Brompton-like bikes are renowned for their compactness and portability. Unlike the typical two-fold bikes, these are trifold bikes, making them exceptionally convenient for urban commuting and travel.

Key Features

  • Compact Size: The trifold design results in a very small folded size.
  • Lightweight: Weighing between 10 to 11 kg, making them easy to carry.
  • Easy Transportation: Suitable for air travel, and can be taken on public transport like MRT and buses.
  • Thin Tires: Facilitates easy movement and efficient riding.
  • Front Bracket: Allows for quick changes of front bags.
  • Popularity: Highly popular in Singapore.
  • Non-standard Accessories: May require specific accessories due to unique design.

My bike is a Brompton clone, and I’ll share some insights on the various brands and models available.

bike

Brompton Bikes

Brompton is the original brand offering high-quality trifold bikes.

  • Price Range: Approximately 10,000 RMB to 40,000 RMB, with common models around 15,000 RMB.
  • Models:
    • C Line: Features 3-speed internal hub gears.
    • P Line: Equipped with 4-speed external shift gears.

Brompton Clone Brands

For those seeking more affordable options, several brands offer Brompton-like bikes ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 RMB.

Aceoffix

  • Gears: Available in 3 or 5-speed external shift gears.
  • Frame Material: Options of steel or aluminum frames.
  • Compatibility: Standard size compatible with Brompton accessories.

Cran

  • Gears: Offers 7 or 9-speed external shift gears.
  • Sizes:
    • 7-Speed: Standard size.
    • 9-Speed: Non-standard size.
  • Frame Material: Primarily steel; aluminum frames may have stability issues.

3Sixty

  • One of the earliest Brompton clones.
  • Features internal shift gears.

Yubu (鱼布)

  • Custom assembled by a Brompton enthusiast in Hangzhou.
  • Gears: 3-speed external shift gears.
  • Reputation: Known for high quality and reliability.

Dagger

  • A new entrant in the market.
  • Price: Offers bikes at 3,700 RMB with features comparable to higher-priced models (>5,000 RMB).
  • Value: High cost-performance ratio.

Choosing the Right Bike

  • Avoid Internal Shift Gears: While reliable, they add weight to the bike.
  • Optimal Gears: 3 or 5-speed external gears are stable and sufficient for most needs.
  • Portability Concerns: 9-speed models might be less convenient for transportation due to size.
  • Standard Size Preference: Ensures compatibility with standard transfer cases and accessories.
  • Pedals: Consider non-foldable pedals with quick-release options for convenience.

Essential Accessories

  • Lighting: Front and rear lights are mandatory by law in Singapore.
  • Additional Gear:
    • Bottle Bracket
    • Bell
    • Phone Bracket
    • Helmet
    • Front and Rear Lights
  • Bag: A Brompton two-strap bag for carrying essentials.

Riding Tips

  • UV Protection: Use sun cream or wear sun-protective clothing.
  • Saddle Upgrade:

    • Wide Saddle: For rides longer than 1 hour. 90 degrees is ideal for the saddle angle.

      wide

    • Thin Saddle: Suitable for shorter rides. 60 degrees is ideal for the saddle angle.

      thin

  • Accessory Shopping: Most accessories can be found at stores like Decathlon, though some items may require sourcing elsewhere due to sizing.

Note: While many accessories are readily available at retailers like Decathlon, certain items like helmets may have limited sizing options.