Chances are, if you’re shopping for a Brompton, you may already know that it is one of the most highly regarded folding bike brands that money can buy. The list of reasons is long. At a starting price of $1200ish (converted from euros) these little engineering masterpieces are not for the low price seeker. Upon deeper research however, you realize that Brompton and their offerrings are actively redefining the idea of what it means to be mobile, and a folding bike owner. These machines are truly amazing. I was recently having coffee at a cafe on Octavia and Market Street in San Francisco when I spied a Brompton tucked next to a guy sitting right beside me!

So why buy a Brompton? Other than the fact that you can steathly bring your bike into almost any food establishment?

Reason #1. Each bike is handbuilt in the factory in England. Individually created, Brompton uses the highly skilled method of brazing the tubes. This creates a stronger frame with less distortion. In every other cycling category these are highly emphasized characteristics. The design of the frame has been carefully engineered making it so well balanced that you can ride up a hill and down a hill with the utmost of confidence. Note that folding bikes are notoriously difficult to ride; the small wheels make them unstable and difficult to push up a hill. We have bikes on hand at the shop for you to try for yourself.

Reason #2. When folded, the Brompton takes up the space about equal to (22.2″ x 21.5″ x 10.6″) and takes about 10- 20 seconds to do. It stays locked together and can be easily carried or pushed on. There is a carrying bag that it fits in that may be purchased as an accessory. I’ve also heard rumors that one can fit one into a folding suitcase one size bigger than the carry on size. Haven’t tried this one yet but you may be my guest.

Reason #3. They are highly customizable. Yours will be built to truly suit your ride/lifestyle. Start with a base handlebar model (3 to choose from), then move on through an a la carte menu of gearing, tire, and saddle options (to name only a few). Once you make those choices, onto colors! Brompton sends each of their frames offsite to be powder coated. One can choose a one, two or three color bike. You can find a sample of each of the paint colors on our front counter.

Reason #4. Lots of well-designed, very cool accessories to outfit your bike. Check it: http://www.brompton.co.uk/explorer/accessories/index.asp

Reason #5. Brompton hosts 5 different folding bike race events globally. Taiwan, Japan, Spain, U.S., and the World Championship in England. This final event is limited to 750 riders for 2011, sorry though, registration is full. There’s always next year…

Come in and ask to see the a la carte list and price out your Brompton today! Your freedom of mobility is around the corner…