, a Thudbuster, and detachable pedals.
I've noticed that my shifter seems to only work in the middle 4 gears (or it slips).

There's also a soft rubbing sound when I downstroke.

I'm not sure if I should splurge on a IGH or get a different shifter/derailleur setup?

Alternatively, I'm thinking of possibly returning the bike to stock and using it only for fairweather riding.
I'm tempted to get a non-folding bike for commuting.

Any suggestions?

I have my Ti Swift only for fair weather too. Because it's such a good frame, it makes sense to make the whole as light as reasonably possible and get a top quality ride out of it.

So, look at light wheels. There are some really good ones on Aliexpress for around $200 or even less. I would consider 451mm wheels but 406 is only slightly behind in terms of top gearing. You would need road caliper brakes for 451mm wheels. I just bought some Tektro R540 silver brakes, quite nice. For the Xootr frame you would need long reach brakes. I think road brakes gives a cleaner, less cluttered look.

For gearing, go 1x10 with 11-36t cassette and the Dee derailer. Just beware you will need Dynasys compatible shifters too.

The existing gearing though - it should be straightforward to get those working perfectly. The Park Tool website may be very helpful in adjustment and troubleshooting, as well as Sheldonbrown.com.

Maybe their licensing agreement ran out or they couldn't negotiate terms agreeable to both sides.

Also if you go to Caliper brakes and 451 rims you need to go to a 2:1 brake lever from the 1:1 V-brake levers.

I just talked to Xootr today. Sales have slowed down from the Swift Boom of 10 years ago and they are planning on putting all their focus and capital into Scooters.

I believe it. There's really not much demand for a folder that doesn't fold small,...at least not with the people I know. The Xootr Swift is really something people luv or hate. I hope I manage to snag a frameset before they're all gone. :love:

Jur, do you still have an extra TI frame for sale?

Well that's a shock and a shame! The Swift is one of the best combinations of a good riding bike that also happens to fold. I enjoy mine and generally take it out in preference to my Bianchi road bike (much tho' I love my Bianchi). What does this mean for the "Lifetime Guarantee" where Xootr will replace a bike should the product fail? I'll need to look after mine now that it has become an endangered species.