Instructions
Brompton folding bicycles are hand-built to order in London, in close to one million different possible configurations. Delivery times can vary from 3 to 10 weeks. See also our stock of ready-to-ride Bromptons
Model
For many, this is the prettiest Brompton, and with its Kevlar brake cables and high-tensile-alloy handlebar, it is the lightest. The grips, at about 935mm from the ground, are appreciably lower than on the M type, and 50mm further forward, giving a sporty riding position which complements the positive feel of these bikes.
The gull-wing shape of the M Type's handlebars has been used on the Brompton since the outset: the grip height is 1015mm, which gives a fairly upright ride with excellent control, and there is scope for a little fore/aft adjustment. The M Type is the all-rounder in our range and remains the most popular Brompton.
The multiple positions afforded by the P Type’s handlebars are designed with the touring cyclist in mind. Although they are a little heavier than the M Type's handlebars, the lower grips, about 880mm from the ground and angled for comfort on longer stretches of road, allow the rider to get down out of the wind and deliver real power to the pedals; the upper grips at about 1033mm provide a welcome contrast after a long stretch of riding and also give great control for maneuvering in traffic.
Gearing
1 Speed (5.93m / 74")
Featuring just the elegant simplicity of our rear hub, this is the purist's choice. As with all single-speed cycling, the direct drive minimises pedalling inefficiency, though the lack of gear range may make this option unsuitable for those riding over hilly terrain and/or looking for more acceleration.
2 Speed (4.45m - 5.93m / 56" - 74")
One gear for hills & starting off, and one for cruising. Based on the unique Brompton derailleur system and an elegant new Brompton rear hub, this is the best gearing solution for lightness and portability. The direct drive, with near-perfect chain-alignment in either gear, is crisp and efficient.
3 Speed (3.79m - 6.76m / 48" - 85")
The BSR [Brompton Standard Range] is an updated version of the classic Sturmey Archer hub in an alloy shell, three well-paced gears. These are fully enclosed for reliability, and changing gear couldn’t be simpler; a popular choice for everyday cycling.
6 Speed (2.63m - 7.94m / 33" - 99")
The combination of the highly-efficient BWR [Brompton Wide Range] hub with our own derailleur system gives six evenly-spaced gears. Control with the two triggers is easy and, with its low transmission losses and wide range, this multi-gear system is the right choice for touring and for riding in hilly areas.
Mudguards & Rear Rack
Going without mudguards lends the bike a sharper appearance and is also the lightest and least expensive option, but there are drawbacks: the folded bike is not as stable, there’s no pump and of course no protection from any water or dirt on the road
Equipped with mudguards, essential for non-fair weather cyclists.
Whether or not you have front luggage, a carrier on the bike can be useful. The die-cast aluminum rack comes with shock cords and can easily manage loads of up to 10kg.
Frame & Color
On a Brompton with a superlight frame, the rear triangle and front forks are made of titanium, while an alloy headset and titanium seat pillar, mudguard stays, and folding pedal-axle save more weight. The titanium parts on superlight frames are not painted, so only one color choice is possible (for the main frame and the handlebar stem).
Seat Pillar
The standard seat pillar is the default option; its shorter length keeps the weight down and ensures the most compact folded package. A standard seat pillar should be fine for anyone with an inside leg measurement of 33"/840mm or less.
60mm (over 2 inches) longer than the standard seat pillar and a bit heavier, designed for those with longer legs and available at no extra charge. The main drawback is that the seat pillar protrudes correspondingly higher from the folded package.
The telescopic seat pillar is designed for those with an inside leg greater than 35"/890mm or for taller riders wishing to minimize how far the seat pillar protrudes from the folded package. The telescopic seat pillar gives up to 175mm (almost 7 inches) more elevation yet, when lowered, the saddle projects only 20mm above the folded package.
Saddle
Sporty, comfortable, light, practical: this high-quality unisex saddle has been designed by Brompton specifically for our bikes. A moulded grip under the nose facilitates carrying, and the ingenious and incredibly light Brompton Pentaclip allows stepless adjustment of the saddle angle.
Made for Brompton, this beautiful traditional saddle will give years of comfortable cycling, the leather moulding with time to the rider. Finished with hand-hammered copper rivets, and fitted with the Brompton Pentaclip for stepless adjustment, this old favourite is available in men’s and women’s versions.
Tires
Our standard tire is exceptionally free-running, durable yet light. The Kevlar belt under the tread almost eliminates punctures. Finished with reflective sidewalls as standard.
The Marathons are a little heavier than the Brompton tires and the deep uni-directional tread, which gives superior grip, also means that they are not quite as free-running. But they are solidly-built, with both a Kevlar belt and a thicker sidewall to lower the risk of pinch-punctures. Like the Brompton tires, they also come with reflective sidewalls, eliminating the need for reflectors on the wheel spokes.
Replacing the Stelvio for 2010, the Kojak is the fastest tire we’ve ever fitted on the Brompton; lighter and more puncture-resistant (thanks to a RaceGuard strip) than its predecessor, a Kevlar bead also allows it to be folded, making it easy to pack as a spare. Finished with reflective sidewalls.
Rear Suspension
Firm suspension may be more suitable for those weighing over 80kg and those who value responsiveness above comfort.
Lighting
The LED rear lamp with integral reflectors is designed specially for Brompton and gives a good bright light: this stays fixed to the bike. At the front is the neat yet powerful S-son 3-LED lamp, easily removed for folding with a quick-release. Batteries are included.
Hub dynamos offer a very reliable lighting solution, and this hub dynamo, specifically adapted for the Brompton by Shimano, offers very good performance at a keen price. Features include a Busch & Müller halogen front lamp and a stand light function at the rear.
The Son hub is beautifully engineered, highly efficient, and will give years of reliable service. For 2010 it has been further improved by the adoption of a powerful Busch & Müller LED front lamp, featuring an automatic light-sensing function and a stand light function at the front as well as the rear.
Front Luggage
Brompton front luggage options are based on our Front Carrier System; luggage is attached via a special frame that latches securely onto a tapered block. It takes a second to attach or release your luggage and the load is attached directly to the main frame, having little effect on steering.
All front luggage, except the folding basket, comes supplied with a shoulder strap and a high-visibility rainproof cover; secured to luggage using an elasticated hem, its sealed seams help keep luggage dry in heavy rain, and it takes up no room when folded.
N.B. The lower handlebars limit the front luggage options on an S Type: only the S Bag is designed for use with the S Type's lower profile.
New for 2010. Although the Brompton luggage range has found a home in even the most formal of boardrooms, there has long been a demand for a more conventional “work bag”. This attaché case is handmade in the finest traditions of artisanal leatherwork but has a dedicated space for a laptop; ideal both for the city player and the style aficionado. Capacity 9 litres; dimensions 420w x 300h x 110d; comes supplied with a leather shoulder strap and a high-visibility rainproof cover.