Folding Bikes

What is the fascination with folding bikes in recent years? Ask in bikeshops and this is where they are saying the interest is.

Is it the feeling that no locks are safe these days so if you are going to spend money on a bike you may as well ensure you can always take it with you or bring it indoors.

Is it the awkwardness a conventional bike causes when storing in a living area and a generation of people who grew up with 'Transformers - Robots in Disguise'. That magical animated transformation rarely translates well to the real world of constraints and fixed dimensions. Folding bikes however, may be the current best application for this fun principle.


Bumblebee turns into car and back again. Parked only.

Companies specialising in folding bikes


Prototype by a UK design student (above)

Visually, the photo seems nice but in styling terms the arcs between top-tube and bottom bracket seem to be missing that certain something to make this arrangement a design classic just yet. Or not? Perhaps ask a Cayce Pollard. A lot depends on how the bike rides and handles as well as folds so anyone tested it even as a prototype?

Or any other suggestions for the best bikes currently in production; beyond and including the ubiquitous Bromptom, Moulton etc. Which new and notable models are coming along under 1000 pounds...?

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