A cycling legend, the British made Brompton sets the standards for folding bikes. Often imitated, but never bettered in our opinion. The clever bit is the characteristic "flip" of its back wheel under the frame, for both parking and folding. This allows for the inclusion of rear suspension, and thus high-pressure tyres. The net result is a bike that folds better and faster than anything else on the market. Low weight, a short wheelbase, small wheels and light steering also make it a very quick and agile machine. Indeed, it will ride better than most large wheelers.
Though many of our customers do serious mileage on them, the Brompton is best suited to the city…
where property values put a premium on space its folded footprint is negligible; where traffic congestion reduces average speeds to less than 15mph, its light handling and fast acceleration gives it a decided advantage; where life is fast, its quick fold and versatility allows it to integrate with bus, train and taxi.
It is above all a supremely practical utility bike and has an excellent luggage carrying system.
If your cycling needs are for shorter frequent trips such as commuting and shopping; if you need to fold frequently (some commuters will have to fold it 8 times a day); if you want to wear conventional clothing - the Brompton has a low crossbar and a chain that sits inside the fold... then get a Brompton.
The M3L is the cheapest fully capable Brompton. It features the ultra-reliable and evergreen Sturmey Archer 3 speed hub gear with the classic upright 'M' style handlebar and mudguards. Although it lacks a rear carrier, the optional front luggage system offers a great choice in Brompton bags and panniers, which should cover any of your day-to-day needs. And for riding after dark, Brompton battery lights (+£30), Shimano hub dynamo lights (+£70) or SON Shmidt hub dynamo lights (+£300) can be specified. This price shown above is for the basic bike in colours black, white, turkish green or hot pink. For other colours add £30 per colour.
We recommend the M3L for day to day personal transport and leisure cycling, in flattish areas.
For more information on different colours and other custom options at the revised 2011 prices, see our Brompton B-Spoke download.
Frame type: Special
Sizes available: Standard frame, but can be modified
Colour/s: Many - see Bespoke model